Homemade Southwest Seasoning

This homemade Southwest seasoning is quick and easy to make with spices in your own pantry. Use it to add tons of flavors to all your favorite dishes!

This Southwest spice blend is perfect when you want something zesty and spicy to eat!

I’ve had tons of different spice mixes saying that they are “Southwest” but they end up tasting like taco seasoning. So I decided to make my own.

The key ingredient for authentic Southwest flavor is to use ancho chili powder. Trust me, you won’t be sorry.

I make a big batch of this and use it every time I make fajitas or some corn chowder. It makes them extra special!

If you like this one, check out my chicken taco seasoning, my everything bagel seasoning, and my meatloaf seasoning.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Read my disclosure policy.

See recipe card for complete information on ingredients and their quantities.

Spices Needed

• Parsley
• Minced Onion – Get the ones that are flakes for texture.
• Chili Powder – Ancho chili powder is the best one to use as it has that extra flavor boost.
• Red Pepper Flakes – This add some heat and great flavor.
• Cayenne Pepper
• Cilantro
• Cumin
• Salt

For more insider tips, tricks, and a behind the scenes look, follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, & X.

How To Make Southwest Seasoning

For the full recipe and detailed instructions, please refer to the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

Serving Suggestions

I use 2 tablespoons per pound of meat. It tastes great in burgers, sliders, tacos, grilled chicken, salad dressing, and when roasting some vegetables.

Start light and add more if you need it. I like to add it to my meat about 30 minutes ahead of time so it can sink in a bit.

It’s great as a delicious dipping oil for tortillas, in this southwest chicken salad recipe, and as unique way to season chicken wings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recipe Tips & Tricks

• Use the freshest spices you can find. They lose flavor the older they are!
• Rub the spices in your fingers before you use it. This releases the oils in them and bring out their flavors.
• You can use regular chili powder if you can’t find the ancho or substitute some smoked paprika for part of it.
• Store in a drak, cool, dry place for up to 6 months.

If you love this recipe as much as I do, please leave us a five-star review in the comment section below. Thanks!

This homemade Southwest seasoning recipe is perfect for all sorts of dishes but my fave is fajitas. Grab this recipe and spice up your next meal!

Want more recipes for seasoning blends? I have a delicious Cajun Seasoning or Steakhouse Seasoning recipe. Check them out along with this amazing list of homemade spice mix recipes and tips and trick on how to store them.

{Originally published 05/19/20 – photos and recipe notes updated 07/30/25}

©TakeTwoTapas.com. Content and photographs are copyright protected. Sharing of this recipe is both encouraged and appreciated. Copying and/or pasting full recipes to any social media is strictly prohibited.