Spice up your meals with this easy Homemade Blackened Seasoning. It’s a versatile blend of herbs and spices with a customizable kick of heat. You can make it in minutes using pantry staples, and it pairs beautifully with chicken, seafood, beef, vegetables and more.
Using a few well-chosen spices is one of the fastest ways to refresh weeknight dinners. I keep several homemade blends on hand for quick flavor: this blackened seasoning is one of my favorites for adding smoky, savory depth with just the right amount of heat. Because it’s homemade you can adjust the cayenne and salt to match your family’s tolerance for spice and sodium.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Savory and slightly spicy: a great way to change up familiar proteins and vegetables.
- Extremely versatile — use it on chicken, seafood, pork, beef, roasted vegetables and even potatoes.
- Quick to make with common pantry staples; no special ingredients required.
- Homemade seasoning tastes fresher than store-bought options and lets you control salt and heat levels.
Recipe ingredients
Blackened seasoning relies on everyday spices that are likely already in your cabinet. The blend below yields a balanced, mildly spicy seasoning, but you can increase the cayenne if you prefer more heat.
- Paprika — Smoked paprika adds a pleasant smoky note; regular paprika can be used if smoked isn’t available.
- Onion powder — Adds savory depth without the texture of fresh onion.
- Garlic powder — A classic partner to paprika for robust flavor.
- Dried thyme and dried oregano — Earthy herbs that round out the spice blend.
- Cayenne pepper — Provides heat. The recipe is mild as written; add more if you like it spicy.
- Kosher salt — If you use a finer salt (sea salt or table salt), cut the amount in half and adjust to taste.
- Freshly ground black pepper — For a final burst of sharpness.
Full ingredient quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to make this recipe
This homemade blackened seasoning comes together in just a few minutes. Combine the dry ingredients and mix until evenly blended. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place and use within a few months for best flavor.
Pro tip: Make a larger batch at once and portion it into small jars so you always have seasoning ready for quick meals.
- Measure all spices into a small bowl.
- Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is uniform and no clumps remain.
Recipe FAQs
Blackened seasoning is typically a blend of paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, dried herbs like thyme and oregano, cayenne pepper, salt and black pepper. The exact mix can vary, but these core spices create the familiar smoky, savory profile.
The term “blackened” often implies a bit of heat, but it doesn’t have to be extremely spicy. Cayenne is commonly included for a touch of warmth; you can reduce or increase it to match your preference.
Sprinkle it on proteins like chicken, beef, pork or fish before pan-searing, grilling or baking. It also works well on roasted or sautéed vegetables and potatoes.
Cajun seasoning and blackened seasoning share many ingredients; Cajun blends may be earthier or spicier depending on regional variations. Blackened seasoning is designed specifically to hold up to high-heat cooking methods like pan-searing.
Serving suggestions
This seasoning is flexible and can be used in many ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Season fish or shrimp before searing for bold, flavorful seafood.
- Use it on chicken breasts, thighs, or turkey to add a smoky crust when grilling or pan-frying.
- Mix into ground meat for burgers or meatloaf to add depth and a gentle heat.
- Sprinkle over potatoes, corn on the cob, or roasted vegetables for a savory twist.
Recipe notes
- Make ahead: This seasoning keeps well for up to 3 months in an airtight container stored in a cool, dark cabinet.
- The recipe below is mild; increase cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier blend.
- Adjust salt depending on the type you use — finer salts are stronger by volume than kosher salt.
More homemade seasonings you’ll love
- BBQ chicken rub
- Chai spice mix
- Jamaican jerk seasoning
- Homemade pumpkin pie spice
- Salmon rub
- Za’atar spice
Did you try this recipe? If so, leave a review below and tag @flavorthemoments on social media to share what you made.
Easy Blackened Seasoning Recipe
Servings: 7 tablespoons | Prep time: 10 mins | Total time: 10 mins
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons paprika (smoked or regular)
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (use half the amount if using table salt)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a small bowl.
- Whisk until well combined and no lumps remain.
- Store in an airtight container and use as needed.
Notes
- Prepare this blend ahead of time to speed up weeknight cooking.
- Adjust the cayenne for more or less heat.
- Keep in a cool, dark place for up to 3 months.
Nutrition (approximate per 1 tablespoon)
Calories: 12 kcal • Carbohydrates: 3 g • Protein: 1 g • Fat: 1 g • Sodium: 334 mg • Fiber: 1 g