Best Seafood Seasonings of 2026

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 27, 2026

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Seafood seasonings are a must-have for anyone who loves the taste of the ocean. These blends of herbs and spices are specifically designed to enhance the natural flavors of fish, shrimp, crab, and other seafood. From classic blends like Old Bay and Cajun, to more exotic flavors like lemon pepper and garlic herb, there's a seafood seasoning out there for everyone. Whether you're grilling, baking, or frying your seafood, a sprinkle of seasoning can take it to the next level. So why not try out a few different blends and find your new favorite way to season seafood?

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Old Bay Seasoning Cover #TOP 1
Old Bay Seasoning
ftb score rating icon 9.9
OLD BAY All-Purpose Seasoning Cover #TOP 2
OLD BAY All-Purpose Seasoning
ftb score rating icon 9.8
McCormick All Purpose Seasoning, 4.25 oz Cover #TOP 3
McCormick All Purpose Seasoning, 4.25 oz
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Seafood Seasonings

#TOP 1

Old Bay Seasoning

901410257
6 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Old Bay Seasoning Cover
OLD BAY Seasoning, Classic Seafood, Non GMO, Gluten Free, Unique Blend of 18 Herbs & Spices for Shrimp, Crab Dip, Seafood & More, 6 oz

Old Bay Seasoning is a savory blend of herbs and spices that includes McCormick celery salt, paprika, and red and black peppers. It is perfect for culinary enthusiasts who want to add a burst of flavor to their dishes. This seasoning is kosher, contains no MSG, and has no hydrogenated oil, making it a healthier option. The BPA-free packaging is designed for easy shaking, sprinkling, and pouring, ensuring convenience in the kitchen. One recipe tip is to add 2 tablespoons of Old Bay Seasoning for every 1 pound of fish to liven up your favorite seafood dish. Since 1939, Old Bay has been a go-to seasoning for chicken, seafood, snacks, and more, adding a delicious and distinctive taste to every bite.

What We Like
Exceptional flavor blend
Highly versatile usage
Convenient packaging
Low heat level
Consistent quality
What We Don't Like
Packaging design issues
Price concerns
#TOP 2

OLD BAY All-Purpose Seasoning

982052
Seasoning 24 Oz
OLD BAY All-Purpose Seasoning Cover
OLD BAY Seasoning, 24 oz - One 24 Ounce Container of OLD BAY All-Purpose Seasoning with Unique Blend of 18 Spices and Herbs for Crabs, Shrimp, Poultry, Fries, and More

OLD BAY Seasoning is a world-famous all-purpose seasoning with a unique blend of 18 spices and herbs, such as red and black pepper, celery salt and paprika. This 24-ounce container is perfect for fast-paced and high-volume settings, and is ideal for sprinkling on seafood, poultry, snacks, and more. It is a Kosher seasoning with no added MSG, and has been spicing up dishes for more than 75 years.

What We Like
Classic flavor profile
Versatile seasoning uses
Large container size
Enhances seafood and more
Not overly salty
What We Don't Like
Some may find it pricey
#TOP 3

McCormick All Purpose Seasoning, 4.25 oz

PP-GRCE39953
McCormick All Purpose Seasoning, 4.25 oz Cover
McCormick Garlic and Onion, Black Pepper and Sea Salt All Purpose Seasoning, 4.25 oz

McCormick All Purpose Seasoning is a convenient shake-on-anything blend of heat, garlic and herb flavors, made with real McCormick herbs and spices. This gluten-free, certified paleo and non-GMO seasoning can be sprinkled on beef, chicken or seafood before grilling or roasting. It can also boost the flavor in breakfast, lunch or dinner dishes.

What We Like
Versatile seasoning blend
Enhances multiple dishes
Organic spice mix
EBT eligible
Long shelf life
#TOP 4

Zatarain's Crawfish, Shrimp & Crab Boil

CA-041717-1111
Zatarain's Crawfish, Shrimp & Crab Boil Cover
Zatarain's Crawfish, Shrimp & Crab Boil, 4.5 lb

Zatarain's Seafood Boil is a flavorful blend inspired by New Orleans cuisine, featuring spices like red pepper and paprika. This seasoning is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors in their seafood. With this complete seasoning, you won’t need to add anything else; just pour it into boiling water and you’re ready to cook. It simplifies preparing delicious seafood for gatherings, making it an excellent choice for entertaining. Plus, it’s versatile enough to enhance boiled potatoes or corn on the cob, adding a delightful kick to your side dishes.

What We Like
Bold, flavorful seasoning
Easy to use
Great value for price
Versatile for seafood boils
Well-sealed packaging
What We Don't Like
Can be quite salty
Might be spicy for some
#TOP 5

JFC Nori Komi Furikake Rice Seasoning 1.7 Oz

JFC
191B
JFC Nori Komi Furikake Rice Seasoning 1.7 Oz Cover
Nori Komi Furikake Rice Seasoning, 1.7 Oz

The JFC Nori Komi Furikake is a tasty rice seasoning that adds a boost of flavor to your meals. You can sprinkle it on sushi or rice bowls to make them more delicious and enjoyable. This seasoning includes sesame seeds, which add a nice crunch and nutty flavor. It also contains bonito, a type of fish that gives a savory taste, and seaweed, which brings a fresh, ocean-like flavor. Using this seasoning is an easy way to enhance your dishes without much effort, making your everyday meals more exciting and flavorful.

What We Like
Versatile seasoning uses
Long-lasting large bottle
Fresh umami flavor
Good price online
Glass jar packaging
What We Don't Like
Price fluctuates occasionally
Hard to find locally
#TOP 6

OLD BAY Seasoning, 16 oz

10070328823466
Seasoning 16 Oz
OLD BAY Seasoning, 16 oz Cover
OLD BAY Seasoning, 16 oz - One 16 Ounce Fan-Favorite Tin Can of OLD BAY All-Purpose Seasoning with Unique Blend of 18 Spices and Herbs for Crabs, Shrimp, Poultry, Fries, and More

Old Bay Seasoning is a world-famous seafood seasoning with a unique blend of 18 spices and herbs, such as red and black pepper, celery salt, and paprika. The seasoning comes in a fan-favorite 16-ounce iconic tin can, perfect for sprinkling on almost anything, from crabs, shrimp, and poultry to fries and popcorn. Its distinct taste brings authentic New England flavors anywhere. Old Bay Seasoning is versatile, born in the heart of the Chesapeake Bay area, and is an all-purpose seasoning perfect for seafood, poultry, or snacks like chips, french fries, or pizza. The seasoning is kosher with no added MSG, making it ideal for various menu items like chowder.

What We Like
Rich, authentic flavor
Large container size
Versatile seasoning uses
Sturdy tin packaging
Great with seafood and chicken
What We Don't Like
Hard to find in some areas
A bit salty for some tastes
#TOP 7

Zatarain's Shrimp & Crab Boil 8oz

S-PL-1328
8 Fl Oz
Zatarain's Shrimp & Crab Boil 8oz Cover
Zatarain's Concentrated Shrimp & Crab Boil, 8 fl oz

Zatarain's Seafood Boil is a handy seasoning that brings bold, authentic New Orleans flavor to your seafood and vegetables. Just add a capful of this liquid to boiling water, and you’re ready to cook shrimp, crab, or crawfish with ease, making it perfect for feeding a crowd. You can also use it to spice up boiling potatoes or corn, giving your side dishes an extra kick. The longer you let your food soak in the seasoned water, the richer the taste becomes, helping you create delicious meals effortlessly at home.

What We Like
Robust Cajun flavor
Versatile seasoning uses
Perfect heat balance
Good value quantity
What We Don't Like
May be too spicy for some
#TOP 8

Dan-O's Tac-O All Purpose Taco Seasoning

Dan-O's Tac-O All Purpose Taco Seasoning Cover
Dan-O's Tac-O Seasoning, 2.5 oz Bottle, All Purpose Taco Seasoning for Tacos, Quesadillas, Ground Beef, Guac and More, Sugar Free, Zero Calorie, Use this Spice Blend for a Flavorful Kick to Any Dish

Dan-O's Tac-O Seasoning is a flavorful blend designed to enhance your meals beyond just tacos. You can easily add it to meats, nachos, or sauces for a bold taste that livens up any dish. Made with high-quality ingredients like chili peppers, cayenne, cumin, oregano, and cilantro, this seasoning gives you a rich and balanced flavor. Plus, it’s all-natural, kosher, and free from GMOs, sugar, and calories, so you get great taste without any unwanted extras. With Dan-O's Tac-O Seasoning, you can enjoy tasty, healthy cooking that fits your lifestyle.

