This ridiculously easy All Purpose Seasoning is a quick homemade spice blend that’s salty, savory, and just a touch sweet. Made from six common pantry spices, it creates a versatile seasoned salt you can keep in a jar and reach for any time.
I love a good seasoning blend, but I try not to buy single-use mixes when I already have everything I need at home. That’s why I make staples like homemade taco seasoning, prime rib rub, and this all purpose seasoning (also called seasoned salt). It’s smoky, slightly sweet, and has garlic and onion notes with a satisfying hit of salt. I use it on roasted potatoes, broccoli, fries, grilled steak, chicken, roasted vegetables, and more.
What’s In All Purpose Seasoning?
There are many versions of all-purpose seasoning online. Some mixes include herbs or a long list of ingredients; this version keeps it intentionally simple so it’s fast to mix and easy to reproduce from pantry staples. The blend relies on a balance of salt, pepper, smoked paprika for depth, garlic and onion powders for aromatics, and a small amount of sugar to round the flavors and encourage a hint of caramelization when cooked.
- Salt – fine sea salt or finely ground kosher salt works best for even distribution in the jar.
- Black pepper – freshly ground or pre-ground black pepper, finely milled for consistent texture.
- Smoked paprika – adds a sweet pepper flavor and a smoky note that defines the blend.
- Garlic powder – provides savory, warming garlic flavor without the moisture of fresh garlic.
- Onion powder – adds mild sweetness and depth to the overall mix.
- Sugar – a small amount of granulated sugar balances and enhances the other flavors. It’s not meant to make the blend noticeably sweet, but to add complexity.
I usually keep the mix to those six ingredients, although you can add a pinch of dried oregano or other dried herbs if you like. The goal is to be able to open the spice pantry, combine a few staples, and have a dependable all-purpose seasoning ready in minutes.
FAQ’S
It’s extremely simple: combine the measured spices in a small jar and shake. Use the ingredient list below, or add dried herbs to taste. If you add herbs, use them in similar quantity to the paprika so they don’t overpower the mix.
For home cooking, yes—this blend replaces commercial seasoned salt and functions the same way. It’s versatile enough to season meats, vegetables, potatoes, grains, and more.
Shake the jar before using, then sprinkle on food. For most dishes, season before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate; for fried foods or finished plates, you can season immediately after cooking.
Spices lose potency over time rather than spoil. Mixed and stored in a cool, dark cupboard, this blend will stay flavorful for about a year. If your individual spices are already old, replace them before mixing for best results.
Absolutely. Double or triple the amounts as desired. For larger batches, measure in tablespoons instead of teaspoons for convenience.
All Purpose Seasoning
A quick six-ingredient seasoned salt for vegetables, meat, and more. Easy to mix and ready to use in minutes.
Ingredients
- 4 1/2 teaspoons fine sea salt
- 3 teaspoons finely ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 1/4 teaspoons granulated sugar
If you prefer a larger jar, double or triple the ingredient amounts. For a quick larger batch, use tablespoons instead of teaspoons.
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a clean, dry jar. Tighten the lid and shake well to fully blend the spices.
- Label the jar with the date if you like. Store in a cool, dark cupboard. The mix won’t spoil but may slowly lose flavor over many months.
Notes
This blend works as a finishing salt and as a seasoning before cooking. Use it on roasted vegetables, pan-fried or grilled meats, fries, eggs, and even to season popcorn. Adjust the proportions to suit your preference—add more paprika for smokiness, more sugar for caramelization, or a pinch of dried oregano for herbal notes.
Nutrition
Serving: 0.5 teaspoon
Calories: 3 kcal | Carbohydrates: 1 g | Sodium: 403 mg
Values are approximate and depend on exact ingredients and measurements used.
Tried this recipe?
Leave a comment to share how you used the seasoning and any tweaks you made.