15 Easy Homemade Seasoning Mix Recipes
Ever reached for a store-bought seasoning packet only to find it’s packed with mystery ingredients and way too much salt? Time to ditch those and upgrade your kitchen game with homemade seasoning blends that are fresher, bolder, and so much easier to make from scratch than you might think!
These DIY spice mixes are made from simple pantry staples you probably already have—no preservatives, no fillers, just pure flavor. Whether you’re craving the smoky depth of a BBQ rub, the zesty kick of chili-lime seasoning, or the comforting warmth of Italian herbs, this collection has something for every dish. I use them for grilling, and so much more!
They say that necessity is the mother of invention, and that’s exactly how most of these recipes came to life in my kitchen – on those evenings when I fancied something like tacos but realised that I didn’t have the readymade spice mix to hand. I’ve realized that pretty much every seasoning blend that you love can be made from scratch, and they’re such an amazing way to bring more flavor to your meals without a visit to the grocery store.
Homemade spice blends aren’t just about saving money (though that’s a bonus)—they’re about taking control of flavor and creating your own vibrant meals without having to rely on pre-made mixes. If you’ve got a reasonably well stocked spice rack, you can likely make most of these without leaving your kitchen!
1. Fajita Seasoning
If you want to make the best fajitas you’ve ever had, you need to try this spice mix! Yes that’s a bold claim, but I stand by it – this seasoning is ridiculously simple but it’s one that I’ve made literally dozens of batches of, and I use it probably at least once a week. You can use standard paprika instead of smoked if you prefer, but the flavor profile will be a little different. When it comes to salt, any fine variety is great. Coarse sea salt may result in the mix being overly salty, so do keep that in mind and proceed with caution.
Yield: About â…“ cup
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp granulated garlic
- 1 tbsp salt
Instructions:
1. Mix the Seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic, and salt.
- Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
2. Store for Later
- Transfer to a sealed jar or airtight container and store in the pantry for up to a month.
3. How to Use It
- Use 1-2 tablespoons per pound of chicken, beef, shrimp, or veggies for an easy, flavorful fajita night!
2. Jamaican Jerk Seasoning
Kick your chicken and seafood up a notch with this delicious Jamaican jerk mix. It has a kick of heat from the crushed red peppers, and packs a lightly sweet spiced flavor to carry it home. Your mouth won’t know what hit it. Do keep in mind that due to the sugar, you don’t want it getting too warm and you don’t want it to be around moisture while it’s being stored. That said, you’ll likely use it up pretty fast as it’s *chef’s kiss* delicious.
Yield: About ½ cup
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp crushed red pepper
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp allspice
- ½ tbsp white granulated sugar
- ½ tbsp ground ginger
- ½ tbsp ground clove
- ½ tbsp dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Mix the Seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients and stir until fully mixed.
2. Store for Later
- Transfer to an airtight, moisture-resistant container and store in a cool, dry place for up to 2 months.
3. How to Use It
- Use 1-2 tablespoons per pound of chicken, pork, seafood, or vegetables before grilling or roasting.
- For a more authentic jerk flavor, mix the seasoning with olive oil and lime juice before rubbing it onto your protein of choice.
3. Copycat Tajin Chili Lime Seasoning
Tangy, smoky, and just the right amount of heat—this homemade TajÃn-style seasoning is perfect for sprinkling on fruit, veggies, popcorn, or even the rim of a margarita glass. The combination of zesty lime, smoky chili, and a touch of sweetness makes everything bright, bold, and irresistibly flavorful!
Yield: 5.5 tbsp
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp True Lime crystals (or dried lime zest)
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp guajillo powder
- ½ tbsp white granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Mix the Seasoning
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together all ingredients until fully combined and no lumps remain.
2. Store for Later
- Transfer to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place for up to 5 weeks.
3. How to Use It
- Sprinkle over fresh fruit (mango, watermelon, pineapple, or oranges) for a tangy kick.
- Dust over popcorn, roasted nuts, or chips for an extra layer of flavor.
- Rim your cocktail glasses for margaritas or micheladas for a bold, citrusy twist.
4. Homemade Taco Seasoning
Say goodbye to store-bought taco packets—this homemade taco seasoning is bold, smoky, and perfectly spiced with just the right balance of heat and warmth. With chili powder, cumin, garlic, and a touch of paprika, this mix is perfect for ground beef, chicken, shrimp, or even roasted veggies. My favorite use for this one is to use it with ground beef to create a taco bowl, with lots of fresh salad veggies, shredded cheese, and guacamole.
Yield: About ½ cup
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
Instructions:
1. Mix the Seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients and stir until evenly mixed.
2. Store for Later
- Transfer to an airtight container or spice jar and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
3. How to Use It
- Use 1-2 tablespoons per pound of ground beef, chicken, or shrimp when making tacos.
