There’s just something really satisfying about making things from scratch, especially when it comes to cooking. Whipping up your own spice blends is one of the easiest ways to add flavor while minimizing cost.

Not only can this save you money, but it also gives you peace of mind that you know exactly what’s going into your food. Plus, it’s a fun way to experiment with flavors and tweak recipes to your liking.

If you want to skip buying those pre-made bottles from the store, take a look at some of the most popular spice blends and how to make them:

1. Italian Seasoning

Italian seasoning is a must-have for every kitchen. It can be added to pasta, pizzas, and roasted veggies.

Here’s a simple recipe:

• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon dried marjoram
• 1 tablespoon dried sage

Mix everything, then store your blend in an airtight container.

2. Cajun Seasoning

This Bayou blend is just what you need to up the flavor of your chicken, fish, and fries. Use it to make all your favorite Cajun recipes, from gumbo to jambalaya:

• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt

Mix it all up, then store it in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness.

3. Taco Seasoning

Taco Tuesday just got a lot more convenient with this homemade blend that is big on flavor:

• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Combine everything; then it’s ready to add to tacos, burritos, and even nachos.

Pro Tip: To make it spicy, add about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper and adjust to taste.

4. Pumpkin Pie Spice

You don’t have to wait until autumn hits to break out the pumpkin spice. This super fragrant blend is perfect for baking cookies and pies and even sprinkling into a DIY pumpkin spice latte.

• 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves

Pro Tip: You can enjoy this spice blend even if you aren’t big on sweets. It enhances the flavors of other ingredients in savory dishes like roasted veggies, root vegetable soups, and chilis.

5. Herbes de Provence

Herbes de Provence is like Italian seasoning but more floral and aromatic. It’s fantastic for roasting meats like chicken and pork, vegetables, and even adding to soups:

• 2 tablespoons dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons dried savory
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
• 1 tablespoon dried marjoram
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried lavender flowers (optional)

After you combine the herbs, store them in a jar to use later. This mix brings a bit of French countryside flavor to your cooking.