Creole spice, or Creole seasoning, is a spice blend built around paprika, garlic, onion, cayenne pepper, and dried herbs such as oregano and thyme.
It's used to season gumbo, jambalaya, and étouffée, and is central to blackened dishes like blackened chicken or fish. The paprika contributes mild sweetness and color, the garlic and onion a savory backbone, and the cayenne an adjustable heat.
Creole seasoning is often confused with Cajun seasoning; the two overlap heavily and are frequently used interchangeably, though Cajun blends generally lean hotter and less sweet.