Shrimp Boil
A shrimp boil is the ultimate one-pot meal that brings together fresh shrimp, savory sausage, sweet corn, and tender potatoes. This easy-to-make dish is bursting with flavor, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
With a fragrant broth infused with Old Bay seasoning, garlic, and lemon, each bite is a delicious explosion of taste. The dish is simple to prepare yet feels indulgent, offering a satisfying blend of textures and spices.
Serve this flavorful shrimp boil with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for a bright, zesty finish. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that promises to impress every time.
Shrimp Boil Ingredients
The star of this dish, succulent shrimp, takes center stage, soaking up the flavors of the rich, seasoned broth. Tender red potatoes add heartiness, while sweet corn brings a burst of freshness. Smoky sausage infuses the boil with savory depth, perfectly complemented by aromatic garlic and onion. Bright lemons elevate the broth with a tangy kick, while Old Bay seasoning ties everything together with its bold, iconic blend of spices. A touch of butter rounds out the dish, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley finishes it off with color and flavor.
Shrimp Boil Recipe Tips
- Choose the Right Shrimp
For the best results, select the largest shrimp you can find, ideally 16-20 count. Jumbo shrimp absorb the flavors of the broth better and provide a satisfying texture when cooked. While you can boil shrimp with or without the shells, removing the shells and leaving the tails on will make the shrimp easier to eat while preserving the juicy flavor. - Cook in Stages for Perfect Timing
To ensure that each component of the boil is cooked to perfection, add ingredients in stages. Start by cooking the potatoes first, as they take the longest to soften. Then, add the corn and sausage, followed by the shrimp, which cooks in just 2-3 minutes. This timing ensures that nothing is overcooked, and every ingredient is tender and flavorful. - Flavorful Broth Base
The broth is what gives this dish its signature taste. Use fresh lemons, garlic, and onion for the most aromatic base. For a richer, deeper flavor, make sure to allow the potatoes, corn, and sausage to simmer in the seasoned water before adding the shrimp. The broth will absorb all the savory notes, infusing the shrimp and vegetables with a burst of flavor.
What to Serve with Shrimp Boil
- Crispy Garlic Bread
Pair your shrimp boil with crispy garlic bread for the perfect side dish. The warm, toasted bread will soak up the flavorful broth, enhancing every bite of shrimp and sausage. This is especially great for soaking up the buttery broth after everything is served. - Coleslaw
A light, tangy coleslaw is a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory shrimp boil. The cool crunch of the cabbage paired with a creamy dressing balances out the spice and heat from the Old Bay seasoning, creating a perfect combination of flavors and textures. - Cornbread
A buttery cornbread is another excellent side dish that complements a shrimp boil. The slight sweetness of the cornbread enhances the smoky sausage and tender potatoes, while its crumbly texture is a great match for the juicy shrimp and vegetables.
FAQ
1. Can I make a shrimp boil in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep ingredients in advance. Boil the potatoes, corn, and sausage ahead of time, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat them, cook the shrimp, and combine everything with the buttery broth for a quick finish.
2. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking to avoid excess water diluting the broth. Pat them dry to keep the flavors concentrated.
3. What type of sausage works best for a shrimp boil?
Smoked sausages like kielbasa or andouille are ideal for this recipe. Their smoky, savory flavor complements the shrimp and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
4. Can I add other vegetables to the shrimp boil?
Absolutely! You can add additional vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even artichokes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable’s tenderness.
Shrimp Boil
Ingredients
- 3 lemons divided use
- 1/2 cup Old Bay seasoning plus additional for garnish
- 6 cloves garlic smashed
- 1 onion peeled and cut into six pieces
- 1 pound small red potatoes halved
- 4 ears corn on the cob cut into 3-4 inch pieces
- 2 pounds shrimp peeled and deveined, with tails left on
- 1 pound smoked sausage cut into 1-inch pieces, preferably kielbasa or andouille
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Begin by cutting two lemons into quarters and set aside the remaining lemon, slicing it into wedges for garnish later.
- In a large pot, fill with 12 to 14 cups of water. Add the quartered lemons, Old Bay seasoning, garlic, and onion to the pot. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Once the water has reached a boil, add the halved potatoes and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until just tender. Next, introduce the corn and sausage, allowing them to cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add the shrimp to the pot, cooking them for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they are pink and opaque.
- After cooking, carefully drain the shrimp and vegetable mixture from the pot, reserving 1 cup of the broth.
- In a small pan, melt the butter and whisk it into the reserved broth. Pour this mixture evenly over the cooked shrimp and vegetables.
- Garnish the dish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges. For added flavor, sprinkle with additional Old Bay seasoning as desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Shrimp can be boiled with or without their shells; removing the shells and leaving the tails on makes for easier eating while maintaining flavor.
