If you love the bold, savory flavor of Old Bay seasoning, it’s incredibly easy to make your own homemade version using spices you probably already have in your pantry. This classic seafood seasoning blend is famous for its celery-forward flavor, warm spices, and subtle heat, making it perfect for shrimp, crab boils, roasted potatoes, grilled chicken, corn on the cob, and even popcorn.
Making it at home lets you control the salt level and spice balance, and it keeps your spice cabinet stocked with a versatile seasoning blend anytime.
Other Homemade Spice Blends You’ll Love:
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Old Bay Seasoning
- Made with simple pantry spices
- Takes 2 minutes to mix
- Perfect for seafood boils, shrimp, crab, and fish
- Delicious on fries, roasted vegetables, and chicken
- Easy to adjust salt and spice levels
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon celery salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon dry mustard
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
- ⅛ teaspoon ground allspice
- ⅛ teaspoon ground ginger
- ⅛ teaspoon cardamom
How to Make Old Bay Seasoning
- Add all spices to a small bowl.
- Stir until the mixture is evenly combined.
- Transfer to a small spice jar or airtight container.
- Store in a cool, dry place.
The flavor actually improves after a day or two once the spices blend together.
How to Use Old Bay Seasoning
This seasoning blend is incredibly versatile. Try it on:
For seafood, sprinkle ½–1 teaspoon per pound of shrimp or fish.
Old Bay Butter Corn on the Cob
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 SERVINGS 1x
Description
Sweet corn on the cob dripping in melted butter and sprinkled with Old Bay seasoning. This simple and flavorful side dish is perfect for seafood boils, summer cookouts, and backyard BBQs.
Ingredients
4 ears corn on the cob, husked
4 tablespoons butter, melted
1–2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
½ teaspoon black pepper (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
-
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the corn and cook for 5–7 minutes until tender.
Alternatively, grill the corn over medium heat for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally. -
Remove the corn and place on a serving plate.
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Brush each ear generously with melted butter.
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Sprinkle Old Bay seasoning evenly over the corn.
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Add a little black pepper and fresh parsley if desired.
-
Serve immediately while hot and buttery.
Notes
-
Add extra Old Bay for a stronger seafood-boil flavor.
-
A squeeze of fresh lemon is also delicious with this seasoning.
-
You can grill the corn directly on the grates for extra charred flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 MINUTES
- Cook Time: 10 MINUTES
- Category: CONDIMENT, Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: AMERICAN | BBQ
Storage
Store your homemade Old Bay seasoning in an airtight spice jar for up to 6 months for the best flavor.
Pro Tips
- Add more cayenne if you like extra heat.
- Reduce the celery salt if you’re watching sodium.
- Smoked paprika gives the seasoning a nice smoky twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Old Bay seasoning taste like?
Old Bay has a savory celery flavor with warm spices, paprika, and mild heat, making it perfect for seafood.
Is Old Bay only for seafood?
Not at all. It’s delicious on chicken, vegetables, fries, eggs, and popcorn.
Can I make it salt-free?
Yes. Replace celery salt with celery seed plus a pinch of regular salt or none at all.
Homemade Old Bay seasoning is one of those simple spice blends that instantly upgrades everyday food. Once you make it yourself, you’ll find yourself sprinkling it on everything from shrimp and roasted potatoes to buttery corn on the cob.
Keeping a jar of this classic seasoning in your pantry means you’re always ready to add bold Chesapeake-style flavor to your favorite dishes.
