Cajun seasoning is a pantry staple in many households, myself included.
It’s a fragrant, flavorful blend of spices that can liven up any dish.
But what if you’re out of cajun seasoning and don’t have time to run to the store? Fear not; several easy substitutes will do the trick.
In this article, we’ll explore the three best substitutes for cajun seasoning.
What is Cajun Seasoning?

Cajun seasoning is a blend of herbs and spices that originated in Louisiana.
It typically includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
Cajun seasoning adds flavor to food and can be used on meats, poultry, seafood, and vegetables.
It is also a popular ingredient in gumbo and jambalaya.
When using Cajun seasoning, start with a small amount and add more to the taste.
Too much seasoning can overpower the flavors of the dish.
Cajun seasoning is a versatile ingredient used in many different recipes.
So next time you want to spice up your cooking, reach for some Cajun seasoning and give it a try.
The 3 Best Substitutes for Cajun Seasoning
If you’re in a pinch and don’t have any Cajun seasoning on hand, don’t worry.
There are plenty of substitutes that will give your dish that same zesty, flavorful kick.
Here are the three best substitutes for Cajun seasoning:
1 – Creole Seasoning

Creole seasoning is a popular blend of spices used in Louisiana Creole cuisine.
With its bold flavor, Creole seasoning is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes.
The ingredients can vary, but the most common include garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, and black pepper.
Creole seasoning adds a unique flavor to both spicy and savory dishes.
It is commonly used to season meats such as chicken, shrimp, and sausage.
In addition, it can be used to add flavor to rice, beans, and vegetables.
2 – Old Bay Seasoning

Old Bay Seasoning is a staple of East Coast cuisine.
Originally created in Baltimore, Maryland, Old Bay has become beloved by cooks up and down the Atlantic coast.
The unique blend of herbs and spices has been pleasing taste buds for generations.
Whether it’s used to season crab cakes or add flavor to boiled shrimp, this seasoning adds a touch of class to any seafood dish.
But Old Bay isn’t just for seafood lovers.
The versatile spice mix can be used on chicken, pork, vegetables, and even popcorn.
3 – Mix of Cayenne Pepper and Paprika

Amongst the many spices used in cooking, cayenne pepper and paprika are often used interchangeably.
Both spices add a bit of heat to dishes, but they have quite different flavor profiles.
Cayenne pepper is made from dried chili peppers and is typically quite spicy.
On the other hand, Paprika is made from bell peppers and is usually milder in flavor.
These two spices can create a dish with just the right amount of heat when used together.
The cayenne pepper will add a bit of spice, while the paprika will round out the flavor with its unique taste.
So next time you want to add a little heat to your cooking, don’t be afraid to mix these two spices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the five best substitutes for Cajun seasoning are Creole seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, Cayenne pepper, and paprika.
With these ingredients, you can create a flavorful and spicy dish that will satisfy your cravings.
So next time you’re in the mood for some Cajun flavor, don’t hesitate to reach for one of these substitutes.