Homemade Seasoning Mixes

I love seasoning packets because of the simplicity and flavor they add to recipes. However, buying the little packets can get expensive. In addition some are loaded with sodium and I have high blood pressure. Before spending money on seasoning packets, try buying your spices in bulk and making seasoning mixes yourself. 

Taco Seasoning:
2 tbsp flour
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cumin
1 tsp dried minced onion
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp sugar
1/8 tsp ground oregano 

This recipe is for use on one pound of ground beef, chicken, ground turkey, steak, etc. to be used for tacos, fajitas, or other Mexican inspired recipes. I typically make large batches of this and store it in a spice jar in my pantry. 

Cajun Seasoning:
This is a good one! I love making shrimp, Paella, jambalaya, etc. with this seasoning but it is so expensive if you buy it in the grocery store. 

1 tsp white pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp ground red pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp black pepper

Mix together for the amount needed for one recipe. Make large batches and keep it in your pantry. 

Homemade Mrs. Dash Original 
1/4 cup crushed dried minced onion flakes
4 tsp crushed dried vegetable flakes
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp dried orange peel
2 tsp course ground black pepper
1 tsp dried parsley
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp marjoram
1/2 tsp dried savory
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp coriander
1/2 tsp dried mustard seed
1/4 tsp celery seed
1/4 tsp unsweetened lemonade mix (like Kool-Aid)

Homemade Spaghetti Seasoning
I love adding this stuff to my homemade spaghetti sauce. It gives it a really authentic taste!

1 1/2 tsp dried minced onion
1 1/2 tsp dried parsley leaves, crushed
1 1/2 tsp cornstarch
1 tsp dried green pepper flakes
3/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp dried minced garlic
1/2 tsp ground basil
1/2 tsp granulated sugar
1/4 tsp ground oregano

Poultry Seasoning
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 tsp rubbed sage
1 tsp dried thyme
Add savory, marjoram, dill, allspice, and ginger according to personal taste

Curry Powder
1 tbsp coriander
1 tbsp fennel seeds
1 bay leaf
1 tsp ground cardamom
1 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground tumeric
1/4 tsp cinnamon
pinch of nutmeg
black pepper to taste

Homemade Ranch Dressing Mix
1 cup dry buttermilk or nonfat dry milk powder
1/4 cup sugar
4 tsp dried basil, crushed
2 tsp dry mustard
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt

Combine all ingredients together and mix well. To prepare dressing, combine 1/4 cup of water and blend into 3/4 cup mayonnaise. Shake well before serving. This makes about 1 1/2 cups of dressing.