Easy Homemade Chili Seasoning Mix for Your Pantry

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Skip the store-bought packets and make your own homemade chili seasoning mix with simple pantry spices.

This easy blend is perfect for homemade chili, taco meat, soups, casseroles, and more. It’s quick to mix together, budget-friendly, and a great addition to your DIY pantry.

Whether you’re embracing from scratch living or simply looking for an easy homemade alternative, this seasoning mix is one you’ll reach for again and again.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Made with simple pantry spices
No preservatives or unnecessary additives
Ready in about 5 minutes
Great for chili, tacos, soups, and casseroles
Easy to double or triple for your pantry
Perfect for homemade food gifts

Homemade Chili Seasoning Mix Recipe

Ingredients

2 tablespoons paprika
2 teaspoons oregano
1½ teaspoons ground cumin
1½ teaspoons garlic powder
¾ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

Add all of the spices to a small bowl.
Stir until everything is evenly combined.
Transfer the seasoning mix to a clean glass spice jar or mason jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Label and store in a cool, dry pantry.

How Much to Use

Use 2 to 3 tablespoons of seasoning mix for every 1 pound of ground beef, turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat when making chili.

Adjust the amount to suit your family’s preferred spice level.

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Ways to Use Homemade Chili Seasoning

This seasoning blend is incredibly versatile.

Try it in:

Homemade chili
Taco meat
Taco soup
White chicken chili
Stuffed peppers
Chili mac
Bean soup
Slow cooker chili
Mexican rice
Burrito bowls
Roasted potatoes
Cornbread casseroles

Storage Tips

Store your chili seasoning mix in an airtight container away from heat and sunlight. For the freshest flavor, use it within 6 to 12 months.

Making a larger batch is a great way to keep your pantry stocked for busy weeknight meals.

Variations

Customize your seasoning mix to fit your taste.

Add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Stir in smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Mix in black pepper for additional spice.
Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder for a richer chili flavor.
Reduce or omit the cayenne for a milder blend.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is homemade chili seasoning spicy?

This recipe has a mild to medium heat level. For a milder seasoning, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.

Can I make a larger batch?

Absolutely! Double or triple the recipe and store it in a mason jar so you’ll always have homemade chili seasoning on hand.

Does this seasoning contain salt?

No. This recipe is salt-free, allowing you to season your chili to taste. If you prefer, you can add salt directly to the seasoning mix before storing.

More Homemade Pantry Recipes

If you enjoy making your own pantry staples, be sure to check out these recipes:

Making your own seasoning blends is one of the easiest ways to simplify meal prep while enjoying fresher flavors.

Once you start stocking your pantry with homemade mixes, you’ll wonder why you ever bought the packaged versions.

Follow my make a mix board on Pinterest.