Homemade Italian Seasoning
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This simple Italian seasoning substitute has the flavor of store-bought seasoning, but it doesn’t have any sugar, salt, or additives. The recipe calls for just a few pantry staples, and it is so easy to make! Make this homemade seasoning blend to use in any Italian inspired recipes!
If you have never taken the time to read the ingredients label on a jar of store-bought spices or seasoning mix, I encourage you to do it sometime.
It can be shocking to learn how many spice blends include sugar, high amounts of sodium, and unwanted chemicals and preservatives. Not to mention, premade spice blends are not budget-friendly at all.
Once I realized this, I started making more spice blends at home. I have recipes for Ranch Seasoning Mix, Homemade Greek Seasoning, and BBQ Seasoning. It only makes sense to make this simple seasoning substitute, too!
Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite
Easy to adapt. You have complete control over how much (or little) of each Italian spice to include, so it tastes just the way you want it to.
Perfect substitute for Italian recipes that call for a long list of dried spices.
Less expensive than store-bought seasoning, and it lasts longer, too.
What does it taste like? This seasoning has herby, earthy, savory, and rich flavors, with just a touch of heat. This recipe also has no salt and no sugar, so it works great if you’re following a Keto, Low carb, Whole30, or low-sodium lifestyle.
Once you unlock the magic of making spice blends at home, you’ll love that it ups the flavor factor, while saving you money and allowing you full control over the ingredients.
Ingredients and Substitutions
This seasoning is traditionally a blend of several herbs and spices, leaning heavily on basil, oregano (or marjoram), rosemary, and red pepper flakes. This blend takes it a step further and adds in parsley, garlic, and onion to elevate your favorite Italian dishes.
Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this seasoning substitute:
- dried basil
- oregano or marjoram: These two herbs are very similar in flavor, but marjoram is slightly milder than oregano. You can use them interchangeably in most recipes.
- dried parsley
- dried rosemary
- garlic powder: Dried garlic powder typically sits right next to garlic salt and granulated garlic in the spice aisle. Be sure to get garlic powder.
- onion powder
- red pepper flakes: Optional, but I like the kick of spicy flavor that chili flakes add to the seasoning. You can adjust the amount or omit it to avoid any spicy heat.
This seasoning blend has no sugar or salt, so if you use it in dishes that should be sweetened or salted, you'll have to add that separately.
How to Make the Homemade Seasoning Substitute
To make the spice blend, simply grab your measuring spoons and measure out all the herbs and spices. Add them to a small dish and mix it up to combine them. Now guess what? You're done. I told you it was easy, didn't I?
Storing Homemade Seasonings
To store: Transfer the seasoning blend to an airtight container or Ziploc bag. Store it at room temperature. I like to keep my spices in small mason jars, labeled with the date I made it and readily accessible in my pantry.
How long is it good for? It will likely last for a year, but for best flavor, use it within 6 months. Of course, if the expiration date for any of the individual spices comes before that, use that as your "use by" date.
Recipes that Use This Homemade Seasoning
This is a versatile spice blend you can use in all kinds of recipes. Substitute it 1:1 anywhere a recipe calls for a dried herb seasoning blend. Here are a few of my favorite ways to use it:
- Balsamic Pork Kabobs
- Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin
- Bruschetta Chicken
- Healthy Lasagna Soup
- Sheet Pan Chicken and Potatoes
I also add it to dishes that aren't Italian, like Air Fryer Zucchini & Onions and Pepperoni & Cheese Crisps. It's also perfect for using on any mild flavored protein like chicken or fish.
You can even mix it with oil and vinegar to make a fabulous Italian vinaigrette!
After you make it, please leave a comment and star rating below to let me know how it went!
Simple Italian Seasoning Substitute
Video
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons dried basil
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano or dried marjoram
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1½ teaspoons onion powder
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or more, for additional spiciness
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme optional
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a small bowl. Use a spoon to stir until well combined.
- Transfer to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place at room temperature.
Notes
Nutrition
2025 Update: This recipe is still a favorite and has been updated to include additional helpful information for our readers. We hope you love it as much as we do!
Other Homemade Spice Mixes
Soon you'll be making all of your own homemade seasonings! Some of my favorites are:
