10 Homemade Seasoning Mixes And Blends Recipes

Here are 10 homemade seasoning mix recipes you can make in just minutes and save a lot of money over buying them at the store. You'll find seasoned salt, taco seasoning, Italian seasoning, Ranch dressing mix and more! I love these homemade seasoning mix recipes and you will, too!

Here are some of our homemade seasonings recipes our Dining on a Dime Cookbook, Volume 1 and a few other seasoning recipes thrown in just because I love them. :-)

Here are 10 homemade seasoning mix recipes you can make in just minutes and save a lot of money over buying them at the store. You'll find seasoned salt, taco seasoning, Italian seasoning, Ranch dressing mix and more! I love these homemade seasoning mix recipes and you will, too!

10 Homemade Seasoning Mixes

I love homemade seasoning mix recipes! I frequently make my own seasonings because they are a lot cheaper and it usually only takes a few minutes’ work to mix them. Here are some of our homemade seasonings recipes from our Dining on a Dime Cookbook, Volume 1 and a few other seasoning recipes thrown in just because I love them. :-) They are easy to make and can save you a lot of money.

This is one super simple way to cut your grocery bill. Those little packets at the store really add up, and when you start looking at what’s actually in them, you realize you’re often paying more for fillers than actual seasoning. When you make your own, you know exactly what you’re putting in your food, and you can adjust things to fit your family’s tastes.

Most of these mixes use basic ingredients you probably already have sitting in your cupboard, and you can mix up a batch in less time than it takes to run to the store. I like to make a larger amount and keep it in a jar so it’s ready whenever I need it. It makes busy nights so much easier because I can just grab what I need and keep going. I especially like using my homemade seasoned salt, so I keep a separate salt shaker near my stove so I always have it handy for cooking.

I love all of these seasoning mixes, but I use the homemade seasoned salt and taco seasoning the most!

This homemade seasoned salt recipe is my favorite seasoning because it's super convenient and much cheaper than buying seasoned salt. Super quick and easy to make, I keep some in a salt shaker on my stove so it's handy whenever I'm cooking!
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Homemade Seasoned Salt Recipe

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This homemade seasoned salt recipe is my favorite seasoning because it’s super convenient and much cheaper than buying seasoned salt. Super quick and easy to make, I keep some in a separate salt shaker on my stove so it’s handy whenever I’m cooking!

  • Author: Tawra Kellam

Ingredients

8 Tbsp. salt
1/2 Tbsp. onion powder
3 Tbsp. pepper
1/2 Tbsp. garlic powder
2 Tbsp. paprika

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
  2. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

Use this seasoned salt on everything! This is my favorite seasoning! I mix some and keep it in a separate salt shaker on the stove so it is handy for all of my dinner recipes!

This homemade house seasoning recipe is my 2nd favorite homemade seasoning! It's another variation on seasoned salt that does not include paprika. Quick and easy to make in minutes and useful for seasoning almost everything.
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Homemade House Seasoning Recipe

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This homemade house seasoning recipe is my 2nd favorite homemade seasoning! It’s another variation on seasoned salt that does not include paprika. Quick and easy to make in minutes and useful for seasoning almost everything.

  • Author: Tawra Kellam

Ingredients

1 cup salt
1/4 cup garlic powder
1/4 cup black pepper

Instructions

Mix ingredients together and use on everything!

Notes

This is my 2nd favorite homemade seasoning!

This homemade taco seasoning recipe tastes better and is much less expensive than buying the pre-made taco seasoning at the store. It's quick and easy to make in just a few minutes!
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Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe

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This homemade taco seasoning recipe tastes better and is much less expensive than buying the pre-made taco seasoning at the store. It’s quick and easy to make in just a few minutes!

  • Author: Tawra Kellam

Ingredients

6 tsp. chili powder
3 tsp. onion powder
4 1/2 tsp. cumin
2 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
5 tsp. paprika
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp. oregano

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients.
  2. Store in an airtight container.

Use for Tacos, enchiladas and other Mexican food. One teaspoon of homemade taco seasoning equals 2 teaspoons of the store-bought seasoning.

This homemade Italian seasoning recipe makes Italian seasoning like the one you buy at the store, but for only a fraction of the cost. It's easy to make in just a few minutes and it is perfect for pizza, pasta sauces, salads and more!
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Homemade Italian Seasoning Recipe

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This homemade Italian seasoning recipe makes Italian seasoning like the one you buy at the store, but for only a fraction of the cost. It’s easy to make in just a few minutes and it is perfect for pizza, pasta sauces, salads and more!

  • Author: Tawra Kellam

Ingredients

1/4 cup basil
2 Tbsp. thyme
2 Tbsp. marjoram
2 Tbsp. rosemary
2 Tbsp. oregano
2 tsp. garlic powder
2 Tbsp. coriander
1 tsp. sugar

Instructions

  1. Combine all the ingredients.
  2. Store in an airtight container in a cool dark place for up to 3 months.

Use for any recipe that calls for Italian seasoning. This seasoning is also great for salads.

With this easy-to-follow homemade poultry seasoning recipe, you can effortlessly create a flavorful blend that is perfect for enhancing the taste of chicken and turkey. The recipe is simple and can be prepared in just a few minutes.
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Homemade Poultry Seasoning Recipe

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With this easy-to-follow homemade poultry seasoning recipe, you can effortlessly create a flavorful blend that is perfect for enhancing the taste of chicken and turkey. The recipe is simple and can be prepared in just a few minutes. All you have to do is rub the seasoning on the outer surface of the bird before roasting it to perfection. This seasoning can also be used to add some extra zest to stuffings, soups, pizza crust, and breadsticks.

