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Home » Recipes » Sauces, Dressings and Condiments

Southwest Seasoning

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By Kathryn Doherty · Modified: Feb 4, 2026 · Published: Jul 8, 2020 · This post may contain affiliate links
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This homemade southwest seasoning recipe takes just minutes to mix together and has so much flavor! Use for chicken, fish and veggies.

A teaspoon measure scooping up some southwest seasoning out of a clear container


 

Making your own spice mixes at home is super simple and so satisfying.

I've shared homemade taco seasoning and homemade fajita seasoning previously and those two are *always* in my pantry.

Today, it's this really flavorful southwest seasoning, which I also love to keep on hand at all times because it's so versatile.

And so crazy easy to make yourself!

You just measure out the different spices, mix them together well and bam! You are done.

Plus, you get to control the ingredients, which means you'll have a mix that's much lower in sodium than a store-bought variety. And ours doesn't contain any weird preservatives or unknown "flavor agents."

And the flavor is so much better too because it's fresher and only what you really need, none of those extras.

My version is based on Emeril Lagasse's recipe. I just toned down the spicy level a bit by using a little less cayenne and crushed red pepper than he calls for.

It's an easy thing to adjust so you can increase or decrease yours as well.

A square glass container filled with a homemade seasoning mix with measuring spoons resting nearby

You'll love having this on hand to add some great flavor to grilled or roasted chicken or fish, to chicken and veggie skillets, vegetables for grain bowls and so much more.

It's the seasoning for my 15-minute southwest baked salmon, which is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. And the seasoning in southwest sheet pan chicken and veggies, which is great for a hands-off dinner. Oh, and for southwest Air Fryer shrimp too, which is super quick and easy and can be an appetizer or used for tacos, salads and more.

You can also use this spice mixture to season slow cooker deli turkey, which I make to have on hand for sandwiches.

With this mix, you'll be finding tons of new great ways to use it!

Recipe Notes:

Heat: This includes cayenne and crushed red pepper but the overall seasoning mix isn't spicy. As mentioned, I've toned down how much of both of those ingredients are used. Feel free to play with these to add some extra spice if you like.

Yield: This recipe makes about ½ cup so you'll be able to use it for several dishes.

Storage: This seasoning mix should be stored in an airtight container or small covered jar to keep it as fresh as possible. It'll keep for up to 6 months in the pantry. After that, it starts to lose some freshness and flavor.

Tip: I have and love these small OXO containers, which I use for all different kinds of seasoning mixes. (They are also great for nuts, trail mix, snacks, etc.)

A teaspoon resting in a container of southwest seasoning

Ta da! You are ready to get measuring and mixing. And then enjoying this delicious seasoning.

I hope you give this a try!

XO,

Kathryn

Close up of a hand lifting up a teaspoon full of a homemade southwest seasoning from a square storage container.
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4.75 from 12 votes

Southwest Seasoning

This homemade southwest seasoning recipe takes just minutes to mix together and has so much flavor! Use for chicken, fish and veggies.
Prep Time5 minutes mins
Total Time5 minutes mins
Yield: 1 /2 cup
Substitutions
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Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, add all ingredients and mix until well combined.
  • Store in an airtight container or jar at room temperature for up to 6 months.

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Notes

Variation: The recipe calls for the basic seasonings - regular chili powder and paprika - but you can change up the flavors by using an ancho chili powder and/or smoked paprika if you prefer.
Heat: This includes cayenne and crushed red pepper but the overall seasoning mix isn’t spicy. Feel free to play with these to add some extra spice if you like.

Nutrition

Serving: 2tablespoons | Calories: 40kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1708mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 1g
Tried this recipe?Leave a comment below or follow me on Instagram @familyfoodonthetable and tag me in your photo!

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4.75 from 12 votes (12 ratings without comment)

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Meet Kathryn

Hi there! I’m Kathryn Doherty, a cookbook author, mom of two, and devoted food and home cooking nut. I’ve got lots of easy recipes to help you get delicious food on the table for your family!

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