Creole Seasoning
On March 07, 2025
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
This Creole Seasoning blends paprika, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf for a rich, savory finish that’s perfect for gumbo, jambalaya, and more. Blend your own in minutes so you have it on hand when you want it.
Homemade Creole Seasoning
If you’re looking to bring savory, slightly peppery flavor to your favorite BBQ dishes, this homemade Creole Seasoning is a must-have addition to your spice cabinet. With just a handful of common spices, you’ll create a rich, herbaceous blend that enhances everything from seafood and chicken to vegetables and eggs.
Smoked paprika gives it a warm depth, while oregano, thyme, and bay leaf add the signature herbal notes that set Creole cuisine apart. Whether you’re whipping up a big pot of jambalaya, seasoning crispy French fries, or sprinkling it over a salad for an extra kick, this seasoning is the perfect way to bring authentic Creole flavor to your backyard.
What is Creole seasoning?
Creole seasoning is a flavorful spice blend, known for its balanced mix of savory, herbal, and slightly peppery notes. While it shares similarities with Cajun seasoning, the two have distinct differences. Creole seasoning is more herb-forward, featuring ingredients like oregano, thyme, and bay leaf. Cajun seasoning leans heavily on bold, spicy flavors like cayenne pepper and black pepper. Creole seasoning is a versatile addition to dishes like gumbo, shrimp and grits, and even poultry. It delivers a depth of complex flavors without heat overpowering your protein.
Ingredients for this Recipe
Making this Creole blend at home is simple, and chances are you already have most of these spices in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need ready so you can whip this blend up:
- 2 teaspoons Kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- ¼ teaspoon bay leaves (ground)
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground white pepper
How to Make Creole Seasoning
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, it’s time get mixing. This homemade seasoning comes together in just two easy steps.
- Make seasoning. Combine all the ingredients for your Creole Seasoning in a small bowl and whisk or stir with a fork until fully incorporated. Make sure there are no clumps so every bite delivers the perfect balance of flavors.
- Use or store. Use your seasoning immediately on seafood, chicken, and even vegetables. For long-term storage, transfer it to an airtight container or glass spice jar and keep it in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months for the best flavor.
Storage and Shelf Life
To keep your homemade seasoning fresh, store it in an airtight container or glass spice jar. Keep your blend stored in a dry area as humidity can cause the spices to clump and lose their potency. While it won’t spoil, the flavors are best within 6 months. If your seasoning starts to lose its punch, give it a quick refresh by adding a pinch of smoked paprika and a dash of black pepper.
More Seasoning Recipes
If you love making homemade seasoning blends, be sure to check out my Rubs & Sauces Pitmaster Class over at The Grill Squad. You can find dozens of my rub and seasoning recipes in the Hey Grill Hey App , but for now, check out these popular and flavorful blends:
Everything Else
Grades of Beef: What you Should Know
When you want to grill a steak, it’s important to know the different grades of beef available to you. This…
Homemade Creole Seasoning Recipe
Follow the recipe card below, so you can make this rich, and savory Creole Seasoning recipe. Then, use it to make something delicious to feed the people you love.
Creole Seasoning
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons Kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- ¼ teaspoon bay leaves ground
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground white pepper
Instructions
- Make the Creole Seasoning. Combine all the ingredients for the Creole Seasoning in a small bowl. Mix together using a whisk or fork to ensure there are no clumps.2 teaspoons Kosher salt, 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon ground mustard powder, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves, ¼ teaspoon bay leaves, ¼ teaspoon fresh ground white pepper
- Use or store for later. Use your seasoning immediately on seafood, chicken, and even veggies. Store any unused Creole Seasoning in a glass spice jar for up to 6 months for the best flavor.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
