Sauces & Condiments
Creating a homemade version of Trader Joe’s Everyday Seasoning saves money while delivering that same familiar, versatile flavor to every meal. I developed this blend after realizing how often I reached for the store-bought jar—especially when roasting vegetables or seasoning proteins.
The key lies in balancing simple spices with precise measurements for consistent results every time.
This foolproof seasoning mix requires just six pantry staples: salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a touch of dried thyme. Each ingredient plays a role—salt enhances natural flavors, black pepper adds depth, while garlic and onion powders create that savory backbone.
The paprika introduces warmth, and thyme ties everything together with an earthy note. No fancy equipment or cooking required.
With this blend, you’ll transform bland meals into restaurant-quality dishes in minutes. Toss it on roasted potatoes, sprinkle over grilled chicken, or mix into marinades for instant flavor elevation.
The best part? It keeps indefinitely in an airtight container, ready to upgrade any dish with minimal effort. Let’s make this pantry essential!
For customization, swap paprika for smoked paprika for a deeper flavor or add a pinch of cayenne for heat. Store-bought versions pale in comparison—this is the real deal, tailored to your taste. Perfect for home cooks who value simplicity without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients for trader joe's everyday seasoning
Six simple spices transform any dish into restaurant-quality flavor in minutes.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt 🧂 | 1 tbsp | Fine grain for even distribution |
| Freshly Ground Black Pepper 🌶️ | 1 tbsp | Freshly cracked for maximum aroma |
| Garlic Powder 🧄 | 1 tbsp | Non-iodized preferred for purity |
| Onion Powder 🧅 | 1 tbsp | Non-GMO for consistent flavor |
| Smoked Paprika 🌶️ | 1 tbsp | Spanish paprika for authentic depth |
| Dried Thyme Leaves 🍃 | 1 tsp | French thyme preferred for brightness |
The salt and pepper are your flavor anchors—Diamond Crystal kosher salt dissolves perfectly, while freshly ground black pepper adds complexity (pre-ground loses potency fast). For the best garlic and onion powders, check the bulk bins at Whole Foods—they stay fresher longer than pre-packaged jars. Smoked paprika is non-negotiable here; Trader Joe's or Penzeys carry excellent options. The thyme should be leaf-only, not stems—frontiercoop.com sells organic dried thyme that's perfect for this blend. Store all spices in airtight containers away from light for maximum freshness.
No smoked paprika? Regular paprika plus 1/4 tsp liquid smoke works in a pinch. Out of thyme? Dried oregano at half the amount gives similar earthiness. Want more heat? Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper to the mix. For a deeper umami profile, swap half the onion powder for 1 tsp mushroom powder. The blend is flexible—double the salt if using iodized table salt, but adjust carefully. Freshly ground spices always trump pre-ground, so if you've got a coffee grinder, toast whole spices briefly before grinding for extra aroma.
This blend keeps 6-12 months in a sealed glass jar in your pantry. For best results, measure out single-use portions into small containers—ice cube trays work perfectly for individual servings. Sprinkle generously on roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or even popcorn. The flavors intensify over time, so make a fresh batch every 6 months for peak performance. Freeze extras in 1-tbsp portions if you won't use them within 3 months.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Pantry Magic: I keep a jar of this in my cabinet because it turns bland meals into something special—no fancy skills needed. Just toss it on roasted veggies, scrambled eggs, or even popcorn, and suddenly, everything tastes like it belongs in a restaurant.
- Smoky Garlic Kiss: That smoked paprika and garlic powder combo? It’s the secret weapon. The first time I used it on grilled chicken, my roommate asked for the recipe before I even finished serving. (I didn’t give it up, but I did make extra.)
- Meal Prep MVP: Honestly, this seasoning is my lazy Sunday hero. I’ll dump a big batch on a tray of baked sweet potatoes or a pot of rice, and it lasts me all week. No reheating—just grab, microwave, and boom, flavor.
- Budget Flavor Boost: Between us, I’ve spent $3 on this mix and used it on everything from tacos to toast. It’s the kind of thing that makes store-brand chicken taste like it cost $20 a pound. (Yes, even on a Tuesday night.)
Step-by-step instructions for Trader Joe's everyday seasoning
This simple blend transforms ordinary dishes into restaurant-quality meals with minimal effort.
Measure All Ingredients Precisely
Start by gathering your mixing bowl and measuring spoons. The key to this seasoning blend lies in the exact ratios—don't eyeball it. Measure out the 1 tablespoon Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt first, using a level spoon to avoid packing. The fine grain distributes evenly, so take your time to ensure each tablespoon is perfectly level.
