Make dinner pop with this Chili Seasoning Recipe. Simple spices, big flavor, and kid-friendly heat control. Mix, store, and use whenever you need some flavor.
author’s note
Chili Is My Love Language!
It’s no secret I’m obsessed with chili! I’ve got over ten recipes from beefy to turkey to meatless. Some cook on the stovetop, others in the crockpot or pressure cooker. When the weather cools down, chili is my ultimate comfort food!
Over the years, I’ve perfected my favorite chili seasoning blend. It’s flavorful, balanced, and works with really any type of chili.
The best part is you can make it your own. Add more cayenne for extra heat or keep it mild if that’s how you like it. Adjust the seasonings until it’s exactly right for you!
How To Make This Chili Seasoning Recipe:
- Measure and mix: Add all spices to a small bowl; whisk until evenly combined.
- Store: Transfer to a small jar. Label and date.
- Use: Add to chili while it simmers so the spices bloom and meld.
Quick Tip
Spoon a double batch into mini jars, add a cute label, and gift with your favorite chili method on a small recipe card.
How Much To Use
- One batch seasons 1 pound of ground meat.
- For a stronger flavor, increase each seasoning by 1/4 to 1/2. Taste and adjust.
What To Use This Chili Seasoning In:
- Classic Chili: Brown meat and drain excess fat. Stir in seasoning and cook 1–2 minutes to toast the spices. Add tomatoes, beans, corn, and broth, then simmer until blended.
- Taco-Style Meat: 1 pound meat, plus one batch of seasoning. Cook till saucy.
- Veggie or Bean Chili: One batch for 2-3 cans of beans and veggies.
- Roasted Veggies or Potatoes: 1 tsp per pound with oil and salt. Roast till crisp.
- Baked Chicken Thighs (rub): 1 tbsp per pound mixed with 1 tbsp oil. Rub all over, then bake per your recipe.
Storage
- Store this chili seasoning recipe in an airtight container at room temp, out of light and heat, up to 6 months.
- For bigger batches, keep in a small mason jar. Shake before each use.
More Homemade Mixes:
Seasoning Mixes
Blackened Seasoning Recipe
Dressings
Pumpkin Pie Spice Recipe
Seasoning Mixes
Everything Bagel Seasoning
Dressings
Apple Pie Spice Recipe
Chili Seasoning Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
- 3/4 teaspoon granulated sugar if needed, for balance
- 3/4 teaspoon beef bouillon powder for a beefier flavor
Instructions
- Add all the spices to a small bowl and whisk until evenly mixed.
- Transfer to a small jar, label, and date.
- Or, To Use: Brown your ground meat first and drain any extra fat if needed. Add the homemade chili seasoning and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring often to toast the spices and deepen their flavor. Add your favorite ingredients like diced tomatoes, beans, corn, and broth. Simmer until everything comes together perfectly.
Recipe Notes
Variations
Make It Yours
- Mild: Skip cayenne and stick with regular paprika.
- Medium: Use the full cayenne in this chili seasoning recipe or add a pinch more.
- Smoky: Swap paprika for smoked paprika and add ½ tsp chipotle powder if you like.
Chili Seasoning Recipe FAQs
Yes. It scales well. Shake the jar before scooping since fine powders settle.
No. It is optional, but it smooths sharp tomato acidity. Use less if your tomatoes are sweet.
No, they are not the same. If you want to use this chili seasoning in place of taco seasoning use the same amount, then add a little extra cumin and paprika.
