When it comes to adding a kick of flavor to your meals, nothing beats a homemade spice blend. My Everything Spicy Seasoning is the ultimate kitchen hack to elevate just about any dish. It’s smoky, bold, and unapologetically spicy—perfect for those who like their meals with a little extra fire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This seasoning isn’t just about heat; it’s a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Smoked paprika brings a subtle sweetness, cayenne pepper delivers the heat, and a blend of garlic, onion, and cumin ensures it’s layered with complexity. Whether you’re sprinkling it over popcorn, using it as a rub for your favorite protein, or stirring it into soups, this seasoning will become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
But what makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy tools or rare ingredients—just a few pantry staples, and you’re good to go. Plus, it’s fully customizable, so you can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.
The Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the lineup of spices that make this blend a star:
- Smoked Paprika (2 tablespoons): The smoky, slightly sweet base of the blend.
- Cayenne Pepper (1 tablespoon): Adjust this to your heat preference—less for mild, more for bold!
- Garlic Powder (1 tablespoon): Adds a savory depth.
- Onion Powder (1 tablespoon): For a touch of sweet and earthy balance.
- Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon): A warm, nutty undertone.
- Ground Black Pepper (1 teaspoon): Sharpens the flavor profile.
- Chili Powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a smoky richness.
- Red Pepper Flakes (1 teaspoon): For extra bursts of heat.
- Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon): Earthy and herbal.
- Salt (1 teaspoon, optional): Balances the flavors; skip it if you prefer a low-sodium option.
- Brown Sugar (1 teaspoon, optional): For a touch of sweetness to counterbalance the spice.
Let’s Get Mixing!
Making this seasoning blend is as easy as 1-2-3:
- Measure and Combine: Gather all your ingredients and toss them into a small mixing bowl. Stir everything together until the spices are evenly distributed. Take a moment to admire that vibrant mix—it’s a sign of the bold flavors to come!
- Store it Right: Transfer your seasoning into an airtight container, like a mason jar or spice tin. Make sure it’s sealed tightly to keep the spices fresh and aromatic.
- Find a Cool Spot: Store your seasoning in a cool, dark place—your pantry or spice cabinet is perfect. It’ll stay fresh for up to six months. Pro tip: Give the jar a shake before each use to redistribute the spices evenly.
Creative Ways to Use Everything Spicy Seasoning
Now that you’ve whipped up a batch of Everything Spicy Seasoning, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen! This blend isn’t just versatile—it’s a game-changer. From adding zing to weeknight meals to transforming party dishes into crowd-pleasers, the possibilities are endless. Let me share some of my favorite ways to use this fiery spice mix.
1. Turn Up the Heat on Meats
Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing, this seasoning works wonders as a dry rub. Coat chicken breasts, pork chops, steaks, or even tofu in a generous layer of the blend, let it sit for 20-30 minutes, and then cook to perfection. The smoky paprika and cumin create a beautiful crust, while the cayenne and chili powder infuse the meat with bold flavor.
Pro Tip: Mix the seasoning with olive oil to create a paste for an even more flavorful marinade.
2. Spice Up Vegetables
Who says veggies have to be boring? Toss your favorite vegetables—think zucchini, sweet potatoes, or cauliflower—with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Everything Spicy Seasoning before roasting. The result? Veggies with a fiery kick that even the pickiest eaters will devour.
Pro Tip: Use this seasoning to elevate grilled corn on the cob. Add a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for a street corn-inspired treat.
3. Add a Fiery Finish to Snacks
Take your snacks to the next level with a pinch of this blend. Sprinkle it over popcorn, roasted nuts, or even homemade chips for a bold twist. It’s also fantastic on avocado toast or mixed into hummus for a spicy dip.
Pro Tip: Stir it into melted butter before drizzling over popcorn for an evenly spiced treat.
4. Boost Your Breakfast
Start your day with a spicy kick! Sprinkle this blend into scrambled eggs, omelets, or even over avocado toast. It’s also a great addition to breakfast potatoes—just toss cubed potatoes with olive oil and the seasoning, then roast until crispy.
Pro Tip: Add a pinch to your pancake or waffle batter for a unique sweet-and-spicy flavor profile.
5. Transform Soups and Stews
A teaspoon of Everything Spicy Seasoning can completely transform a pot of soup or stew. Stir it into chili, chicken tortilla soup, or even a classic tomato soup for an extra layer of warmth and complexity.
Pro Tip: Use it as a seasoning for broth-based ramen or pho for an added depth of flavor.
Customizing Your Everything Spicy Seasoning
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can tailor it to your tastes. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Dial Down the Heat: Reduce the cayenne and red pepper flakes for a milder blend.
- Make It Smokier: Add extra smoked paprika or swap chili powder for chipotle powder.
- Add a Tangy Twist: Stir in a teaspoon of dried lemon or lime zest for a citrusy zing.
- Experiment with Herbs: Add dried parsley, thyme, or rosemary for a unique herbal note.
Pro Tip: Keep track of your adjustments so you can recreate your favorite version every time.
FAQs About Everything Spicy Seasoning
Before we wrap up, let’s address some common questions about Everything Spicy Seasoning. These tips and tricks will help you make the most of this fiery blend.
1. Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes. For those who love the heat, you can increase these ingredients or add a pinch of ghost pepper powder for an extra fiery kick.
2. How long does this seasoning last?
Stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, this seasoning will stay fresh for up to six months. Just give the jar a shake before each use to redistribute the spices evenly.
3. Can I use this seasoning on seafood?
Definitely! This blend works beautifully on seafood like shrimp, salmon, or scallops. Sprinkle it generously and cook as desired for a smoky, spicy twist on your favorite seafood dishes.
4. Is this seasoning gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, double-check your individual spice labels to ensure there’s no cross-contamination if you have a gluten sensitivity.
5. Can I make this seasoning in bulk?
Of course! Simply multiply the recipe ingredients to make a larger batch. It’s perfect for gifting to friends or storing for long-term use.
6. What’s the best way to clean spice jars?
To clean old spice jars for reuse, soak them in warm, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and let them dry completely before adding the new seasoning.
7. Can I use this seasoning for meal prep?
Yes! Pre-season proteins, vegetables, or even snacks with this blend to make meal prep a breeze. The seasoning enhances flavors while saving you time during busy weekdays.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Kitchen with Everything Spicy Seasoning
There you have it—your new go-to seasoning blend that’s sure to spice up your life! Whether you’re an adventurous home cook or simply looking for a way to add bold flavor to your meals, Everything Spicy Seasoning is a must-have in your spice cabinet.
What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can tweak the spice levels, experiment with flavors, and find your perfect balance. Plus, it’s easy to make in just minutes with ingredients you likely already have on hand.
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Everything Spicy Seasoning
Description
This bold and fiery seasoning blend is perfect for adding a kick of heat and flavor to meats, veggies, soups, and more. Customize the spice level to suit your taste, and keep a jar on hand to spice up your favorite dishes anytime!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional, for balance)
Instructions
1️⃣ Mix the Seasoning:
Combine all the ingredients in a small mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
2️⃣ Store the Seasoning:
Transfer the seasoning blend into an airtight container, such as a spice jar or small mason jar. Seal tightly to preserve freshness.
3️⃣ Store Properly:
Keep the seasoning in a cool, dark place (like a pantry or spice cabinet) for up to 6 months. Shake the jar before each use to redistribute the spices.
Notes
- Adjustable Heat: Reduce the cayenne or omit red pepper flakes for a milder blend.
- Uses: Sprinkle on grilled meats, roasted veggies, popcorn, or use as a rub for BBQ and smoked dishes.
- Make It Smokier: Add a touch of chipotle powder for an extra smoky heat.
- No Sugar Option: Skip the brown sugar for a pure savory spice mix.