  • Author: Tawra Kellam

Ingredients

2 tsp. sage
1 1/2 tsp. thyme
1 tsp. marjoram
3/4 tsp. rosemary
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. black pepper

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients well.
  2. Rub Homemade Poultry Seasoning on the outside of the chicken before roasting. This homemade seasoning can also be used in stuffings and in soups.
This homemade fajita seasoning recipe is just like the fajita seasoning at the grocery store, but a lot less expensive. It is quick and easy to make and perfect for making fajitas and for seasoning beef, chicken and other meats when you're making Mexican food.
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Homemade Fajita Seasoning Recipe Mix

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This homemade fajita seasoning recipe is just like the fajita seasoning at the grocery store, but a lot less expensive. It is quick and easy to make and perfect for making fajitas and for seasoning beef, chicken and other meats when you’re making Mexican food.

  • Author: Tawra Kellam

Ingredients

1 Tbsp. cornstarch
2 1/2 – 3 tsp. chili powder (Vary according to how spicy you like it.)
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. cumin

Instructions

Mix all ingredients together.

To use, sprinkle chicken or steak with fajita seasoning. Sprinkle with lime juice. Mix and let marinate for one to several hours. Fry in hot oil.

This homemade ranch dressing recipe can be used to make ranch dressing for salads or you can use it to make ranch dip. The ranch dressing mix is also delicious as a seasoning. Sprinkle on chicken, roast, hamburgers and more!
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Homemade Ranch Dressing Mix Recipe

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This homemade ranch dressing recipe can be used to make ranch dressing for salads or you can use it to make an easy ranch dip. The ranch dressing mix is also delicious as a seasoning. Sprinkle on chicken, roast, hamburgers and more!

  • Author: Tawra Kellam

Ingredients

1/2 cup parsley
1 tsp. garlic powder
4 Tbsp. onion flakes
1 tsp. paprika
1 tsp. onion powder
1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Combine all the ingredients in a medium bowl.
  2. Store in an airtight container.

For a gift mix, attach this note to the jar:

To Make Into Dressing Or Dip:

Ranch Dressing

½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup buttermilk
1 Tbsp. Ranch Dressing and Dip Mix (above)

In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk and Ranch Dressing and Dip Mix. Refrigerate for one hour before serving. Makes 1 cup.

Ranch Dip

3 Tbsp. Ranch Dressing and Dip Mix
1 cup sour cream or low-fat yogurt
1 cup mayonnaise or low-fat mayonnaise

Combine Ranch Dressing and Dip Mix with mayonnaise and sour cream. Chill before serving. Great with raw vegetables, or as a topping for baked potatoes. Makes 2 cups.

This easy onion soup mix recipe can be used to make a classic onion soup, as a seasoning for roasted meats and vegetables, or as a base for dips and dressings. It's easy to make in a few minutes for a lot less cost than the store bought kind!
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Homemade Onion Soup Mix

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Onion soup mix is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can be used to enhance the taste of various dishes. It is a blend of dried onions, spices, and seasonings that you can easily make at home. This mix can be used to make a classic onion soup, as a seasoning for roasted meats and vegetables, or as a base for dips and dressings. You can make your own onion soup mix at home in minutes for a lot less cost than the store bought kind!

  • Author: Tawra Kellam

Ingredients

2 1/2 Tbsp. minced onion
4 cubes beef bouillon, crumbled
1 tsp. onion powder
1/8 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper

Instructions

  1. Mix all of the ingredients together.
  2. Store in an airtight container.

To use: Add 2 tablespoons mix to 1 cup boiling water. Cover and simmer 15 minutes.

Notes

This makes a stronger soup than the store-bought mix, so you can use less.

This homemade pumpkin pie spice recipe is the perfect blend of warm and cozy fall flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious mixture perfect for pumpkin pies, lattes, and other fall treats. It's easy to make at home in minutes and costs a lot less than the pre-made kind!
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Homemade Pumpkin Spice Mix

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This homemade pumpkin pie spice recipe is the perfect blend of warm and cozy fall flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious mixture perfect for pumpkin pies, lattes, and other fall treats. It’s easy to make at home in minutes and costs a lot less than the pre-made kind!

  • Author: Tawra Kellam

Ingredients

1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 tsp. ginger
1/8 tsp. cloves

Instructions

  1. Mix the ingredients together.
  2. Store in an airtight container.
  3. Use in any recipe calling for pumpkin pie spice.
If you're looking for a delicious barbecue spice rub recipe that's easy to make and doesn't break the bank, then try this easy recipe! This versatile rub can also be used as a marinade and takes just a few minutes to whip up. The tangy barbecue flavor is sure to make your next BBQ a hit!
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Barbecue Spice Rub Recipe

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If you’re looking for a delicious barbecue spice rub recipe that’s easy to make and doesn’t break the bank, then try this easy recipe! This versatile rub can also be used as a marinade and takes just a few minutes to whip up. The tangy barbecue flavor is sure to make your next BBQ a hit!

  • Author: Tawra Kellam

Ingredients

1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup paprika
1 Tbsp. pepper
1 Tbsp. salt
1 Tbsp. chili powder
1 Tbsp. garlic powder
1 Tbsp. onion powder

Instructions

  1. Mix the ingredients together.
  2. Store in an airtight container.

To Use: Rub on the meat and let marinate from 30 minutes to overnight. Then barbecue and enjoy!