Next, measure the 1 tablespoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper. I always recommend freshly cracked pepper for maximum aroma—pre-ground pepper loses potency quickly. If you're using a pepper grinder, crack it right before measuring to preserve the freshness. The coarse texture of freshly ground pepper adds a delightful bite to every dish.
Add the Dry Seasonings
To your bowl, add the 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder and 1 tablespoon Onion Powder. These two ingredients form the aromatic foundation of the blend. I prefer non-iodized garlic powder for its purity—it delivers a more authentic garlic flavor without any metallic aftertaste. The onion powder, when non-GMO, provides a consistent, sweet base that complements the other spices beautifully.
Sprinkle in the 1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika next. Spanish paprika is my go-to choice for its authentic depth and slightly sweet undertones. This ingredient is what gives the blend its signature smoky character—essential for those who love that subtle campfire note in their cooking. Don't skip this step; it's what elevates this blend from basic to extraordinary.
Incorporate the Thyme
Add the final ingredient: 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Leaves. French thyme is preferred here for its brightness and slightly floral notes, which cut through the richness of the other spices. Be careful with the measurement—too much thyme can make the blend overpowering. Use a fine-mesh measuring spoon to ensure accuracy, and give it a quick sniff to confirm you're using high-quality dried thyme.
This is the moment that matters: the thyme brings balance to the blend. It bridges the gap between the salty, smoky, and savory elements, creating harmony in every pinch. Once all ingredients are in the bowl, give them a gentle stir with a fork or whisk to break up any clumps and ensure even distribution.
Mix Thoroughly for Even Distribution
Transfer the blend to an airtight container—glass jars work best for long-term storage. Use a clean spoon to scoop the mixture, then give it a final stir right in the container. The goal is to ensure every pinch contains the same perfect balance of flavors. I like to shake the container vigorously for about 10 seconds to distribute the finer particles like thyme throughout the coarser ingredients.
Let the blend sit for 5 minutes before sealing. This brief resting period allows the ingredients to mingle and settle, ensuring the first use delivers consistent flavor. Once sealed, store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months—far longer than most store-bought seasonings. The kosher salt acts as a natural preservative, keeping everything fresh.
Test and Adjust for Perfection
Before using the blend, I always recommend a quick taste test. Sprinkle a pinch onto a small piece of toast or warm bread and let it sit for 30 seconds. The flavors should be balanced: you should detect the saltiness, the pepper's heat, the garlic and onion's sweetness, the smokiness of the paprika, and the subtle herbal note of thyme. If any flavor dominates, you may need to adjust the ratios slightly for your next batch.
This blend works wonders on everything from roasted vegetables and grilled meats to soups and salads. Start with 1 teaspoon per pound of meat or 1 tablespoon per 4 cups of vegetables—you'll quickly learn how much you love having this pantry staple on hand. The beauty of this seasoning is its versatility; it's the secret weapon for transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary with just a sprinkle.
Pro Tips For Making Trader Joe'S Everyday Seasoning
- STORE THE PAPRIKA PROPERLY: I learned this the hard way—smoked paprika loses its punch fast if you don’t keep it airtight. Transfer it to a small jar with a tight seal, then store it in a cool, dark cabinet (not above the stove). That way, the smoky flavor stays vibrant for months instead of turning dull after a few weeks.
- SIFT THE DRY MIX: If you’re making this for a big batch, sift the garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika together before adding the salt and pepper. It breaks up any clumps and ensures an even distribution—no one wants a bite that’s suddenly all paprika or all pepper.
- WEIGH THE SALT ACCURATELY: Diamond Crystal kosher salt is fluffier than table salt, so don’t eyeball it. Use a kitchen scale for precision—1 tablespoon by volume can actually be 18 grams or more, and that makes a difference in flavor balance. Trust me, your seasoning won’t taste right if the salt ratio is off.
- TOAST THE SPICES FIRST: For a deeper flavor, lightly toast the garlic powder and onion powder in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds before mixing. It’s a tiny effort that adds warmth and complexity—like the difference between store-bought and homemade. Just don’t walk away; they burn faster than you think.
Flavor customization for this recipe
Spicy Kick Boost
Want to add some heat? Replace ½ teaspoon of the smoked paprika with ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. For those who love bold flavors, increase the cayenne to 1 teaspoon—just remember, a little goes a long way!