- For taco meat, cook your protein, then stir in the seasoning with ½ cup water and simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
5. Lemon & Herb Seasoning
Light, fresh, and zesty, this Lemon & Herb Seasoning is perfect for adding a bright, citrusy kick to your favorite dishes. Packed with fragrant herbs, tangy lemon zest, and a touch of garlic, this blend is a go-to for chicken, seafood, roasted veggies, or salad dressings. I use this one again and again during the summer months, as it’s just so beautifully vibrant!
Yield: About ½ cup
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (dried)
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp celery seed (optional, for extra depth)
Instructions:
1. Mix the Seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients and stir until well blended.
2. Store for Later
- Transfer to an airtight spice jar or container and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
3. How to Use It
- Use 1-2 teaspoons per pound of chicken, fish, or shrimp before grilling or roasting.
- Sprinkle over roasted potatoes, asparagus, or zucchini for a bright, herby flavor.
- Mix with olive oil and lemon juice for an easy homemade vinaigrette.
6. Cajun Seasoning
Bold, smoky, and with just the right amount of heat, this Cajun seasoning brings that Louisiana-style kick to any dish. Perfect for blackened chicken, shrimp, fish, roasted veggies, or fries, this spice blend is a must-have for anyone who loves big, bold flavors.
Yield: About ½ cup
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tsp white pepper (optional, for extra depth)
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for more heat)
Instructions:
1. Mix the Seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients and stir until fully blended.
2. Store for Later
- Transfer to an airtight spice jar or container and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
3. How to Use It
- Use 1-2 tablespoons per pound of chicken, shrimp, or fish before grilling, pan-searing, or roasting.
- Sprinkle over roasted potatoes, corn on the cob, or even popcorn for a spicy twist.
- Mix with mayo or sour cream for a quick Cajun dipping sauce.
7. Greek Spice Blend
Herby, garlicky, and full of Mediterranean flavor, this Greek Spice Blend is the perfect way to bring bright, bold seasoning to your meals. With oregano, garlic, lemon, and a hint of warmth from cinnamon and nutmeg, this mix is perfect for grilled meats, roasted veggies, or homemade Greek dressing.
Yield: About ½ cup
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary, crushed
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp dried lemon zest (or ½ tbsp lemon pepper seasoning)
Instructions:
1. Mix the Seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients and stir until evenly blended.
2. Store for Later
- Transfer to an airtight spice jar or container and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
3. How to Use It
- Use 1-2 teaspoons per pound of chicken, lamb, or beef before grilling or roasting.
- Sprinkle over roasted potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for an easy side dish.
- Mix with olive oil, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar for an easy Greek dressing or marinade.
8. Classic BBQ Rub
Smoky, sweet, and just the right amount of spice—this Classic BBQ Rub is the secret to flavor-packed grilled meats! Whether you’re seasoning ribs, brisket, chicken, or even roasted veggies, this bold blend of brown sugar, paprika, garlic, and spices delivers that perfect sweet-and-smoky BBQ flavor every time.
Yield: About ½ cup
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp ground mustard
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Mix the Seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients and stir until fully blended.
2. Store for Later
- Transfer to an airtight container or spice jar and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
3. How to Use It
- Use 1-2 tablespoons per pound of chicken, ribs, brisket, or pork before grilling or smoking.
- Rub onto meats at least 30 minutes before cooking for the best flavor.
- Also great on roasted potatoes, grilled corn, or even popcorn!
9. Everything Bagel Seasoning
Crunchy, garlicky, and just the right amount of salty, this Everything Bagel Seasoning is the ultimate all-purpose topping. Whether you sprinkle it over avocado toast, eggs, cottage cheese, or roasted veggies, this classic seasoning blend adds big flavor and crunch to just about anything. Once you’ve made it yourself, you’ll never go back to store-bought versions!
Yield: About ½ cup
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp white sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp black sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1 tbsp dried minced garlic
- 1 tbsp dried minced onion
- 1 tbsp flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. Mix the Seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients and stir until evenly mixed.
2. Store for Later
- Transfer to an airtight jar or spice shaker and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
3. How to Use It
- Sprinkle over avocado toast, eggs, cottage cheese, or salads for extra crunch and flavor.
- Use as a seasoning for roasted veggies, popcorn, or even grilled chicken.
- Stir into cream cheese or Greek yogurt for an easy bagel-style dip.
10. Italian Seasoning
A classic, versatile blend, this Italian Seasoning brings together fragrant herbs that add a taste of the Mediterraneanto any dish. Whether you’re making pasta sauce, roasted veggies, garlic bread, or a homemade vinaigrette, this easy homemade mix is a pantry essential that saves you from reaching for multiple spice jars every time!
