This homemade Italian seasoning blends classic dried herbs and a touch of garlic to create a versatile mix for chicken, fish, meatballs, pasta, roasted vegetables and more. It takes only about five minutes to mix and stores well, so you’ll always have a bright, fresh-tasting seasoning on hand.
If you cook often, keeping a jar of homemade Italian seasoning in the pantry is a simple way to give dishes consistent, balanced flavor. Making your own blend is less expensive than buying pre-mixed bottles, and the taste is fresher. This mix is a helpful pantry staple for quick weeknight meals and also works well when you want to control the salt and additives found in commercial blends.
What is Italian seasoning made of?
Italian seasoning is a dry blend of classic Mediterranean herbs. This version uses common dried herbs and garlic powder to capture the familiar flavor profile used across many Italian and Italian-inspired recipes.
- Basil: Dried basil provides a sweet, slightly peppery foundation that is essential in many Italian dishes.
- Oregano: Use Mediterranean oregano for its robust, slightly bitter aroma; it differs from Mexican oregano and better matches classic Italian flavors.
- Garlic: Garlic powder adds savory, aromatic depth without the need for fresh garlic.
- Rosemary: A pungent, pine-like herb—use it sparingly so it doesn’t overpower the blend.
- Parsley: Dried parsley contributes a mild, fresh note and a touch of green color.
- Thyme: Use dried thyme leaves (not ground) for subtle earthy, lemony undertones.
- Marjoram: A milder relative of oregano with a hint of citrus that rounds out the mix.
How do you make Italian seasoning?
Making this homemade Italian seasoning is straightforward and fast. Measure the dried herbs and garlic powder into a bowl, stir until evenly combined, then transfer the mix into an airtight container. The whole process takes about five minutes.
Store the jar in a cool, dry place away from direct heat or sunlight. For best flavor, use the blend within six months.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons dried basil
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano (Mediterranean)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme (leaves, not ground)
- 1 tablespoon dried marjoram
Instructions
- Measure all ingredients into a small mixing bowl.
- Stir thoroughly until the herbs are evenly distributed.
- Transfer to an airtight jar or spice container. Label and date the jar.
- Use immediately or store in a cool, dry pantry for up to six months.
Tips for the perfect spice blend
- Make a larger batch so you always have seasoning ready; doubling or tripling the recipe saves time.
- Herb potency fades over time—try to use dried herbs purchased within a few months for the best flavor.
- For general seasoning, start with about 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning per pound of meat, then adjust to taste.
- Keep the jar sealed and away from humidity to preserve aroma and flavor.
Flavor variations
This mix is a classic base and can be adjusted to suit your preferences. Small additions can shift the profile without losing the core Italian character.
- Onion: Add 1/2 teaspoon onion powder or dried minced onion for savory depth.
- Lemon pepper: Up to 1/2 teaspoon adds bright, citrusy zing.
- Dill: A 1/2 teaspoon of dried dill is unconventional but pairs well with the other herbs for seafood and chicken.
- Sage: Up to 3/4 teaspoon of sage can add warmth for fall dishes.
- Chili flakes: Add crushed red pepper to taste for a spicy kick.
Great ways to use Italian seasoning
- Grilled Brussels sprouts
- Italian-style roasted or grilled chicken
- Smashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
- Sautéed green beans
- Italian meatball soup and other pasta dishes
Recipe notes
Serves: about 8 (as a seasoning measure for multiple uses). Prep time: 5 minutes. Total time: about 6 minutes including transfer to storage.
Nutrition per serving (approximate based on a small portion of the mix): Calories 7 kcal; Carbohydrates 1 g; Protein 1 g; Fat 1 g; Sodium 4 mg. These values reflect a typical serving size of the dry herb blend and will vary slightly depending on exact ingredients and brands used.
I always keep a jar of this homemade Italian seasoning in my kitchen because it’s quick to make, flexible to adapt, and brings reliable flavor to many everyday meals.