What We Like
Salt-free seasoning option
Adds depth of flavor
Low sodium content
Versatile for many foods
Multiple flavor varieties
What We Don't Like
Small container size
Mild flavor profile
#TOP 9

Magic Seasoning Blends Chef Paul Blackened Redfish

TS0417-A700ML-M418
Original Version
Magic Seasoning Blends Chef Paul Blackened Redfish Cover
Chef Paul Blackened Redfish Magic Seasoning Blends | Cajun-Style Spices & Seasonings | Gluten-Free, No MSG, Bold Flavor | Perfect for Grilling, Cooking & BBQ | 24 oz/ 680g Canister (Pack of 1)

The Magic Seasoning Blends Blackened Redfish is a versatile Cajun-style spice mix that brings bold and rich flavors to your meals. As a powdered seasoning, it’s easy to sprinkle and measure, making your cooking process smooth and convenient. This blend is gluten-free, so it fits well within a gluten-sensitive diet, offering peace of mind without sacrificing taste. Perfect for grilling, cooking, or BBQ, this seasoning helps you create authentic Cajun dishes effortlessly, enhancing the flavor of seafood and other meals alike.

What We Like
Rich, balanced Cajun flavor
Large, affordable container
Versatile for meats and more
Gluten-free, no MSG
Longtime customer favorite
What We Don't Like
Price can fluctuate
#TOP 10

Naturevibe Botanicals Asafetida Powder 100gm

Naturevibe Botanicals Asafetida Powder 100gm Cover
Naturevibe Botanicals Asafetida Powder 100gm (Hing, Asafoetida Ground) 3.53oz | Non-GMO and Gluten Free | Indian Seasoning | Adds Aroma and Flavor

Naturevibe Asafetida Powder is a natural seasoning made from pure Ferula resin, giving your dishes an authentic Indian aroma and rich flavor. When you add just a pinch to hot oil or ghee, it enhances the taste of lentils, curries, and other traditional recipes, making your cooking more flavorful. This powder also supports your digestive health by helping reduce bloating naturally, a benefit trusted in Ayurveda for centuries. Plus, it’s gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegan, so it fits well with various diets without any artificial additives.

What We Like
Great taste and aroma
High quality ingredients
Versatile for recipes
Good packaging
Excellent value
What We Don't Like
Texture less smooth than expected
Somewhat higher price
Buying Guide Image

Finding the Best Seafood Seasonings to Meet Your Needs

Choosing the Perfect Seafood Seasoning

When it comes to seasoning seafood, it's important to choose a blend that will complement the natural flavors of the fish or shellfish without overpowering them. Here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect seafood seasoning:

Consider the Type of Seafood

The type of seafood you're cooking will play a big role in determining the best seasoning to use. For example, delicate white fish like cod or tilapia will pair well with mild, herb-based seasonings, while heartier fish like salmon or tuna can handle bolder, spicier blends. Shellfish like shrimp and lobster also have a delicate flavor that can be easily overpowered, so it's important to choose a seasoning that will enhance their natural sweetness without overpowering them.

Think About Your Cooking Method

The way you plan to cook your seafood will also influence the type of seasoning you choose. For example, if you're grilling or broiling your seafood, you'll want a seasoning that will hold up to the high heat and impart a nice char and smoky flavor. If you're poaching or steaming your seafood, on the other hand, you'll want a more delicate seasoning that won't overpower the delicate flavors of the fish or shellfish.

