Homemade Garlic Parmesan Blend

This homemade garlic parmesan seasoning has completely transformed my weeknight cooking routine, eliminating the need for store-bought versions that never quite hit the mark. The blend of savory garlic, rich parmesan, and aromatic herbs creates a versatile flavor bomb that enhances practically anything it touches.

I first created this blend when I ran out of Italian seasoning during a dinner party, and my guests couldn't stop asking what made the roasted potatoes taste so incredible. Now I keep a jar permanently on my counter for daily use.

Ingredients

• Garlic powder forms the foundation with its deep, aromatic flavor
• Grated parmesan cheese adds umami richness and that distinctive savory quality
• Dried onion powder provides a sweet depth that complements the garlic perfectly
• Dried parsley brings a fresh herbal note and lovely color contrast
• Salt enhances all the flavors and brings everything together
• Black pepper adds a gentle heat and complexity
• Dried oregano optional but adds an authentic Italian character
• Red pepper flakes optional for those who enjoy a subtle warmth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Gather Ingredients

Measure all ingredients precisely and have them ready in separate containers before beginning the mixing process for efficiency and accuracy

Combine Base Ingredients

Place garlic powder, parmesan cheese, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl, ensuring there's enough space to whisk without spilling

Add Optional Ingredients

If desired, incorporate the dried oregano and red pepper flakes to customize the flavor profile according to your preference

Mix Thoroughly

Whisk all ingredients together for at least 30 seconds until you achieve a uniform blend with no visible pockets of individual spices

Store Properly

Transfer the completed seasoning to an airtight container such as a mason jar or spice container with a tight seal to maintain freshness

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This seasoning became my secret weapon after I discovered how well it transforms plain roasted vegetables. My daughter, who previously avoided anything green, now happily devours broccoli when it's sprinkled with this magical dust. The garlic powder is truly the heart of this blend, so I always use the freshest I can find.

Storage Tips

While this seasoning will last several months in a proper container, the parmesan cheese component means it won't keep indefinitely like pure herb blends. Store in a cool, dark cabinet away from your stove or other heat sources that can degrade the flavors. If you notice any clumping over time, you can give the container a good shake or stir before using. For extended freshness, consider storing in the refrigerator, though this isn't necessary for typical use within a few months.

Make It Your Own

The beauty of homemade seasonings is customization. For an earthier profile, try adding dried rosemary or thyme. Create a spicier version with additional red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne. For a more complex Italian blend, incorporate dried basil and marjoram. If you prefer a cheese-forward flavor, increase the parmesan ratio. Those watching sodium intake can reduce or omit the salt entirely, as the parmesan provides natural saltiness. The recipe is endlessly adaptable to your family's preferences.

Uses Beyond The Obvious

While this seasoning shines on pasta, garlic bread, and roasted vegetables, think beyond the basics. Sprinkle it on popcorn for movie night, stir into mashed potatoes, use as a dry rub for chicken before roasting, blend into homemade salad dressings, or mix with butter to create a compound butter for steak. Add to breadcrumbs for an elevated coating on chicken cutlets or mix into hamburger meat before grilling. One of my favorite unexpected uses is stirring a teaspoon into scrambled eggs for an instant flavor upgrade to breakfast.

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Recipe FAQs

→ How long does homemade garlic parmesan seasoning last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, this seasoning blend will last 3-6 months. The parmesan cheese is the most perishable ingredient, so for maximum shelf life, use powdered parmesan rather than freshly grated. Always use a clean, dry spoon when scooping to prevent moisture contamination.

→ What foods can I use this seasoning on?

This versatile seasoning works wonderfully on pasta dishes, roasted or steamed vegetables, grilled chicken or fish, homemade pizza, garlic bread, popcorn, french fries, mashed potatoes, and even scrambled eggs. Try mixing it into breadcrumbs for an elevated coating for chicken or sprinkle over olive oil for bread dipping.

→ Can I make this seasoning dairy-free?

Yes, you can create a dairy-free version by replacing the parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast. Use the same quantity (1/2 cup) of nutritional yeast to maintain a similar cheesy, umami flavor profile while making the seasoning completely plant-based.

→ How spicy is this garlic parmesan seasoning?

The basic recipe is quite mild, with just a hint of heat from the optional 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust the spice level by increasing the red pepper flakes (for more heat) or omitting them entirely (for no heat). Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper will significantly increase the spiciness.

→ Can I reduce the sodium content?

Absolutely. The sodium comes primarily from the salt (1 tablespoon) and the parmesan cheese. To create a lower-sodium version, reduce the added salt by half or eliminate it completely, relying on the natural saltiness of the parmesan. You could also look for a reduced-sodium parmesan cheese variety.

→ What's the best way to apply this seasoning to foods?

For the best flavor infusion, apply this seasoning early in the cooking process for dishes with moisture (like sauces or soups). For dry applications like roasted vegetables or grilled meats, toss with a small amount of oil before adding the seasoning to help it adhere. When finishing dishes, sprinkle on just before serving to maintain the aromatic qualities.