Save A vibrant, coastal-inspired one-pot meal featuring tender shrimp, sweet corn, potatoes, and smoky sausage, all simmered together in aromatic spices for a festive and comforting dinner.
This shrimp boil always brings the taste of the coast right to my kitchen. Every time I make it, the family gathers around eagerly for seconds.
Ingredients
- Seafood & Sausage: 1 lb (450 g) large raw shrimp, shell-on, deveined, 12 oz (340 g) smoked sausage (e.g. Andouille or kielbasa), sliced into 1 inch pieces
- Vegetables: 1 lb (450 g) baby red potatoes, halved, 4 ears fresh corn, each cut into 3 4 pieces, 1 large yellow onion, quartered, 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- Spices & Flavorings: 1 lemon, sliced, 1/4 cup (30 g) Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning), 2 bay leaves, 1 tsp black peppercorns, 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat), 1 tbsp kosher salt
- To Serve: 4 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter, melted, fresh parsley, chopped, lemon wedges
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Fill a large stockpot with 10 cups (2.5 L) of water. Add Old Bay seasoning, salt, bay leaves, black peppercorns, crushed red pepper flakes, onion, garlic, and lemon slices. Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Step 2:
- Add potatoes to the boiling water. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 12 15 minutes, until just tender.
- Step 3:
- Add corn and smoked sausage. Simmer for another 5 7 minutes.
- Step 4:
- Add the shrimp. Simmer for 2 3 minutes, until shrimp are pink and opaque. Do not overcook.
- Step 5:
- Drain the pot, discarding the cooking liquid, but reserving the solids. Transfer the shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes to a large platter or spread out on newspaper for a classic presentation.
- Step 6:
- Drizzle with melted butter, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve with fresh lemon wedges.
Save My family loves gathering around to dig into this feast; it's become a cherished tradition that always brings smiles.
Required Tools
Large stockpot (at least 8 quart 7.5 L capacity), sharp knife, cutting board, colander or slotted spoon, large serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains shellfish (shrimp) and may contain dairy (butter). Sausage may contain gluten or other allergens check labels. For dairy free, use olive oil instead of butter.
Nutritional Information
Approximate per serving: 520 calories, 21 g total fat, 48 g carbohydrates, 36 g protein.
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Enjoy this vibrant dish as a simple yet festive meal perfect for any season.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use frozen shrimp for this boil?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used but make sure to fully thaw and devein them before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
- → How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?
Add the shrimp last and simmer for only 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Removing them promptly avoids toughness.
- → Can I substitute the smoked sausage?
Smoked sausage like Andouille or kielbasa adds smoky flavor, but you can substitute with other smoked links or spiced sausage varieties to suit your taste.
- → What is the best way to serve this dish?
Drain the cooking liquid, then spread the shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes on a large platter. Drizzle with melted butter, sprinkle fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
- → Can I add other seafood to this boil?
Absolutely! Clams, crab legs, or mussels can be added for variety. Add them according to their cooking times to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.