This easy recipe comes together in one big stockpot filled with creamy potatoes, sweet corn, zesty sausage, and jumbo shrimp perfectly seasoned with Old Bay!
What is a Shrimp Boil?
Also known as a Southern Boil, shrimp boils dump everything onto a newspaper-lined table so everyone can dig in! This version uses a large serving platter or tray. Since the protein and veggies are cooked in one pot, everything gets infused with robust Cajun flavor. So simple! This recipe tastes delicious and fresh – all you need are lemon wedges, melted butter, and sliced baguettes for all that juicy broth!
Ingredients Needed For Shrimp Boil
Shrimp: The star of the boil is the shrimp! Choose shell on jumbo or large shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, it doesn’t need to be thawed, just add a minute or two to the cooking time. Typically, ¼ pound of shrimp for each person is a good ratio. Sausage: This recipe calls for smoked sausage. You can use any variety, including andouille sausage or kielbasa; I love a spicy or garlicky version. Potatoes: Whole baby red or yellow potatoes are easy to use but you can also use quartered red potatoes or Yukon Golds – no need to peel them! Skip the Russet or baking potatoes, they’re too grainy and starchy for this application. Corn: Corn on the cob adds a sweet flavor to a shrimp boil! So will colorful strips of red bell pepper and halved cherry tomatoes. Seasonings: Beer is added to the water with lemon, onion, garlic, and other seasonings for flavor. Old Bay Seasoning has all the delicious components for a classic Southern boil (you can also make your own homemade Old Bay Seasoning). You can use a shrimp boil seasoning if you’d like in place. Feel free to zest it up with some Cajun seasoning in the butter. Variations—Not every region has access to crawfish, but they’re a great addition to shrimp, and so are fresh crab legs.
How to Make a Shrimp Boil
A seafood boil is an all-hands affair; lots of sliced bread and a squeeze of lemon juice are must-haves!
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Leftover shrimp boil can be kept in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat under the broiler until heated through. Did your family love this Shrimp Boil recipe? Leave us a rating and a comment below! © SpendWithPennies.com. Content and photographs are copyright protected. Sharing of this recipe is both encouraged and appreciated. Copying and/or pasting full recipes to any social media is strictly prohibited. Please view my photo use policy here.
