Homemade McCormick Spaghetti Seasoning Recipe Copycat Mix

Say goodbye to store-bought packets and hello to the ultimate homemade McCormick spaghetti seasoning that will transform your pasta dishes into restaurant-worthy meals! This copycat McCormick spaghetti seasoning recipe captures the beloved flavors of McCormick’s Thick & Zesty Spaghetti Sauce Mix while giving you complete control over the ingredients and flavor intensity.

Imagine the enticing aroma of Mediterranean herbs wafting through your kitchen as you create a sauce that rivals your favorite Italian restaurant. This isn’t just another basic seasoning blend – it’s a carefully crafted mixture that brings together the perfect balance of herbs, garlic, and spices that made the original McCormick spaghetti seasoning so popular.

Why this is a family favorite

I still remember the first time I tried McCormick’s Spaghetti Seasoning-it instantly became a staple in my kitchen.

There was something about its perfect balance of herbs and spices that made every bite of spaghetti taste like it came straight from an Italian restaurant. That bold, zesty flavor brought back memories of cozy family dinners, and for years, I relied on those little packets to get it just right.

Then one day, I ran out. Instead of rushing to the store, I decided to try making it myself. I started experimenting, measuring out garlic, oregano, basil, and a blend of 13 different herbs and spices until l finally recreated that iconic McCormick flavor. The moment I stirred it into my homemade sauce, the familiar aroma filled my kitchen, and I knew I had nailed it.

Now, I always have a batch of this homemade spaghetti seasoning in my pantry, stored in an airtight jar, ready to go whenever I need it. Not only does it taste just like the original, but I love that I can adjust the spice level, control the salt, and skip the preservatives.

Whether I’m making a simple weeknight spaghetti or layering flavors in a lasagna, this seasoning mix never fails to deliver that rich, savory depth I fell in love with.

If you’re like me and miss those McCormick packets, trust me-once you try this homemade version, you’ll never go back!

What makes this homemade version truly special:

– Perfect balance of 13 different herbs and spices

– Versatile enough for traditional spaghetti, lasagna, or any pasta dish

– Makes enough for multiple meals at a fraction of the cost

– No artificial additives or preservatives

– Customizable heat level and salt content

– Stays fresh for months in your pantry

Easy to make Copycat McCormick pasta seasoning

Let me tell you why this homemade McCormick spaghetti seasoning is about to become your new favorite pantry staple. First off, you won’t believe how incredibly easy it is to make. We’re talking about a 5-minute project that only requires some measuring spoons and a bowl – that’s it! You probably already have most of these spices in your pantry, making it a convenient recipe to whip up whenever you need it.

Delicious flavors

What really makes this seasoning shine is its perfect balance of 13 carefully chosen herbs and spices that work together to create that classic McCormick flavor we all love. But here’s the best part – since you’re making it yourself, you’re skipping all those artificial ingredients and preservatives found in store-bought packets. Plus, you can tweak the seasonings to match your exact taste preferences. Want it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes. Watching your sodium? Reduce the salt. It’s completely customizable while still delivering that restaurant-quality taste every single time.

Versatile Homemade pasta seasoning mix

The versatility of this seasoning is where it really shines. Sure, it makes an amazing traditional meat sauce, but it’s also a game-changer for vegetarian and vegan dishes. Think rich mushroom bolognese, hearty lentil sauces, or even seasoned tofu crumbles that taste incredible over pasta. And don’t just limit yourself to spaghetti – this blend works beautifully in lasagna, as a pizza sauce base, in Italian-style soups, or even as a marinade for roasted vegetables. It’s my favorite weeknight shortcut to making flavor-packed homemade sauces for spaghetti night and easy weeknight meals. This delicious spice blend will take your store-bought jarred sauce to the next level. Add it to any dish for an extra flavor boost.

Quick to make

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how practical it is for busy cooks. Make a batch, and it’ll stay fresh in your pantry for up to six months – no refrigeration needed! One recipe makes enough for 3-4 batches of sauce, so you’ll always have some on hand when the pasta craving strikes. It’s perfect for meal planning and takes up hardly any space in your pantry. The best part? The flavors stay just as vibrant whether you use it today or two months from now.

