Seafood seasoning substitutes
Seafood seasoning substitutes — 3 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Old Bay
Same amount as the seafood seasoning
Classic seafood seasoning with celery salt and spices.
The best substitutes for seafood seasoning are Old Bay, Cajun seasoning, or homemade seafood blend, depending on the use.
- The tweak —
- Can be mixed with other spices if needed.
- Best for —
- crab boils
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of seafood seasoning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Old Baycrab boils | Same amount |
| 2 | Cajun seasoningspicy seafood dishes | Same amount |
| 3 | Homemade seafood blendcustomizing flavor | Same amount |
Old Bay
Savory with celery and spice notes
Classic seafood seasoning with celery salt and spices.
- Best for
- crab boils, shrimp, fish, general seafood seasoning
- Texture
- Similar powder consistency
- Prep
- Can be mixed with other spices if needed.
Most popular seafood seasoning, contains celery salt.
Cajun seasoning
Spicy and savory with Louisiana flavors
Spicy seasoning blend with Louisiana flavors.
- Best for
- spicy seafood dishes, Louisiana cuisine, when you want heat, blackened fish
- Texture
- Similar powder consistency
- Prep
- Can be mixed with other spices if needed.
Spicier than traditional seafood seasoning.
Homemade seafood blend
Varies based on ingredients used
Custom blend of spices for seafood.
- Best for
- customizing flavor, when you want control over ingredients, allergen-free seasoning, general seafood seasoning
- Texture
- Similar powder consistency
- Prep
- Mix equal parts paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and other spices.
Can be customized to your taste preferences.
Questions
3 questionsCan I use Old Bay instead of seafood seasoning?
Yes, Old Bay is a good substitute for seafood seasoning. It has a similar flavor profile and is the most popular seafood seasoning brand.
What's the difference between seafood seasoning and Cajun seasoning?
Seafood seasoning is more mild and has celery salt, while Cajun seasoning is spicier and has Louisiana flavors. Both work well for seafood but have different heat levels.
Can I use seafood seasoning in baking?
Yes, seafood seasoning can be used in baking, especially in savory breads, crackers, and seafood-based baked goods.
Tips for substituting seafood seasoning
6 tips- Seafood seasoning enhances the natural flavor of fish and shellfish
- It's commonly used in crab boils, shrimp, and fish dishes
- Has a balanced, savory flavor with celery and spice notes
- Pairs well with lemon, butter, and white wine
- Can be used in both wet and dry applications
- Store in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness