Chili Seasoning

Make dinner pop with this Chili Seasoning Recipe. Simple spices, big flavor, and kid-friendly heat control. Mix, store, and use whenever you need some flavor.

author’s note

Chili Is My Love Language!

It’s no secret I’m obsessed with chili! I’ve got over ten recipes from beefy to turkey to meatless. Some cook on the stovetop, others in the slow cooker or pressure cooker. When the weather cools down, chili is my ultimate comfort food!

Over the years, I’ve perfected a reliable chili seasoning blend. It’s flavorful, balanced, and works with really any type of chili.

The best part is you can make it your own. Add more cayenne for extra heat or keep it mild if that’s how you like it. Adjust the seasonings until it’s exactly right for you!

How To Make This Chili Seasoning Recipe:

1. Measure and mix: Add all spices to a small bowl; whisk until evenly combined.
2. Store: move to a small jar. Label and date.
3. Use: Add to chili while it simmers so the spices bloom and meld.

Quick Tip

Spoon a double batch into mini jars, add a cute label, and gift with your favorite chili method on a small recipe card.

How Much To Use

• One batch seasons 1 pound of ground meat.
• For a stronger flavor, increase each seasoning by 1/4 to 1/2. check the seasoning and adjust.

Reader’s Notes & Tips

What To Use This Chili Seasoning In:

• Classic Chili: Brown meat and drain excess fat. mix in seasoning and cook 1–2 minutes to toast the spices. Add tomatoes, beans, corn, and broth, then simmer until blended.
• Taco-Style Meat: 1 lbs meat, plus one batch of seasoning. Cook till saucy.
• Veggie or Bean Chili: One batch for 2-3 cans of beans and veggies.
• Roasted Veggies or Potatoes: 1 tsp per lbs with oil and salt. Roast till crisp.
• Baked Chicken Thighs (rub): 1 tbsp per lbs mixed with 1 tbsp oil. Rub all over, then bake per your recipe.

Storage

• Store this chili seasoning recipe in an airtight container at room temp, out of light and heat, up to 6 months.
• For bigger batches, keep in a small mason jar. Shake before each use.

More from-scratch Mixes:

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Blackened Seasoning Recipe

Dressings

Pumpkin Pie Spice Recipe

Seasoning Mixes

Everything Bagel Seasoning

Dressings

Apple Pie Spice Recipe

Variations

Make It Yours

• Mild: Skip cayenne and stick with regular paprika.
• Medium: Use the full cayenne in this chili seasoning recipe or add a pinch more.
• Smoky: Swap paprika for smoked paprika and add ½ tsp chipotle powder if you like.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for heat)
• 3/4 teaspoon granulated sugar (if needed, for balance)
• 3/4 teaspoon beef bouillon powder (for a beefier flavor)

Method

1. Add all the spices to a small bowl and whisk until evenly mixed.
2. move to a small jar, label, and date.
3. Or, To Use: Brown your ground meat first and drain any extra fat if needed. Add the from-scratch chili seasoning and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring often to toast the spices and deepen their flavor. Add your favorite ingredients like diced tomatoes, beans, corn, and broth. Simmer until everything comes together evenly.