And let’s talk value – making your own seasoning blend is so much more economical than buying those little packets at the store. You’re essentially getting 3-4 packets’ worth of seasoning for the price of one, and you know exactly what’s going into it. It’s really a win-win situation – better flavor, better value, and better ingredients!

What spices are in McCormick spaghetti seasoning mix?

Ingredient Breakdown: Each component plays a crucial role in recreating the iconic McCormick’s Thick & Zesty flavor:

Herb Base

• Dried Parsley: Provides a fresh, slightly peppery backdrop and beautiful color
• Italian Seasoning: A convenient blend that adds complexity with multiple Mediterranean herbs
• Dried Basil: Offers sweet, peppery notes with a slight mint undertone
• Dried Oregano: Contributes earthiness and traditional Italian flavor
• Dried Thyme: Adds subtle lemony notes and depth
• Dried Rosemary: Brings pine-like aromatics and robust flavor

Aromatic Elements

– Onion Powder: Creates a sweet and savory foundation. It gives the homemade seasoning blend a richness with just a hint of sweetness that’s irresistibly delicious.

– Garlic Powder: Provides rich, umami notes essential for authentic Italian flavor. It’s the secret to a quick and easy homemade spaghetti sauce recipe that tastes like you spent time peeling and chopping garlic.

– Paprika: Adds color and subtle sweetness. I use regular paprika in this easy recipe. Alternatively, you can also use sweet paprika or smoked paprika to add a delicious different flavor twist. It’s a great way to make this delicious Italian Seasoning Mix into three different spice mixes that will create the Best Spaghetti Seasoning!

Balancing Elements

– Sugar/Brown Sugar: Balances acidity from tomatoes in the final sauce

– Salt: Enhances all other flavors

– Black Pepper: Adds gentle heat and depth

– Red Pepper Flakes: Optional heat that creates the “zesty” element

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Prep Tips

– Crush larger herbs like rosemary between your fingers when measuring

– Use fresh, aromatic dried herbs for best results. They add extra depth of flavor to this homemade spice blend.

– Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution. Simply combine all the ingredients, and store for up to 6 months in a sealed container.

– Double or triple the recipe for bulk preparation. It’s a great way to always have a delicious homemade pasta seasoning ready to use. But it’s also a great seasoning for spaghetti squash, garlic bread, casserole dishes, soups and stews, or anywhere else you might use an Italian seasoning blend.

Sauce-Making Tips

– Saute the seasoning in hot oil before adding tomatoes for enhanced flavor

– Add a Parmesan rind while simmering for extra depth

– Reserve some pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta perfectly

Easy McCormick spaghetti seasoning recipe

Whether you’re making a classic pasta sauce, a vegetarian mushroom bolognese, or a quick weeknight pasta dish, this mccormick spaghetti seasoning recipe copycat will become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.

– Prep time: 5 minutes

– Total time: 5 minutes

– Yield: About 1/3 cup (enough for 3-4 batches of sauce)

Homemade pasta seasoning Ingredients

• 1½ tablespoons dried parsley
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 2½ teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon sugar or brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

How to make McCormick spaghetti spice mix Instructions

Step 1: Preparation

1. Gather all herbs and spices, ensuring they’re fresh and aromatic
2. Break up any clumps in the powdered spices
3. Have an airtight container ready

Second Step: Mixing Process

1. Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl
2. Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution
3. Break up any clumps with the back of a spoon

Step 3: Storage

1. Transfer to an airtight container
2. Label with date and contents
3. Store in a cool, dark place

Recipe Variations

Spicier Version

– Double the red pepper flakes

– Add ¼ teaspoon black pepper

– Include a pinch of cayenne

Salt-Free McCormick spaghetti seasoning Version

– Omit salt

– Increase herbs by 25%

– Add 1 teaspoon granulated garlic

Serving Suggestions

Perfect Pasta Pairings

– Classic spaghetti

– Penne arrabbiata

– Rigatoni

– Fettuccine

– Ziti

Sauce Applications

– Traditional pasta sauce

– Vegetarian marinara

– Quick pasta skillet meals

– Lasagna seasoning

– Pizza sauce base

Storage and Reheating

Storage Instructions

– Room temperature: Up to 6 months in an airtight container

– Avoid refrigeration

– Keep away from heat and sunlight

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McCormick spaghetti seasoning tips

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