McCormick Italian Seasoning Recipe

If you love Italian food, you probably enjoy bold, fragrant flavors in your meals. Italian seasoning is one of those handy essentials that can be used almost every day.

Instead of buying it from the store, I prefer making it at home.

Over the years, I tried a few different blends, and my favorite one is the McCormick Italian Seasoning.

McCormick is a popular brand known for its high-quality store-bought spice mixes.

While creating this homemade version, I focused on keeping the ingredients authentic so they can easily replace standard Italian seasonings in any recipe.

Making your own blend also lets you control the flavors perfectly.

This homemade McCormick Italian Seasoning Recipe has a wonderful mix of sweet and aromatic notes that everyone will absolutely love. It’s simple and perfect for sprinkling over pasta, pizza, soups, or roasted vegetables.

What is McCormick’s Italian Seasoning

McCormick first introduced its Italian Seasoning blend as “McCormick’s Italian Mix” in 1953. The original formula contained carefully selected herbs with no MSG or artificial flavors.

In 1972, the recipe was updated to include rosemary and thyme, giving it a richer flavor. Later, around 2001–2002, marjoram was added to balance the natural bitterness often found in tomato-based sauces.

Today, it remains a perfectly blended mix of classic Italian herbs and spices, providing consistent flavor for pasta dishes, soups, meats, and more.

Tips for Sourcing Quality Dried Herbs

1. Where to Buy the Best Herbs: Look for bulk sections at grocery stores, or visit specialty spice shops for high-quality options. You can also order online from trusted retailers like Amazon, Thrive Market, or Mountain Rose Herbs.

2. Checking for Freshness: Open the container and smell the herbs—fresh dried herbs should have a strong, pleasant aroma. Check the color; bright green herbs are usually fresher than dull, brownish ones. Gently touch the herbs; they should feel dry but not dusty or crumbly.

3. Organic vs. Conventional: Organic herbs are grown without synthetic pesticides and are a cleaner option, though they may cost more. Conventional herbs are more budget-friendly and work well for most recipes.

4. Buying Quantities: Purchase small amounts to keep herbs fresher for longer. Bulk buying can save money, but only for herbs you use frequently.

5. Best Brands: Reliable brands include McCormick, Simply Organic, Frontier Co-op, and Spicely Organics, known for consistent quality and freshness.

6. Drying Your Own Herbs: For maximum freshness, you can dry herbs at home. Hang small bundles upside down in a warm, dry spot or spread leaves on a baking sheet to air dry for a few days. Once dry, store in airtight containers away from heat and light.

McCormick Italian Seasoning Ingredients

• Dried Basil (2 tablespoons): Basil brings a sweet, slightly peppery flavor. Fresh dried basil should smell strong and sweet. You can substitute fresh basil, but use three times more since fresh herbs are less concentrated.
• Dried Oregano (2 tablespoons): Oregano adds a warm, earthy, and slightly bitter taste. Greek oregano is stronger than Mexican oregano. Either works, but Greek oregano is closer to what McCormick uses.
• Dried Rosemary (2 tablespoons): Rosemary has a pine-like, woodsy flavor. It can be strong, so crushing it lightly helps blend it better. You can use fresh rosemary chopped finely, but dried works best here.
• Dried Thyme (2 tablespoons): Thyme offers a subtle and minty flavor. It pairs well with rosemary and adds complexity to the mix. Fresh thyme can be used if dried is unavailable, but again, use more.
• Dried Marjoram (1 tablespoon): Marjoram is similar to oregano but sweeter and milder. Oregano can substitute marjoram in a pinch, but the blend will be less sweet.
• Dried Sage (1 tablespoon): Sage has a strong, slightly peppery taste with earthy notes. It adds warmth and richness. Use it carefully because too much can overpower the blend.
• Dried Parsley (1 tablespoon): Parsley is mild and fresh. Flat-leaf parsley has more flavor than curly parsley. You can skip parsley, but the blend may taste heavier without it.

Essential Kitchen Equipment

1. Medium Mixing Bowl: For combining all the dried herbs together.
2. Small Whisk or Fork: To stir the herbs and get them evenly mixed.
3. Measuring Spoons: To make sure you use the right amount of each herb.
4. Airtight Container or Jar: For storing your finished seasoning. A small mason jar works perfectly.

How To Make McCormick Italian Seasoning at Home

Step 1 | Gather Your Herbs

Place all your jars of dried herbs on the counter. Get your measuring spoons and mixing bowl ready. This makes the process fast and easy.

Step 2 | Measure Each Herb

Use your measuring spoons. Add 2 tablespoons of dried basil to the bowl. Next, add 2 tablespoons of dried oregano. Then, add 2 tablespoons of dried rosemary. Crush the rosemary lightly as you add it. Now, add 2 tablespoons of dried thyme.

Step 3 | Add the Remaining Herbs

Measure 1 tablespoon of dried marjoram. Add it to the bowl. Do the same with 1 tablespoon of dried sage. Finally, add 1 tablespoon of dried parsley.

Step 4 | Mix Everything Together

Take your whisk or fork. Stir the herbs very well. You want to see all the colors evenly mixed. No single herb should be in one clump. Make sure the green parsley and the woody rosemary are spread throughout.

