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.)
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1 tablespoon smoked paprika
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1 tablespoon seasoning salt
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1½ teaspoons onion powder
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1½ teaspoons garlic powder
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1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
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1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
directions
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I gather all the spices in a mixing bowl.
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I stir thoroughly until the mixture is uniform.
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I transfer it to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place.
Servings and timing
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Prep time: 5 minutes
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Makes about ½ cup, roughly 4 servings (2 tablespoons per serving)
Variations
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Milder version: I reduce the cayenne and red pepper flakes, and increase the paprika.
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Extra smoky: I use smoked paprika and add a pinch of ground chipotle.
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Herb-forward: I add a teaspoon each of dried basil and parsley.
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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.
Zesty Homemade Slap Ya Mama Seasoning
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (½ cup total)
- Category: Seasoning
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A bold and zesty homemade Cajun-style seasoning blend inspired by the popular 'Slap Ya Mama' mix, made with simple pantry spices and customizable heat levels.
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
Instructions
- Gather all the spices in a mixing bowl.
- Stir thoroughly until the mixture is uniform.
- Transfer to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place.
Notes
- For a milder version, reduce cayenne and red pepper flakes.
- Use smoked paprika and chipotle for an extra smoky flavor.
- To make it herb-forward, add dried basil and parsley.
- Store in a tightly sealed jar for up to 6 weeks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 15
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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