My tried and true homemade chili seasoning recipe includes common spices that are probably already in your spice cabinet. With a hefty dose of chili powder, balanced with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and just the right amount of salt and pepper, this chili seasoning will be your new go-to spice blend for making all sorts of chili recipes!

We’ve been on a chili kick lately, trying everything from Over the Top Chili to Brisket Chili to our family’s favorite traditional ground beef and bean chili.

And with the prices of pre-made, packaged chili seasonings skyrocketing at the grocery store, we decided to try mixing our own blend of spices to come up with the perfect chili mix.

Here’s how to make our new favorite chili seasoning mix, and be sure to check out another one of our favorite homemade seasonings, this all-purpose Texas-style rub!

How to Make Homemade Chili Seasoning

Let’s be honest… the real magic of a good pot of chili is in the seasoning.

You can add ground beef, canned tomatoes, beef stock, and beans to a pot and simmer for hours, but it won’t taste anything like chili until you add the perfect combination of spices.

But fortunately, making your own seasonings and spice blends is incredibly easy to do. And the same goes for this homemade chili seasoning.

There’s no need to toast the whole seeds or spices, and you don’t need to get out your mortar and pestle to hand-grind your spices for this recipe. Just grab some measuring spoons and a bowl, and mix all the ingredients together for a fantastic homemade chili seasoning mix!

Other Spices to Add

The beauty of making your own rubs and seasonings is that you can experiment with different flavors and proportions. If you like a spicier chili, then add some cayenne pepper to the blend. Or for a unique spin, try adding a small amount of cocoa powder for a bit of a Mexican mole-type flavor.

Here are some other suggestions:

Taco Seasoning – For years, I would add a few tablespoons of my favorite store-bought taco seasoning to my chili. The Original Old El Paso Taco Seasoning adds a nice subtle Mexican flavor!
Cayenne Pepper – My chili seasoning recipe doesn’t include any cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes, because my kids don’t like spicy food. I find that the flavors are great without the extra heat, but if you like spice, add up to 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
Cocoa Powder – If you like Mexican mole, then try adding a small amount of cocoa powder to your chili for an extra oomph of flavor.

How long can I store the chili seasoning?

Stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, this homemade seasoning can last for several months. However, for optimal flavor, I recommend using it within 3-4 months. Spices can lose their potency overtime, so it’s best to not store them for too long.