Authentic Homemade Creole Seasoning (2024)

By Laura Fuentes on Apr 6, 2021 Updated Mar 29, 2024

Quick, easy, and made with simple spices, this is the homemade creole seasoning recipe you’ll find in my mother-in-law’s pantry in New Orleans.

I use it to make salad dressings, rub on pork, fish, chicken, and so much more. Plus, it comes together fast with spices you’re already using in other recipes.

The Best Creole Seasoning

What makes this the greatest Creole seasoning is that it contains only spices, you can control whether or not you want salt, and it’s easy to adjust the level of spice (heat).

Making your own seasoning means you won’t be adding anti-caking agents or stabilizers to keep your mix in the pantry for a long time -like store-bought seasonings. Plus, it’s easy to make and fast.

Living in Louisiana, I’m no stranger to bold flavors, and my kids approve of this recipe. It has the perfect level of kick, some heat, but not overpowering like some of the mixes you’ll find in grocery stores outside of New Orleans.

If you prefer things a bit milder, feel free to go a little lighter on the cayenne. Or, pack on the heat by adding a little more (more notes on this below).

What is Creole Seasoning?

Often confused with Cajun seasoning, homemade Creole seasoning is made with similar ingredients and emphasizes various peppers such as black and cayenne. However, Creole seasonings pack a bit more punch with the addition of herbs such as thyme, basil, and oregano as well as depth from smoked paprika -which can be omitted if you don’t have any.

Creole seasoning is best used in meats -in my opinion- since the thyme, basil, and oregano compliment it well.

Creole vs. Cajun Seasoning

Creole seasoning is often used mostly in and around New Orleans and created with additional spices when the French resided in New Orleans. Cajun seasoning is used throughout much of Louisiana and it’s believed to have been originated in rural areas -down in the bayou.

While both seasonings are interchangeable in cooking, Cajun tends to be a bit spicier.

Ingredients for Homemade Creole Seasoning

A variety of peppers, herbs, and aromatics get together in this tasty Creole seasoning. You’ll find the ingredient measurements at the end of the post, but first, check where the flavor comes from:

• Paprika:the main spice that gives this seasoning its flavor profile.
• Black pepper:a classic note of spiciness.
• Salt:you can omit it for a salt-free seasoning.
• Garlic:granulated garlic or garlic powder.
• Cayenne pepper:the heat! Use less for a milder seasoning.
• Smoked paprika:optional but recommended.
• Granulated onion:adds delicious flavor to this mix.
• Dried herbs:oregano, basil, and thyme. If you don’t have these herbs, use Italian seasoning.

How to Make Authentic Creole Seasoning

A staple in all Louisiana kitchens, Creole seasoning is used in everyday cooking. From seasoning cooked eggs to dressings and meats it’s one essential ingredient required in southern households.

Making authentic Creole seasoning is as easy as measuring out a few spices you already have in your pantry and storing them in a spice jar for up to two months.

No matter where you live, you’ll be able to make authentic Creole Seasoning with this recipe.

How to Use Homemade Creole Seasoning

Homemade Creole seasoning is the all-purpose seasoning for us southerners. From eggs, seafood, dressings, and more, you’re going to love how much flavor it packs per bite.

If you’re looking for inspiration, try including Creole seasoning in recipes such as:

• Salad Dressings
• Grilled Chicken Kabobs
• Pan-Seared Chicken
• Gumbo
• Cauliflower Crunch Salad
• Creole Tomato Salad
• Healthy Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya
• Cajun Slaw
• Rubbed over a pork roast

How Long Does Homemade Creole Seasoning Last?

To get the most flavor out of your homemade Creole seasoning, it should be used within two months. If you wait any longer, the seasoning will taste a bit dull, and your meals won’t be quite as good. No bueno.

I always write the “made on” date on the lid of my jar with a sharpie each time I make a batch.

Creole Seasoning Substitute

Cajun seasoning is a good substitute for Creole Seasoning if you don’t want to make your own. That said, check out the recipe below before you go substituting.

One solid note: if you don’t have oregano, basil, and thyme, use Italian seasoning instead. For this recipe, you’ll need a total of 6 tablespoons of Italian seasoning.

Creole Seasoning Blend Cooking Notes and Substitutions

• Grab the correct paprika – Paprika is often found labeled as paprika, Spanish paprika, and sweet paprika. This is different than smoked paprika. If you use ⅓ of a cup of smoked paprika, you’ll have a deep, smoky seasoning and quite different than the intended recipe. For this reason, there’s a single tablespoon of smoked paprika, which is recommended but can be omitted or swapped for spicy.
• Low Sodium – Omit the salt for salt-free seasoning
• Make it spicy – For spicier heat, add an extra teaspoon of cayenne or swap the 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika with spicy paprika. This is not where you “double-up” since a little cayenne goes a long way.
• Quick Substitutes – If you’re out of thyme, oregano, or basil; omit all 3 and substitute for 6 tablespoons Italian seasoning blend; while not exactly the same, it will do.