As you know, I didn't grow up eating food like this - not even close. But once I moved to South Louisiana and had my first bit of properly blackened fish, that was it... I was hooked. This homemade blackened seasoning is packed with bold Cajun flavor, a little heat, and that deep, smoky taste that makes everything better.
To make something blackened, you need to use blackened seasoning (or blackening seasoning). It was invented by famous Louisiana chef Paul Prudhomme, when he introduced Blackened Redfish to his New Orleans restaurant menu.
My husband James frequently tells me about how Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries had to reduce redfish limits for fishing due to everyone going wild for this dish!
Jump to:
- What is Blackened Seasoning?
- Groceries you'll need: Ingredients
- How to make Blackened Seasoning at home
- What to use Blackened Seasoning on
- Recipe troubleshooting
- Cajun vs Blackened Seasoning
- More seasoning recipes I think you'll love
- Melanie Cagle
- Frequently asked questions: FAQs
- Homemade Blackened Seasoning
- 💬 Comments
What is Blackened Seasoning?
- It's a spice that's paprika-heavy, bold in flavor and is used in high-heat cooking, usually in a cast iron skillet.
- Treated like a rub, it's a Cajun spice that is rubbed into proteins like chicken, fish, shrimp and more.
Groceries you'll need: Ingredients
See recipe card at the bottom of this post for quantities.
How to make Blackened Seasoning at home
This is an overview of the recipe steps. For more detailed instructions visit the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Hint: I love to add this seasoning to a shaker - it's even good on fries and vegetables, etc.
What to use Blackened Seasoning on
- Blackened Shrimp
- Blackened Redfish
- Blackened Chicken
- Blackened Salmon
- Blackened Steak
- Blackened Vegetables
Recipe troubleshooting
- Seasoning was bland - this can only be because of using old spices/herbs that have lost their flavor.
- My blackened spice blend is clumping - this will happen in higher humidities. If you're using a salt-shaker type of vessel then add some grains of rice - this helps. If not, then perhaps a little corn starch.
Sharing is Caring - Like Our Facebook Page
Cajun vs Blackened Seasoning
Cajun Seasoning = More of a general purpose seasoning with bold flare like we love down in Louisiana. We use this in almost all of our Creole cooking.
Blackened Seasoning = It's heavier on the paprika and designed for high-heat cooking.
More seasoning recipes I think you'll love
About The Author
Melanie Cagle
Melanie is a professional cook, food photographer and Cajun food connoisseur. Since 2020 she has been sharing rigorously tested recipes and tutorials right here on this blog.
Her work has been featured on Fox News channels, Yahoo news, Southern Living and more.
Frequently asked questions: FAQs
It does tend to be more on the spicy side. A traditional blackening will have heat. Of course, that's what makes making your own spices so fabulous, you can make it as spicy as you like! Reduce the cayenne for less heat if you don't like spicy food.
No, it is a Cajun spice that was designed to add bold flavor when cooking something at high-heat. It tends to be bolder and spicier.
Yes, it is used in the same way as a dry rub.
Blackened is more about the spice used when cooking something at high-heat. Grilled, is the 'char' or sear you get from the fire.
If you've tried this Homemade Blackening Seasoning Recipe or any other great recipe on my site, let me know in the comment section below, how it turned out, we love hearing from our readers!
If you love this recipe please give it 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
You can also follow me on PINTEREST, FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM to see more amazing recipes!
Viral Recipe Alert!
Banana Bread
Due to the secret ingredient in this deliciously moist banana bread it has become one of my most sought after recipes!
Homemade Blackened Seasoning
Equipment
- 1 Glass Mixing Bowls small
Ingredients
- 1-½ Tablespoons Paprika Smoked Paprika Optional
- 1 Tablespoon Garlic Powder
- 1 Tablespoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt Kosher salt is preferred but table salt is fine.
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
- 1-½ teaspoons Cayenne Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dried Basil
- ½ teaspoon Dried Oregano
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a small mixing bowl and stir together with a whisk until totally combined.1-½ Tablespoons Paprika, 1 Tablespoon Garlic Powder, 1 Tablespoon Onion Powder, 1 teaspoon Salt, 1 teaspoon Black Pepper, 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme, 1-½ teaspoons Cayenne Pepper, 1 teaspoon Dried Basil, ½ teaspoon Dried Oregano
Storage Instructions
How long does blackened seasoning last? Store in an airtight container (airtight jar) in your spice rack for up to 3 months. Although it won't necessarily 'go bad', it will lose its flavor over time.Notes
Nutrition
Sign Up for my emails and never miss another recipe!
I'll never share your email, or send you spam. Pinkie Promise!
Comments
No Comments