[dining]

Comments

110 responses to “10 Homemade Seasoning Mixes And Blends Recipes”

  1. Nina Dagen Avatar
    Nina Dagen

    I would like a recipe for fat free cottage cheese. Do you have one available?

    Thanks,
    Nina Dagen

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      Nina you make fat free cottage cheese pretty much like you do regular but you use fat free milk instead. You can also use powdered milk. Here is a site with a recipe for you. Fat Free Cottage Cheese

  2. Jill Avatar
    Jill

    I always laugh and say if you need a recipe for something it is probably in Dining on a Dime. We tried to cover every thing in it. Here is our Italian Seasoning mix from out of there. We also have things like shake and bake, taco seasoning, seasoned salt, pumpkin pie spice, cajun and so much more. That’s why we say the book more then pays for itself.
    This recipe makes a good amount so you can half it or it stores for at least 3 months or more.

    Italian Seasoning

    1/4 cup dried basil
    2 Tbsp. each,
    marjoram
    oregano
    coriander
    thyme
    rosemary
    2 tsp. garlic powder
    1 tsp. sugar

    Mix and store in a container.

    You can add or take away to this recipe easily. For example I don’t ever have coriander on hand so I wouldn’t use it and I don’t use onions in my spaghetti so I would add 2-3 tsp. of onion powder to mine.

    1. Kay Davis Avatar
      Kay Davis

      I would love the shake n bake recipe
      Thanks Kay

      1. Jill Avatar
        Jill

        Here you go Kay https://www.livingonadime.com/homemade-shake-and-bake-recipe/

  3. Pam Avatar
    Pam

    I would like a recipe for powdered sloppy joe mix.

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      Pam here is a general one. You can leave out the things you maybe don’t like or use on a regular basis or adjust it to your own taste. For example I don’t usually have paprika on hand and would leave that out, I don’t have dried mustard so I would just add a squirt of regular mustard to it as I was mixing it to the hamburger. To my sloppy joes when I am making them, I like to add a couple of Tablespoons of brown sugar, some bar b que sauce and Worcestershire sauce.

      2 T. onion pwd. or dried onions
      2 T. paprika
      1 t. chili powder
      1 t. salt
      1 t. dried mustard
      1/2 t. black pepper
      1/2 t. garlic powder

      Mix and store in air tight container. When ready to use add about 3 Tbsp. mix or to taste to 1 lb. cooked hamburger, 8 oz. tomato paste and 1/2 cup water. All of these can be adjusted.

      1. Barb~ Avatar
        Barb~

        Hi Jill,

        I make quick Sloppy Joes just by adding bottled BBQ sauce to my browned hamburger. BBQ sauce has been a sale a lot lately for about 79 cents a bottle. I use about half, and then usually stir in a little water. Simmer about 10 mins. and it’s ready!

        1. Jill Avatar
          Jill

          Quick and easy that is the way to go Barb. Like it.

    2. Sherri Ginter Avatar
      Sherri Ginter

      The easiest and cheapest way I’ve learned to make sloppy joes from my gramma is:brown your ground beef with salt and pepper, a dash of garlic powder, drain, on low heat add cheyenne pepper and regular catsup. I just sprinkle some in. Simmer, mix and wella! Tastes so yummy! PS Don’t add too much cheyenne or it’ll be too hot.

    3. April Avatar
      April

      My recipe for a substitute for the canned Manwich sauce is fairly simple…just ketchup with a little bit of diced onions & peppers. My husband, who is a HUGE Manwich fan, could not tell the difference. (and this is how ketchup becomes legitimately classified as a vegetable)

  4. Katie Avatar
    Katie

    Does anyone have a basic popcorn seasoning mix? And know where to get an air-popper? (Microwave popcorn costs!)

    1. Tawra Avatar
      Tawra

      https://www.livingonadime.com/homemade-popcorn-seasonings/ here are a few of ours out of Dining On A Dime Cookbook.

    2. carrie Avatar
      carrie

      I bought our popcorn popper at kohls for $20.00 it is small but it does the job big enough for out family of 4.

    3. Penny S Avatar
      Penny S

      Katie, I purchased a hot air pop corn popper at WalMart not too long ago. It cost me around $20. You might look at Goodwill or other thrift shops for one. As you said, microwave popcorn is expensive and has a lot of fat in it. I have also tried putting regular pop corn in a pyrex bowl with a glass lid and popping it in my microwave. It didn’t pop too well for me but possibly I did not set the popping time for long enough. You might give this method a try. Good luck

      1. Jill Avatar
        Jill

        You can pop corn on a stove too. If you have Dining on a Dime the recipe is in there. You pretty much put a little oil in a pan add 3 kernels of popcorn, turn on high, cover with a lid. When that pops add more popcorn, cover, shaking often. As soon as it stops popping it is done. This is the short version of it.

      2. Roberta Avatar
        Roberta

        I bought a microwave popcorn popper on amazon for like $8 and it’s amazing….

      3. Karen Avatar
        Karen

        Easiest popcorn in the world…take a paper lunch bag, put 1/4 to 1/3 cup unpopped corn in it, fold the top down so it fits in your microwave, and cook on high until the popping slows down to about 6 seconds between a pop. In my microwave, it’s about 2 minutes, less the second go around.

        I then empty my bag in a bowl, salt and butter it, and repop what’s left in the bag, or add more to it.

        Note – don’t use more than 1/3 cup unpopped corn at a time or it will burst your bag or burn.

        Also, be sure to stand watch over your popcorn while it’s cooking. I had a bag get stuck in the corner when it fell over and it caught on fire. I have a turntable microwave.

    4. stephanie Avatar
      stephanie

      I purchased a whirly pop myself, and use coconut oil. the air pop corn just had no flavor, and I do not like microwave popcorn because they just have too much yuk in the oils and its gross. since I purchased the wirley pop we make popcorn so much and the flavor is so outstanding. and coconut oil is very good for you.

    5. Sherri Ginter Avatar
      Sherri Ginter

      Put some olive oil in a spray bottle. Spritz popcorn, mix, and add garlic salt, or you can add Kraft sprinkle cheese, or a packet of dry ranch dressing mix, and mix again. Tastes great.

    6. Tina Avatar
      Tina

      I just purchased a microwave popcorn popper from Pampered chef, for my daughter. She loves it.

  5. Lou Bulebosh Avatar
    Lou Bulebosh

    Do you have recipes for any of the Hamburger Helper mixes?

    1. June Avatar
      June

      Using Hamberger Helper Chili Macaroni, I like to make Chili Mac Skillet serves 5-6.
      1 lb Pork Sausage or use ground beef or ground turkey
      1 box of Hamberger Helper Chili Mac
      3 1/2 cups of hot water
      2 ts. Chili Powder
      2 cups Diced Tomatoes
      1 16oz can beans (pinto, black or kidney beans)
      1 cup of corn can or frozen
      Shredded Cheese
      —-
      Cook meat in large skillet & drain fat. Stir in uncooked pasta, sauce mix, and remaining engredients except cheese. Heat to boil, stirring frequently. Reduce heat, cover & simmer 15 minutes stirring occasionally until pasta is done. remove from heat & uncover. Sauce thickens
      as it stands. Sprinkle with cheese.

      My family loves this. I also make a soup out of this by adding 2 more cups of water. I also add a can of olives sometimes.

  6. Chantel Fourie Avatar
    Chantel Fourie

    Thanks for sharing these, I was going to start looking for seasoning recipes since I want to make my own seasonings from the herbs in our garden.

  7. grandma Avatar
    grandma

    question from a small town in Canada cook.
    I found a recipe for loaded baked potatoe soup. I want to give it as gifts in gift baskets and was wondering if
    powdered butter and powdered sour cream are usual items I could find in a bulk store or would it be a specialty item I would have to order from online someplace.
    the soup sounds so good and I have all the ingredients but those 2. A lot of the recipes on line call for this but haven’t had a chance to get to the city to try and find them.
    any help or suggestions for substitutes would be helpful.

    1. Marie Avatar
      Marie

      I have seen these type of things in places that specialize in emergency preparation or camping, but I would think you could experiment with the recipe and find the correct amount of fresh ingredients to add. Powdered ingredients are more convenient, but many mixes have fresh ingredients that are required.

    2. Sherri Ginter Avatar
      Sherri Ginter

      A lot of times I get these types of things from the Amish community. My mom has one near where she lives. It is near Portage, WI. They have a general store with all types of items.

    3. Renee Avatar
      Renee

      Check Amazon.com, they have a LOT of powdered emergency supply items. If I need something I can’t find in stores, I always go to Amazon and can find it. Also, sometimes when price checking Amazon will beat the local stores. Try to get free shipping. I have Prime account so I can get free shipping on nearly everything.

      1. Roberta Avatar
        Roberta

        Walmart.com also sells the emergency preparedness food items

    4. Cindy Avatar
      Cindy

      Thrive Life (online) has powdered butter, but not sure about powdered sour cream.

      1. Deana Wade Avatar
        Deana Wade

        Cindy …Thrive and Honeyville have the powdered sour cream….

    5. Sharon Avatar
      Sharon

      If you can get to a Bulk Barn, try them. I moved to the US from Canada over 20 years ago and I do miss Bulk Barn. NO bulk stores in my state at all.

  8. Jeanne Avatar
    Jeanne

    I love these homemade seasonings! I have also found all of these spices and herbs at very low prices in and in larger quantities in stores that cater to the local Hispanic community. If you’re making these seasonings yourself, you’ll really save money. A nice little collection of homemade seasonings also make great gifts.

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      They do Jeanne. They are great to add to a gift basket of some kind too. Just to give everyone a heads up for those of you who have Dining on a Dime we have these recipes plus a whole section on gift baskets and gifts in a jar so don’t forget to check in there for ideas and in a bit we are coming out with a Kindle book Homemade Christmas gifts with this same type of thing in it.

      For you new comers too keep wandering the site because we what a ton of ideas on here for homemade gifts of all kinds and don’t forget Gifts in a Jar book.

      1. Joyce Avatar
        Joyce

        I have to say that I have had both your books (Not Just Beans and Living On a Dime) ever since they came out and they are the ones I use constantly. I have been cooking for my spouse for 50 yrs and you taught me some things I didn’t know. Everyone should have them.

        1. Jill Avatar
          Jill

          Thank you Joyce. Telling us you us our cookbook on a regular basis always is so nice. We didn’t want it to be a book that you could only use for 1-2 recipes and worked hard to make sure it wasn’t one of those types of books and coming from an experienced cook is even better. Thanks again for being so nice and taking the time to tell us.

        2. Patricia Avatar
          Patricia

          I use it all the time too. I use all your recipes for Thanksgiving and Christmas meals. My brothers always seem to like your recipes better than mine. LOL

          1. Jill Avatar
            Jill

            Too funny Patricia. It is an unwritten rule that after you use our recipes 10 times you can tell your brothers that it is now your recipe. :)

  9. Maggie Avatar
    Maggie

    I make my sloppy joes by browning hamburger meat, then adding a can of tomato sauce (8 or 15 oz depending on the quantity of meat).and then some brown sugar. The brown sugar gives it a nice sweet flavor. We put it on hamburger buns and serve with chips and pickles.
    Yummy!

