Homemade Cajun Seasoning Mix (Without Salt)

Have you ever considered making your own seasoning mix? If not, you should! This Cajun seasoning is a game-changer in cooking, adding the perfect kick of flavor to proteins, veggies, and everyday meals that would otherwise be a little bland.

I use this seasoning in many dishes, reaching for it frequently. As a result, I always make a double (or triple) batch to keep on hand. Trust me—once you try it, you’ll understand.

Cajun seasoning is the secret weapon for transforming everyday dishes into bold, flavorful meals with some spicy zing. If you’ve never tried making your own Cajun spice blend, here’s why it’s worth it:

• Flavor: The smoky, spicy, and slightly herby flavor of homemade Cajun seasoning beats store-bought every time.
• Versatility: This seasoning works on everything from chicken to seafood, veggies, pasta, soups, and even fries. It’s a must-have in your spice cupboard!
• Easy to Make: With just a handful of pantry spices, you can mix up a batch in minutes. No special equipment is needed!
• Customizable: Love it extra spicy? Add more cayenne. Want a sweet and spicy taste? Add a pinch of brown sugar. Prefer a bit more garlic? Go for it. This blend is yours to tweak as you see fit.
• Large Batch: This recipe makes ⅓ cup, but I often double or triple the ingredients to keep on hand. The mixture stores well and is a lot more budget-friendly than buying pre-made blends.
• Salt-Free & Additive-Free: Unlike most store-bought options that tend to be overly salty, this homemade Cajun seasoning mix is intentionally salt-free, making it even more versatile and easy to use. It’s also free of unwanted additives like preservatives, anti-caking agents, and artificial flavors often found in store-bought seasoning mixes.

• Paprika: Use both smoked paprika and sweet paprika for a warm base with sweet and spicy undertones.
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Key players in any Cajun seasoning blend, these add richness and a subtle sweetness.
• White pepper: This is a fairly mild pepper with a floral taste and a hint of heat.
• Black pepper: Provides bold, earthy flavor with a citrusy edge.
• Cayenne pepper: This adds fire to the blend! Add more or less, depending on your spice preferences.
• Oregano: A dried herb, this contributes earthy, slightly bitter notes that balance the bold spice.
• Celery seed: Savory with a subtle bitterness, this rounds out the seasoning, replicating the flavor of a “holy trinity” blend of onions, bell peppers, and celery that forms the base of countless Cajun recipes.

For a full list of ingredients and quantities see the recipe card at the end of this post.

Step 1: Add all of the ingredients to a bowl.

Step 2: Mix! Use immediately, or transfer to an airtight container to store for later.

There’s not much this recipe doesn’t pair well with. Use it in any recipe that calls for Cajun seasoning like this Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, jambalaya, or gumbo. Or, add it to options like:

• Meat: fish, chicken, turkey, shellfish, pork, steak, etc.
• Veggies: broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, zucchini, yellow squash, sweet potatoes, potato wedges
• Pasta: Add a tablespoon or two to your favorite pasta dish. Try it in my One Pot Gluten-Free Mac & Cheese for a spicy variation.