This Homemade Blackening Seasoning is a quick and easy spice blend made with paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a few simple seasonings. It takes just 2 minutes to mix together and adds bold, spicy flavor to chicken, fish, shrimp, and more.

I like keeping homemade seasoning blends in my pantry so they’re ready whenever I need them. This one is especially good for adding a little heat to dinner, and I can easily adjust the cayenne pepper depending on how spicy I want it. Plus, there’s no need to buy a whole bottle when I already have the spices in my kitchen!

About the Ingredients
- Paprika: Gives the seasoning its rich red color and adds a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
- Cayenne Pepper: Adds the heat. You can reduce the amount if you prefer a milder seasoning.
- Onion Powder: Adds savory onion flavor without needing fresh onions.
- Garlic Powder: Gives the spice blend a delicious garlic flavor.
- Italian Seasoning: Adds a blend of dried herbs that complements the other spices.
- Salt: Helps bring out all the flavors.
- Black Pepper: Adds a little extra bite and rounds out the seasoning.
Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below
How to Make Homemade Blackening Seasoning
Combine the spices: Add the paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to a small mixing bowl.
Mix together: Stir or whisk until all the spices are evenly combined.

Use or store: Use immediately to season chicken, fish, or shrimp, or transfer to an airtight spice jar and store in a cool, dry pantry for up to 6 months.

Tips I Found Helpful
Adjust the heat: This seasoning has a good kick from the cayenne pepper. Reduce it to 1–2 teaspoons if you prefer a milder blend.
Try smoked paprika: Swap regular paprika for smoked paprika to add a delicious smoky flavor.
Use fresh spices: Check the dates on your spices before mixing. Older spices can lose their flavor over time.
Adjust to your taste: Add a little more garlic, paprika, or your favorite seasoning to make the blend your own.
Storage
Store homemade blackening seasoning in an airtight spice jar or container in a cool, dry pantry for up to 6 months. Keep it away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight for the best flavor.
More Seasoning Recipes

Homemade Blackening Seasoning
This Homemade Blackening Seasoning is a bold, spicy blend of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic, onion, and herbs. Ready in just 2 minutes and perfect for seasoning chicken, fish, shrimp, and more!
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Add all the spices to a small mixing bowl.
- Whisk or stir until evenly combined.
- Use immediately or transfer to an airtight spice jar and store in a cool, dry pantry for up to 6 months.
Notes
- Reduce the cayenne pepper to 1–2 teaspoons for a milder seasoning.
- Substitute smoked paprika for regular paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
- Store away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
18Serving Size:
1 tspAmount Per Serving: Calories: 6Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gSodium: 131mgCarbohydrates: 1gFiber: 1gSugar: 0gProtein: 0g



