Cajun Seasoning Recipe

This homemade Cajun seasoning is a bold and zesty spice blend that adds a kick of flavor to meats, vegetables, seafood, and more. Made with everyday spices, it’s quick to mix up and far more customizable (and flavorful) than store-bought versions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make at home
• Customizable heat and salt levels
• No preservatives or additives
• Perfect for seasoning everything from shrimp to fries
• Budget-friendly and made with pantry staples
• Stores well for months
• Great for meal prep and bulk batches
• Gluten-free and vegan
• More flavorful than most pre-packaged blends
• Can be used as a dry rub or marinade base

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Paprika (preferably smoked or sweet)
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Dried oregano
• Dried thyme
• Black pepper
• White pepper (optional for extra depth)
• Cayenne pepper
• Salt

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine all the spices.
2. Mix thoroughly until evenly blended.
3. Store the seasoning in an airtight container or spice jar.
4. Use as desired to season meats, seafood, veggies, soups, and more.

Servings and timing

Yields: About ½ cup of seasoning mix
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: None
Total time: 5 minutes
Servings: Enough for 6–8 meals depending on usage

Variations

• Low-sodium: Reduce or omit salt and season your dish to taste later
• Milder version: Use less cayenne or omit white pepper
• Spicier version: Increase the cayenne or add crushed red pepper flakes
• Smoky flavor: Use smoked paprika or add a dash of chipotle powder
• Sweet Cajun: Add a teaspoon of brown sugar for a touch of sweetness

Storage/Reheating

Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight spice jar or container for up to 6 months.
No reheating necessary—just give the jar a shake before use to redistribute the spices.

FAQs

What’s the difference between Cajun and Creole seasoning?

Cajun seasoning is typically spicier and more focused on paprika and cayenne, while Creole seasoning includes more herbs like basil and parsley.

Can I use this Cajun seasoning on seafood?

Yes, it’s excellent on shrimp, fish, and crab—just sprinkle and cook as usual.

Is Cajun seasoning gluten-free?

Yes, this homemade version is naturally gluten-free.

How much seasoning should I use per pound of meat?

Start with about 1 tablespoon per pound and adjust to taste.

Can I use this mix as a dry rub?

Absolutely. It works great as a rub for grilling or roasting meats.

Can I make it salt-free?

Yes, just omit the salt and add it separately when cooking.

Is Cajun seasoning spicy?

It has a mild to moderate heat. You can adjust the cayenne to make it more or less spicy.

Can I use this in soups or stews?

Yes, it adds a bold, smoky depth to soups, stews, and chilis.

How long does homemade Cajun seasoning last?

When stored properly, it lasts up to 6 months with optimal flavor.

Can I double or triple the recipe?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for scaling. Mix a large batch and store for regular use.

Conclusion

Homemade Cajun seasoning is a simple yet powerful way to bring bold Louisiana flavor into your kitchen. With full control over ingredients and spice levels, it’s a versatile staple you’ll want to keep on hand for quick flavor boosts in countless dishes.

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