Homemade Lemon Pepper Seasoning

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Skip the store-bought versions and make your own homemade lemon pepper seasoning in just minutes! This easy recipe combines dried lemon zest with black pepper and a few supporting spices for a bright citrus tang that brings life to any dish.

Bowl of lemon pepper seasoning with a spoon, lemons in the background.

This versatile blend beats any pre-made mix you’ll find at the grocery store. Without any silicon dioxide or calcium silicate, this natural seasoning lets the zing of lemon and kick of pepper shine through in perfect harmony.

Looking for great ways to use your seasoning? Try it on Air Fryer Greek Chicken Kabobs, or sprinkle it over Hot Cheeto Chicken Tenders for an extra burst of flavor!

Table of Contents

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

Pure, Natural Ingredients: Unlike store-bought versions, this homemade seasoning blend uses only fresh ingredients with no preservatives or anti-caking agents. You’ll taste the difference!
Customizable: Making your own spice blends means you control the amount of salt and can adjust the lemon-to-pepper ratio to suit your taste. Want more citrus punch? Add extra lemon zest. Prefer more heat? Up the pepper!
Cost-Effective: A small jar of lemon pepper at the store can be pricey. Making your own with basic ingredients from your spice pantry saves money and ensures you always have fresh seasoning on hand.
Multi-Purpose: This blend works magic on everything from chicken breasts to salad dressing. It’s your new favorite seasoning for brightening up any dish.

Recipe Ingredients

See the recipe card below for a complete list of ingredients and measurements.

Wooden spoons with black pepper, sea salt, onion powder, lemon zest, garlic powder.

Ingredient Notes:

Dried Lemon Zest – The star ingredient that gives this blend its zesty lemon flavor. You can buy it pre-dried or make your own fresh zest using a microplane zester and dehydrating it.
Black Pepper – Use freshly ground pepper from a pepper mill for the best flavor. Whole black peppercorns ground just before mixing provide the most robust taste.
Garlic Powder – Adds a savory depth that complements both the lemon and pepper. Make sure to use powder, not granulated garlic, for the right texture.
Onion Powder – Works with the garlic powder to create a full-bodied seasoning blend that enhances any dish.
Sea Salt – Brings all the flavors together. You can adjust the amount to control sodium levels.

Substitutions and Additions

Citrus Options – Try mixing in lime peels for a different citrus twist
Heat Level – Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for spiciness
Extra Herbs – Italian seasoning or celery seed make great additions
Salt Alternatives – Use less salt or omit it entirely for a low-sodium version

How to Make Homemade Lemon Pepper Seasoning (step-by-step directions)

Two bowls of spices and herbs with a wooden spoon.

STEP 1. If using fresh lemon zest, dry it first either in a food dehydrator or on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet in a low-temperature oven.

STEP 2. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and mix until evenly distributed. (Photos 1 & 2)

STEP 3. Transfer to an airtight jar or container for storage

Bowl of lemon pepper seasoning on a striped cloth, with lemon slices nearby.

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Recipe Tips

Use a spice grinder or coffee grinder to make the blend extra fine
Keep the white pith off your lemon rind when zesting
Choose the best quality spices for optimal flavor
Toast whole peppercorns before grinding for enhanced taste

Storing Tips

Storage: Keep in a tightly sealed container in a dark place.
Pantry: Stores well in your spice cabinet for up to 6 months.
Container Type: An airtight jar spice container works best.
Location: Keep away from heat and direct sunlight in your spice drawer.

Serving Suggestions

Add a burst of flavor to Air Fryer Chicken and Waffles with a sprinkle of your homemade seasoning. It’s perfect on chicken wings, fish, vegetables, or stirred into salad dressings.

Wooden spoon with spice blend above a glass bowl.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use fresh lemon zest instead of dried?

Fresh zest needs to be dried first, or your seasoning will clump. Use a food dehydrator or low-temperature oven to dry it completely.

How long does homemade lemon pepper seasoning last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, it stays fresh for up to 6 months.

What’s the best type of lemons to use?

Meyer lemons offer a sweeter flavor, while regular lemons provide more tang. Both work well – choose based on your preference.

Can I make this in bulk?

Yes! Simply double or triple the recipe, making sure to maintain the proportions of ingredients.

Need More Spice and Seasonings Recipes? Try These:

A bowl of seasoning with a white spoon scooping some of the spice mix.

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