This homemade chili seasoning can be used for a variety of dishes but is especially good for a pot of chili. A flavorful blend of dried spices that will take your chili to the next level.
Making spice mixes at home is quick and easy. A few others you might enjoy are apple pie spice, Jamaican jerk seasoning , french fry seasoning and Sloppy Joe spice mix.
Why make homemade seasoning mixes
- You are able to control the amount of spice and sodium.
- No added preservatives or strange ingredients.
- Very budget friendly. Make a large batch of seasoning for a fraction of the cost of pre-packaged.
What spices to put in chili
This chili spice mix recipe is made of just a few different spices that you might already have in your spice cabinet.
Chili powder – This makes up the bulk of the mix.
Paprika – Made from dried chilis and has a slight sweetness.
Ground cumin – Adds an earthy flavor.
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt and pepper
Optional: Cayenne pepper for added heat.
What is chili powder?
Chili powder is a blend of dried spices, usually one or more varieties of chilis. It’s typically used to season chili or other dishes. Chili seasoning is different than just the powder because it’s a mix of 5 or more additional spices.
How to make the chili seasoning recipe
Scroll to the bottom for full printable recipe, ingredients and video.
- Mix: Combine all of the spices in a bowl.
- Store: Store in a glass jar until ready to use.
Recipe tips
- If you would like to make a larger batch of seasoning, triple or quadruple the amount of ingredients. You can then use 2 tablespoons for one batch of chili, or 1 pound of meat.
- I would recommend using fresh, dried spices for this blend.
How to store
Store: Store chili seasoning in a glass jar with a lid or glass spice jar. Depending on how fresh the dried spices are when making, this mix should last for about 1 year.
How to use chili seasoning
This recipe is enough to season one recipe of chili. Approximately the same amount as what you would find in a prepackaged mix from the store. Here are a few ideas for how to use this mix.
- Chili
- Turkey chili stuffed sweet potatoes
- Sprinkle on roasted potatoes or french fries
- Sprinkle on corn on the cob
Variations or secret ingredients for chili
This chili seasoning recipe is pretty classic. There are a few additional secret ingredients you can add-in if you are more adventurous.
- Beer: We do occasionally like to add in some beer into our chili. Use whatever you have in the refrigerator.
- Cinnamon: I know this one sounds a little out there but it adds a nice flavor that will have your guests guessing.
- Cocoa powder: Use a pinch of unsweetened cocoa powder to add rich, earthy flavor.
- Oregano: Add 1/2 teaspoon of oregano for an additional layer of flavor.
Best pre-packaged chili seasoning mix?
If you are in a hurry and have to use a pre-packaged mix, I would recommend using McCormick chili seasoning mix.
More easy, homemade recipes
- Buffalo sauce – Easy homemade buffalo sauce.
- Taco sauce – Similar to Taco Bell sauce.
- Chick-Fil-A sauce – Make your own copycat recipe at home.
- Tartar sauce – This sauce is perfect for seafood and chicken.
- Cocktail sauce – Great for shrimp cocktail, fish and more.
***If you made this recipe, feel free to leave a comment and star rating below.
Chili Seasoning
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Optional
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Mix together spices in a bowl and store in a glass jar.
Ann Flournoy
Thank you so much for your time in prepping so that we may follow you and save ourselves valuable time because we have also prepared to save by using your steps to do so!
Ann
Nathan
If I make a large batch of this, how much then do I use for each pot of chili?
Becky O’Neal
I’ll bet this is good as a rub for flank or skirt steak before grilling! It would make a good chicken rub too. It’s Taco Friday!
BTW, I have never had Midori but the cocktail sounds tasty!
heather
Thanks Becky! Yes it would be great on steak. I am all about Taco everyday 🙂