What's the Best Substitute for Old Bay Seasoning?
Whether you're out of Old Bay Seasoning or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Classic American seafood seasoning blend with celery salt, paprika, and other spices, originally from Maryland In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for Old Bay seasoning are homemade blends with celery salt, paprika, and spices, or commercial seafood seasonings like Zatarain's or Tony Chachere's.
Best Substitutes for Old Bay Seasoning
Homemade Old Bay Blend
Ratio
1 tbsp Old Bay = 1 tsp celery salt + 1/2 tsp paprika + 1/4 tsp black pepper + 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper + 1/4 tsp ground bay leaves + 1/4 tsp ground allspice + 1/4 tsp ground cloves + 1/4 tsp ground ginger + 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg + 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
Best For
- crab cakes
- shrimp
- lobster
- fish
- fries
- popcorn
- chicken
- vegetables
Description
Classic homemade version that recreates the authentic Old Bay flavor profile
Grind whole spices for best flavor. Store in airtight container for up to 6 months.
Celery Salt + Paprika + Cayenne + Black Pepper
Ratio
1 tbsp Old Bay = 2 tsp celery salt + 1 tsp paprika + 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper + 1/2 tsp black pepper
Best For
- quick seasoning
- when you don't have all spices
- seafood
- fries
- popcorn
Description
Simplified version with the most essential Old Bay components
This is a basic version that captures the main Old Bay flavors without all the complexity.
Zatarain's Creole Seasoning
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- seafood
- cajun dishes
- when you want commercial convenience
- gumbo
- jambalaya
Description
Commercial Louisiana-style seasoning with similar spicy, savory profile
Zatarain's has a similar spice profile but may be saltier. Adjust salt in your recipe accordingly.
Tony Chachere's Original Creole Seasoning
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- seafood
- cajun cooking
- when you want commercial option
- meat
- vegetables
Description
Another Louisiana-style seasoning with spicy, salty characteristics
Similar to Zatarain's but with slightly different spice blend. Very salty, so reduce salt in recipes.
Cajun Seasoning + Celery Salt
Ratio
1 tbsp Old Bay = 2 tsp cajun seasoning + 1 tsp celery salt
Best For
- seafood
- when you have cajun seasoning on hand
- spicy dishes
- grilled foods
Description
Combines cajun spices with celery salt for Old Bay-like flavor
Cajun seasoning provides the heat and spice, celery salt adds the distinctive Old Bay flavor.
Paprika + Garlic Powder + Onion Powder + Celery Salt + Cayenne
Ratio
1 tbsp Old Bay = 1 tsp paprika + 1/2 tsp garlic powder + 1/2 tsp onion powder + 1 tsp celery salt + 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Best For
- when you have limited spices
- quick seasoning
- seafood
- fries
- popcorn
Description
Simple pantry spice blend that captures Old Bay's essence
This basic blend works well when you don't have access to more exotic spices.
Seafood Seasoning + Celery Salt
Ratio
1 tbsp Old Bay = 2 tsp seafood seasoning + 1 tsp celery salt
Best For
- seafood
- when you have generic seafood seasoning
- quick substitution
Description
Generic seafood seasoning enhanced with celery salt
Most generic seafood seasonings lack celery salt, which is key to Old Bay's flavor.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Old Bay Seasoning, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Old Bay seasoning is perfect for seafood, especially crab, shrimp, and lobster
It works great on french fries, popcorn, and roasted vegetables
The seasoning contains celery salt, which is a key flavor component
Old Bay is quite salty, so reduce salt in your recipes when using it
It's excellent for grilling, roasting, and pan-frying seafood
The spice blend includes warming spices like allspice, cloves, and nutmeg
Store homemade blends in airtight containers away from heat and light
Old Bay pairs well with lemon, butter, and garlic in seafood dishes
It can be used as a dry rub or mixed with oil for marinades
The seasoning is versatile and works on chicken, pork, and vegetables too
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications