ALL PURPOSE SEASONING

plate of spices with a whisk
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Tired of bland meals? This All Purpose Seasoning Recipe is here to save the day with a perfect blend of spices that works on everything from roasted veggies to grilled meats.

It ain’t no secret on this blog – I love my seasonings and spice mixes! Especially when they’re homemade. Am I right?! From homemade taco seasoning to the perfect seasoning for chicken, I’m always whipping up a little jar of magic to sprinkle on just about everything. In fact, let me tell you, this all purpose seasoning? It’s the MVP of my kitchen lineup—simple, versatile, and downright delicious!

With just a few simple common pantry spices I (and hopefully you, too!) always have on hand, it’s packed full of flavour and comes together in no time at all. Think of this quick and easy seasoning as your go-to when you want to level up any dish without any fuss. Whether you’re roasting veggies, grilling chicken, or spicing up some homemade french fries, this all purpose seasoning has got your back every single time!

plate of spice mix, raw chicken thighs in the background

We all need that spice jar in our cabinets that we reach for on autopilot—the one that makes everything taste like you’ve been cooking for hours. This all purpose seasoning is exactly that, your secret weapon for turning any dish into a flavour-packed masterpiece!

There ain’t nothing this seasoning doesn’t go good on. From soups and stews to fried eggs and pork chops, IMHO it’s a kitchen must have! Got some popcorn that needs a little kick? Check. Need a little something for your pasta or rice? Check. How about a quick rub for baked fish? Also check!

The options for what to use this all-purpose seasoning blend on is seriously endless. So, what are you waiting for?! I guarantee there’s something on your dinner table tonight that could use it!

WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE ALL PURPOSE SEASONING

ingredients for all purpose seasoning - black pepper, parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, cumin, oregano, thyme, parsley, paprika
Complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.

This isn’t just any plain ol’ boring seasoning—it’s your go-to flavour bomb for all things delicious. With a balance of savory, smoky, and subtly spicy flavours, this all-purpose blend takes the guesswork out of seasoning. In fact, sprinkle it on anything and everything: soups, casseroles, roasted nuts, popcorn, fries, you name it! Each ingredient plays a key role in creating a well-rounded mix that hits all the right flavour notes. Let’s break it down in a little bit more detail:

  • Paprika: The sweet, earthy warmth of paprika is the backbone of this blend. It adds a subtle smokiness and beautiful red hue to your dishes, making everything feel a bit more vibrant and hearty. For example, you can use regular, smoked, or sweet paprika depending on the vibe you’re going for in your homemade all purpose seasoning mix.

  • Garlic Powder: The ultimate savory enhancer, garlic powder brings a mellow, roasted garlic flavour to the mix. In other words, it’s the kind of ingredient that makes everything taste just a little more home-cooked and satisfying.

  • Onion Powder: Think of onion powder as garlic powder’s bestie. It adds a hint of sweet, caramelized onion flavour without overpowering the dish, making it a must-have in any seasoning blend.

  • Dried Oregano: This herbaceous, slightly peppery herb adds depth and complexity to the seasoning. It gives a subtle nod to Mediterranean flavours and therefore pairs well with just about any savory dish.

  • Dried Thyme: Earthy and slightly minty, thyme adds a delicate aromatic touch that balances the boldness of the other spices.

  • Dried Parsley: Brings a light, fresh, and slightly grassy flavour to the seasoning. While it’s not overpowering, it adds a touch of brightness and balances out the stronger flavours in the mix. It’s perfect for adding a subtle herbal note to everything from salads to sauces.

  • Cumin: Warm and nutty with a hint of earthiness, cumin adds depth to the seasoning, making it feel well-rounded and slightly exotic.

  • Chili Powder: Adds a rich, slightly spicy warmth to your seasoning mix. It’s often a blend of dried chilis, cumin, garlic powder, and other spices, making it a fantastic all-in-one seasoning. It brings a mild heat and complexity to this all purpose seasoning.

  • Black Pepper: A classic seasoning staple, black pepper adds a mild heat and subtle spiciness to round out the blend. It’s the little kick that ties everything together.

  • Salt: Salt is the flavour enhancer of the group. It helps bring out the natural flavours of your food and ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned.
plate of all purpose seasoning, spoon on the plate, hand touching the spoon

HOW TO MAKE ALL PURPOSE SEASONING FROM SCRATCH (KEY TIPS)

spoonful of spices over a plate with more

You can find full instructions for how to make this quick and easy all purpose seasoning in the recipe card down below, but here are a few quick tips to keep in mind:

  • Use fresh spices. For the best flavour, make sure your spices are fresh. Spices lose their potency over time, so if yours are a bit old, you might want to replace them for a more vibrant, flavourful blend.

  • Balance the salt. Salt is key to enhancing flavours, but it can be easy to overdo it. Start with the suggested amount, and taste test your seasoning as you go. You can always add a pinch more later if you prefer a stronger flavour.

  • Adjust for heat. If you love spice, feel free to increase the chili powder or add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Just a little goes a long way, so start with the recommended amount and adjust to suit your personal heat tolerance.

  • Mix thoroughly. To ensure an even distribution of all the flavours, mix the seasoning well after combining the ingredients. This will guarantee that each spoonful has the right balance of spices.

  • Store properly. For maximum freshness and longevity, store your all-purpose seasoning in an airtight container away from heat and light. A small glass jar works great! It’ll keep fresh for several months, but if you’re making a large batch, make sure to label the jar with the date.

