If you love bold, smoky flavors with just the right amount of heat, this Homemade Blackened Seasoning is one spice blend you’ll want to keep stocked in your kitchen at all times. Made with simple pantry spices, this easy seasoning mix adds incredible flavor to seafood, chicken, steak, vegetables, and more.
This homemade version is fresher, more flavorful, and completely customizable compared to store-bought blends. Whether you like your blackened seasoning mild or extra spicy, you can easily adjust the heat level to fit your taste.
One of my favorite ways to use this seasoning is on my Blackened Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce. The smoky spices pair perfectly with the creamy, bright lemon dill sauce for an easy restaurant-style dinner at home.
What Is Blackened Seasoning?
Blackened seasoning is a bold Cajun-inspired spice blend traditionally used for “blackening” proteins in a hot skillet. The seasoning creates a flavorful crust with smoky, savory, and slightly spicy flavors.
This blend combines paprika, garlic, herbs, pepper, and cayenne for a versatile seasoning that works beautifully on:
- Salmon
- Shrimp
- Chicken
- Steak
- Roasted vegetables
- Potatoes
- Tofu
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make
- Uses simple pantry spices
- Great for meal prep
- Customizable spice level
- Perfect for seafood, chicken, and vegetables
- Stores well for months
Ingredients You’ll Need
Kosher Salt
Adds balance and enhances all the flavors.
Paprika
Gives the seasoning its signature color and mild smoky flavor.
Garlic Powder
Adds savory depth and richness.
Black Pepper
Provides bold heat and classic blackened flavor.
Onion Powder
Adds subtle sweetness and savory flavor.
Cayenne Pepper
Brings the heat. Adjust to your preference.
Dried Thyme, Basil, and Oregano
These herbs add earthy, aromatic flavor that makes the blend extra delicious.
How to Make Blackened Seasoning
Making homemade seasoning blends is one of the easiest ways to add flavor to your cooking.
- Add all spices to a small bowl.
- Stir until evenly combined.
- Transfer to an airtight spice jar or container.
- Store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
That’s it — homemade blackened seasoning in just minutes.
Best Ways to Use Blackened Seasoning
This seasoning blend is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to use it:
- Sprinkle on salmon before pan-searing
- Use on shrimp tacos or rice bowls
- Season chicken breasts for grilling
- Toss with roasted potatoes or vegetables
- Add to burgers or steak
- Stir into mayo or sour cream for a spicy dip
It’s especially delicious in my Blackened Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce recipe for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Tips for the Best Homemade Seasoning Blend
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
- Store in an airtight container away from heat and sunlight.
- Shake the container before each use to redistribute spices.
- For a smokier flavor, substitute smoked paprika.
- Reduce cayenne for a milder seasoning blend.
Storage
Store the seasoning in an airtight spice jar or container for up to 6 months. For the freshest flavor, keep it in a cool, dry pantry away from direct sunlight.
Frequently Asked Questions
It has a moderate level of heat from cayenne pepper and black pepper, but you can easily make it milder by reducing the cayenne.
Absolutely. Smoked paprika adds even more smoky flavor and works beautifully in this recipe.
They are very similar, but blackened seasoning is specifically designed to create a flavorful crust when cooked in a hot skillet.
Yes. Simply omit the salt and season your food separately to taste.
Final Thoughts
Homemade spice blends are one of the easiest ways to elevate everyday meals, and this Blackened Seasoning is a must-have for anyone who loves bold flavor. It’s smoky, savory, slightly spicy, and perfect for everything from seafood to roasted vegetables.
If you try this recipe, pair it with my Blackened Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce for an easy and delicious dinner everyone will love.
Blackened Seasoning
Equipment
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Spoon or whisk
- Airtight spice jar or container
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 1 ½ teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, basil, and oregano.
- Mix until evenly combined.
- Store in an airtight container or spice jar for up to 6 months.
Notes
- For a smokier flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to make the seasoning milder or spicier.
- This seasoning works great on chicken, shrimp, salmon, steak, roasted potatoes, and vegetables.
- To blacken proteins, coat lightly with oil, season generously, and cook in a hot skillet until nicely charred.
Nutrition
More Seasonings And Sauces
- Creole Seafood Seasoning (Homemade & Authentic)
- Basil Chimichurri (Cilantro-Free) – Fresh & Easy Herb Sauce
- Creamy Avocado Crema (Easy 5-Minute Sauce)
- Avocado Green Goddess Dressing (Healthy, Creamy Herb Recipe)
- Creamy Lemon Dill Sauce with Roasted Garlic
- Homemade Rotisserie Seasoning
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