shrimp boil recipe
This classic shrimp boil is a festive and flavorful dish that showcases succulent shrimp, potatoes, corn, and seasoned sausage all boiled together in a spiced broth. Perfect for gatherings or a family dinner, this dish is simple to prepare and loaded with delicious flavors.
Equipment
- 1 large pot at least 5 gallons
- 1 strainer or colander
- 1 wooden spoon
- 1 measuring cups
- 1 measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 3 medium-sized potatoes, quartered (about 1.5 pounds)
- 4 ears corn, cut into thirds
- 1/4 cup Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added spice)
- 1 lemon halved
- 8 cups water
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with 8 cups of water. Add the Old Bay seasoning, salt, cayenne pepper (if using), and the halved lemon. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, add the quartered potatoes to the pot. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until they start to soften.
- Next, add the sliced sausage to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- After the sausage has cooked with the potatoes, add the corn. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Lastly, gently add the shrimp to the pot. Cook for approximately 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Once everything is cooked, carefully strain the contents of the pot using a strainer or colander to remove the liquid.
- Transfer the shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and corn to a large serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
You can customize your shrimp boil by adding other seafood like crab or mussels.
For a spicier version, consider adding diced jalapeños or serving with hot sauce.
If you want to make cleaning easier, you can line your serving platter or table with newspaper or butcher paper.