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Shrimp Boil
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Shrimp Boil

A shrimp boil is a classic, flavorful dish combining shrimp, corn, potatoes, and sausage cooked in a zesty, seasoned broth, perfect for gatherings and easy to prepare.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy, One-Pot, Seafood, Shrimp, Summer
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 16 cups water
  • 2 lemons divided (1 sliced, 1 juiced)
  • 1 red onion peeled and cut into 4 wedges
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 ½ lb red baby potatoes halved lengthwise (or medium potatoes quartered)
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 4 ears corn each cut into 4-5 pieces
  • 1 14-16 oz halal beef or chicken sausage sliced into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 ½ lb raw large shrimp peeled and deveined, tails left on
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
  • ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Boil Base

  • In a large stockpot, combine 16 cups of water with the juice of one lemon, sliced lemon halves, red onion wedges, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, and salt. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over high heat.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

  • Add the halved baby potatoes to the boiling water. Cook uncovered for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are just tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 3: Add Corn and Sausage

  • Once the potatoes are nearly cooked, add the corn pieces and halal sausage slices to the pot. Boil for an additional 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

  • Finally, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the pot. Cook for just 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp.

Step 5: Drain and Toss

  • Using a slotted spoon or a large colander, carefully drain the shrimp, potatoes, corn, and sausage. Transfer them to a large serving platter or newspaper-covered table for a rustic presentation.

Step 6: Add Butter and Season

  • Drizzle the melted unsalted butter over the shrimp boil mixture. Sprinkle ground black pepper and chopped parsley evenly on top for a fresh, peppery finish.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve your shrimp boil hot with additional lemon wedges on the side. It’s perfect eaten by hand, dipping the shrimp and sausage into the buttery, seasoned juices.

Equipment

  • Large Stockpot
  • Slotted Spoon
  • Large Colander

Notes

Use fresh shrimp for best flavor; frozen shrimp should be fully thawed. Adjust Old Bay seasoning to taste, and consider adding whole cloves or bay leaves for more flavor. Serve with crusty bread or garlic butter for an indulgent meal.