There’s something oddly satisfying about ditching the spice packet and mixing up your own chili seasoning at home. I remember the first time I did it on a lazy Sunday, I had a pot of chili bubbling on the stove, and halfway through, I realized I was out of the usual pre-made mix. Out came the spice jars, and in went a blend that somehow made the chili richer, deeper, and just… better.
This chili seasoning recipe has since become a staple in my pantry. It’s smoky, savory, just the right amount of spicy, and completely customizable. Whether you’re whipping up a big batch of chili for game day, seasoning taco meat, or adding punch to your weeknight black bean soup, this blend has you covered.
Let’s talk about how to make your own jar of magic in under five minutes.
Table of contents
Here’s Why This Chili Seasoning Recipe Is a Total Game Changer
This isn’t just about mixing spices, this is about flavor layering, pantry convenience, and ditching store-bought blends that often come loaded with sodium and mystery fillers. Here’s what makes this homemade chili seasoning stand out:
- No preservatives or additives: You control what goes in, period.
- Customizable heat: Love it fiery? Add more cayenne. Prefer mild? Dial it down.
- Multi-purpose: Not just for chili, try it on roasted veggies, popcorn, or even mixed into sour cream for a zippy dip.
- Cost-effective: Bulk spices = big savings over time.
- Flavor-packed: The combo of smoky paprika, earthy cumin, and a touch of heat makes this irresistibly rich.
Want to Make it Vegan or Gluten-Free?
- Vegan: It already is!
- Gluten-Free: Just make sure your spices are certified gluten-free (some brands process in shared facilities).
You can even mix in ground chipotle or ancho chili powder for a more complex, smoky version, or leave out salt entirely to use it as a base and season per dish.
Recipe Card
Homemade Chili Seasoning
4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalA bold, smoky DIY chili seasoning blend made with pantry spices in under 5 minutes. Perfect for chili, tacos, veggies, and more.
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Ingredients
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp smoked paprika
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp cayenne pepper
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Optional: ¼ tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp sugar
Directions
- Gather your spices: Lay out all your jars and measuring spoons so you’re ready to mix without digging around mid-blend.
- Measure and combine: Add each ingredient to a small mixing bowl or directly into a jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- Mix thoroughly: Stir with a spoon or shake the jar vigorously until the spices are well combined.
- Store it: Pour into a clean, dry spice jar or airtight container. Label it and store in a cool, dry place.
Notes
- Customize heat and salt to your liking.
- Try chipotle or cocoa for fun flavor twists.
- f you’re making a big batch, double or triple the quantities and use a mason jar for storage.
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Little Tips That Make a Big Difference
Here are a few things I’ve learned after making this blend countless times:
- Toast before use: If you have time, toast the spice blend briefly in a dry skillet before adding to dishes. It intensifies the aroma like magic.
- Grind for smoothness: Want a finer texture? Pulse everything in a spice grinder or mini food processor.
- Fresh is best: Spices lose their punch over time. Try to use them within a year of opening.
- Batch it monthly: Make a fresh batch each month to keep flavors vibrant.
FAQs About Chili Seasoning Recipe
Not quite. Taco seasoning usually has more cumin and sometimes added sugar or cornstarch. Chili seasoning leans smokier and richer.
Absolutely! It’s fantastic in tacos, soups, even stews and roasted veggies.
It has a mild kick, but you can easily control the heat by adjusting the cayenne.
Stored in an airtight jar in a cool pantry, it’ll last up to 6 months.
Yes, and I highly recommend it. Just be sure to store it in a dry, sealed container.
Let’s Spice Things Up, You’ve Got This!
And there you have it, your new favorite chili seasoning, made right in your own kitchen with spices you probably already have. It’s bold, it’s smoky, and it’ll seriously level up everything from weeknight chilis to lazy Sunday tacos. I hope this blend becomes as much of a staple in your pantry as it has in mine.
If you’re in the mood to keep that homemade flavor rolling, you’ll love trying out this savory Meatloaf Seasoning Recipe or whip up a batch of saucy goodness with this Taco Sauce Recipe. Want something rich and spoon-worthy to pair your spice blend with? Don’t miss the hearty Beef Brisket Chili Recipe, it’s a perfect match.
Give this recipe a spin, and don’t forget to tag me or drop a comment with your own spicy twist. I love hearing how you make it yours! Happy cooking, and keep those spice jars dancing.
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