Yield: About ½ cup
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp dried basil
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp dried rosemary, crushed
- 1 tbsp dried marjoram
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
1. Mix the Seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients and stir until evenly blended.
2. Store for Later
- Transfer to an airtight spice jar or container and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
3. How to Use It
- Add 1-2 teaspoons to pasta sauces, soups, or marinades for instant Italian flavor.
- Sprinkle over roasted veggies, potatoes, or grilled meats for an herby boost.
- Mix with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a quick homemade vinaigrette.
11. Steakhouse Seasoning
This bold, savory Steakhouse Seasoning gives your steaks that perfectly seasoned, restaurant-quality crust right at home. With a blend of coarse salt, cracked black pepper, garlic, onion, and smoky paprika, it’s perfect for grilling and pan-searing.
Yield: About ½ cup
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp coarse salt
- 1 tbsp cracked black pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp dried rosemary, crushed
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp ground mustard
- 1 tsp brown sugar (optional, for slight caramelization)
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
1. Mix the Seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients and stir until evenly blended.
2. Store for Later
- Transfer to an airtight container or spice jar and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
3. How to Use It
- Use 1-2 teaspoons per 8 oz steak, pressing it into the meat for a flavorful crust.
- Let the steak rest for 30 minutes after seasoning for maximum flavor.
- Also great on grilled chicken, roasted potatoes, and burgers!
12. Pizza Seasoning
Love the herby, garlicky flavors of a classic pizza? This Pizza Seasoning blend is the perfect way to sprinkle that deliciousness on anything! With a mix of Italian herbs, garlic, and a little heat from red pepper flakes, this blend is great for homemade pizza, garlic bread, pasta, or popcorn!
Yield: About ½ cup
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary, crushed
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Mix the Seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients and stir until evenly mixed.
2. Store for Later
- Transfer to an airtight spice jar and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
3. How to Use It
- Sprinkle over pizza, garlic bread, or pasta dishes for extra flavor.
- Mix into pizza dough, marinara sauce, or homemade croutons.
13. Ranch Seasoning
Creamy, herby, and packed with classic ranch flavor, this homemade Ranch Seasoning is perfect for dips, dressings, roasted veggies, or even popcorn. It’s a pantry staple for quick and easy ranch goodness without the additives in store-bought packets.
Yield: About ½ cup
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup buttermilk powder
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tbsp dried chives
- 1 tbsp dried dill
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Mix the Seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients and stir until evenly mixed.
2. Store for Later
- Transfer to an airtight spice jar and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
3. How to Use It
- Mix 1 tbsp Ranch Seasoning with ½ cup mayo and ½ cup buttermilk for an easy homemade ranch dressing.
- Stir into Greek yogurt or sour cream for a quick ranch dip.
14. Burger Blend Seasoning
Take your homemade burgers to the next level with this Burger Blend Seasoning—a savory, smoky, and perfectly balanced mix that gives you that classic, juicy burger flavor. Whether you’re grilling, pan-searing, or making smash burgers, this flavorful spice blend is all you need for a restaurant-quality bite.
Yield: About ½ cup
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1½ tsp brown sugar (optional, for caramelization)
- 1 tsp ground mustard
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
1. Mix the Seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients and stir until evenly blended.
2. Store for Later
- Transfer to an airtight spice jar or container and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
3. How to Use It
- Use 1 teaspoon per ½ pound of ground beef or turkey before shaping your patties.
- Sprinkle directly onto burgers before grilling or pan-searing.
- Also great on fries, roasted potatoes, or even grilled veggies.
15. Homemade Dorito Dust
Love the bold, cheesy, addictive flavor of Doritos? This Homemade Dorito Dust gives you that savory, tangy, and slightly spicy kick without the mystery ingredients. Sprinkle it over popcorn, fries, roasted veggies, or even homemade chips for an instant flavor boost!
Yield: About ½ cup
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup cheddar cheese powder
- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (for extra cheesiness)
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar (for balance)
- ½ tsp ground mustard
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
1. Mix the Seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients and stir until fully blended.
2. Store for Later
- Transfer to an airtight spice jar and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
3. How to Use It
- Sprinkle over popcorn, fries, tortilla chips, or roasted nuts for an instant cheesy kick.
- Use as a seasoning for homemade Dorito-style chips by tossing warm tortilla chips with the seasoning and a little oil.
With these 15 homemade seasoning blends, you’ll never need store-bought spice mixes again! From smoky BBQ rubs to zesty chili lime seasoning, these blends are fresh, customizable, and free of unnecessary additives. Which one will you be trying first?
