🌿 Spices & Herbs

Cajun Seasoning Substitutes: Complete Guide

Find the best substitutes for cajun seasoning including creole seasoning, Old Bay, and homemade blends. Learn proper ratios for mild, spicy, and non-spicy options.

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Quick Answer

The best cajun seasoning substitutes are creole seasoning (1:1), Old Bay seasoning (1:1), or homemade blend (2 tbsp paprika + 1 tbsp cayenne + 1 tbsp each garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme + 1 tsp salt). For mild versions, reduce cayenne pepper.

Best Substitutes

Creole Seasoning

1:1

Louisiana seasoning blend with similar herbs and spices but milder heat level. Perfect substitute for most cajun seasoning applications.

Best for:

rubsmarinadessauceswhen you want milder heatLouisiana cookingjambalayagumbo

Creole seasoning is milder than cajun but has similar flavor profile. Contains paprika, garlic, onion, and herbs without the intense heat.

Old Bay Seasoning

1:1

Chesapeake Bay seasoning with similar herbs and spices but different flavor profile. Excellent substitute for seafood dishes and general seasoning.

Best for:

seafoodpoultrywhen you want different flavorcrab boilsshrimpfishgeneral seasoning

Old Bay has a distinct celery salt flavor and is less spicy than cajun seasoning. Works well for seafood and poultry dishes.

Homemade Cajun Blend

1:1

Custom seasoning blend made with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme. Perfect substitute that you can customize to your taste.

Best for:

all applicationswhen you want control over ingredientscustomizable heat levelrubsmarinadessauces

Recipe: Mix 2 tbsp paprika, 1 tbsp cayenne, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder, 1 tbsp oregano, 1 tbsp thyme, and 1 tsp salt. Adjust cayenne for heat level.

Mild Cajun Blend

1:1

Homemade blend with reduced heat for those who want cajun flavor without the spice. Perfect for families and those sensitive to heat.

Best for:

mild heatfamily cookingwhen you want cajun flavor without spicechildrensensitive palates

Recipe: Mix 2 tbsp paprika, 1/2 tbsp cayenne, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder, 1 tbsp oregano, 1 tbsp thyme, and 1 tsp salt.

Paprika + Cayenne + Herbs

2:1:1 (paprika:cayenne:herbs)

Simple blend of paprika, cayenne pepper, and dried herbs. Quick substitute when you don't have cajun seasoning on hand.

Best for:

quick substitutewhen you have basic spicesemergency situationssimple seasoning

Mix 2 parts paprika, 1 part cayenne, and 1 part mixed herbs (oregano, thyme, garlic powder). Adjust cayenne for heat level.

Blackening Seasoning

1:1

Spicy seasoning blend similar to cajun but with more intense heat. Good substitute when you want extra spice.

Best for:

blackened fishwhen you want extra heatspicy dishescajun cookingrubs

Blackening seasoning is typically spicier than cajun seasoning. Use in equal amounts but expect more heat.

Chili Powder + Paprika

1:1

Simple combination of chili powder and paprika that provides similar flavor and heat. Good emergency substitute.

Best for:

emergency substitutewhen you have limited spicesquick seasoningbasic applications

Mix equal parts chili powder and paprika. Add garlic powder and onion powder if available for better flavor.

Italian Seasoning + Cayenne

2:1 (Italian seasoning:cayenne)

Herb blend with added heat that can work as a cajun substitute. Good when you want herb-forward flavor with spice.

Best for:

when you want herb flavorItalian-inspired cajunherb-forward dishesmarinades

Mix 2 parts Italian seasoning with 1 part cayenne pepper. Add garlic powder and onion powder for better flavor match.

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Cajun seasoning is essential for authentic Louisiana cooking and adds heat, flavor, and complexity to dishes
  • 💡When making homemade cajun seasoning, toast the spices lightly in a dry pan for enhanced flavor
  • 💡For mild cajun seasoning, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and increase paprika for color
  • 💡Store homemade cajun seasoning in an airtight container for up to 6 months
  • 💡Cajun seasoning works well in rubs, marinades, sauces, and as a finishing spice
  • 💡For seafood dishes, Old Bay seasoning is often a better substitute than creole seasoning
  • 💡When substituting, taste as you go and adjust the heat level to your preference
  • 💡Cajun seasoning pairs well with rice, beans, vegetables, and proteins
  • 💡For authentic Louisiana flavor, use creole seasoning as the primary substitute
  • 💡When making homemade blends, use high-quality spices for the best flavor

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

Find the best substitutes for cajun seasoning including creole seasoning, Old Bay, and homemade blends. Learn proper ratios for mild, spicy, and non-spicy options.