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The BEST Homemade Cajun Spice Mix Recipe
This Easy, Homemade Cajun Seasoning is my go-to, all purpose spice mix. It adds boldness and flavor to any dish.
What is Cajun Seasoning
Cajun Seasoning, or Cajun Spice Mix, is a classic blend of herbs and spices, originating from Louisiana. It’s a very versatile blend of common, ordinary spices that you probably already have on hand.
Uses
What’s Cajun Seasoning used for? Cajun Spice Mix can be used in so many different ways. It’s so versatile that it complements a wide range of dishes:
- Baked or grilled chicken, meat, shrimp
- Roasted Veggies – Cajun fries
- Pasta dishes – especially creamy ones
- Soups, stews, rice, and beans
Ingredients
Cajun Spice Mix is a blend of common, ordinary spices that you probably already have on hand:
- Paprika
- Cayenne pepper
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt (optional)
Salt free seasoning recipe
I’ve listed salt as an optional ingredient, however I never add it myself. I prefer to add salt separately so that I can have the exact amount of saltiness I want, while being able to use as much of the seasoning as I want.
Easy, Homemade Cajun Spice Mix recipe
It’s so quick and easy to mix up your own Cajun Seasoning at home. No need to pay a premium for ready-made spice mixes.
What’s the difference between Cajun and Creole seasoning
Cajun Seasoning and Creole seasoning are very similar. Some would consider them to be interchangeable.
While Cajun seasoning is a basic blend of cayenne, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, Creole seasoning has some earthier notes with the addition of dried herbs like oregano, thyme, basil, and parsley.
What does it taste like?
Cajun Seasoning has a bold spicy flavor (from the cayenne and paprika) with a subtle earthiness (provided by the garlic, onion, and herbs).
It’s the ultimate all-purpose seasoning and definitely the spice mix that I can’t do without. I use it on everything from burgers and steaks, to Cajun fries and chicken breasts, to soups, pasta, and rice.
If you like it spicy, you can use more cayenne. If you like it milder, use a higher ratio of paprika.
How to make Homemade Cajun Seasoning Mix
Simply mix the ingredients and store in an airtight container for up to six months. After that, it will begin to lose it potency.
Recipe
Cajun Seasoning
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons paprika or smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried leaf oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon salt optional or to taste
Instructions
- Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Quincella says
Love this seasoning! Made it today. It was so easy to make. You can taste the difference in this homemade recipe and the store bought. I didn't add any salt which helps to control the salt in recipes using canned salmon and more. I did add a little chili powder. Won't be buying cajun seasoning again.
Thanks for the recipe!
Kelly says
So happy you liked it, Quincella! Thanks so much!
KHAN RANA says
I cannot wait to use it in my next dish!
Kelly says
Thanks so much!
Alexandra says
I am from Louisiana and this is hands down the best homemade Cajun spice blend I've found for my air fryer chicken tenders. I can’t wait to try it in more dishes!
Kelly says
Wow! That's such a compliment! I'm so happy you liked it, Alexandra. Thanks so much!
Rahul says
I love cajun food and I love cajun seasoning. I got the seasoning from my visit to Jack Daniels, it tastes really good. Love to add it to everything 😉
I like to make my own spice mix. It makes the dish so flavorful. Thanks for sharing the recipe Kelly
Kelly says
This is definitely the most used spice mix in my cupboard! Thanks so much, Rahul!
Andrea@thekitchenlioness says
Dear Kelly, of course I will try your recipe for this boldly colored Cajun spice mix - it sounds extremly delicious and I don't believe that we can find a ready-made Cajun spice mix at the stores around here. And homemade spice mixes are often more flavorful - I like to mix spices for baking and cooking and recently bought a few neat spice jars that are still empty - now I know that one of them will be filled with a Cajun spice mix à la Kelly!
Happy Sunday!
Andrea
Kelly says
Aw thanks so much, Andrea! It's our favorite all-purpose seasoning for chicken, meats, and roasted potatoes!