Garlic and herb seasoning became our family’s saving grace when grocery prices started climbing and I needed to stretch our food budget while still putting delicious meals on the table for four hungry kids. Standing in my kitchen with basic pantry staples and a determination to create something special, I discovered that the right blend of garlic and herbs could transform the simplest ingredients into restaurant-quality meals that my family actually craved.
Last month, when our grocery budget was running thin, I found myself staring at a pound of ground beef, some pasta, and a few basic vegetables – hardly the makings of an exciting dinner. That’s when I reached for my homemade garlic and herb seasoning blend, and everything changed. The aroma that filled our kitchen was absolutely magical, and my youngest daughter actually asked for seconds! Since then, I’ve been experimenting with different garlic and herb seasoning combinations, and I’m excited to share these five budget-friendly recipes that have become our family’s go-to meals.
Homemade Garlic and Herb Seasoning Blend
Equipment
- * Small mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Airtight storage container
- – Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together all ingredients until well combined and evenly distributed.
- Transfer to an airtight container and label with the date.
- Store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
- Use 1-2 tablespoons per pound of meat or 1 tablespoon per cup of rice or pasta.
Notes
Make double batches to save time and money
Adjust salt to taste based on your family’s preferences
Storage tips: Keep in original spice containers or small mason jars for easy access
What You’ll Need
For the Basic Garlic and Herb Seasoning Blend:
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder ($0.50)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano ($0.25)
- 1 tablespoon dried basil ($0.25)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme ($0.15)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary ($0.15)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder ($0.20)
- 1 teaspoon salt ($0.05)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper ($0.10)
Total family serving cost for seasoning blend: $1.65 (makes enough for 8-10 meals)
Equipment List:
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Storage container with tight-fitting lid
- Measuring spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating Your Garlic and Herb Seasoning Base
Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the garlic powder, oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. This creates your versatile garlic and herb seasoning that will transform any dish.
Money-saving tip: Buy spices in bulk from discount stores or ethnic markets – they’re often 50% cheaper than grocery store brands!
Step 2: Store for Maximum Freshness Transfer your garlic and herb seasoning to an airtight container and label with the date. This blend stays fresh for up to 6 months and costs just $0.20 per tablespoon versus $0.75 for store-bought versions.
Recipe 1: Budget-Friendly Garlic Herb Chicken and Rice
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Season 1 pound of chicken thighs (cheaper than breasts at $1.99/lb) with 2 tablespoons of your garlic and herb seasoning. Let sit for 10 minutes while you prep the rice.
Step 4: Cook the One-Pan Meal In a large skillet, sear the seasoned chicken for 4 minutes per side, then add 1 cup of rice and 2 cups of chicken broth. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Total cost: $4.50 for 4 servings.
Recipe 2: Garlic Herb Pasta with Vegetables
Step 5: Create the Pasta Base Cook 1 pound of pasta ($1.00) according to package directions. Meanwhile, sauté 2 cups of frozen mixed vegetables ($1.50) with 2 tablespoons of garlic and herb seasoning and olive oil.
Step 6: Combine and Serve Toss the cooked pasta with the seasoned vegetables and add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese ($1.00). This feeds 6 people for just $3.70 total.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
The beauty of garlic and herb seasoning lies in its versatility and cost-effectiveness. Unlike expensive pre-made seasonings that can cost $3-4 per bottle, this homemade blend costs just $1.65 and provides enough seasoning for multiple family meals. The combination of garlic, herbs, and aromatics creates a complex flavor profile that makes even the most basic ingredients taste gourmet.
The secret is in the balance – the garlic provides that savory base we all crave, while the herbs add brightness and depth. This seasoning works particularly well for budget cooking because it helps mask the sometimes bland taste of cheaper cuts of meat and adds excitement to simple starches like pasta, rice, and potatoes.
Make It Your Own
Budget-Friendly Substitutions:
- No fresh herbs? Double the dried amounts in the garlic and herb seasoning blend
- Skip expensive proteins: Use this seasoning on eggs, beans, or canned tuna for protein-packed meals under $2
- Stretch vegetables: Season frozen vegetables with this blend to make them taste like expensive restaurant sides
- Bulk up grains: Add the seasoning to rice, quinoa, or couscous for flavorful, filling bases
What to Serve With
These garlic and herb seasoning recipes pair beautifully with simple, budget-friendly sides that won’t break the bank:
- Homemade dinner rolls (just flour, water, yeast, and a pinch of salt – $0.50 total)
- Simple green salad with vinaigrette ($1.25)
- Roasted seasonal vegetables tossed with a sprinkle of the seasoning ($2.00)
- Garlic bread made from day-old bread and butter ($0.75)
Stretch Your Dollar Tips
- Buy in bulk: Purchase spices from warehouse stores or online in larger quantities to cut costs by 60%
- Double recipes: When making seasoned dishes, double the batch and freeze half for later meals
- Season everything: Use your garlic and herb seasoning on popcorn, roasted chickpeas, or homemade crackers for budget-friendly snacks
- Repurpose leftovers: Add the seasoning to leftover rice or pasta to create “new” meals the next day
- Start a spice swap: Trade spices with neighbors or friends to try new flavor combinations without buying full bottles
From My Family to Yours
Creating your own garlic and herb seasoning has been one of the best budget-friendly decisions I’ve made in our kitchen. Not only has it saved us hundreds of dollars over the past year, but it’s also brought our family together around meals that taste special despite their humble ingredients. My kids now ask for “mommy’s special seasoning” on everything from scrambled eggs to roasted vegetables, and I love knowing exactly what’s going into our food.
The confidence that comes from having a reliable, delicious seasoning blend in your pantry is invaluable. On those nights when you’re staring at basic ingredients and wondering how to make magic happen, this garlic and herb seasoning is your secret weapon. It turns ordinary meals into extraordinary memories, and it does it all for less than the cost of a fancy coffee drink.
FAQ Section
What is garlic and herb seasoning made of?
Garlic and herb seasoning typically contains garlic powder, dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, plus salt and pepper. Our homemade version includes these plus onion powder and rosemary for extra depth of flavor.
How do you make savory herb and garlic mix?
Making a savory herb and garlic mix is simple – just combine garlic powder with your favorite dried herbs, salt, and pepper. The key is using quality dried herbs and storing the mixture in an airtight container to preserve freshness.
What is in Mrs. Dash garlic and herb seasoning?
Mrs. Dash garlic and herb seasoning contains garlic, oregano, basil, parsley, and other herbs without added salt. Our homemade version is similar but includes salt and costs about 75% less than the store-bought version.
What’s in McCormick garlic and herb seasoning?
McCormick garlic and herb seasoning includes garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, and salt. Making your own version allows you to control the salt content and adjust the herb ratios to your family’s taste preferences while saving money.
For more information about safe spice storage and shelf life, check out the USDA Food Safety Guidelines.
Looking for more ways to save money on family meals? Try our 5-Minute Sloppy Joe Seasoning Mix That Saves You Money or explore our Easy Affordable Nashville Hot Seasoning for variety in your spice cabinet.
Related Recipe Recommendations
If you enjoyed this affordable family meal recipe, you might also like:
- Unbelievably Delicious Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Budget-Friendly Comfort Food
- Meatloaf with Veggies Hidden – A Budget-Friendly Summer Favorite
- Lava Chicken Recipe – Budget-Friendly Family Dinner
Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later and share it with friends looking for budget-friendly family meals!
