Seasoned salt is a blend of salt and spices used to enhance the flavor of various dishes. It is commonly used in many cuisines, including American, Mexican, and Cajun.

Do you ever find yourself in the middle of cooking, only to realize that you’re out of one of the most crucial ingredients in your recipe?
If you’re like me, you know how frustrating it can be to make a trip to the grocery store just for one small item.
One such ingredient that we often forget to stock up on is seasoned salt. This versatile seasoning adds a blend of spices and herbs to dishes, making them more flavorful and delicious.
But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. If you find yourself without seasoned salt, there are several substitutes that can save the day.
So, if you’re out of seasoned salt, the best substitutes are celery salt, garlic salt, onion salt, lemon pepper seasoning, Cajun seasoning, and Italian seasoning, with each of these having its own unique flavor profile, making them perfect for different types of dishes.
Continue reading to explore the best substitutes for seasoned salt!
Substitutes | Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein | Fiber | Substitution Ratio |
Celery Salt | 0 | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0g | 1:1 |
Garlic Salt | 5 | 0g | 1g | 0g | 0g | 1:1 |
Onion Salt | 5 | 0g | 1g | 0g | 0g | 1:1 |
Lemon Pepper Seasoning | 0 | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0g | 1:1 |
Cajun Seasoning | 0 | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0g | 1:1 |
Italian Seasoning | 3 | 0.1g | 0.5g | 0.2g | 0.3g | 1:1 |
What Does Seasoned Salt Taste Like?
Seasoned salt is like the fairy godmother of spices; it has the power to transform bland, tasteless food into something downright magical!
This flavorful seasoning blend typically contains a mix of salt, herbs, and spices like garlic, onion, paprika, and black pepper.
The combination of savory and slightly sweet flavors creates a delicious, mouthwatering taste that will make your taste buds sing.
But let’s be honest, seasoned salt can be a bit overused and you may find yourself without it at the most inopportune times. So, it’s good to know that there are plenty of substitutes available that can mimic the delicious flavor of seasoned salt in a pinch.
Whether you’re out of seasoned salt or just looking for a healthier option, substitutes like celery salt, garlic salt, onion salt, lemon pepper seasoning, Cajun seasoning, and Italian seasoning can do the trick.
Nutritional Value
the nutritional value of seasoned salt per 1/4 tsp (1.2g) serving is:
Substitutes | Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
Seasoned Salt | 0 | 0g | 0g | 0g |
1. Celery Salt
If you’re looking for a way to add a salty, savory flavor to your dishes, celery salt might just be the answer.
Made from ground celery seeds and salt, this seasoning is a great alternative to seasoned salt. It’s perfect for adding depth of flavor to soups, stews, and marinades.
Not only that but it’s also a great way to add some extra nutrients to your meals, as celery seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals.
2. Garlic Salt
Garlic salt is a classic seasoning that can be used as a replacement for seasoned salt. It’s made by combining garlic powder and salt, and it’s great for adding a garlicky flavor to dishes like roasted vegetables, chicken, and potatoes.
Garlic is also known for its health benefits, as it’s packed with antioxidants and can help boost your immune system.
3. Onion Salt
Another great substitute for seasoned salt is onion salt. It’s made by combining onion powder and salt, and it’s perfect for adding a rich, savory flavor to dishes like soups, stews, and casseroles.
It’s also a great way to add some extra nutrients to your meals, as onions are rich in vitamins and minerals. Plus, onion salt is easy to make at home, so you can always have it on hand when you need it.
4. Lemon Pepper Seasoning
This zesty seasoning is a favorite among seafood lovers, but don’t let that fool you; it’s versatile enough to use on chicken, veggies, and even popcorn!
With its tangy lemon flavor and spicy kick from black pepper, you won’t miss the seasoned salt in your recipe. Plus, it adds a vibrant pop of color to your dishes.
5. Cajun Seasoning
If you’re in the mood for some spicy Southern flavor, Cajun seasoning is the perfect substitute for seasoned salt.
With a blend of paprika, garlic, onion, cayenne pepper, and other spices, this seasoning mix packs a flavorful punch. Use it on chicken, shrimp, rice, or even in a gumbo recipe to add some bold, smoky flavor to your dish.
6. Italian Seasoning
For a more subtle, herbaceous flavor profile, try using Italian seasoning as a substitute for seasoned salt.
This classic blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme is a staple in Italian cuisine and pairs well with pasta, pizza, and roasted vegetables.
In addition to that, it’s a great way to add depth and complexity to your dishes without overpowering the other flavors, so choose it over other bolder flavors!
Popular Recipes That Call For Seasoned Salt
If you are looking for some recipe inspiration, here are some ideas of meals you can prepare with seasoned salt:
- Fried Chicken: A classic southern dish that’s coated in seasoned flour and deep-fried to perfection.
- Roasted Vegetables: A healthy and delicious side dish that’s seasoned with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs.
- French Fries: A guilty pleasure that’s made even better with a generous sprinkling of seasoned salt.
- Grilled Steak: A juicy steak is elevated with the perfect blend of seasoning from seasoned salt.
- Baked Potatoes: A simple yet satisfying side dish that’s enhanced with a sprinkle of seasoned salt.
- Popcorn: Take your movie night to the next level with a dash of seasoned salt on your popcorn.
The Bottom Line
seasoned salt is a versatile seasoning that adds flavor and depth to a wide range of dishes. But if you ever find yourself out of seasoned salt, don’t fret!
There are several excellent substitutes, such as celery salt, garlic salt, onion salt, lemon pepper seasoning, Cajun seasoning, and Italian seasoning.
So, keep these substitutes in mind the next time you run out of seasoned salt and experiment with their flavors to elevate your dishes to the next level!