Why You’ll Love This Seasoning
Whether you’re out of the store-bought stuff or just want a fresher alternative, this homemade blend brings all the bold, zesty flavor you expect—and it’s probably already in your pantry.
- Great on seafood, veggies, eggs, and even popcorn
- Quick to make with everyday spices
- Keeps up to a year in the pantry
- No preservatives or fillers
- Easy to scale up for a bigger batch
Homemade Old Bay Seasoning
Old Bay Seasoning is a versatile, must have spice in every kitchen, and you'll never be caught without it if you keep this recipe handy.
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Servings: 1 /2 cup
Calories: 2kcal
Ingredients
- 2-3 dried bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon celery salt
- 1 tablespoon hot paprika
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Finely crush or grind the bay leaves using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
- In a small bowl, combined the ground bay leaves and the remaining spices. Mix well.
- Cover and store in an airtight container for up to one year.
Nutrition
Serving: 1g | Calories: 2kcal | Sodium: 99mg
Keep scrolling for tips, ingredient substitutions, answers to frequently asked questions and more!
What Makes It Taste Like the Real Thing
This blend mimics the iconic flavor of Old Bay with a combination of warm spices, peppery heat, and a savory backbone.
- Celery salt: This is the foundation of the blend—don’t skip it.
- Two types of paprika: Hot and smoked combine for both heat and depth.
- Ground bay leaves: A must for that signature aroma. If you only have whole leaves, crush them finely with a spice grinder or rolling pin.
- Cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg: These warm baking spices add a subtle complexity.
- Cayenne: Adjust to taste depending on how spicy you like it.
Can’t find ground bay leaves? Put dried leaves in a zip-top bag and roll over them with a rolling pin—they won’t be as fine, but the flavor will still come through.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh spices—they lose potency over time, so check the dates on your jars.
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark spot like a spice cabinet.
- Label your jar with the date—this blend is best used within 6–12 months.
- Double it! If you use it often, make a big batch so it’s always on hand.
Delicious Ways to Use It
Old Bay isn’t just for crab boils. Here are a few favorite ways to sprinkle it around the kitchen.
- On grilled salmon
- Tossed with corn on the cob or roasted potatoes
- Mixed into deviled eggs or sprinkled on top of avocado toast
- Shaken onto popcorn for a quick, savory snack
- Stirred into cocktail sauce or tartar sauce for extra zing
Want more ways to use your spice mix? Try pairing it with Quick Fish Tacos with Avocado Ranch Dressing or Creamy Deviled Eggs for that extra savory kick.
Be sure to save this Homemade Old Bay Seasoning recipe to your favorite Pinterest board for later.
1 comment
Jerilea
Made this today for a New Year’s Eve dinner. I’ve never bought this spice because it’s not something I use very often. But, this smells so good. I’m going to have to rotate this spice blend in more and find ways to use it other than crab legs. Thank you.