This homemade all-purpose seasoning comes together in five minutes using simple pantry staples and a slightly unexpected ingredient that adds deep, savory flavor. The flexible ratio means you can measure precisely — or eyeball it — and use it on everything from chicken and veggies to soups and weeknight dinners!
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This is the seasoning I keep within arm’s reach because it works on just about everything. It’s bold without being overpowering, balanced without being boring, and forgiving enough that you don’t need to overthink measurements to get great flavor.
This is the kind of seasoning that just works — balanced, flexible, and designed to make everyday cooking easier and here's why.
- Pantry staples only: No specialty spices or ingredients.
- Savory balance: Dill adds depth and rounds out the blend without tasting “dilly.”
- Flexible ratios: This seasoning uses a 2:1 ratio — double the base spices, half the supporting ones — so it’s easy to scale whether you’re making a small jar or a big batch.
- True all-purpose use: Designed to complement proteins, vegetables, soups, and roasted dishes alike.
- You control what goes in it: Making your own seasoning lets you control the flavor and salt and skip fillers, which is why this blend tastes cleaner and more balanced than most store-bought options.
What You'll Need and Why
This all-purpose seasoning blend follows a simple 2:1 ratio, so you can scale it up or down using a measuring spoon — or a shovel.
- Kosher salt (2 parts): The foundation that seasons everything evenly.
- Granulated garlic (2 parts): Savory depth without burning.
- Granulated onion (2 parts): Rounds out the garlic and adds sweetness.
- Smoked paprika (2 parts): Gentle smokiness and color.
- Dried dill weed (1 part): A subtle savory note that balances the blend.
- Ground coriander (1 part): Warm, citrusy undertone that lifts everything.
- Freshly ground black pepper (1 part): Clean heat and bite.
Swaps and Flavor-Boosting Variations
Easy ways to customize this blend without breaking the balance.
- Make it spicy: Add red chili flakes or cayenne to taste for heat.
- Paprika swaps: Smoked paprika adds depth, but regular or sweet paprika works just fine if that’s what you have.
- Extra smoky heat: Chipotle powder adds both heat and smoke — start small and adjust to taste.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
Small details that keep this all-purpose seasoning at its best.
- Store it airtight: Use a tightly sealed jar or container to keep the seasoning fresh longer.
- Clumping is normal: This blend has no fillers or anti-caking agents, so light clumping can happen. Just shake the jar or break it up with a fork.
Homemade All-Purpose Seasoning Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon kosher salt
- 2 tbsp granulated garlic
- 2 tablespoon granulated onion
- 2 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried dill weed
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon fresh ground pepper
- red chili flake, optional
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together until evenly combined. Store in an airtight container and use on just about everything.
Nutrition
Serving Ideas
This seasoning is designed to work across proteins, vegetables, and everyday cooking.
- Chicken: Sprinkle on breasts, thighs, wings, or rotisserie chicken before roasting or grilling.
- Beef & pork: Use on burgers, steaks, chops, or roasts as a simple, balanced dry seasoning.
- Seafood: Season shrimp or fish before baking, sautéing, or air frying.
- Vegetables: Toss with olive oil and use on roasted or grilled vegetables.
- Potatoes: Perfect for roasted potatoes, fries, or hash browns.
- Soups & grains: Stir into soups, rice, quinoa, or pasta water for extra flavor.
Storage
Store this all-purpose seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months. If it clumps, simply shake the jar or break it up with a fork.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this recipe gluten and dairy-free?
Yes — this seasoning blend is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
You’ll Also Love
More simple recipes and kitchen staples that make everyday cooking easier.
- Homemade Buttermilk Ranch Dressing: A quick, creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with this seasoning on chicken and veggies.
- Crispy Oven-Roasted Potatoes: The ideal base for an all-purpose seasoning — simple and endlessly adaptable.
- Sheet Pan Lemon Chicken and Potatoes: A fast, flavorful meal where a good seasoning does all the heavy lifting.
- Lemon Parmesan Oven-Roasted Asparagus: Because vegetables deserve just as much flavor as the main dish.
Who’s Stirring the Pot?
Hi, I’m Ruth—recipe developer, comfort-food creator, and the voice behind Rufus For Real. I specialize in cozy, doable, flavor-packed meals for real-life kitchens, and I’m a firm believer that breakfast, dinner, and everything in between should be simple, satisfying, and impossible to mess up.
You’ll find me sharing even more comfort-food goodness, kitchen tips, and behind-the-scenes chaos over on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube (@rufusforreal everywhere).
If you love approachable recipes with a whole lot of personality, pull up a chair—there’s always room at this table.
Happy Cooking!
-Ruth aka Rufus
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