If you need Cajun Seasoning for a recipe, this homemade version is easy to stir up. It ensures freshness, gives you control over ingredients and is a cost-efficient alternative to store-bought blends.

A wooden bowl filled with Cajun seasoning, with a wooden scoop digging into it.

Need Cajun Seasoning for a recipe? Make it yourself!

If you’ve come across a recipe like Cajun Shrimp Pasta or Cajun Salmon Pasta and it calls for Cajun seasoning, you might think you’re in a pinch if you don’t have any in your spice cabinet.

The truth is, if you have a few basic spices and dried herbs on hand, you can make your own version of this spice blend. It will probably end up being cheaper than buying a pre-made mix, and you can customize it to your own tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Seasoning Recipe

  • It’s cost effective, especially if you save money by purchasing the individual spices needed in small amounts from bulk bins.
  • You have all of the control over the ingredients. You can make it more or less spicy, and even reduce the salt amount if you need to.
  • It’s a versatile spice blend to have on hand, because you can use it on meats, seafood, vegetables and more.
A wooden bowl filled with the best Cajun seasoning, with a wooden scoop digging into it.

What is Cajun Seasoning?

Cajun seasoning is a flavorful blend of spices and dried herbs, originating from Louisiana. It can add depth of flavor, spice and Southern flair to a variety of dishes.

A six cup muffin tin filled with various dried herbs and spices.

What you’ll need to make the Best Cajun Seasoning Recipe

  • paprika – the backbone of this spice blend, it brings earthy flavor and vibrant color to the blend.
  • garlic powder – adds a savory taste.
  • onion powder – contributes a subtle and slightly sweet onion flavor.
  • dried oregano – adds a robust herb flavor.
  • dried thyme – adds earthy flavor and aroma.
  • cayenne pepper – this is what brings the heat!
  • black pepper – adds warmth and mild heat.
  • salt – enhances the overall flavor of the blend and helps season the food you’re making.

Cajun Seasoning Variations and Customizations

  • SPICIER – add a bit more cayenne, or even some red pepper flakes.
  • SMOKY – use smoked paprika in place of some or all of the regular paprika.
  • MUSTARD – Add a teaspoon or two of dried mustard powder to add a tangy kick.
A glass bowl filled with a Cajun seasoning recipe and whisk.

How to make Cajun Seasoning

1. STIR TOGETHER. Only one step! Put all of the spices in a small bowl and stir until they’re blended together.

Home Chef Tips

  • Make sure your dried herbs and spices are fresh! Check the expiration dates on the bottles and replace anything out of date.
  • For the best flavor, grind your own black pepper rather than using pre-ground.
  • Experiment with different ratios of spices to create your own perfect blend.
A wooden bowl filled with homemade Cajun seasoning, with a wooden scoop digging into it.

Storing Homemade Cajun Seasoning

Store your homemade seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It should retain its flavor for up to six months.

A wooden bowl filled with Cajun seasoning, with a wooden scoop digging into it.

Cajun Seasoning Recipe

Yield: About 7 tablespoons
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

If you need Cajun Seasoning for a recipe, this homemade version is easy to stir up. It ensures freshness, gives you control over ingredients and is a cost-efficient alternative to store-bought blends

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions

  1. Place all ingredients in a small bowl and stir until well combined. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.

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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 21 Serving Size: 1 teaspoon
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 6Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 181mgCarbohydrates: 1gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gProtein: 0g

This website provides estimated nutrition information as a courtesy only. Nutrition information does not include any optional ingredients or toppings. You should calculate the nutrition information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe using your preferred nutrition calculator.

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