I’ve tested this with Penzeys brand cayenne, which has a consistent medium heat level. If you prefer a smoky-spicy blend, mix ½ teaspoon cayenne with ½ teaspoon smoked paprika for a balanced, fiery twist. 🌶️
Herb Variations
Swap out the thyme for other dried herbs to match your favorite flavors. Try 1 teaspoon dried rosemary for a piney, earthy note that pairs perfectly with roasted meats. For a Mediterranean touch, use ½ teaspoon dried oregano and ½ teaspoon dried basil.
I’ve also had great success with 1 teaspoon dried sage, which adds a warm, slightly peppery depth. Just remember to adjust the amount—herbs like rosemary and sage are potent, so start with less and taste as you go.
Umami Enhancers
For an extra layer of savory depth, add ½ teaspoon mushroom powder or ¼ teaspoon MSG to the blend. Mushroom powder is a game-changer for vegetarians or anyone who loves that rich, meaty flavor without the actual meat.
I’ve used Frontier Co-op mushroom powder in my tests, and it adds a subtle, earthy complexity. If you’re not a fan of mushroom powder, a pinch of MSG (just ¼ teaspoon) can amplify the overall savory profile without overpowering the other spices.
Sweet and Smoky
Add a touch of sweetness to balance the smokiness by mixing in ½ teaspoon granulated garlic or ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon. The cinnamon works surprisingly well in savory dishes, especially when paired with roasted vegetables or grilled chicken.
For a sweeter profile, try ½ teaspoon onion powder plus ¼ teaspoon brown sugar. This variation is perfect for glazes or marinades where you want a hint of caramelized sweetness.
I’ve used this blend on Trader Joe’s frozen chicken thighs, and it turns a simple bake into something restaurant-worthy. 💫
Regional Twists
Give your seasoning a regional flair by adjusting the spices. For a Southern BBQ-inspired blend, add ½ teaspoon ground cumin and reduce the thyme to ½ teaspoon. For a Mexican-inspired version, swap the thyme for ½ teaspoon dried cilantro and add ¼ teaspoon ground coriander.
If you’re craving Italian flavors, replace the smoked paprika with 1 teaspoon regular paprika and add ½ teaspoon dried basil. Each twist keeps the core seasoning intact while giving it a unique cultural twist.
Storage Hacks
To keep your seasoning fresh and flavorful, store it in small, airtight containers. I love using glass spice jars with silicone lids because they’re reusable and keep light out.
For convenience, portion out single-use amounts into ice cube trays—once frozen, pop them into a freezer bag for easy grab-and-go seasoning. If you’re storing in the pantry, place the jar in a cool, dark cabinet, like inside a pantry door where it’s shielded from heat and light.
Label your containers with the date—this blend stays potent for up to 6 months, but freshness peaks within the first 3 months. ❄️
Nutrition facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I use this seasoning blend on all types of food?
This versatile blend works wonderfully on meats, roasted vegetables, soups, and even popcorn! The balanced spices enhance savory dishes while avoiding overpowering delicate flavors. For seafood, use half the recommended amount to prevent saltiness. Test first on a small portion to adjust to your taste.
Why does Trader Joe's version taste different from my homemade blend?
Store-bought blends often use proprietary ratios and lower-quality spices. Freshness matters—pre-ground spices lose potency quickly. For the closest match, use freshly ground black pepper and store your homemade blend in an airtight container away from light. The smoked paprika quality makes the biggest difference!
How do I store this seasoning to keep it fresh longest?
Store in a cool, dark place (like a pantry) in an airtight glass jar for up to 6 months. For maximum freshness, divide into small portions using ice cube trays—freeze extras for up to 3 months. The salt acts as a natural preservative, but light and heat degrade spices fastest.
What's the best way to test if my seasoning blend is balanced?
Sprinkle a pinch on warm toast and let sit for 30 seconds. You should taste all components: saltiness, pepper's bite, garlic/onion sweetness, smoky paprika, and thyme's herbal note. If one flavor dominates, adjust ratios in your next batch. This quick test saves time and ensures perfect balance every time!
Can I make this blend without smoked paprika?
Yes! Replace it with 1 tbsp regular paprika plus ¼ tsp liquid smoke for a similar smoky depth. For a sweeter profile, use ½ tbsp paprika and ½ tbsp brown sugar. The blend will still work—just expect slightly different flavor notes. Smoked paprika is ideal, but this substitution works in a pinch.