Old Bay Potatoes: A Flavorful and Easy Side Dish Recipe

Old Bay seasoning isn’t just for seafood anymore! This iconic blend of spices brings a delicious and savory kick to potatoes, transforming a simple side dish into something truly special. Whether you’re grilling outdoors, baking in the oven, or whipping up a quick weeknight meal, Old Bay potatoes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the potato type, cooking method, and level of spiciness to your preference. Get ready to experience a new favorite way to enjoy potatoes!

## Why Old Bay and Potatoes are a Match Made in Heaven

The salty, savory, and slightly spicy notes of Old Bay seasoning perfectly complement the earthy flavor of potatoes. The celery salt, paprika, and other spices in Old Bay add depth and complexity, making these potatoes anything but boring. It’s a simple way to elevate a classic side dish and add a burst of flavor to any meal. Plus, Old Bay potatoes are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort.

## Choosing the Right Potatoes

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can use virtually any type of potato, depending on your desired texture and cooking method. Here’s a breakdown of some popular choices:

* **Yukon Gold Potatoes:** These potatoes have a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture, making them ideal for roasting, boiling, or grilling. They hold their shape well during cooking and absorb the Old Bay seasoning beautifully.
* **Red Potatoes:** Red potatoes have a slightly waxy texture and a subtle sweetness. They are great for boiling, roasting, or using in potato salads. Their thin skin also means you don’t need to peel them, saving you time and effort.
* **Russet Potatoes:** Russet potatoes are high in starch and have a fluffy texture when baked. While they can be used for Old Bay potatoes, they are best suited for roasting or baking, as they may fall apart if boiled. If using russets, consider cutting them into larger chunks.
* **Baby Potatoes (Fingerling, New Potatoes):** These small potatoes are perfect for roasting or boiling whole. Their tender skin and creamy flesh make them a delicious and convenient option. Just toss them with Old Bay and cook until tender.

Ultimately, the best potato for Old Bay potatoes is the one you enjoy the most! Feel free to experiment with different varieties to find your perfect match.

## Essential Ingredients for Old Bay Potatoes

Here’s what you’ll need to create these flavorful potatoes:

* **Potatoes:** Choose your favorite type, about 2 pounds.
* **Old Bay Seasoning:** The star of the show! Use a generous amount, typically 2-3 tablespoons, or more to taste.
* **Olive Oil (or other cooking oil):** Helps the potatoes crisp up and allows the Old Bay to adhere.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To enhance the flavor (adjust salt carefully, as Old Bay already contains salt).
* **Optional Add-ins:** Minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs (parsley, dill, chives), lemon wedges, melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat.

## Step-by-Step Instructions: Three Ways to Cook Old Bay Potatoes

Here are three popular methods for cooking Old Bay potatoes: roasting, boiling, and grilling. Choose the method that best suits your preferences and equipment.

### Method 1: Roasted Old Bay Potatoes

Roasting is a fantastic way to achieve crispy, golden-brown potatoes with a tender interior. This method is perfect for hands-off cooking and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).** Make sure your oven is fully preheated for even cooking.
2. **Prepare the potatoes:** Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. If using Yukon Gold or red potatoes, you can leave the skin on. For russet potatoes, peeling is optional. Cut the potatoes into 1-inch chunks.
3. **Season the potatoes:** In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Ensure the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning. Add minced garlic, if desired.
4. **Arrange on a baking sheet:** Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This prevents sticking and ensures even browning. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
5. **Roast the potatoes:** Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through for even cooking. Check for doneness by piercing a potato with a fork. It should be easily pierced with minimal resistance.
6. **Optional: Broil for extra crispiness:** For an extra crispy exterior, broil the potatoes for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning. Make sure to position the baking sheet a safe distance from the broiler.
7. **Serve:** Remove the potatoes from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired. Serve immediately as a side dish.

### Method 2: Boiled Old Bay Potatoes

Boiling is a quick and easy way to cook potatoes, especially if you’re short on time. This method is ideal for creating tender potatoes that are perfect for mashing, potato salads, or simply enjoying as a side dish.

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the potatoes:** Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. If using small potatoes like fingerlings or new potatoes, you can leave them whole. For larger potatoes, cut them into 1-inch chunks.
2. **Boil the potatoes:** Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
3. **Cook until tender:** Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Cooking time will vary depending on the size of the potatoes.
4. **Drain the potatoes:** Drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the pot.
5. **Season the potatoes:** While the potatoes are still warm, add olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat the potatoes evenly. Add melted butter and fresh herbs, if desired.
6. **Serve:** Serve the boiled Old Bay potatoes immediately as a side dish. They can also be chilled and used in potato salads or other recipes.

### Method 3: Grilled Old Bay Potatoes

Grilling adds a smoky flavor to the potatoes, making them a perfect addition to any barbecue or outdoor meal. This method requires a little more attention to prevent burning, but the results are well worth the effort.

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the potatoes:** Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. Cut the potatoes into 1-inch chunks. Parboiling the potatoes for 5-7 minutes before grilling will help them cook more evenly.
2. **Season the potatoes:** In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Ensure the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning. Add minced garlic, if desired.
3. **Grill the potatoes:** Place the potatoes in a grill basket or on a sheet of aluminum foil. If using aluminum foil, poke holes in the foil to allow for better airflow. Grill the potatoes over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly charred, turning them occasionally to prevent burning. Keep a close eye on the potatoes and adjust the heat as needed.
4. **Serve:** Remove the potatoes from the grill and garnish with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately as a side dish.

