Making your chili seasoning recipe at home is easy, more flavorful than store-bought versions, and much cheaper, especially with rising prices. This simple recipe uses common pantry spices, contains no additives or preservatives, and works great with many types of chili.

This chili seasoning recipe delivers bold flavor for all your favorite dishes. Whip up this versatile spice blend to upgrade chili, tacos, or roasted vegetables in minutes. Unlike store-bought mixes with additives, this homemade version uses simple pantry staples. Better yet, it’s naturally gluten-free and preservative-free.
What’s This Chili Seasoning Recipe?
This homemade chili seasoning combines 7 simple spices you already own for bold, balanced flavor. Ditch store-bought packets with their mystery ingredients—this all-natural blend works magic in any chili (beef, turkey, or vegetarian), tacos, or even roasted veggies. It’s ready in 2 minutes flat!
Essential Ingredients for Chili Seasoning Recipe
This simple yet flavorful chili seasoning recipe combines pantry staples to create a perfectly balanced blend. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chili powder – The base for rich, smoky depth
- Ground cumin – Adds earthy warmth
- Cayenne pepper – Adjust for your preferred heat level
- Garlic powder – Savory, aromatic touch
- Onion powder – Enhances sweetness and depth
- Salt – Brings out all the flavors
- Reshly ground black pepper – A subtle kick
Why This Works:
No fillers or preservatives – Just pure spices
Customizable heat – Use more or less cayenne
Ready in minutes – Faster than store-bought packets
Pro Tip: For extra depth, toast whole cumin seeds before grinding. Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Print
Homemade Chili Seasoning Recipe
Make homemade chili seasoning in 5 minutes with 7 spices! Customizable, preservative-free, and perfect for chili, tacos & more. Includes pro tips
- Total Time: 5 mins
- Yield: 6 serving 1x
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp approximately freshly ground pepper
Instructions
- To make this chili seasoning recipe, simply combine all dry ingredients in a mixing bowl. Whisk thoroughly until fully blended for even flavor distribution. For maximum freshness, transfer the spice mix to an airtight container immediately. Store in a cool, dry place – proper storage maintains peak flavor for up to six months.
- Store the mixture in a container (an airtight container)
Notes
- Storage: Keeps 6+ months in mason jar
- Usage: 1 tbsp per pound of meat/veggies
- Customization: Adjust salt/heat to preference
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 18.1kcal
- Sodium: 2841.5mg
- Fat: 0.1g
- Carbohydrates: 2.9g
- Fiber: 0.4g
- Protein: 0.3g
Keywords: chili seasoning mix, homemade spice blend, DIY taco seasoning, gluten-free chili powder, smoky Tex-Mex spices
Chili Seasoning Recipe Variations & Usage Tips
In addition to your basic homemade chili seasoning recipe, you can add some fun “secret ingredients” to take your chili to the next level. Here are a few ideas for extra flavor:
- Cocoa powder or dark chocolate – Adds rich, earthy undertones
- Brown sugar or molasses – Balances heat with subtle sweetness
- Cinnamon – Complements both savory and sweet flavor profiles
- Strong coffee – Enhances the spice blend’s robustness
Pro Cooking Technique:
- Bloom the spices – After browning meat, sauté the seasoning for 60 seconds to intensify flavors
- Build layers – Add tomatoes, beans, and other ingredients after toasting the spice mix
- Storage Solutions:
- Keep in an airtight container away from heat and light
- Maintains peak potency for 6+ months when stored properly
FAQs About Chili Seasoning Recipe
Q1: How long does homemade chili seasoning last?
A: Up to 6 months in an airtight container.
Q2: Can I substitute fresh garlic?
A: Yes, but use immediately; fresh ingredients reduce shelf life.
Q3: Is this blend gluten-free?
A: Yes, provided all spices are certified gluten-free.
Embrace the artistry of blending spices. Whether replicating my neighbor’s traditional recipe or inventing your own, the key lies in balance and freshness. Try this mix in your next batch of chili—and let the flavors speak for themselves.