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Homemade Cajun seasoning is ultra easy to make, taking only 5 minutes to put together! It is so flavorful and can be used on anything from this seafood gumbo to this crawfish pie or this amazing Cajun remoulade sauce!
You can even use it to season veggies, meats or fish! The blend has the perfect amount of smokiness and heat, and pairs well with so many things!
Several weeks ago, I was making these crawfish egg rolls for the blog, and was mid-recipe when I realized I didn't have any of my go-to Cajun seasoning left.
However, I did have many of the ingredients that make up Cajun seasoning so I threw together some spices and salt and made my own blend. You likely have all the ingredients you need too!
And let me tell you, it was INCREDIBLE! I knew homemade spices were better, but this? It was so much cleaner and more flavorful than the store bought version.
And it only took a couple minutes to make. The boyfriend and I have been using it on everything!
What is Cajun Seasoning?
Cajun seasoning is typically a blend of spices such as paprika, cayenne pepper, herbs, garlic and onion. It's really simple actually.
But it has a ton of flavor and a signature orange color from the paprika and cayenne pepper in it. And it's incredibly versatile - it can be used on anything from burgers to chicken to this dirty rice.
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Ingredients
The full list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
I use smoked paprika in this recipe because it adds the most delectable smoky flavor to the seasoning blend.
The recipe calls for salt, but you can easily eliminate the salt if you prefer to use a salt-free version!
This is one time where fresh herbs don't really work. You want to use dried thyme and oregano for this recipe.
Use the freshest dried spices for the best flavor.
Step By Step Instructions
Seriously, it doesn't get any easier than this to get a seasoning blend that is so much more flavorful than store bought!
Combine all the spices in a bowl and mix well. Store in a sealed jar in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Yup, that's it.
How to Use Cajun Seasoning
It is so versatile! Like I said above, it can be used on burgers and chicken and steak or vegetables. You can use it on anything!
It's great in some of these Cajun recipes:
- Jambalaya Risotto
- Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta
- Crispy Cajun Wings (they are so buttery and delicious!)
- Crawfish Bisque
- Cajun Pasta
- New Orleans BBQ Shrimp
But it's not only good for Cajun recipes, it can be used in any of these recipes also if you want to add some flavor!
- Instant Pot Broccoli
- Instant Pot Pork Chops
- Crispy Roasted Potatoes
- Creamed Pearl Onions
- Cheesy Cauliflower Bake
Expert Tips
- For a salt free version, just leave the salt out and salt your dish to taste instead.
- Add a pinch more cayenne pepper if you'd like it spicier.
- Use the freshest dried spices for the best flavor.
Did you make this Cajun seasoning? rate the recipe and leave a comment below to let me know how you liked it!
Don't forget to check out the Cajun seasoning story!
Recipe
Homemade Cajun Seasoning
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon salt optional
Instructions
- Combine all the spices in a bowl and mix well.
- Store in a sealed jar in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Expert Tips:
- For a salt free version, just leave the salt out and salt your dish to taste instead.
- Add a pinch more cayenne pepper if you'd like it spicier.
- Use the freshest dried spices for the best flavor.
Nutrition
Elina Brooks
It caught my attention when you told us that Cajun seasoning blends various spices, such as paprika, cayenne pepper, herbs, garlic, and onion, making it versatile and flavorful enough to be used on anything, from burgers to chicken to even rice. Speaking of Cajun, I've been in the mood for spicy food all week, so I was considering having Cajun food for lunch tomorrow. I'll keep this in mind while I look for a restaurant nearby that offers authentic Cajun food for me to try out.
Danielle
I hope you find a great one!
Denay DeGuzman
This cajun seasoning is so delicious and very versatile. Last night we sprinkled it over popcorn!
Danielle
Love that you used it on popcorn 🙂
Irina
I always buy ready spice blends, but your recipe makes me try to make my own one, especially I often use cajun seasoning. Making it today! Thanks.
Danielle
I used to buy premade also, then tried this and am never going back.
Tara
What wonderful flavors! So much better than store-bought and I love how the seasonings come together in only five minutes.
Danielle
Thanks Tara!
Laura
I agree this is the perfect seasoning for so many dishes. I've mixed up a big batch to keep in the kitchen so I can use it often. Love it sprinkled on potatoes.
Danielle
Great idea to sprinkle on potatoes - the boyfriend always uses it on eggs!
Alex
I love cajun seasoning, especially on peeled shrimps. Now I can have the taste I want to my food without all that salt. Thank you!
Danielle
It's so good on peeled shrimp!