  10. SHIRLEY FRYER Avatar
    SHIRLEY FRYER

    DO YOU HAVE A RECIPE FOR ONION POWDER AND CHICKEN BOULION POWDER? THANK YOU

    1. Tawra Avatar
      Tawra

      I’m sorry we don’t have a recipe for it. For chicken bouillon powder you can use chicken broth instead.

    2. Sheila B Avatar
      Sheila B

      For onion powder, put dehydrated onion flakes in a spice grinder/coffee grinder and process until it’s a powder.
      For homemade chicken bouillon powder:
      1 1/3 cups nutritional yeast flakes (found on the internet or health food store)
      3 Tablespoons onion powder
      7 1/2 teaspoons (2 1/2 Tbs) sea salt (or omit for sodium-free bouillon)
      1 Tablespoon rice protein powder (*or sub with other protein powder)
      1 Tablespoon sugar (*or sub with Truvia)
      2 1/2 teaspoons garlic granules or powder
      1 teaspoon dried thyme
      1 teaspoon finely crumbled dried sage (NOT powdered)
      1 teaspoon paprika
      1/2 teaspoon turmeric

  11. Susan Avatar
    Susan

    Glad you all are ok! I also keep a month’s supply of non pershiable food,water and extra batteries on hand. It seems we always have an issue with the power when it rains! sounds crazy but it can storm and we have power but let it pour down rain from a tropical system and we lose power! I also keep plenty of water on hand and I also keep a extra supply of my meds just in case.

  12. Patricia Scholes Avatar
    Patricia Scholes

    A long time ago our home was taken by a tornado. We were off visiting family. When we returned, we were homeless and most of our things were broken, water and fiber-glass damaged, or completely gone. We were extremely grateful, however, because we were not there when it happened. The baby bed was in pieces. What would have happened to the baby if we had been home?

    I have been a saver ever since. People call me a prepper, a derogatory term given by the ignorant. Would they not take action if they had been rendered homeless by a natural disaster? Or would they stay helpless, expecting someone else to take care of their needs?

    And now the government calls people like me extremists. And yet they have preparedness ads on TV. Go figure.

    Keep up the good work.

    Patricia

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      Don’t worry Patricia you are not an extremists you are just nice and prepared. One thing I try to do is I keep a whole emergency kit in my car too. A change of clothes, shoes, sleeping bag,water, food, blankets etc. that way if I am away from home and all is taken I will have at least a few things. I started doing this about a year ago because I kept seeing people lose everything while away from home and started thinking my emergency supply would do me no good in these situations so decided to keep some things in a second location.
      I know this would be hard with large families but even a small backpack stored at a family members home could help a little.

      1. Sherri Ginter Avatar
        Sherri Ginter

        How funny you all mentioned this. My husband and I are waiting for the after Christmas sale at Menard’s so we can buy the large Christmas Storage Rubbermaid bins. We are going to pack one for each of our family in case we run in to any trouble. We’ll have gallons of bottled water in them and some other essentials. All great ideas! You are not an extremist, just practical.

        1. Jill Avatar
          Jill

          One thing too I can’t remember if I mentioned it or not, when packing things to take with you in an emergency make sure the bags or containers you are taking are easy enough for the women and children in your family to care in case they have to. When you can use things like containers with rollers, back packs or old suitcases with rollers too. I also keep a small fold-able light weight doly with bungy cords by the things I may have to take with me. Also I try to pack my “memories” that I store in smaller boxes I can easily carry because in case of flash flooding or some natural disaster I want to be able to lift them to put in my car.

    2. Marybeth S. Avatar
      Marybeth S.

      We have a old chest type freezer(it doesn’t lock)that we put in the ground.Our neighbor dug the hole for us and helped put it in.I have it filled with food grade buckets that are air tight when closed.We covered it with dirt and park the mower on top.Our area is prone to tornado’s and if one hits us then we have clothing,food,pans and a grill to cook with.We have a well and creek for emergency water.It pays to be prepared.

      1. Jill Avatar
        Jill

        I have not have heard of this before but I think it is a great idea.

      2. Deana Wade Avatar
        Deana Wade

        Where will you and your family go if there is a tornado? Do you have a dugout or basement or ? I was just wondering. I know people who leave their garden vegetables in piles of hay, or dirt.

    3. Alaska Grandma Avatar
      Alaska Grandma

      As an ex-Girlscout who later was a den mother for Cub Scouts, we just called it the “motto.” BE PREPARED I have lived by it my whole life and taught it to my children and grandchildren. If they want to call me a prepper, I don’t care; it doesn’t affect my lifestyle one iota. In fact when the name calling starts, I just own it. So that makes me a Prepper, a Cracker, and a Deplorable. And proud of it. :)

      1. Tacy Avatar
        Tacy

        I like you! A lot!

  13. Marcia Avatar
    Marcia

    Here in Maine we are rarely hit very hard if at all with hurricanes and tornadoes but we have had severe flooding before now and we also had a severe ice storm south of us way back in 1997 or so. We were fortunate in our area because we got snow instead of ice…trust me snow is much easier to deal with than ice. But it crippled the rest of the state that many people had no power or heat for days and some people couldn’t evacuate their homes even because they had animals that the shelters couldn’t take or the roads were so bad they couldn’t get anywhere. I’m glad you wrote about this because no matter where you live you never know when an emergency might come up and it’s so much better to be prepared! A lot of people in Maine had the mindset oh it can’t happen here until it did happen here!

