Growing up on Southern food, Old Bay was a staple in my family’s kitchen. My aunt used it for almost everything, and my grandmother used it for our 'Friday Fish Fries' and for making her famous Cajun fried chicken. So, naturally, it always had a place in our spice cabinets.
As I became more serious about cooking and started sharing recipes on this very site, I knew I had to recreate my own version... that bold, smoky Cajun flavor, but without the salt. I use it to bring flavor to everything from these pan-seared blackened chicken tenders to my bright, lemony Louisiana BBQ shrimp, and even my one-pot Cajun jambalaya with chicken and sausage. It’s also the backbone of the rich gravy in my classic smothered chicken. Seriously, it goes with just about everything
This easy homemade Cajun seasoning has just the right kick and because it's salt-free you control the flavor from start to finish and the level of heat. You can use it for everything from seasoning seafood and chicken.
Ingredient Notes
Paprika: This may be controversial, but I'm going to say. Please skip the regular paprika and use smoked paprika for a deep, smoky flavor instead. In my opinion, regular paprika doesn't really taste like anything and is mostly used for color.
Onion and Garlic Powder: Essential for the savory flavor. I like to use a 2:1 ratio (2 parts onion powder to 1 part garlic powder).
Dried Oregano and Thyme: These herbs give it an earthy flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes: A way to add heat and control the spice level- add more for an extra kick or reduce for a milder taste.
Cayenne Pepper: Another way to control the spice level, so adjust based on your preference.
No Salt Needed: Since this blend is salt-free, you can control the salt level in your dishes by adding it separately.
See recipe card for quantities.
Steps
With just a handful of spices, you can quickly make your own salt-free Cajun spice blend that you can use for making this Cajun Chicken Stew that's to die for, or this Cajun Spatchcock Chicken, one of my favorites for an easy weeknight dinner, or this flaky Cajun Grilled Salmon during grilling season.
This is one of my favorite seasoning blends, so I keep a batch ready to go in my spice cabinet. It saves me from having to pull out every single spice when I’m cooking. That's why I always triple or quadruple this recipe when I start running low.
- Start by measuring out your spices.
- Whisk them to combine.
Storing Tips
- Store your Cajun seasoning in an airtight container or a small glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. I love using some form of a mason jar for this.
- Keep it in a cool, dark place like a spice cabinet or pantry to maintain freshness.
- For the best flavor, use within 6 months to 1 year.
- If the seasoning clumps over time, just give the jar a good shake to break it up.
- Double or triple this recipe, so you always have it on hand.
📖 Recipe
Homemade Louisiana Cajun Seasoning (Salt Free)
Homemade Louisiana Cajun Seasoning (Salt Free)Equipment
- Measuring spoons
- mason jar or airtight container with a tight-fitting lid
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients.
- Whisk everything together until well blended. Transfer the seasoning to an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid like a mason jar or a spice jar. Shake well before each use.
Notes
- Store your Cajun seasoning in an airtight container or a small glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. I love using some form of a mason jar for this.
- Keep it in a cool, dark place like a spice cabinet or pantry to maintain freshness.
- For the best flavor, use within 6 months to 1 year.
- If the seasoning clumps over time, just give the jar a good shake to break it up.
- Double or triple this recipe, so you always have it on hand.
Nutrition
Nutrition Disclaimer
Nutritional information is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. For the most accurate results, we recommend calculating the nutritional information using the specific ingredients and brands you use.
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