Experiment with Different Flavors

There are so many delicious seafood seasonings on the market, so don't be afraid to experiment and try out different blends to find the one that suits your tastes. Some popular choices include lemon pepper, Old Bay, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika, but there are many other delicious options to choose from. Don't be afraid to try out different combinations and create your own unique blend.

Be Careful with Salt

Seafood is naturally high in sodium, so it's important not to overdo it with the seasoning. Be careful not to add too much salt to your seafood, and always taste your dish before serving to make sure the seasoning is well balanced. If you're unsure how much seasoning to use, start with a small amount and add more to taste.

In conclusion, choosing the perfect seafood seasoning is all about considering the type of seafood, the cooking method, and experimenting with different flavors. Don't be afraid to try out different blends and create your own unique seasoning to complement the natural flavors of your fish or shellfish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What spices go well with seafood?

Various spices complement seafood, such as basil, parsley, dill, lemongrass, rosemary, thyme, sage, and smoked paprika. These spices add different flavors and aroma profiles to enhance the taste of seafood dishes.

2. What's a good seasoning to put on fish?

Dill is a great seasoning for fish, especially when paired with paprika. It provides a slightly sour and savory note that goes well with salmon or trout. Parsley is another versatile seasoning that adds a touch of pepper and grassy notes, making it suitable for any kind of fish.

3. What does seafood seasoning contain?

Seafood seasoning typically includes a mix of ingredients such as salt, celery seed, mustard powder, red pepper flakes, black pepper, bay leaves, paprika, cloves, allspice, ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon. These spices are combined to create a flavorful seasoning blend for seafood dishes.

4. What seasoning is best on crab?

When boiling or steaming crab, it's common to use seasonings like salt, pepper, lemon juice, lemon rinds, and the classic Old Bay seasoning. These ingredients enhance the flavor of the crab and add a delicious zing to the dish.

5. Which spice goes well with shrimp?

Several spices and herbs complement shrimp, including basil, bay leaf, cayenne pepper, chili powder, chives, cilantro, curry powder, dill, garlic, lemon balm, marjoram, mint, oregano, paprika, parsley, rosemary, sage, tarragon, and thyme. These seasonings can be used individually or combined to create flavorful shrimp dishes.

6. What enhances the flavor of fish?

To enhance the flavor of fish, you can use fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon, or create a marinade with soy sauce, spices, and ginger. During winter, a freshwater fish like whitefish can be seasoned with mustard, lemon, and garlic, then baked in the oven to enhance its taste.

7. How do you make fish more flavorful?

To make fish more flavorful, you can sprinkle avocado oil, ginger, cumin, and lemon pepper on it. Additionally, you can create a sauce or relish using ingredients like shallots, capers, olives, or salsa. Another option is marinating meaty fish with a mixture of maple syrup and whole-grain mustard for added flavor.

Editor's Notes

During our seafood seasoning research, we found 24 seafood seasoning products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 416,529 customer reviews through our big data system to write the seafood seasonings list. We found that most customers choose seafood seasonings with an average price of $6.91.

The seafood seasonings are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of seafood seasonings, including OLD BAY, McCormick, Zatarain's, JFC, Dan-O's. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!

Seafood Seasonings Comparison Table

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#TOP10
Brand OLD BAY OLD BAY McCormick Zatarain's JFC OLD BAY Zatarain's Dan-O's Magic Seasoning Blends Naturevibe Botanicals
Units 6.0 Ounce 24.0 Ounce 4.25 Ounce 72.0 Ounce - - 8 Fluid Ounces 2.5 Ounce 1.00 Count 3.52 Fluid Ounces
Item Form Granule Granule Flake - Seeds - - Granule Powder Powder
Unit Count 6.0 Ounce 24.0 Ounce 4.25 Ounce - 1.7 Ounce - - 2.5 Ounce 1.00 Count 3.52 Fluid Ounces
Specialty high-fructose-corn-syrup-free, kosher, low-carb, vegan, vegetarian high-fructose-corn-syrup-free, kosher, low-carb, vegan, vegetarian gmo-free, high-fructose-corn-syrup-free, kosher, low-carb, vegan, vegetarian - seasoning - - all-purpose Blackened Redfish Premium quality
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
Where to Buy