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      Marcia you are right snow is much easier to deal with then ice any day. When I moved from KS to ID everyone thought I was moving to this awful place with bitter winters. What I found out was the winters in ID were so much milder there then in KS because they had very little if any ice just beautiful fluffy snow and no humidity to make the winter feel bitter cold. Here we have awful winds, ice and humidity that makes if feel 20 degrees colder then it really is.
      I have always said people in cold climates should have some kind of wood burning stove. I feel very insecure right now because I don’t have one in this house. I am a little covered though because my son who lives not far from me has one and I don’t have animals or anything like that that I need to worry about leaving so I could easily go to his home. I would feel better if I had one here.

  14. Grizzly Bear Mom Avatar
    Grizzly Bear Mom

    Don’t forget to turn down the temperature on your freezer and fridge if black outs threaten. Also fill both with 2 liter bottles of water to act as ice packs and keep them there unless you fill the appliance to save power when it is on. Put a drop of water in those recycled 2 liters if you are going to drink it, and dispose of them yearly such as over the Christmas holiday so you remember to do so. I store mine near the washer so its easy to recycle doing laundry. I was stuck without power for a week during a 100 degree plus DC humidity week. By keeping the windows closed and covered from 6 AM (yes 6!) to 10 PM when I opened them for cross ventilation the house was bearable even for a Siberian Husky dog wearing a mink like coat. Having a Siberian HUSKY IS having a little stove in the house, if only I could per
    suade him to cuddle with me.

  15. Pan Avatar
    Pan

    I was wondering if you had a recipe for Shake and bake? I hope you do. I know I have seen a really good one but of course when you want it you can’t find it. Please let me know if you are the ones that have it. I have your cookbook and it wasn’t in it. Thanks
    Pam

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      Pam we do have it and it is in the Dining on a Dime under the Miscellaneous Recipes or look under Shake and Bake in the index. For those of you who don’t have the book the recipe is
      4 cups flour
      4 cups soda crackers, crushed
      4 Tbsp. salt
      2 Tbsp. sugar
      2 tsp. garlic powder
      2 tsp. onion powder
      3 Tbsp. paprika
      1/4 cup vegetable oil
      Mix well and store indefinitely in refrigerator in a covered container. Coat chicken pieces with mixture and bake at 350 degrees for 45-60 minutes. Do not reuse coating you have placed the raw chicken in.

  16. Madge Avatar
    Madge

    Great ideas. I am still on the hunt for Cajun seasoning without salt. There is way too much salt in the commercial ones. I looked at the price for a packet of Good Seasons salad dressing mix and I think that is just too much to pay for a minor ingredient. Is there any substitute I could make?

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      Madge here is our Cajun Seasoning from Dining on a Dime. We have a great number of mixes and seasonings that you can mix and adjust to your own needs. This recipe has salt in it but just leave it out totally or adjust it to what you want. Like many of our recipes you can add or take away what you need to on the ingredients.

      Cajun Seasoning
      1 Tbsp. paprika
      1 tsp. onion powder
      1 tsp. garlic powder
      1 tsp. cayenne pepper
      2 1/2 tsp. salt
      3/4 tsp. white pepper
      3/4 tsp. black pepper
      1/2 tsp. thyme leaves, dried
      1/2 tsp. oregano, dried

      Mix and storre in airtight container.

  17. Joan Cousins Avatar
    Joan Cousins

    need the measuerments for a recipe for taco filling made with hamburger. I have forgotten the tablespons and teaspoons for the different seasonings . Thank You

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      Here is the recipe in Dining on a Dime for taco seasoning.
      6 tsp. chili powder
      4 1/2 tsp. cumin
      5 tsp. paprika
      1/4 tsp. oregano
      3 tsp. onion powder
      2 12 tsp. garlic powder
      1/8-1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
      Mix. One tsp. homemade equals 2 tsp. store bought.

  18. Charlie Avatar
    Charlie

    Hello: Just a suggestion, for your poultry seasoning try substituting “Summer Savory” for the Sage.

  19. Norma Mason Avatar
    Norma Mason

    I loved the rotisserie spice from McCormicks,and was able to buy it in a huge container at Sam’s Club or BJ’s. Now they only have it in the tiny size at about 3 times the cost. Any copy-cat combination that I can use that you know of.

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      I don’t but maybe one of our readers does.

    2. April Avatar
      April

      Amazon has it in the huge 6.5 LB jugs.

  20. Sharon Avatar
    Sharon

    Thanks Jill for this website. I came upon it when I was looking for mixing sugar and cinnamon. To buy it in the store is too much for no more than you get in a small container, because we don’t use it often enough to but it in the large containers at club membership stores. While on here, you gave me a smile when I came across these recipes for the different seasoning mixes and spice blends. Another world just opened up to me, because I’m a handicapped person who doesn’t get out that much; and my family have to do the shopping for the home. Now that I have these recipes, I can do a lot more with cooking for my family. I have to sit in a wheelchair, but I can whirl around that kitchen real good now. Lol. These will make it much more enjoyable I hope to get your recipe book in the near future. Again thanks, and God bless.

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      You are welcome Sharon. I thank you for such a sweet e mail. You do have a great attitude which is very rare these days so I really enjoyed reading it and chuckled trying to envision you twirling in your kitchen. Hope the seasoning mixes work out for you. Holler if you have any questions. Have a Happy Thanksgiving.