Step 5 | Store Your Seasoning

Find your clean, dry jar or container. Carefully pour the mixed seasoning into it. Seal the lid tightly. That’s it! Your homemade McCormick Italian seasoning recipe is complete and ready to use.

Chef’s Notes & Tips

• Mix Thoroughly for Even Distribution: Spending an extra minute stirring ensures all the herbs are evenly spread throughout. This means every spoonful of your seasoning will taste the same and have balanced flavor.
• Making a Larger Batch: You can double or triple this recipe easily. Just keep the proportions the same. A larger batch means you will not have to make it as often. Store extra in multiple small jars to keep it fresh longer.
• Grinding the Herbs for a Finer Texture: Some people like a finer powder. You can pulse the finished blend in a spice grinder or small food processor. This makes it easier to sprinkle evenly. Just do not over-grind, or you will lose the texture completely.

6 Ways to Use Your Homemade Italian Seasoning

1. Pasta Sauces: Stir a tablespoon into marinara, Bolognese, or Alfredo sauce. The herbs add depth and authentic Italian flavor. You can also sprinkle it on top before serving.

2. Pizza Topping: Sprinkle the seasoning on pizza dough before adding sauce and cheese. You can also add a pinch on top of the cheese before baking. It adds a fresh, herby flavor.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Toss vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes with olive oil and Italian seasoning. Roast at 400°F for 20 minutes. The herbs bring out the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

4. Grilled Chicken or Fish: Rub the seasoning on chicken breasts or fish fillets before grilling. Add a little olive oil and salt. The herbs create a flavorful crust and keep the meat moist.

5. Salad Dressings: Mix a teaspoon into homemade vinaigrette. Combine olive oil, vinegar, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Shake well and drizzle over salad. It tastes fresh and zesty.

6. Soups and Stews: Add a tablespoon to minestrone, chicken soup, or beef stew. The herbs add warmth and complexity. Stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking for the best flavor.

Storage and Freshness Tips

Store your Italian seasoning in an airtight jar or container. Keep it in a cool, dark place like a pantry or spice cabinet.

Avoid storing it near the stove or in direct sunlight. Heat and light cause herbs to lose flavor faster.

Your seasoning will stay fresh for about 6 months to a year. After that, the flavor fades.

Smell it before using. If it still smells strong, it’s good. If not, make a fresh batch.

McCormick Italian Seasoning Recipe FAQs

1. Can this seasoning be used in non-Italian dishes?

Yes, it adds aromatic flavor to soups, roasted vegetables, and even grilled meats. Its versatility works in a variety of dishes beyond Italian cuisine.

2. Is this blend spicy?

No, this Italian seasoning is not spicy at all. It is savory, herbal, and aromatic. The herbs are sweet, earthy, and woody. There are no spicy peppers or hot ingredients in this recipe.

3. Can I add salt or garlic powder to this blend?

The original recipe does not include salt or garlic powder. You can add these separately when cooking to control taste better.

4. Do I need to use all seven herbs?

For the classic McCormick taste, using all seven is best. Each herb adds a specific note. If you must skip one, parsley or sage would be the first choices. The blend will still be tasty but slightly different.

Continue to Content

Yield: 10–15 uses

McCormick Italian Seasoning Recipe

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Make homemade McCormick Italian Seasoning Recipe in just 5 minutes! Perfect for pasta, pizza, and roasted dishes. Fresh, flavorful, and easy to use.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

• Dried Basil: 2 tablespoons
• Dried Oregano: 2 tablespoons
• Dried Rosemary: 2 tablespoons (lightly crushed)
• Dried Thyme: 2 tablespoons
• Dried Marjoram: 1 tablespoon
• Dried Sage: 1 tablespoon
• Dried Parsley: 1 tablespoon

Instructions

1. Place all your jars of dried herbs on the counter. Get your measuring spoons and mixing bowl ready. This makes the process fast and easy.
2. Use your measuring spoons. Add 2 tablespoons of dried basil to the bowl. Next, add 2 tablespoons of dried oregano. Then, add 2 tablespoons of dried rosemary. Crush the rosemary lightly as you add it. Now, add 2 tablespoons of dried thyme.
3. Measure 1 tablespoon of dried marjoram. Add it to the bowl. Do the same with 1 tablespoon of dried sage. Finally, add 1 tablespoon of dried parsley.
4. Take your whisk or fork. Stir the herbs very well. You want to see all the colors evenly mixed. No single herb should be in one clump. Make sure the green parsley and the woody rosemary are spread throughout.
5. Find your clean, dry jar or container. Carefully pour the mixed seasoning into it. Seal the lid tightly. That’s it! Your homemade McCormick Italian seasoning recipe is complete and ready to use.

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 5Carbohydrates: 1gFiber: 0.5gProtein: 0.2g

This McCormick Italian Seasoning Recipe offers authentic Italian herb flavors with a balanced, aromatic blend.

Experiment with adjustments to suit personal taste, then try it in sauces, roasted dishes, or soups.

Share your results and enjoy the fresh, herby aroma in your kitchen.