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Enjoy the flavors of the Southwestern states in this tasty southwest seasoning! This homemade seasoning uses classic spices used in Southwestern cuisine. It’s delicious on chicken, in tacos, or added flavoring in many dishes.

Homemade seasoning blends are great because you can customize the flavor just to your liking! Try this homemade Cajun seasoningfajita seasoning, and my Italian seasoning.

Close overhead view of Southwest seasoning mixed in a bowl with a wood spoon.

Homemade Southwest Seasoning

This Southwest seasoning is a delicious combination of unique bold flavors found in the cuisine of Southwestern states. The states of Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas are highly influenced by spices used in Mexican cuisine. You will Specifically smokey spices with lots of chili powder and garlic powder. Southwest seasoning is sure to make your tastebuds wake up!

If you’re looking to add some zesty flavors to your recipes, try adding it to these grilled fajitas, this shrimp salad, or sprinkle it on this Mexican street corn. You won’t be disappointed! The added flavor is out of this world!

Ingredients Needed

All together these spices make the perfect homemade southwest seasoning. Perfect flavors to spice up and enhance every bite. It’s easy to make and you’ll love having it on hand. It’s one of the best seasonings out there!

  • Chili Powder: A pop of spice from the chili powder is especially important in Southwest seasoning.
  • Smoked Paprika: The smokey flavor in the paprika is particularly important in this seasoning. It also adds a hint of sweetness mixed with some heat.
  • Ground Cumin: Earthy flavoring that blends well with paprika.
  • Garlic Powder: Garlic is a key flavor in Southwest seasoning.
  • Kosher Salt/Ground Black Pepper: To balance out the flavors.
  • Dried Oregano: The texture and flavor overall is key with oregano. Don’t skip adding this herb to the seasoning mix!
  • Ground Coriander: Coriander pairs well with the other herbs and seasonings in this recipe.
  • Onion Powder: The onion flavor is delicious in seasoning.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: A little spice and texture to the seasoning.
  • Ground Cayenne Pepper: Add a little spice to the seasoning, however, this is optional.

Southwest Seasoning Recipe

Double up the ingredients to make a big batch of this southwest seasoning! It stores well and is a perfect blend of spices to keep in the pantry. Follow the recipe card below for exact measurements.

  1. Combine the Spices: Place all of the seasonings into a bowl and whisk to combine.
  2. Enjoy in Recipes: Use to season chicken, beef, or fish. It’s also great on vegetables or to use in recipes that need southwest flavors or seasoning.
  3. Store: If you aren’t using it right away, then store it in a sealed container for up to 6 months.
First photo of the spices measured and added to a bowl. Second photo of a whisk mixing the spices together in the bowl.

How to Use Southwest Seasoning

This Southwest seasoning is great for adding flavor to meat, veggies, and much more! Use it as a marinade or a dry rub. It’s up to you! Enjoy it however you would like.

  • Dry Rub For Meat: Season any meat by using this as a dry rub. It’s great for grilled, fried, or roasted meat.
  • Make a Marinade: To use this seasoning as a marinade, combine the following ingredients, then add chicken, pork, or beef. Marinate for 15 minutes then grill or cook as desired:
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 2 tablespoons Southwest seasoning
  • 2 pounds meat
  • Use in Mexican or Tex-Mex Inspired Dishes: Southwest seasoning uses a lot of the same spices used in Mexican dishes. This is the perfect seasoning for tacos, fajitas, or enchiladas because it adds a tasty and smokey flavor. If a recipe calls for taco seasoning, use this seasoning instead. Especially if you’re looking to spice things up a bit!
  • Season Vegetables: Another way to add bold flavors is by seasoning your cooked veggies. Instead of just using salt, this is a great alternative.
Close view of a wood spoon lifting up a scoop of seasoning.

Storing Southwest Seasoning

This seasoning will last up to 6 months when stored in a dry place. Keep your homemade seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. I like to make a big batch of seasoning, then I have it on hand to use for later.

Close view of sliced and seasoned chicken on a plate.

More Mexican-Inspired Seasonings

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Southwest Seasoning

By: Alyssa Rivers
Enjoy the flavors of the Southwestern states in this tasty southwest seasoning! This homemade seasoning uses classic spices used in Southwestern cuisine. It's delicious on chicken, in tacos, or added flavoring in many dishes.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 8 people

Ingredients 

Instructions 

  • Place all of the seasonings into a bowl and whisk to combine.
  • Use to season chicken, beef, or fish. It's also great on vegetables or to use in recipes that need southwest flavors or seasoning.
  • If you aren't using it right away, then store it in a sealed container for up to 6 months.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tablespoonCalories: 23kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 1gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.3gSodium: 913mgPotassium: 133mgFiber: 2gSugar: 0.5gVitamin A: 1600IUVitamin C: 0.4mgCalcium: 34mgIron: 2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course: Seasoning
Tried this recipe?Mention @alyssa_therecipecritic or tag #therecipecritic!

About Alyssa Rivers

Alyssa Rivers is the author of 'The Tried and True Cookbook', a professional food photographer and experienced recipe-developer. Having a passion for cooking, her tried and true recipes have been featured on Good Morning America, Today Food, Buzzfeed and more.

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