Cajun seasoning is a tasty blend of zesty savory flavors and is as spicy or mild as you'd like. It's easily made from pantry-staple spices, keeps well for months, and is delicious on everything from meats, pasta, potatoes, or veggies.

Try this homemade cajun seasoning on some grilled pork chops, baked chicken thighs, or roast potatoes. Or sprinkle it on top of popcorn; It's delicious!

Cajun seasoning spices in a bowl with a fork.

Cajun seasoning

Cajun seasoning is the mother of all seasoning blends. It is so versatile that if we had to choose just one spice blend, this would be the one. It adds flavor to everything from meats, seafood, and veggies to soups, stir-frys, and dips.

The taste is bold without being overwhelming, and it always seems to be the right choice. You'll find eight spices (including salt and pepper!) in here, and you probably have in your pantry right now. Make your cooking life easy by taking five minutes now to whip up a big batch!

READ MORE: Homemade Fajita Seasoning

What is cajun seasoning

This highly versatile spice mix hails from Louisiana. It's a blend of different spices that is heavy on the paprika, garlic, oregano, and pepper.

How to make cajun seasoning

All DIY spice mixes are simple to make, and this one is no exception. Simply mix the spices in a bowl then transfer them to a sealable jar. The mix will last for at least one year in your pantry.

A spoonful of diy cajun seasoning on a spoon.

What's in cajun seasoning

Cajun spices can vary a little but generally consists of lots of paprika and garlic and some oregano and pepper. Other spices are added to the mix to make it even more flavorful. The combination we like best is:

  • Paprika
  • Onion powder
  • Garlic powder
  • Thyme
  • Oregano
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Cayenne (if you like it spicy)

Is cajun seasoning spicy

It can be! But it doesn't have to be. That's the beauty of making your spice mix; it can be whatever you want. If you like it spicy, add cayenne. If you prefer it mild, leave out the cayenne or add only a small pinch.

How to use cajun spice

Cajun spice is very versatile. Not only can you use it in any recipe that calls for cajun seasoning (like our easy cajun salmon), but you can also use it as an all-purpose spice mix. Try it in these recipes, swapping this for the listed spices:

This spice mix is also tasty added to chili, mixed with yogurt to make a dip, or sprinkled on fries or popcorn.

Homemade cajun seasoning in a glass jar with a spoon,

Popular cajun recipes

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Homemade cajun seasoning in a glass jar with a spoon,

Cajun Seasoning

  • Author: Kristen Stevens
  • Prep Time: 5 mins
  • Cook Time: 0 mins
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 12 tablespoons 1x
  • Category: Spices
  • Method: No Cook
  • Cuisine: Cajun
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Description

Cajun seasoning is a tasty blend of zesty savory flavors and is as spicy or mild as you'd like. It's easily made from pantry-staple spices, keeps well for months, and is delicious on everything from meats, pasta, potatoes, or veggies. 

Scale

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons paprika
  • 2 tablespoons EACH: onion powder and garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon EACH: thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne (see notes)

Instructions

  1. Mix the ingredients together in a medium-sized bowl. 
  2. Transfer the spice mix to a jar and store in your pantry for up to 1 year. 

Notes

If you're sensitive to heat you can reduce, or even omit, the cayenne.

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Homemade cajun seasoning in a glass jar with a spoon with the recipe title on top of the picture.