## Tips for Perfect Old Bay Potatoes

* **Don’t overcrowd the pan:** When roasting or grilling, make sure the potatoes are spread in a single layer to ensure even cooking and browning.
* **Adjust the seasoning to your taste:** Old Bay seasoning can be quite salty, so start with a smaller amount and add more to taste. You can also adjust the level of spiciness by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
* **Use fresh herbs:** Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives add a bright and flavorful touch to Old Bay potatoes.
* **Parboil before grilling:** Parboiling the potatoes for a few minutes before grilling helps them cook more evenly and prevents them from burning.
* **Experiment with different add-ins:** Get creative and add other ingredients to your Old Bay potatoes, such as bacon bits, chopped onions, bell peppers, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
* **Soaking Potatoes (Optional):** Soaking cut potatoes in cold water for about 30 minutes before cooking can help remove excess starch, resulting in crispier roasted potatoes. Be sure to pat them dry thoroughly before tossing with oil and seasoning.
* **Even Potato Size:** Make sure the potato chunks are relatively the same size to ensure even cooking, regardless of the cooking method used.

## Variations on Old Bay Potatoes

* **Old Bay Sweet Potato Fries:** Substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes and follow the roasting instructions. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs well with the savory Old Bay seasoning.
* **Old Bay Potato Salad:** Use boiled Old Bay potatoes in your favorite potato salad recipe. The Old Bay seasoning adds a unique and delicious twist to this classic dish.
* **Cheesy Old Bay Potatoes:** Add shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese to the potatoes during the last few minutes of cooking. The cheese will melt and create a gooey, cheesy delight.
* **Spicy Old Bay Potatoes:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the potatoes for an extra kick of heat.
* **Garlic Parmesan Old Bay Potatoes:** Roast or boil the potatoes as directed, then toss with melted butter, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. This adds a rich and savory flavor to the potatoes.
* **Lemon Herb Old Bay Potatoes:** After cooking, toss the potatoes with a squeeze of lemon juice, chopped fresh herbs (such as dill, parsley, and chives), and a drizzle of olive oil. This brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
* **Old Bay Potato Wedges:** Cut potatoes into wedges instead of cubes for a different shape and texture. Roast or grill the wedges until tender and crispy. Serve with a dipping sauce like ranch or aioli.
* **Creamy Old Bay Potatoes:** After boiling the potatoes, mash them with butter, milk (or cream), Old Bay seasoning, and salt and pepper. This creates a creamy and flavorful mashed potato dish.

## Serving Suggestions

Old Bay potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are a few serving suggestions:

* **Seafood:** Old Bay potatoes are a natural complement to seafood dishes like grilled shrimp, baked salmon, or crab cakes. The flavors of the Old Bay seasoning enhance the taste of the seafood.
* **Grilled Meats:** Serve Old Bay potatoes alongside grilled chicken, steak, or burgers for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
* **Sandwiches and Wraps:** Add Old Bay potatoes to your favorite sandwiches or wraps for an extra boost of flavor and texture.
* **Vegetarian Dishes:** Old Bay potatoes are a great addition to vegetarian meals like veggie burgers, lentil soup, or roasted vegetables.
* **Appetizers:** Serve small portions of Old Bay potatoes as an appetizer at your next party or gathering.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

Old Bay potatoes can be partially prepared ahead of time. You can wash, scrub, and cut the potatoes up to a day in advance and store them in a bowl of cold water in the refrigerator. This will prevent them from browning. Drain and pat the potatoes dry before seasoning and cooking.

Boiled potatoes can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them gently before serving.

Roasted or grilled potatoes are best served immediately for optimal crispness, but they can be reheated in the oven or on the grill.

## Storage Instructions

Leftover Old Bay potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven, on the stovetop, or in the microwave until warmed through. They may not be as crispy as when they were first cooked, but they will still be delicious.

## Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)

* Calories: 200-250
* Fat: 8-12g
* Saturated Fat: 1-2g
* Cholesterol: 0mg
* Sodium: 400-600mg (depending on the amount of Old Bay seasoning used)
* Carbohydrates: 30-40g
* Fiber: 3-5g
* Sugar: 2-4g
* Protein: 3-5g

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?**

A: While fresh potatoes are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen potatoes in a pinch. Thaw them completely before seasoning and cooking. Keep in mind that frozen potatoes may not get as crispy as fresh potatoes.

**Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?**

A: Yes, this recipe is easily made vegan by using olive oil or another plant-based oil instead of butter. Be sure to check the ingredients of your Old Bay seasoning to ensure it doesn’t contain any animal-derived products.

**Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?**

A: Yes, Old Bay seasoning is typically gluten-free, but it’s always a good idea to check the label to be sure. Otherwise, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

**Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?**

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like onions, bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli to the potatoes. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

**Q: My potatoes are burning before they are cooked through. What am I doing wrong?**

A: If your potatoes are burning before they are cooked through, try reducing the oven temperature or grill heat. You can also cover the potatoes with foil during the last part of cooking to prevent them from burning.

**Q: Can I make this in an air fryer?**

A: Yes! Air frying is a great way to get crispy Old Bay Potatoes. Toss the potatoes with oil and Old Bay, then cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally, until tender and golden brown.

## Conclusion

Old Bay potatoes are a simple, flavorful, and versatile side dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you roast, boil, or grill them, the unique blend of spices in Old Bay seasoning will elevate your potatoes to a whole new level. So, grab a bag of potatoes, a jar of Old Bay, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and easy side dish that is perfect for any occasion!