Cajun Spice (Homemade Cajun Seasoning!) - No Spoon Necessary

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With the ideal blend of bold, zesty flavors, these homemade Cajun spices are the easiest way to bring authentic New Orleans flair to your kitchen. Made with aromatic pantry spices and a mild kick of spicy heat, this recipe for cajun seasoning mix tastes fantastic on everything from Big Easy favorites like Gumbo and Jambalaya to traditional classics like grilled meats and roasted veggies.

“I use Cajun seasoning all the time, but had never made my own. This was wonderful!”

– TINA

Update: This recipe was originally published in January 2022. I made updates to the article below to include more information about making cajun spices for gumbo, jambalaya, dirty rice, and more.

Hi, friends! I hope you love Cajun cuisine as much as I do. Because, today I’m sharing the most delicious (and ridiculously versatile) all-purpose seasoning mix. It’s the perfect way to add a punch of Big Easy flavor to all your favorite dishes!

Table of Contents

• About this cajun spice mix recipe
  • Why you’ll love this seasoning blend
• What’s in Cajun seasonings
  • Recipe variations
• How to make Cajun spices
  • Follow these chef expert tips for perfect results every time!
• FAQs: frequently asked questions
  • What’s the difference between Cajun seasoning and Creole seasoning?
  • Can I make Cajun seasoning with ingredients I already have at home?
  • How do I adjust the heat in my homemade Cajun spices?
  • Can I use Cajun seasoning for dishes other than Cajun food?
  • Can I use Cajun spice for making gumbo?
  • Is there a difference between Cajun seasoning and Cajun rub?
• Using Homemade Cajun Spices
  • Unique serving ideas
• Storing leftovers
• More homemade seasoning blends!
• Homemade Cajun Spices: Cajun Seasoning for Gumbo & Beyond
  • Equipment
  • Ingredients
    • Homemade Cajun Spices
  • Instructions
  • Notes
  • Nutrition

View more

About this cajun spice mix recipe

This Cajun seasoning recipe takes mere minutes to whip together, but it will totally transform any dish from boring and bland to BOLD and undeniably DELICIOUS!

These homemade cajun spices feature a rustic mix of flavors, such as paprika, onion, garlic, oregano and cayenne, to create an all-purpose blend that’s savory, smoky, aromatic, slightly spicy, peppery and irresistibly robust. Store-bought blends can contain gluten, MSG and additives; however, this DIY Cajun mix is all natural and free-from any less than wholesome ingredients.

Plus, this seasoning mix is totally customizable and a great way to use up any lingering spices you have hanging around your pantry. You can easily tailor the heat level, salt content and combination of seasonings to your personal liking. Think of this recipe as a template to bringing delicious Southern cooking to your very own kitchen.

Oh, and did I mention this Cajun blend is amazingly versatile!? Seriously, it is delicious on anything and everything!! Try it on eggs, dips, potatoes, chicken, meats, seafood, tofu, pasta, and MORE. Trust and believe, this seasoning mix will become a staple in your spice drawer.

If you’re looking for more homemade spice mixes, be sure to try these flavorful recipes next: Homemade Fajita Seasoning, Jerk Spices Recipe, Greek Seasoning Blend Recipe, Italian Seasoning Mix, and Sazon Spices Recipe.

Why you’ll love this seasoning blend

• Flavorful. This homemade cajun seasoning recipe brings the robust flavor – it’s the perfect way to add bold Big Easy flavor to your favorite dishes.
• Basic Pantry Staples and 10 minutes. This versatile blend literally comes together in minutes and it’s made with common spices you probably already have on hand in your pantry.
• All natural – You’re in control. While store-bought seasoning mixes are convenient, they also contain undesirable additives and preservatives.But, mixing your own spice blends allows you to control the ingredients. You can make your blends lower in sodium and gluten-free too!
• Cheaper: Making your own spice blend with seasonings you already have on hand can save you some money if you have a well stocked kitchen pantry.
• Customizable. You can easily customize this flexible spice recipe to suit your personal taste. For those who like it hot, add the optional red pepper flakes. Or if you prefer your spice blend heavy on the earthy flavors, add in a bit of basil and parsley. This recipe allows you to be in control!
• Versatile. This Cajun spice mix is delicious on anything and everything – use it to make scrambled eggs, roast vegetables, potatoes, chicken, and fish, or make classic New Orleans dishes, such as Jambalaya, and MORE!

