When the weather starts to cool down or you’re just craving a cozy bowl of something hearty, soups and stews become a mainstay in the kitchen. And while a great recipe is essential, the real magic lies in the seasoning. That’s where this all-purpose chili spice mix comes in. I’ve been tinkering with homemade spice blends for years, and this one has never let me down. Whether you’re making a slow-cooked beef chili, a weeknight lentil stew, or even jazzing up a pot of beans, this homemade chili seasoning mix adds the perfect depth, warmth, and kick without being overwhelming. Plus, you can make it as spicy or mild as you want—hello, mild chili seasoning recipe lovers!
Chili Spice Mix
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Total Time 5 minutes mins
Course Seasoning
Cuisine Indian, Mexican, Tex-Mex
Servings 5 recipes (about 1.5 tablespoons per batch for chili seasoning recipe for 1 pound of meat)
Small Mixing Bowl For combining your spices thoroughly.
Measuring Spoons Accuracy is key when balancing spice blends.
Mini whisk or spoon To evenly distribute all ingredients.
Airtight spice jar or container To keep your spice mix fresh and potent. A small mason jar works perfectly, or you can reuse old spice containers.
- Chili powder – The base of most chili seasoning blends. Choose a good-quality mild chili powder for balance, or blend your own using ancho, guajillo, or New Mexico chiles for a more authentic chili powder recipe homemade style.
- Ground cumin – Adds a nutty earthy warmth that plays well with the chili flavor.
- Paprika – Smoked paprika works best here offering depth and a subtle smokiness. Sweet paprika is a good alternative if you prefer less intensity.
- Oregano – Mexican oregano is ideal if you have it but Mediterranean oregano also works.
- Garlic powder – A pantry staple that adds savory depth.
- Onion powder – Complements the garlic and enhances umami.
- Salt – Balances everything out. You can leave this out if you want a salt-free base.
- Black pepper – Adds just the right amount of bite.
- Cayenne pepper – Optional but recommended for a touch of heat. Adjust to your spice tolerance.
Measure your spices
Use precise measurements for the perfect balance. For example:
3 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp ground cumin
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt (optional)
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Combine everything in a bowl
Add all spices to a small bowl. Whisk thoroughly until evenly mixed.
Taste and tweak (optional)
If you’re unsure about spice levels, start with a small batch and do a test run in a quick soup or stew. You can then adjust proportions to suit your personal taste.
Transfer to storage container
Pour the mix into an airtight container or jar, label it with the date, and store it in a cool, dry place.
Use it liberally
For most soups and stews, about 1.5 tablespoons of this chili seasoning mix recipe will season a batch using 1 pound of meat or equivalent plant-based ingredients.
Flavor Pairings & How to Use It
The beauty of this homemade chili seasoning is how adaptable it is across recipes. Here’s how I love to use it:
In Soups
- Black bean soup – Add a smoky kick to your beans with just a tablespoon of this spice mix.
- Lentil and vegetable soup – A teaspoon or two transforms a basic vegetable broth into something bold and warming.
- Creamy chicken chili – Works great in white chili recipes, especially if you’re going for a mild chili seasoning recipe approach.
In Stews
- Beef or turkey chili – Obviously, this mix shines here. It’s reminiscent of a copycat McCormick chili seasoning but with fresher, customizable flavor.
- Sweet potato and black bean stew – Adds just the right contrast to the sweetness of the potatoes.
- Chili con carne – For a rich, slow-simmered stew, use a full two tablespoons and let it meld for hours.
Other Uses
- Roasted vegetables – Toss your veggies with olive oil and a bit of this chili seasoning blend before roasting.
- Taco or burrito filling – Perfect when you’re out of your usual taco mix. It gives meat or beans that familiar chili-forward flavor.
- Rice and grain bowls – Stir into cooked quinoa, rice, or couscous for a punch of flavor.
Pair this seasoning with dishes that include smoky proteins, roasted vegetables, or even cornbread. A drizzle of lime crema or a dollop of sour cream helps balance the spice, especially in spicier dishes.
FAQs
1. Can I use this chili seasoning recipe for 1 pound of ground beef?
Absolutely. This mix was designed to be flexible, and 1.5 tablespoons is a great amount for seasoning 1 pound of ground beef, chicken, turkey, or even plant-based meat alternatives.
2. How does this compare to a store-bought mix like McCormick?
This is a homemade version of a classic mccormick chili seasoning recipe. It’s similar in flavor profile but gives you full control over the salt, sugar, and spice levels. Plus, you avoid preservatives and additives. If you’re into copycat McCormick chili seasoning recipes, this one is a perfect diy seasoning mix to try.
3. What kind of chili powder should I use?
Use a basic American-style chili powder (which is usually a blend), or create your own chili powder recipe homemade using dried chiles like ancho or pasilla ground into powder. The latter offers richer, deeper flavors.
4. Is this mix spicy?
It leans more on the mild side, making it a great mild chili seasoning recipe base. You can add cayenne or red pepper flakes to turn up the heat if you like things spicier.
5. How long does the spice mix last?
Stored properly in an airtight jar away from light and heat, this homemade dry mix will last up to 6 months, though it’s best used within 3 months for peak flavor.
