What’s close to Old Bay seasoning?

If you're in a pinch and out of Old Bay, you can try to recreate a similar flavor with common pantry spices – though the complete Old Bay recipe is still a bit of a mystery. A mix of celery salt, paprika, ground black pepper, cayenne pepper, mustard powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, cardamom, allspice, and crushed bay leaves should be quite close.

Can I make Old Bay Fries with sweet potatoes?

Absolutely, you can! Sweet potatoes would be a unique twist. Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory, spiced Old Bay seasoning. Just remember that sweet potatoes might take a little longer to cook than regular potatoes. Check out our roasted sweet potato wedges recipe .

Why are my fries not crispy?

Fries not quite as crispy as you’d like? There could be a few reasons: First, make sure your fries are well-dried before baking – water stops them from crisping up. Use clean kitchen towels or even give them a quick blast in the oven to get them dry. Second, don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Keep to one layer with space between each fry. You don’t want them to steam instead of roast. Lastly, don't skimp on the oil. It's the key to that golden, crispy exterior!

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can experiment with other types of potatoes. Maris Piper or Yukon Golds can be a great alternative. But remember, Russets are ideal for fries because of their high starch content – meaning they get that crispy outside and fluffy inside we all love!

3-Ingredient Old Bay Fries

Description

Crunchy on the outside, fluffy inside, and perfectly seasoned – our 3-ingredient oven-baked Old Bay fries are an absolute treat!

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 1/2 lbs. Russet potatoes, peeled
1 1/2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 1/2 Tbsp. Old Bay seasoning

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper and set aside.
Cut the potatoes into 1/4-to-1/2-inch thick fries. Add to a large bowl and cover with water for at least 30 minutes.
Drain and rinse the potatoes, then transfer to a clean towel and dry very well, changing out the towel as needed.
Add potatoes to a clean bowl or the same bowl as before, just make sure to wipe it dry. Add olive oil and seasoning, and toss to coat, making sure the spices and oil are well distributed.
Spread the potatoes into a single layer on the prepared sheet pan, preferably so they’re not touching. Bake for 25 minutes on the middle rack, undisturbed, then flip and bake for 5 minutes more. Feel free to add more seasoning after the fries are done.

Notes

Doubling the recipe: If doubling the recipe, you’ll need two sheet pans, otherwise, the fries will be too crowded and won’t crisp up. The top of the oven is often hotter than the bottom, so make sure to rotate the pans.
Serving: These fries have a spicy taste to them so they serve great with a cooling dip such as buttermilk ranch dressing or even tzatziki yogurt sauce.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6 oz.
Calories: 179
Sugar: 1.1 g
Sodium: 12.3 mg
Fat: 5.4 g
Carbohydrates: 30.7 g
Protein: 3.6 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg