Homemade Chili Seasoning Mix Recipe

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Whenever I crave a hearty, flavorful chili, I always reach for my homemade seasoning mix. Crafting it from scratch lets me control every note, from the smoky warmth of cumin to the subtle earthiness of coriander. There’s something satisfying about whisking together the spices, knowing each batch will transform an ordinary pot into something unforgettable. If you’ve ever wondered how to hit that perfect balance of spice and savor, you’ll want to see what goes in next.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup chili powder
• 1/4 cup ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons garlic salt
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano leaves
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, if you’re feeling wild)

OR

– 1 teaspoon dried chipotle powder (again, add more if you like your chili to bite back)

Steps

1. Grab a medium mixing bowl. No, you don’t have to break out the stand mixer. A regular bowl is perfect. Elevated kitchen tools like an elevated salad spinner can keep your prep area neater and more efficient.
2. Add 1/2 cup chili powder. This is the backbone, so go bold. No skimping.
3. Pour in 1/4 cup ground cumin. If you love that earthy, taco-night aroma, this one’s for you.
4. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons garlic salt. Yes, it’s a lot, but trust the process.
5. Toss in 2 tablespoons dried oregano leaves. Rub them between your palms as you drop them in—makes you feel like a wizard.
6. Add 1 tablespoon ground coriander. It’s the secret ingredient that makes people go, “What’s that flavor?” and then get all mysterious.
7. For heat, toss in 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Or, swap it with 1 teaspoon dried chipotle powder if that smoky vibe is calling your name.
8. If you love spicy chili so much you sweat while stirring, add a little more cayenne or chipotle. No judgment.
9. Mix everything together with a whisk or fork. Stir like you mean it. Pretend you’re on a cooking show and the clock is ticking.
10. Pause, look for any clumps. If you find them, smash them with the back of your spoon. Aggression is totally allowed here.
11. If you’re making a giant batch, double or triple the amounts, but make sure you really mix it up so no one gets a surprise garlic-salt bomb.
12. Pour your finished chili seasoning mix into an airtight jar or container. A mason jar works, but an old spaghetti sauce jar? Chef’s kiss.
13. Label the jar. Future you will thank you, instead of whispering “what the heck is this brown powder?” to the spice cabinet.
14. Store it in a cool, dry place. Anywhere the sun doesn’t try to cook it for you.
15. When chili night comes around, use 2-3 tablespoons per pot of chili. Or more. Or less. You do you.
16. Stand back and admire your homemade seasoning. Try not to brag, but if you must, brag to the dog. They won’t judge.

Stainless steel cookware is durable and non-reactive, making it a great option for preparing dishes with strong spices like this mix, especially when using stainless steel cookware.

Cooking Tips

With your homemade chili seasoning tucked safely in its jar, let’s talk about making every spoonful count. I always start by blooming the chili seasoning mix in a splash of hot oil—this coaxes out those deep, smoky flavors. Adjust the amount to suit your taste; a tablespoon adds warmth, but two brings real depth. Don’t forget, this chili seasoning mix shines in soups and stews, too. For a lighter option when serving, consider swapping part of the fat in a recipe for plain nonfat yogurt to mimic the creaminess of mayo without the extra calories, especially in dressings or dips using the seasoning, and read more about yogurt as a swap if you want tips.

Final Thoughts

Why settle for bland when you can easily craft your own chili seasoning that bursts with personality? I’ve found that homemade blends unleash layers of flavor impossible to achieve with store-bought packets. Each spoonful is a reflection of your taste, from smoky chipotle to fiery cayenne. Don’t be afraid to experiment—your perfect chili awaits, just a few pantry staples and a quick stir away. For consistent flavor in larger batches, be sure to mix the spices thoroughly to ensure even distribution, especially when using dried chipotle powder. Simple storage in an airtight container will preserve the blend’s freshness and potency.