What’s in Cajun seasonings

The exact spices in a Cajun blend will vary greatly from kitchen to kitchen and recipe to recipe. However, the most common ingredients include paprika, oregano, cayenne.

• Paprika: Both regular and smoked paprika work great depending upon what you have on hand.
• Onion Powder: Provides a mild touch of slightly sweet, savory onion flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Lends a more subtle, slightly sweet garlic flavor than assertive garlic cloves.
• Salt: For the best flavor, be sure to use kosher salt and not table salt.
• Pepper: Freshly grind black pepper for the best taste.
• Cayenne: Fiery cayenne brings the heat. You can easily adjust (or eliminate) this.
• Oregano: Dried oregano leaves give the spice blend a warm, slightly peppery, and herbaceous flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Chili flakes add delicate touch of sharp and vaguely earthy flavor with a tiny kick of heat.

Recipe variations

The great thing about making your own spice blend is that you can add any seasonings, spices, and herbs you love:

• Creole Seasoning Blend. If you’re looking for a seasoning mix that’s more herbal in flavor, add dried basil, parsley, and thyme to make Creole spice for Gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish étouffée, or any Creole-inspired dish.
• Sweet and Spicy Cajun Seasoning. For a variation that’s delightfully sweet and spicy, add a little brown sugar or granulated sugar along with a hint of chili powder and cinnamon to the mix.
• Mild Cajun Spice Mix. Adding a little bit of earthy cumin and slightly citrusy coriander will give you a mix that’s earthier, and milder in flavor. I personally love using this version on peel n eat shrimp, potatoes and shrimp, and in homemade shrimp cocktail sauce.
• Low-Sodium Cajun Spices. Reduce the kosher salt if you’re looking for a reduced sodium rendition.
• Spicy Cajun Blend. If you’re looking for fiery heat, throw in a little hot paprika or Ghost Pepper Powder. I especially love using this extra hot blend on this recipe for salmon bites.

How to make Cajun spices

Making homemade Cajun spices is as quick and easy as 1,2,3 – gather, mix and enjoy!

• Gather and measure your spices
• Mix them together in a storage jar
• Cover the jar with a tight-fitting lid

Voilà (or should I say Slap Ya Mama? IYKYK) – you have just created your very own Cajun blend for gumbo and more.

Follow these chef expert tips for perfect results every time!

• Use Fresh Spices. Double check your spices and dry herbs for expiration dates. Old spices lose potency and will make your seasoning blend taste flat. If your spices have been sitting around for a year, toss them.
• Use whole spices. If you can, use whole spices like peppercorns and cumin seeds and grind them in a spice grinder or coffee grinder for the best flavor.
• Use dried herbs. When using herbs in this seasoning blend (oregano, thyme, basil, and parsley), make sure you use dried and not ground as ground herbs are much more potent.
• Start small. As for the salt and “spicy” seasonings, such as cayenne, start with a small amount in your Cajun blend. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out once you add it!
• Make Your Spice Mix to Taste. Everyone’s taste is different, so be sure to taste test your Cajun spice mix as you go. If you like it spicier, add more cayenne. Prefer more savory depth? Add more garlic or onion powder. Looking for a more robust “seasoned” taste, add in some dried herbs. Your seasoning, your rules!
• Proper Storage. Spices degrade quickly when exposed to heat, light, or air. Store your homemade cajun spice blend in an airtight container in a cool, dark place like the pantry or a kitchen cabinet.

FAQs: frequently asked questions

You’ve got questions? I’ve got answers! If you have a question you don’t see listed below, please drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can!

What’s the difference between Cajun seasoning and Creole seasoning?

Cajun and Creole seasoning are both staples in Louisiana cuisine, but they do have some key differences

• Cajun seasoning tends to be more spicy and smoky, focusing heavily on ingredients like paprika, cayenne, and black pepper.
• Creole seasoning is generally a more herb-forward blend, with additions like oregano, thyme, basil, and parsley. It’s often milder and used more for dishes like gumbo and etouffee.
• Take away. If you prefer a lighter, herbier seasoning, go for Creole. If you want something spicy and smoky, stick with a Cajun seasoning mix.

Can I make Cajun seasoning with ingredients I already have at home?

The beautiful thing about making spice blends at home? They require basic pantry ingredients and most home cooks with a well stocked pantry will already have the basic ingredients for this Cajun seasoning recipe in their pantry.

