Living in Maryland has its perks. It’s not uncommon for steamed crabs, sweet corn or local oysters to grace the dinner table. However, the most iconic ingredient that Marylanders turn to is a salty crimson seasoning called Old Bay. (Purchase it here.) Though the box may say “for seafood, poultry, salads, meats,” true fans know that Old Bay can be sprinkled on just about anything. Old Bay popcorn? Yes. Old Bay chicken wings? Yes. Old Bay caramel ice cream? Don’t knock it until you try it.
Follow along to see some of our Test Kitchen-approved recipes that make the most of Old Bay. While you’re at it, check out the rest of our favorite recipes from Mayland
Zucchini Patties with Dill Dip
These crisp-tender patties are a nice alternative to crab cakes and taste very similar, thanks to the seafood seasoning. They always get gobbled up! —Kelly Maxwell, Plainfield, Illinois
Sweet Tea Barbecued Chicken
Marinades sometimes use coffee or espresso, and that inspired me to add tea to perk up a barbecue sauce.—Kelly Williams, Forked River, New Jersey
Cod Delight
I used to make this in the oven, but then I discovered that microwave lets me enjoy it even faster. It's a pretty dish to serve company. In fact, many of my friends and family now cook this at home. —Nancy Daugherty, Cortland, Ohio
Maryland Corn Pops
Fresh-picked sweet corn is a big thing in Maryland. Here’s my homespun version of Mexican street corn. —Kristie Schley, Severna Park, Maryland
Spicy Shrimp
Not too hot but full of flavor, these shrimp are one of a kind. They're easy to make and take to parties, where they'll impress the other guests. —Bob Gebhardt, Wausau, WI.
Carolina Crab Boil
With sausage, seafood, corn and potatoes, this crab boil can feed a crowd for a picnic, tailgate or other outdoor celebration. —Melissa Pelkey Hass, Waleska, Georgia
Salmon with Spinach & White Beans
My husband, Oscar, is a Southerner at heart. This salmon with garlicky beans and spinach won him over at first bite. —Mary Ellen Hofstetter, Brentwood, Tennessee
Sauteed Scallops & Shrimp Pasta
I created this tempting seafood pasta for my wife. It’s a terrific meal served with crusty sourdough. If you don't like spice, skip the red pepper flakes. —George Levinthal, Goleta, California
Sweet Potato Crab Cakes
Mild sweet potato flavor and a chipotle kick complement the fresh crab in these hearty cakes. Serve them with your favorite mayo or aioli sauce. —Robert Bosley, Pacific, Washington
Chesapeake Snack Mix
Plain pretzels pale in comparison to this jazzy concoction that microwaves in moments. Pack a pouch to go for an easy at-work or on-the-road snack. —JoAnne Geiger, Baltimore
Warm Crab & Spinach Dip
In Maryland, we stayed at a hotel that sent guests home with a crab dip recipe and a spice pouch. Now I’ve made my own dip that rekindles memories of that trip. —Kristina Wenner, Jamison, Pennsylvania
Seasoned Crab Cakes
At the National Hard Crab Derby in Crisfield, Maryland, these scrumptious crab cakes won me first place. I entered them on a whim after trying many crab cake recipes for my family. —Betsy Hedeman, Timonium, Maryland
Crabbie Phyllo Cups
I always like a little extra chili sauce on top of these easy snacks. If you're out of crab, try them with water-packed tuna. —Johnna Johnson, Scottsdale, Arizona
German Brat Seafood Boil
The grilled bratwurst and onion add a smoky flavor to corn, potatoes and fish for a hearty meal that's always a hit with my family. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Shrimp & Crab Casserole
This is a quick and easy recipe that is truly delicious. The melt in your mouth flavors and different textures are comforting yet elegant. It's a great make-ahead dish, too. Just assemble, cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready. —Jan Bartley, Evergreen, North Carolina
Crabby Snack Mix
I love boiled Maryland crabs and crab fries dipped in cheese. With those favorites in mind, I created a crunchy snack mix spiced with seafood seasoning. One handful is never enough!—Mrs. Karyn Gordon, Cinnaminson, New Jersey
Garlic Tilapia with Mushroom Risotto
Boxed risotto makes it quick; mushrooms, shallots and cheese make it tasty. Serve the risotto alongside seasoned fish for a weeknight supper in a hurry. —Lynn Moretti, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin
Mini Crab Cakes
Fresh crab is one of my all-time favorite foods so whenever I get the chance to cook with it I will often make this dish. It's great for appetizers but you can make larger ones for a fantastic dinner with a simple salad. —Ellen Riley, Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Frogmore Stew
Have a relaxing dinner with the simple, but hearty Southern fare. If you like a little spice in your food, definitely used the hot links. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Greendale, Wisconsin
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The post 20 Recipes That Taste Better With Old Bay appeared first on Taste of Home.
Nicole Doster