Old Bay Bloody Mary Recipe: Classic Twist for Bold Flavor

Updated On: October 18, 2025

The Bloody Mary is a classic cocktail known for its bold flavors and versatility, perfect for brunches, lazy weekends, or even as a hangover cure. But have you ever tried an Old Bay Bloody Mary?

This twist on the traditional recipe infuses the drink with the iconic Old Bay seasoning, adding a zesty, savory kick that takes your cocktail game to the next level. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or a curious foodie, this recipe is sure to impress both your taste buds and your guests.

Infusing the Bloody Mary with Old Bay brings a coastal charm and complexity with hints of celery salt, paprika, and other spices. It’s a fantastic way to elevate a simple tomato juice and vodka mix into a flavorful, aromatic experience.

Let’s dive into the recipe that combines the best of a classic Bloody Mary with a beloved seasoning blend.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Old Bay Bloody Mary is more than just a drink; it’s an experience packed with layers of flavor. The seasoning adds depth and a savory edge that complements the acidity of the tomato juice and the sharp bite of vodka.

It’s perfectly balanced, with just enough spice and tang to wake up your palate.

Moreover, this recipe is highly customizable—you can adjust the heat level, garnish with your favorite veggies or seafood, and make it as light or as robust as you like. Whether you’re hosting brunch or just want a refreshing cocktail, this Old Bay Bloody Mary is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up in minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ oz vodka
  • 4 oz tomato juice
  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • ½ oz fresh lemon juice
  • ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 dashes hot sauce (Tabasco or your favorite)
  • Pinch of ground black pepper
  • Pinch of smoked paprika
  • Ice cubes
  • Celery stalk, lemon wedge, and/or pickled green bean for garnish

Equipment

  • Highball or pint glass
  • Measuring jigger or shot glass
  • Bar spoon or regular spoon
  • Juicer or citrus reamer
  • Small bowl for mixing spices (optional)
  • Straw (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the glass: Fill your highball glass with ice cubes to chill it while you mix the cocktail.
  2. Mix the base: In a separate mixing glass or shaker, combine the vodka, tomato juice, and fresh lemon juice. Stir gently to blend.
  3. Add the seasonings: Sprinkle in the Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
  4. Adjust to taste: Give the mixture a quick taste. If you want it spicier, add more hot sauce or Old Bay. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or more tomato juice.
  5. Assemble the drink: Discard the ice from your chilled glass and fill it fresh with ice cubes. Pour the mixed cocktail over the ice.
  6. Garnish beautifully: Add a celery stalk, lemon wedge, and/or pickled green bean to the glass. For a coastal touch, consider a shrimp skewer or crispy bacon strip.
  7. Serve immediately: Stir gently once more before serving with a straw or without, depending on your preference.

Tips & Variations

Pro Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, rim your glass with a mixture of Old Bay seasoning and coarse salt before filling it with ice.

  • Spice it up: Add horseradish for an extra kick or use chipotle hot sauce for a smoky heat.
  • Make it vegetarian: Use a vegetarian Worcestershire sauce or omit it entirely.
  • Seafood lover’s delight: Garnish with cooked shrimp, oysters, or a mini crab claw for a nautical flair.
  • Virgin version: Simply omit the vodka for a refreshing, non-alcoholic Old Bay Bloody Mary.
  • Herbal twist: Add fresh herbs like dill or basil to the garnish for a fresh aroma.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 120
Protein 1 g
Carbohydrates 6 g
Fat 0 g
Sodium 700 mg (mostly from Old Bay and Worcestershire sauce)
Alcohol 14 g (from vodka)

Serving Suggestions

This Old Bay Bloody Mary pairs wonderfully with savory brunch dishes. Consider serving it alongside crispy bacon, eggs benedict, or avocado toast to balance the cocktail’s spice and tang.

For a more indulgent experience, serve it with a crab cake or shrimp cocktail. The seafood’s natural sweetness complements the Old Bay seasoning beautifully, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

If you’re hosting a gathering, set up a Bloody Mary bar with various garnishes and spice options so guests can customize their drinks.

Conclusion

The Old Bay Bloody Mary is a vibrant, flavorful twist on a beloved classic that is sure to become a staple in your cocktail repertoire. Its unique blend of spices elevates the drink into something truly special, balancing savory, tangy, and spicy elements with ease.

Whether you’re enjoying a slow weekend brunch or impressing friends at your next party, this recipe is simple to make yet packed with personality.

Experiment with garnishes and spice levels to make it your own, and don’t forget to savor the complex flavors that Old Bay seasoning brings to the table. Cheers to a timeless cocktail with a deliciously zesty makeover!

📖 Recipe Card: Old Bay Bloody Mary

Description: A savory and spicy twist on the classic Bloody Mary, enhanced with Old Bay seasoning for a bold flavor. Perfect for brunch or a refreshing cocktail hour.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT10M

Servings: 1 serving

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 oz vodka
  • 3 oz tomato juice
  • 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 dashes hot sauce
  • 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp celery salt
  • Ice cubes
  • Celery stalk and lemon wedge for garnish

Instructions

  1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
  2. Add vodka, tomato juice, and lemon juice into the glass.
  3. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, Old Bay seasoning, black pepper, smoked paprika, and celery salt.
  4. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  5. Garnish with a celery stalk and lemon wedge.
  6. Serve immediately.

Nutrition: Calories: 150 | Protein: 2g | Fat: 0.5g | Carbs: 8g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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