How do I adjust the heat in my homemade Cajun spices?

The amount of cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes in your Cajun seasoning determines how spicy it will be. If you like more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few extra red pepper flakes. For a milder version, use less cayenne or skip the red pepper flakes entirely.

Can I use Cajun seasoning for dishes other than Cajun food?

Absolutely! Cajun spices are incredibly versatile. Below are just a few ideas for using it beyond traditional Cajun dishes:

• Season Meats: Sprinkle it on chicken, shrimp, fish, or steak before grilling, frying, or roasting.
• Toss it with Veggies: Toss it with roasted vegetables, especially potatoes, cauliflower, or bell peppers.
• Add Pizzazz to Popcorn and Snacks: For a fun snack, sprinkle this cajun seasoning mix recipe on freshly popped popcorn or use it to flavor and roast chickpeas.
• Elevate Eggs: Add it to scrambled eggs or omelets for a zesty kick.

Can I use Cajun spice for making gumbo?

Yes! This cajun seasoning mix recipe is perfect for adding flavor to gumbo. Just sprinkle it in with your vegetables and proteins to give your gumbo that signature spicy kick.

Start by adding 1-2 teaspoons per serving of gumbo and taste-test as you go. Gumbo is traditionally rich and savory, so you want the seasoning to enhance the flavors without overshadowing the dish.

Is there a difference between Cajun seasoning and Cajun rub?

There is a slight difference:

• Cajun seasoning mix is an all-purpose spice blend that’s generally used for seasoning food before or during cooking.
• Cajun rub is a thicker mixture that’s typically made with extra salt and sugar. Rubs are used to coat meats before grilling, frying, or roasting to help create a crust or caramelization on the meat.

Pro-tip: If you want to use this Cajun blend as a rub, you can! Simply mix it with a bit of neutral oil to help it adhere to the meat. And to create a more robust flavor profile, I recommend increasing the kosher salt and adding a generous amount of brown sugar.

Using Homemade Cajun Spices

Homemade cajun spices are a must-have in any kitchen due to their versatility and bold flavor. Here are some classic ways to use it:

• Season Proteins. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning mix on chicken, lunch meat turkey, shrimp, fish, or steak before grilling, pan-searing, or roasting. Or, mix the seasoning with a little oil to create a paste for better adhesion. If you’re looking for cajun recipes to try, check out these cajun dry rub wings, cajun red beans and rice, and cajun honey shrimp.
• Gumbo and Stews. Use the cajun seasoning for gumbo, jambalaya, or other rich stews for an added depth of flavor.
• Roasted Vegetables. Toss potatoes, cauliflower, carrots, or bell peppers in a bit of oil and spice mix before roasting them in the oven.
• Seafood Boils. Cajun spice blend is a traditional component of a seafood boil—perfect for shrimp, crab, and crawfish. Add Cajun seasoning to the boiling water along with lemon slices and bay leaves for an extra burst of flavor. And mix with garlic and melted butter to drizzle over the cooked seafood for a flavorful finish.
• Rice Dishes. Season rice for a side dish or add it to cajun sausage and rice, also known as dirty rice, for an authentic Creole flavor.
• Cajun Remoulade. Whip up my favorite Big Easy sauce – remoulade recipe – and serve it alongside anything that could use a deliciously creamy dipping sauce. Think: crab cakes, hush puppies, shrimp cocktail, and more.
• Peanuts and Nuts. Make your own Cajun boiled peanuts or use it to season and roast nuts.

Unique serving ideas

Looking to get creative with your Cajun seasonings? Below are some unique ways to bring a zesty twist to everyday dishes:

• Cajun Popcorn. Lightly sprinkle homemade cajun spices over freshly popped popcorn for an easy, spicy snack that packs a punch.
• Cajun Deviled Eggs. Add a sprinkle of gumbo seasoning to your deviled egg filling for an extra layer of flavor that complements the creaminess of the yolk. It’s especially delightful on bacon deviled eggs and lump crab deviled eggs.
• Cajun Fries. Toss your french fries or sweet potato fries in New Orleans seasoning before baking or frying and serve with creamy ranch dipping sauce.
• Spicy Cajun Pizza. Add a dusting of cajun seasoning mix on the crust or directly on top of the pizza before baking. This pairs beautifully with shrimp, sausage, or chicken toppings.
• Cajun-Style Gravy. Add the seasoning blend to your gravy base for a flavorful twist that’s perfect over mashed potatoes, biscuits, or fried chicken. Combine with browned onions and bell peppers for a true Louisiana-style gravy.
• Cajun Scrambled Eggs. Sprinkle gumbo spice over creamy scrambled eggs for a spicy, savory breakfast or brunch option.
• Creamy Cajun Avocado Hummus. Add a pinch of spice mix to avocado hummus and spread over pita bread or serve with pita chips for dipping.
• Shellfish. I personally love these robust seasonings on seafood, likescallops on a grill, or crab sandwich recipes. Or use it to prepare crab legs and make butter sauces for seafood.

