Italian Seasoning

Learn how to make your own all-purpose Italian Seasoning blend right at home! In just 5 minutes you’ll have a flavorful, well-balanced blend that can be used in countless marinades, sauces, dressings, pastas and more.

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I’m all for using store bought seasoning blends. In fact, most of the blends I regularly reach for can be found on the shelf at my local market. But there are a few classic seasonings that I use often enough to justify making on my own. Italian Seasoning is one of them! 

Italian Seasoning is a blend of herbs and spices used to flavor many Italian dishes. This mildly flavored seasoning has just the right balance of flavors and its versatility is astounding! You can’t go wrong with a fresh jar of this stuff tucked in the cupboard. 

Ingredients

At this point, I’m sure you’re wondering what the heck is in Italian Seasoning. Well, I’m here to answer that! The main herbs commonly used are oregano, basil, thyme and rosemary. Many recipes will also include marjoram and parsley but, honestly, most of the ingredients are subject to personal preference. 

Here’s what I chose to use: 

• Parsley has a clean and peppery taste with a touch of earthiness. It sort of rounds out the flavor in this seasoning. 
• Basil has the perfect balance of sweet and savory; its aromatic addition is very welcome here. 
• Rosemary is lemony-pine-like and can also be described as minty or peppery. Because it’s one of the stronger flavors here, a little goes a long way. 
• Thyme tastes a lot like an earthier version of basil or oregano. Like rosemary, a little goes a long way. 
• Oregano is bold and slightly bitter; it balances out the sweeter notes in this blend. 
• Marjoram is warm, slightly sharp and yet a little sweet. It is one of the more obscure herbs on this list, so if you don’t have it you can replace it with more thyme or leave it out. 
• Sage has a pronounced earthy flavor with hints of eucalyptus and lemon; it’s not traditionally included in Italian seasoning but I love the added bold taste. 

Recipe Variations

The best part of making your own seasoning blend is being able to customize it! You can adjust the measurements of each ingredient to suit your own taste. Don’t have marjoram on hand? Omit it. Looking for a heavier floral, piney flavor? Add more rosemary or thyme! It’s that simple. 

With each time you make this recipe you’ll be able to suss out what you like and what you’d like to change. This recipe was born from my own preferences, so I encourage you to find your own! 

How to Make Italian Seasoning From Scratch 

Italian Seasoning is so easy to make and only takes about 5 minutes to toss together. You probably even have all the ingredients in your cupboard already! All you’ve gotta do is measure out the ingredients into a sealable jar, lidded container, or zip top bag and shake ‘em up. And that’s it, you’ve made a homemade seasoning! 

Homemade Seasoning Storage

If stored in a cool, dry place, Homemade Italian Seasoning will keep for up to 6 months. This is the general rule for most of your herbs and spices! 

How To Use It 

My Italian Seasoning blend can be added to any of  your favorite recipes that call for Italian Seasoning or even as a replacement for recipes that simply call for oregano or basil.

Pair this recipe with one of Grandbaby Cakes best Italian-inspired dishes for a delicious experience you won’t forget! 

These are a few of my favorites: 

• Baked Spaghetti
• Sausage Stuffed Shells
• Homemade Garlic Cheese Breadsticks
• Lasagna Roll Ups

Love this Recipe? Check out this Cajun Blend and Jamaican Jerk Seasoning!