Sure you can pick up a packaged cajun seasoning from the store, but if you have a well-stocked spice rack, you’ve likely got all the ingredients you need already at home.

Cajun seasoning has so many uses. It works exceptionally well as a rub for meats, it’s a perfect mixer with mayonnaise to add a little Southern kick to your sandwich, sprinkling it in soups can bring the broth to life, and that’s just to name a few! The heat comes from a mix of the cayenne pepper, paprika (typically made with pimento), and black pepper. If you want to increase the spice, double the portion of cayenne. To decrease the heat, cut the cayenne and substitute in an equal part of paprika.

This Cajun Season is good in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce