Name: Zesty Homemade Slap Ya Mama Seasoning
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon seasoning salt; 1½ teaspoons onion powder; 1½ teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

I’ve crafted a version of the beloved Cajun-style “Slap Ya Mama” seasoning that packs a flavorful punch using simple pantry spices. It’s bold, versatile, and perfect for elevating everyday dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how customizable this blend is—whether I want it mild or fiery hot, I just adjust the cayenne or red pepper flakes. It's more affordable than store-bought mixes, and because I make it myself, I skip any unwanted additives. I also enjoy how it brightens up everything from meats to snacks with its zesty Cajun kick.

ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon seasoning salt
1½ teaspoons onion powder
1½ teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

directions

I gather all the spices in a mixing bowl.
I stir thoroughly until the mixture is uniform.
I transfer it to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place.

Servings and timing

Prep time: 5 minutes
Makes about ½ cup, roughly 4 servings (2 tablespoons per serving)

Variations

Milder version: I reduce the cayenne and red pepper flakes, and increase the paprika.
Extra smoky: I use smoked paprika and add a pinch of ground chipotle.
Herb-forward: I add a teaspoon each of dried basil and parsley.
Low-sodium: I swap the seasoning salt for kosher salt or leave it out and season as I cook.

storage/reheating

I store my blend in a tightly sealed jar in the pantry. It keeps its flavor for about 4 to 6 weeks, so I usually make small batches to keep it fresh. No reheating is needed—just shake and use.

FAQs

What can I use this seasoning for?

I sprinkle it on chicken, steak, shrimp, or roasted vegetables. It also works great in soups, stews, on popcorn, roasted nuts, or even deviled eggs.

How do I adjust the heat level?

I tweak the amounts of cayenne and red pepper flakes. For less heat, I cut them down; for more, I add an extra pinch.

Can I scale the recipe up?

Absolutely. I just double or triple the ingredients if I want to make a bigger batch.

Will it stay fresh if I double the batch?

Yes, as long as I store it in a cool, dry place. I still try to use it within 4 to 6 weeks for the best flavor.

Can I replace seasoning salt?

Definitely. I often swap it out with kosher salt or leave it out completely and season the dish to taste when I cook.

Conclusion

I’m always excited to have this homemade Slap Ya Mama seasoning on hand. It brings bold Cajun flavor to anything I cook without the additives or price tag of store-bought blends. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and sure to become a staple in any kitchen.