  21. Lyn Avatar
    Lyn

    Not sure if you can help me, but… I am allergic to nightshades and would love to find some nightshade free spice recipes, BBQ spice, Seasoning salt,. Most recipes have either cayenne Pepper or paprika and they are nightshades. Thank you

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      I am not sure Lyn but maybe some of our readers would know.

    2. Sheila B Avatar
      Sheila B

      Nightshade-Free (GF/CF) Taco Seasoning

      1 tbsp Himalayan Salt
      1 tbsp Sugar
      1 tbsp Onion Powder
      ½ tbsp Garlic Powder
      1 tbsp Cumin
      1 tbsp Coriander
      1 tbsp Cilantro
      1 tbsp Oregano

      Also, here’s another website that has several nightshade-free spice recipes.
      http://forum.bulletproofexec.com/index.php?/topic/10448-nightshade-free-spice-blends/

  22. Janet Avatar
    Janet

    The comments about emergency preparedness in the comments section really ring especially true for me today. I live in Dallas, and 11 people were killed in a tornado outbreak in this area last night. I have family members who live in the most heavily affected areas. One went home from a Christmas gathering to get clothes for his little boy to find their house almost completely destroyed. After the storm went over me, I called my sister to warn her. She and her boyfriend literally saw the tornado soon after and took cover. Many homes are destroyed in their community and they are still without power.

    I have been putting things back for several years now — I really felt the Lord was leading me to do this for various reasons. When I would try to talk to others about it they usually looked at me like I had three heads! Emergency preparedness makes good sense for a multitude of reasons. My recommendation for all is just do it now, regardless of what anyone else thinks.

  23. Jacque Fletcher Avatar
    Jacque Fletcher

    I love all your videos!! It’s so hard to pick just one! I enjoy the recipe videos, whether it is the food recipes or the homemade recipes for cleaners and others. I would love to win the e-books!

  24. Judy Avatar
    Judy

    I love this article because spices are really expensive and I can divide the recipe if I don’t need so much. I have pinned this as well as printed it out. Thanks!

    1. susan Avatar
      susan

      You can make extras and give to older folks on fixed incomes. Our friends don’t make some things because there are too many ingredients.

  25. Shanley Allen Avatar
    Shanley Allen

    I love it when you post any make your own seasoning and spice mixes. Not only do I save money making my own, they taste great and are much healthier because they’re are no preservatives added like store bought mixes. I’ve been following a paleo/whole 30 diet to lose weight and these make your own mixes help to really flavor up my food. Thank you for sharing these mix recipes.

  26. bev Avatar
    bev

    when will the desert recipes be out, will it be a separate book and the price

    thank you

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      I am working on the desert recipes and we don’t know for sure when it will be out but will let everyone know as soon as we do. Not sure on the price yet. Sometimes we have to wait and see how big it turns out to be and all.

  27. Mellisa Cooper Avatar
    Mellisa Cooper

    Thanks for all the wonderful ideas. Can you tell me the shelf life for the mixes especially the bbq spice rub? Thanks!

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      Usually these mixes last at least a couple of years and then they don’t really go bad as in make you sick they just start losing their flavor and strength after a couple of years.

  28. Ingrid Avatar
    Ingrid

    Do you have a recipe for roasted garlic and pepper seasoning. It is so delicious, yet to expensive to buy in the store. I loved all the above comments. This is my first time coming accross your website, thanks for all the work you’ve put into it.

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      Glad to have you with us Ingrid. Here is one that you might try. Don’t forget on any seasoning mix you can add or take away on the ingredients. For example if there isn’t enough garlic for your taste just add a little more.

      There aren’t many recipes out there Ingrid, the only one I knew of might work but they use garlic powder so I don’t know it that will work. I would be tempted to make this recipe but would maybe try roasting then drying the garlic and grind it into a powder. That would be a little more work though.

      Roasted Garlic Pepper Rub

      2 tsp. each garlic powder, black pepper
      1 tsp. brown sugar
      1/2 tsp. each cumin, salt, onion powder
      1/4 tsp. each paprika, dried parsley

      Mix all.

  29. Cara @ Fashionably Frugal Avatar
    Cara @ Fashionably Frugal

    Wow, what a great list, thank you for putting them together. And a big thank you to all the people who added to them in the comments. I am so excited to make my own seasonings to skip the preservatives in the store bought ones. Especially the taco seasoning, I use it all the time and cringe a little bit when I do.

  30. Beverly Jenkins Avatar
    Beverly Jenkins

    I looking for a dry seasoning mix, copycat of Simple Truth White Chicken chili mix 1 oz pkg
    Thank You. It is very good with very few add ins to make a fast dinner.

  31. sue fox Avatar
    sue fox

    i had just bought your cookbook again. i had the first book and my 16 yr old back when she was around 8 ripped out the binder all the pages were every where. i do enjoy the recipes and making homemade spice mix’s.

  32. Bry Avatar
    Bry

    I’m looking for a Garden Seasoning recipe including dried red pepper and orange peel, easy on the pepper. Durkee Garden Seasoning prices keep rising. I use this seasoning daily on my salad so I’m hoping to save money by making my own.

    1. Tawra Avatar
      Tawra

      I don’t have one but you could google it.

  33. Pam Avatar
    Pam

    I just can’t say enough about the cookbook, “Dining On A Dime.” I am a cookbook collector and this one is one of my very favorites. It has everything you need or want for in a cookbook. I am 75 years old, and only wish I would have had this cookbook when I first got married. I am going to start buying them for gifts as every home needs one.❤️????????????????????

