I love to mess around with different cuisines, and I’m always looking at new recipes. Oftentimes, a recipe will call for “Cajun Seasoning” or Old Bay seasoning which can easily be bought at the grocery store, but since I love making my own spice blends, why not?
This Cajun spice blend can be used to flavor up chicken, pork, AND seafood, and goes particularly well with shrimp (which is pretty common in Cajun cuisine). This bold flavor is awesome mixed with olive oil and used as a rub for chicken and pork roasts.
It will keep in an airtight container ready for whenever you want to use it! Use it on chicken, fish, shrimp or sprinkle it on French fries! Try it instead of Blackened Seasoning on tilapia!
There’s nothing wrong with store-bought spice blends. They’re convenient, of course. But, as with most convenience products – I really enjoy making my own where possible. Controlling what goes in (and what doesn’t) is the best part!!
Raid your spice cabinet and play around with the ratios and ingredients to find your perfect blend! I’ve been known to throw a few teaspoons into a pot of plain vegetable soup – it really brightens it up, and takes it from blah to WOW!
Step-by-step photos and instructions are below!
What you’ll find in this post:
Why you’ll love this recipe:
- The beauty of homemade seasoning blends is that they can be adjusted to suit individual preferences.
- Freshness: Homemade seasoning blends often have a fresher, more robust flavor compared to store-bought versions that might have been sitting on shelves for an extended period.
- Availability: In some places, it might be challenging to find Cajun seasoning. Making it at home ensures you always have some on hand when you need it. Just open your spice drawer!
Love homemade seasonings? Try my Tuscan Seasoning, Poultry Seasoning, Italian Seasoning and Taco Seasoning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is in Cajun seasoning?
Typically, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, and sometimes other spices.
How spicy is this recipe?
While the spice level can vary, Cajun seasoning is generally spicy due to the inclusion of cayenne pepper. However, you can adjust the level of heat to your preference.
Where did Cajun seasoning originate?
Cajun seasoning is inspired by the Cajun people, who are descendants of French Canadian expellees in the U.S. Cajun food is rooted in rural southern Louisiana, often incorporates these vibrant and spicy flavors.
Can I substitute Cajun seasoning for Creole seasoning (or vice versa)?
Yes, in most recipes, they can be used interchangeably. However, do note the flavor nuances and heat levels between the two.
How to use Cajun Seasoning
- Try it in gumbo, jambalaya, grilled meats, fish, shrimp, chicken, roasted vegetables, pasta, or even sprinkled on fries.
- Use in Cajun Shrimp Pasta (from Natasha’s Kitchen) or Grilled Cajun Chicken Salad with Creamy Cajun Dressing (from House of Nash Eats)
I have included step-by-step photos and instructions, as well as tips and tricks in the post. If you’d rather skip all that, scoot right on down to the full recipe card located at the bottom of the post.
Key Recipe Ingredients
The full list of ingredients and amounts is found in the printable recipe card below.
- Garlic Powder,, Onion Powder, Oregano, Thyme
- Paprika. I use smoked paprika, but regular paprika can also be used.
- Pepper. I use freshly ground black pepper.
- Salt. Sea salt or kosher salt. You can leave it out if you are going for a salt-free version.
- Cayenne. If you don’t have any, use red pepper flakes (just crush them up in a mortar and pestle). Go lighter on this if you want your blend to be less spicy.
- Celery Seed. This is more commonly found in Creole seasoning, but I like it for this too.
How to make homemade Cajun Seasoning
Scroll for Recipe
This next part is only a photo tutorial of the recipe steps. The full list of ingredients, quantities and instructions can be found in the printable recipe card below.
- Gather the ingredients – you’ll need sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, oregano, paprika and celery seed.
- Blend together in a small bowl and then store in a mason jar in a cool place.
- Use as needed in recipes!
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Homemade Cajun Seasoning (Spice Blend)
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon cracked pepper
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon celery seed
Directions
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
- Store in an airtight container for use in recipes.
Nutrition Facts
Disclaimer
Nutritional information is an estimate and provided to you as a courtesy. You should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe using your preferred nutrition calculator.
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