Storing leftovers

• Always store your seasonings and spice blends in airtight containers in a cool, dark place away from heat or any direct sunlight. The kitchen pantry or a dark cabinet are both great places to store dried spices and seasonings.
• Seasoning mixes never actually “spoil” or “expire”; however, they do lose their flavor! When you store them properly (according to above), your homemade Cajun spices will last approximately 1 year. However, it is important to note, spice blends are made up of individual seasonings and dried herbs. So, if you make this spice blend with older seasonings, your blend will not keep as long.

So, what are you waiting for!? Grab some of basic pantry seasonings, mix up this recipe for cajun spices, and add robust, bold Big Easy flavor to all your favorite dishes!

Until next week, friends, cheers! To spicing things up!

Cheyanne

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More homemade seasoning blends!

• Best Burger Seasoning
• Ranch Packet Seasoning
• Everything Bagel Seasoning
• Homemade Old Bay

Homemade Cajun Spices: Cajun Seasoning for Gumbo & Beyond

5 from 1 vote Author: Cheyanne Holzworth Total Time: 5 minutes minsPrep Time: 5 minutes minsServings: 10 tablespoons Print Recipe Pin Recipe With the ideal blend of bold, zesty flavors, these homemade Cajun spices are the easiest way to bring authentic New Orleans flair to your kitchen. Made with aromatic pantry spices and a mild kick of spicy heat, this recipe for cajun seasoning mix tastes fantastic on everything from Big Easy favorites like Gumbo and Jambalaya to traditional classics like grilled meats and roasted veggies.

Equipment

• 1 Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

Homemade Cajun Spices

• 3 TBS Paprika
• 2 TBS Onion Powder
• 2 TBS Garlic Powder
• 1 TBS Kosher Salt
• 1 TBS Black Pepper
• 1 TBS Cayenne
• 1 TBS Dried Oregano Leaves (not ground)
• 1 tsp Celery Salt
• ½ tsp Red Pepper Flakes (OPTIONAL)

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

• Gather and Measure Ingredients: Gather and measure all the seasonings and dried herbs.
• Mix Seasonings: Place all the ingredients into a storage jar (or bowl) and stir to thoroughly combine. Taste and adjust as necessary.
• Store or Use Homemade Cajun Spices: Store the Cajun spice in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. (Please see the post for 20 delicious ways to use your seasoning mix!)

Notes

• Creole Seasoning Mix: If you want to transform this Cajun seasoning blend into a Creole one, add the following ingredients:
  • 1 TBS Dried Basil Leaves (not ground)
  • 1 TBS Dried Parsley Leaves (not ground)
  • 1 TBS Dried Thyme Leaves (not ground)
• Tips: Please see the article for tips on customizing your Cajun spice blend.
• Salt + Cayenne: When it comes to making your own blend, I recommend starting light handed with the Kosher Salt and Cayenne Pepper – remember, you can always add more, but you can’t remove it once you’ve added it!
• Need to Scale the Recipe? Hover your mouse over the number of servings in the recipe card. You’ll see a sliding scale pop up, you can use that to scale the recipe up or down as needed.
• Got questions? I’ve got answers! If you ever run into an issue, have a question, or need any clarification – please feel free to drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can!
• Recipe Yield: Approximately 2/3 Cup (34 1/2 teaspoons for Cajun Seasoning)

Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and the nutrition facts are an estimate based upon 10 (1 heaping tablespoon) servings. Exact information will depend upon the brands of ingredients and precise measurements used.

Nutrition

Calories: 21kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 1gFat: 0.4gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gSodium: 936mgPotassium: 107mgFiber: 2gSugar: 0.4gVitamin A: 1284IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 24mgIron: 1mg Course: CondimentCuisine: Cajun

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