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      Oh my Pam thank you so much for taking the time and all to let us know how much you are enjoying the book. So sweet (and I love the emoji’s at the end :)

  34. Jen Avatar
    Jen

    What do you mix the Ranch Dressing Seasoning with to make it into a salad or veggie dip dressing?

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      Jen you can mix it with sour cream for a veggie dip, buttermilk for a salad dressing or some mix it with mayo. This is really good to use just by itself as seasoning like sprinkle some in your potato salad and so many other recipes that call for ranch dressing.

  35. jeanie Avatar
    jeanie

    Do you have a recipe for pepper jax wow seasoning mix? thank you

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      No jeanie we don’t but maybe one of our readers does

      1. Sherece Avatar
        Sherece

        How much taco seasoning do you use for a pound of hamburger?

  36. Glenda Quick Avatar
    Glenda Quick

    I love your cookbook partly because it uses staples, not mixes, recipes are not complicated, and they are flavorful! You have simplified cooking for someone who has always struggled with meals. Thank you

  37. Theresa Murphy Avatar
    Theresa Murphy

    Have you a recipe for salt free seasoning like Mrs. Dash Onion and Herb seasoning? It only comes in small jars. I really like that and use it a lot, so I’d like to make a larger quantity to be handy.

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      No we don’t have that exact recipe now.

  38. Kathie Haynes Avatar
    Kathie Haynes

    Thank you so much for these recipes. Didn’t know they were so easy to prepare and save money plus my daughter has health issues and. Can’t use most of the ones in a store because of the additives 😁

  39. Monique Avatar
    Monique

    What is Chili powder as an ingredient? Every taco seasoning recipe I have looked at has chilli powder. But when I look up how to make or get chilli powder, is the same ingredients as taco seasoning! So I’m adding a mix of the same ingredients to the recipe… seems redundant. Unless it’s actually something different??? So confused!

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      There is a difference between chili powder, chili seasoning and taco seasoning but there are so many different recipes out there that interchange chili powder and other things that it can get very confusing. This happens with a lot of seasoning mixes I’m afraid. I personally rarely use seasoning packets because of this. I just keep a small hand full of spices (and I mean small) and adapt them to my needs. For example I keep chili powder (not seasoning packet) then when I make chili I use it, onion and garlic powder and call it good. When I make tacos I use the same just not using quite as much chili powder to get the taste I want.
      But to answer you question they aren’t exactly the same but if you aren’t to fussy you can interchange them and some people don’t really notice a difference.

    2. Kim Avatar
      Kim

      Monique- Chili powder is made from chili peppers usually poblanos i think they are called. I’ve never bought any real peppers outside of sweet ones or bell. However you can find out how to do this -make your own from the chili peppers on pinterest. Every spice comes from some veg, herb or seed..or bark(cinnamon). Cayenne comes from cayenne peppers. Paprika i believe is made from red bell peppers. Im not sure on this but believe that is right. Hope this helps.

    3. JonaMikay Avatar
      JonaMikay

      Chili powder is literally red (chili) peppers that have been dried and powdered. Chili and taco mixes contain Chili powder as an ingredient.
      Paprika is powdered red (sweet) peppers. Hungarian paprika uses a spicier, yet mild red Hungarian pepper. Smoked paprika smokes the pepper before drying. When making items like salsa the amount of stress the peppers experienced while growing affect the heat or spiciness of the final product. If you want super spicy peppers stress the plants by not watering them as much. The presence of seeds and spine (the soft section the seeds are attached to) in the salsa will increase the heat / spiciness of the final product. For this reason spicy peppers should be grown in pots so you can monitor the amount of water they get. Rainy years yield milder peppers.

  40. fpicke Avatar
    fpicke

    I just wanted to ask about the amount of parsley in the ranch seasoning mix. 1/2 cup sounds like a lot compared to the other ingredients. Why so much parsley? And do you suggest buying in bulk? The parsley I can find at Walmart is kind of expensive to buy in large quantities.

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      These seasoning recipes are really pretty adjustable to your own taste. You can really adjust them to what ever you like. Just add 1/4 a cup if you want. As far as buying in bulk you will have to figure the prices where you are and if you are adjusting the recipe you really only need 4 Tbps.

  41. Susan Avatar
    Susan

    Oh, my goodness! Thank you! These are SO helpful!! <3

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      LOL you are welcome Susan hope you enjoy them.

  42. Jalisa Avatar
    Jalisa

    Do you have a recipe for a spice mix that would taste bacon flavored, but it’s just spices? Like maybe salt, liquid smoke, paprika…? I don’t know, just imagining something that would be easy to diy and taste great on popcorn!

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      Jalisa we don’t have a bacon flavored spice mix but you could experiment and try mixing paprika or something similar with salt to add it to the popcorn. Also if you make the popcorn in a pan you could try adding a couple of drops of liquid smoke to the oil in the pan or better yet add it to the melted butter you are going to pour over the popcorn.

  43. Glenda Archambo Avatar
    Glenda Archambo

    Thank you so much for all the recipes. Where can I buy the recipe book, please? Thank you!

    1. Jill Avatar
      Jill

      Glenda here is the address for our shop and you can get our books there. Look on the left of the page when you get there and it shows our e books and other things if you need them. Hope this helps and holler if you need more info. https://shop.livingonadime.com/

  44. Judy Avatar
    Judy

    Your seasonings are so nice thank you.

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