  • Customize to your taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment! Feel free to tweak the mix based on your personal taste. Add more garlic powder for a stronger flavour, more cumin for a warmer vibe, or more smoked paprika if you’re a fan of that BBQ-like depth.

  • Use immediately or let it rest. You can use your seasoning immediately, but letting it rest for a few hours (or even overnight) will allow the flavours to meld together and deepen, creating an even more harmonious mix.

  • Consider the type of dish. While this seasoning works on almost anything, consider the type of dish you’re making. For lighter dishes like salads or delicate proteins, use it sparingly. For hearty, robust dishes like stews or roasts, you can afford to be more generous with the seasoning.

  • Feeling adventurous? Toast the spices (optional), If you want to take this seasoning to the next level, try toasting the dry spices lightly in a pan before mixing them. This will bring out the oils and intensify the flavour, making your blend even more aromatic.
plate of spices with a whisk
FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT IS IN ALL-PURPOSE SEASONING?

All-purpose seasoning typically includes a blend of common herbs and spices designed to enhance the flavour of a wide variety of dishes. Common ingredients in all-purpose seasoning include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, dried oregano, thyme, and sometimes cumin or chili powder.

The combination of these spices creates a balanced mix that adds depth, warmth, and savory richness to everything from meats and vegetables to soups and snacks. Depending on the recipe, variations can include smoked paprika for a deeper flavour or herbs like basil and parsley for added freshness. It’s a versatile and customizable seasoning mix that’s perfect for everyday cooking.

IS ALL-PURPOSE SEASONING THE SAME AS SEASONED SALT?

No, all-purpose seasoning and seasoned salt are not the same, although they share some similarities. All-purpose seasoning is typically a blend of various herbs, spices, and sometimes salt, designed to enhance the flavour of a wide range of dishes. It’s a versatile mix that can include ingredients like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, and herbs such as thyme or oregano.

Seasoned salt, on the other hand, is primarily salt that has been flavoured with additional spices, often including garlic, onion, and sometimes herbs, but it’s much saltier and less complex in flavour than all-purpose seasoning. While both are used to enhance flavour, all-purpose seasoning offers a broader flavour profile, whereas seasoned salt focuses more on adding saltiness with a mild infusion of seasoning.

IS ALL PURPOSE SEASONING THE SAME AS 5 SPICE?

No, all-purpose seasoning and five-spice powder are not the same. While both are versatile blends of spices, they have distinct flavour profiles and are used in different culinary traditions. All-purpose seasoning typically includes a variety of common herbs making it suitable for a wide range of dishes.

In contrast, five-spice powder is a specific blend used in Chinese and other Asian cuisines, consisting of five distinct spices: star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorns, and fennel seeds. The flavour of five-spice is aromatic, sweet, and slightly spicy, with a unique balance of warmth and complexity, while all-purpose seasoning has a more neutral, savory flavour that works across many different types of cuisine.

HOW LONG DOES ALL-PURPOSE SEASONING LAST?

All-purpose seasoning can last for several months if stored properly, though its potency will gradually decrease over time. Generally, it should be kept in an airtight container, stored in a cool, dark place away from heat and light to maintain its freshness. If stored correctly, it will typically last up to 6 months to a year.

However, for the best flavour, it’s ideal to use it within 3 to 6 months, as the spices can lose their aromatic oils and potency. You can also do a quick sniff or taste test—if the seasoning doesn’t have that aromatic kick or flavour it once had, it’s time to replace it!

piles of different colour spices in a plate

MORE HOMEMADE SEASONINGS AND SPICE MIXES YOU’LL LOVE

BRISKET DRY RUB

SAVOURY HERB TURKEY RUB

BASIC PORK CHOP SEASONING

BEST HOMEMADE ITALIAN SEASONING

EASY FAJITAS SEASONING

DIY PUMPKIN SPICE

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plate of spices with a whisk

ALL PURPOSE SEASONING

Tired of bland meals? This All Purpose Seasoning Recipe is here to save the day with a perfect blend of spices that works on everything from roasted veggies to grilled meats.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Course dry rub, seasoning, spice mix
Cuisine American
Servings 0.5 Cup
Calories 327 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp Garlic Powder
  • 2 tbsp Onion Powder
  • 1 tbsp Paprika (smoked or sweet, your choice)
  • 1 tbsp Dried Parsley
  • 1 tbsp Dried Oregano
  • 1 tbsp Dried Thyme
  • 1 tbsp Salt (or to taste)
  • 2 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1 tsp Cumin
  • 1 tsp Chili Powder (optional, for a little kick)

Instructions
 

  • Add all ingredients in a small bowl or plate and mix well. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container or spice jar. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
    hand whisking spices together in a plate

Video

Notes

TIPS FOR USE
  • Meats: Rub it on chicken, pork, or beef before grilling, baking, or pan-searing.
  • Veggies: Toss with olive oil and sprinkle on veggies before roasting.
  • Soups & Stews: Add a pinch to enhance flavour while simmering.
  • Snacks: Sprinkle over popcorn, roasted nuts, or fries for an instant flavour boost!

Nutrition

Serving: 0.5CupCalories: 327kcalCarbohydrates: 71gProtein: 14gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 23401mgPotassium: 1430mgFiber: 22gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 8684IUVitamin C: 17mgCalcium: 586mgIron: 24mg
Keyword all purpose seasoning, diy seasonings, diy spice mix, homemade seasoning, homemade spice mix, homemade spices, seasoning, spice mix, Spices
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