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I’ve been making variations of this homemade Cajun seasoning recipe for a few years now, starting with the Cajun keto onion rings I used it for first. But when I made low carb jambalaya recently, I thought it would be helpful to share how to make cajun seasoning mix for it as well, in its own post.
This blend can be used in so many different ways in your cooking (sharing plenty of ideas below, from main dishes and meats to sides and pasta), and adds a balanced bit of savory and spice flavor to just about anything. From my experience, it has authentic flavor without being too complicated — that makes it the best Cajun seasoning in my book!
What Is Cajun Seasoning?
Cajun seasoning is a blend of spices and dried herbs, originating in Louisiana. Cajun cuisine often includes bell peppers, onions, and celery as well. You can buy the spice mix, but it’s super easy to make at home.
Cajun seasoning is similar to Creole seasoning (a mix with oregano, basil, bay leaves, garlic powder and paprika as main ingredients), but with more spice.
Why This Is The Best Cajun Seasoning Recipe
- Spicy, bold taste
- 8 simple ingredients you probably have in your pantry
- Takes just 5 minutes
- Easy to store for a long time
- Perfect as a dry rub or seasoning for so many dishes
What Is In Cajun Seasoning?
This section explains how to choose the best cajun seasoning ingredients, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card below.
- Paprika – You could also use smoked paprika if you prefer.
- Garlic Powder – So important in any Cajun spice blend.
- Sea Salt – Most Cajun seasoning recipes contain salt already added, so this one does as well. Since the salt makes up 1/8 of the recipe, you may need to reduce the amount used if you omit the salt, if you want the same flavor intensity. The difference is slight (technically you’d use 7/8 teaspoon of salt-free cajun seasoning for each full teaspoon of salted), so the simpler way is to use a scant teaspoon measuring spoon instead. Alternatively, you can use the same amount of kosher salt or a salt substitute instead of sea salt.
- Herbs – You will need dried oregano and dried thyme leaves, or just use one or the other.
- Onion Powder – Onion powder adds a complex yet mild flavor, but you can substitute more garlic powder or chives for a similar taste.
- Cayenne Pepper – Red pepper flakes, hot paprika, or chili powder will also work in place of cayenne pepper.
- Red Pepper Flakes – You can substitute other spices such as black pepper, paprika or chili powder for similar heat and flavor.
Is Cajun seasoning spicy?
Yes, Cajun seasoning is somewhat spicy. It has a bold and unique flavor that will add a kick to any dish.
How To Make Cajun Seasoning
Mix Cajun seasoning ingredients in a bowl. Place the mixture in a sealed container or jar.
If you want a powdery texture, you can grind the spices in a coffee grinder, food processor or blender. Alternatively, use a mortar and pestle to mash the spices.
Storage Instructions
This homemade Cajun seasoning recipe will last for 2-3 years in the pantry, but is best within 1 year. Make a large batch and store in an airtight container, such as spice jars with lids, small multi purpose jars, or spice organizers.
Ways To Use Cajun Seasoning
You can use this perfect blend in so many different ways:
- Cajun Classics – Jambalaya and gumbo are some of the most iconic ways to use homemade Cajun seasoning mix! Try my healthy jambalaya recipe or keto gumbo for a lighter twist on these classic Louisina dishes.
- Chicken – Swap out the seasonings in baked chicken breast, easy Instant Pot shredded chicken, or baked chicken drumsticks to make a spicy chicken dish. You can also season baked chicken wings (or whole chicken wings) with it for a spicy appetizer.
- Seafood – Try adding it to air fryer shrimp or simple baked salmon, or use it for Cajun grilled cod.
- Fries – Sprinkle the seasoning mix over potato fries, rutabaga fries, or zucchini fries. SO good!
- Noodles – Toss it with your favorite pasta recipe. I usually choose zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Rice & Potatoes – Season your favorite rice (mine is cauliflower rice!) or sprinkle over golden roasted potatoes or roasted rutabaga.
- Beef – Use this blend in my juicy burger recipe, or as a dry rub for sirloin steak, or even mixed into a chili recipe.
More Homemade Seasoning Recipes
Making your own seasoning mixes delivers fresh flavor with easy ingredients! Here are some more homemade seasonings to explore:
Cajun Seasoning Recipe
Cajun Seasoning Recipe (5 Minutes!)
Learn how to make Cajun seasoning mix in just 5 minutes! This simple homemade Cajun seasoning recipe uses spices you probably already have.
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Ingredients
Tap underlined ingredients to see where to get them. Please turn Safari reader mode OFF to view ingredients.
Instructions
Tap on the times in the instructions below to start a kitchen timer while you cook.
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Stir all ingredients together. Store in a small airtight jar.
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Recipe Notes
Serving size: 1 tsp
Nutrition facts are provided as a courtesy. Have questions about calculations or why you got a different result? Please see our nutrition policy.
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17 Comments
Miranda
0It was so good we all couldn’t tell the difference!! Yumm thank you!!
Shelby
0I’ve used this Cajon seasoning on just about everything and we never tire of it! It’s so flavorful and easy to whip up. Way better than store-bought.
Elizabeth S
0Super easy to make! It tasted almost identical to Slap Yo Mommas but was a 1/3 of the price. YAY!
Rebecca
0Yum! I mixed up a batch of this seasoning and used it in gumbo last night and it was delicious! The balance of flavors in this blend is perfect! Thanks for such a great recipe!
Lindsey
0Such an easy and delicious spice mix recipe. I used it instead of blackening seasoning on fish this past weekend. Next time making a larger batch for the cupboard 🙂
Giangi Townsend
0I just dried fresh oregano and had too much that I did not know how to use it. Your recipe for cajun seasoning came in handy as I added to it. Fantastic recipe. We have used it as a rub over salmon and pork chops. So good.
Kathy Soule
0My Son is now my new cook and he HATES Cooking! He didn’t follow the recipe and it’s very HOT with the overpowering flavor of Black Pepper. He’s making Red Beans and rice! Read all the secrets to taking the hot out, but am afraid to add acid, milk, or sweet. That it would totally screw up my broth! I will try straining it 1st. Don’t want to add anymore liquid!
Jojobe
0I started this but never got to a list of measured ingredients before I was required to install/buy an app of some kind. Disappointing.
Wholesome Yum D
0Hi Jojobe, The list of ingredients is listed right above where you left this comment.
Sarah
0Is fajita seasoning similar to Cajun seasoning?
Could I use fajita seasoning for chicken Cajun recipe?
Wholesome Yum M
0Hi Sarah, The two are not the same. Cajun seasoning includes oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Using fajita seasoning in place of cajun will work in the recipe, but you will get a different final flavor in your dish. I hope this helps.
Allison
0Tried this mix in burgers- delish! Thanks for sharing.
Kelly Anthony
0I love having homemade seasonings at home. We love any spicy or cajun so I know this recipe will come in hand.
Suzy
0I never knew how easy this would be to make! I had all of the ingredients and it was perfect on salmon!
Kim
0Love this recipe! This blend is super tasty and so easy! Will definitely make again!
Jen
0Super simple but loads of flavor. Sprinkled on blackened chicken for dinner
Emily Liao
0This cajun seasoning is absolutely delicious! Perfect amount of richness and spice. Will definitely try this with chicken.