Cajun Seasoning

Cajun Seasoning is a bold, flavorful blend that is easy to customize with more or less cayenne and salt so it tastes exactly how you like it. This homemade blend comes together in minutes and can be stored for up to six months.

Use it to add a Cajun kick to your favorite dishes, like Cajun chicken pasta and this hearty Cajun jambalaya.

Holly’s Recipe Highlights: Cajun Seasoning

Flavor: This seasoning has a smoky, savory flavor with notes of garlic, herbs, and paprika, balanced by a spicy kick from cayenne and red pepper flakes.
Why Make It: This DIY seasoning blend is spicy and versatile, perfect for so many recipes.
Serving Suggestions: Sprinkle this seasoning on Cajun chicken, blackened salmon, potatoes, vegetables, or rice to add bold flavor to everyday dishes.

Total Time: 3 Mins Servings: 4 Tablespoons Cooking Method: Just Mix and Use!

Ingredient Notes

salt , garlic powder , pepper , thyme , paprika , cayenne pepper. red pepper flakes , oregano , onion powder with labels to make Cajun Seasoning

Paprika: Paprika is the base and adds both color and flavor. Regular paprika balances the seasoning, while smoked paprika adds a deeper smoky taste.
Garlic Powder: Be sure to use garlic powder or granulated garlic, and not garlic salt.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Red pepper flakes add extra heat and a subtle texture to the seasoning blend. Leave them out if you prefer a milder flavor.
Salt: Table salt blends evenly, creating a consistent flavor in every bite. Adjust the salt to taste.
Variations: To change it up, add brown sugar to make the Cajun seasoning a little bit sweet and help the other seasonings cling to the food as it melts.

How to Make Cajun Seasoning

Combine all the ingredients in a bowl (full recipe below).

whisking spices together to make Cajun Seasoning

Whisk together and transfer to a jar to store.

Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices give the best flavor. Older spices can make the blend taste flat.
Start with Less Cayenne: Start with a milder blend, then add more to taste.
Shake or Stir: Shake or stir this seasoning before each use since the finer spices can settle.
How Much Seasoning? Use about 1 tablespoon of seasoning per pound of meat, then adjust to taste.

Keep It Fresh Longer

Store the seasoning in a labeled airtight container in a cool, dark pantry for up to 6 months. If you keep it longer, it will still be great, but the flavor may mellow over time.
Keep it away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight, or add a small desiccant packet to prevent moisture and clumping.
Always use a dry measuring spoon to prevent clumping.