Homemade Chili Seasoning Recipe

Name: Homemade Chili Seasoning
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 3 Tablespoons chili powder; 2 teaspoons cumin; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper

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This homemade chili seasoning mix is a simple DIY spice blend you can stir together in 5 minutes using pantry staples. It’s perfect for weeknight chili, taco-style chili, or any soup or stew that needs a warm, smoky kick – no packet required.

If you’ve never made a seasoning blend before, this one is truly beginner-proof.

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Homemade taco seasoning spice blend in a small mason jar with lid on a wooden table

If you’re stocking your spice cabinet, you can also mix up a bigger batch from my go-to homemade seasoning blends and keep a taco-night jar for fast weeknight dinners right next to this chili mix. When you’re ready to cook, use it in a rich, meaty over-the-top chili and finish your bowl with easy sides that make chili a full meal.

Quick Recipe View

🏷️ Recipe Name: Homemade Chili Seasoning (Easy 6-Spice Blend)
🕒 Ready In: 5 minutes
🧺 Main Ingredients: Chili powder, ground cumin, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper
💛 Why You’ll Love It: tastes better than store bought, adjustable heat, no preservatives or fillers, stores well.
👉 Use 2 tablespoons per pound of meat for perfectly seasoned chili.

Homemade Chili Seasoning Ingredients

Chili Powder – The taste of chili powder can vary greatly by brand so go with your favorite or change it up and try a dark chili powder or smoked chili powder. Just be sure to taste it first so you know if you need to adjust any other seasonings.

Cumin – Cumin gives the seasoning mix its smokey flavor.

Onion Powder – Savory depth without chopping onions.

Cayenne Pepper – This adds spice to the chili seasoning so if you like it spicier add a little extra or if you’re like me and have a ton of kids, reduce the cayenne.

Salt & Black Pepper

See recipe card for exact quantities.

How to Make Chili Seasoning From Scratch

Grab all your ingredients, measure the spices into a small bowl and mix well to combine.

Place in an air-tight container.

Use now or store. Use immediately, or seal in an airtight container and store in a cool, dark pantry.

Sooo simple, right?!

Homemade taco seasoning blend in a wooden bowl with spoon, featuring chili, cumin, pepper, and salt

Storage

Store the seasoning mix in an airtight container such as a mason jar for up to 10 months!

Label the jar with the date and keep it away from heat and light.

Chili Seasoning Variations and Tips

If you want a bit of a spicier kick to your chili, add a 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to your homemade chili seasoning.
For a sweeter flavor, add a teaspoon of sugar.
For a bolder, stronger chili flavor, add another tablespoon of chili powder.
Swap cayenne with ancho or guajillo chili powder for heat that’s less sharp and more fruity/smoky.
Chipotle powder — adds smoky spice while keeping overall heat reasonable.
Unsweetened dark chocolate (or Mexican chocolate) — adds body and rounds acidity in tomato base. I still haven’t tried this version, but will definitely!
Coffee grounds or brewed coffee — enhances earthy flavor without bitterness.

Homemade spice blend in a glass jar with spoon and lid on table

Pro Tips for Best Results

Bloom the spices: Stir the seasoning into hot oil with onions/meat for 30–60 seconds before adding liquids (bigger flavor).
Let chili simmer before adjusting: Heat and salt feel stronger once it’s cooked 10–20 minutes.
Chili powder brands vary: If yours is mild, you’ll likely want more; if it’s bold, start lighter.
Make a double batch: Label the jar and keep it near your chili staples.
Salt-free batch for flexibility: Add salt per recipe so you can use it on beans, veggies, or soups.
Kid-friendly: Reduce cayenne, then let adults add heat at the table.

FAQs

Is chili seasoning the same as chili powder?

Not quite. Chili powder is usually one blend/spice, while chili seasoning is a mix of spices that builds a fuller flavor.

How much chili seasoning should I use for one pot of chili?

Start with 2 tablespoons per pound of meat (or per “standard pot”), simmer, then adjust to taste.

Can I make this without salt?

Yes—leave the salt out and season your chili at the end.

Can I use this for taco meat too?

Yes, but taco seasoning often includes more ingredients (like paprika/garlic/oregano). I have Homemade Taco Seasoning recipe too!