Chili Seasoning Recipe – The Perfect Homemade Blend
If you love making chili, tacos, or Tex-Mex inspired dishes, having a homemade chili seasoning recipe on hand is a total game changer. Instead of reaching for store-bought packets filled with preservatives and extra sodium, you can make your own custom spice blend at home in just minutes.
This DIY chili seasoning mix is bold, smoky, slightly spicy, and incredibly versatile. Use it to season ground beef for chili, sprinkle it over roasted veggies, or mix it into soups and stews for an instant flavor boost. Once you try this homemade blend, you’ll never go back to store-bought!
Ingredients (Yields about ½ cup, ~8 servings)
- 3 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tsp salt (optional, adjust to preference)
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Measure spices – Gather all ingredients in the listed measurements.
- Mix together – In a small mixing bowl, combine chili powder, paprika, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, cayenne, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Blend well – Use a whisk or spoon to evenly distribute all spices until fully combined.
- Store – Transfer your seasoning to an airtight jar or spice container. Label and date it.
- Use in recipes – Add 2–3 tablespoons per 1 lb (450 g) of ground beef or to taste in soups, stews, or roasted dishes.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: ~½ cup (about 8 servings)
Tips & Variations
- Spicy kick: Increase cayenne and red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Smoky flavor: Use chipotle chili powder instead of regular chili powder.
- Salt-free version: Omit salt for a low-sodium blend.
- Sweeter touch: Add 1 tsp brown sugar to balance heat with sweetness.
- Bulk mix: Double or triple the recipe to store for up to 6 months.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – About 1 tbsp)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 20 kcal |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4 g |
| Fat | 0.5 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg (if salt included) |
Healthy Alternatives
- Low-Sodium: Skip the salt and adjust when cooking.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free (just check spice labels).
- Keto-Friendly: Low in carbs, perfect for keto meals.
- Whole30/Paleo: Ensure no anti-caking agents or additives in your spices.
Serving Suggestions
This chili seasoning recipe is the perfect all-purpose blend to keep in your pantry. Use it to season ground beef for chili con carne, sprinkle over roasted potatoes, mix into soups, or even add to marinades. It’s customizable, healthier than store-bought packets, and takes less than 5 minutes to make.
Once you try this homemade version, you’ll always want a jar of it ready in your kitchen!
FAQ’s
Q1: How long does homemade chili seasoning last?
Stored in an airtight jar in a cool, dark place, it lasts up to 6 months while maintaining freshness.
Q2: Can I make this without chili powder?
Yes! Use smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne as the base and adjust to taste.
Q3: How much chili seasoning do I use per pound of meat?
Start with 2–3 tablespoons per pound of ground beef and adjust based on preference.
Q4: Can I use this for vegetarian chili?
Absolutely! It adds the same bold, smoky flavor to beans, lentils, and veggies.
Q5: Is this seasoning spicy?
It has mild to medium heat. Reduce cayenne and red pepper flakes if you prefer it mild.
