What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade chili seasoning is a game-changer, bringing bold flavors to your favorite comfort food with just a few simple spices. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up and customize to your taste.
- No mystery ingredients—skip the store-bought packets and know exactly what’s going into your chili.
- Perfectly balanced flavor—smoky, spicy, and savory, with just the right kick to warm you up.
- Endless versatility—use it for chili, tacos, roasted veggies, or even popcorn for a tasty twist!
Recipe
Chili seasoning is a versatile blend of spices that adds depth and warmth to any dish. This homemade version is easy to make and free from preservatives, allowing you to control the flavor and heat level.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine all the spices.
- Whisk or stir until well blended.
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
Notes:
- Adjust the cayenne pepper for more or less heat.
- For a smokier flavor, increase the smoked paprika.
Equipment:
- Small bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Airtight container
Time:
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 0 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: Makes about 1/4 cup of seasoning.
Nutrition
Homemade chili seasoning is a blend of spices that adds deep flavor to dishes without extra additives. This mix is low in calories and rich in spices that offer various health benefits.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 20 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 15 mg |
| Carbs | 4 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade chili with warm, fluffy cornbread—it’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory. For toppings, I always go for shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions to add extra flavor and texture. A handful of tortilla chips on the side never hurts, either!
Cornbread Pairings
Cornbread’s slightly sweet, crumbly texture makes it a perfect partner for savory dishes that need a little balance. I love serving it alongside hearty chili—the richness of the chili pairs so well with cornbread’s light sweetness. It’s also great with smoky baked beans or creamy collard greens, adding a comforting touch to Southern-inspired meals. When I’m feeling creative, I’ll crumble it into a bowl of soup or stew for extra texture. And let’s not forget barbecue! A slice of cornbread alongside ribs or pulled pork ties everything together perfectly. Honestly, it’s my go-anywhere, do-anything side.
Topping Suggestions
While cornbread’s savory pairings are a treat on their own, it’s the toppings that can really take it to the next level. I love piling chili high with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and diced onions—it’s classic and comforting. For a bit of crunch, try adding tortilla strips or crushed corn chips. Fresh cilantro or avocado slices bring a nice pop of color and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, jalapeños or hot sauce add a spicy kick. And don’t forget a squeeze of lime for brightness! These toppings not only make chili look amazing but also make every bite more exciting.
