Save Pin Bring the flavors of the Southern coast right to your table with this vibrant Seaside-Inspired Shrimp Boil. This one-pot wonder combines tender shell-on shrimp, smoky sausage, sweet corn, and baby red potatoes, all simmered to perfection in a fragrant blend of Old Bay seasoning and aromatic spices. Perfect for a festive family dinner or a relaxed gathering with friends, this dish invites you to savor the fresh, bold tastes of a classic seafood boil without the fuss of multiple pots.
Save Pin This recipe brings a joyful, communal spirit to your dinner table. The colors and aromas of the shrimp, corn, and sausage mingling together promise a feast for the senses and a comforting taste of coastal American cooking traditions.
Ingredients
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 4 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Cooking Broth
- 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.
- 2. Cook the Potatoes
- Add potatoes to the boiling water. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 12–15 minutes, until just tender.
- 3. Add Corn and Sausage
- Add corn and smoked sausage. Simmer for another 5–7 minutes.
- 4. Cook the Shrimp
- Add the shrimp. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, until shrimp are pink and opaque. Do not overcook.
- 5. Drain and Serve
- 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.
- 6. Finish
- Drizzle with melted butter, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve with fresh lemon wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an added depth of flavor, briefly sauté the smoked sausage before adding it to the pot. This caramelizes the sausage and enriches the broth aroma. Taking care not to overcook the shrimp keeps them tender and juicy. Using fresh ingredients ensures the best taste and presentation.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Elevate your boil by adding clams or crab legs to create a deluxe seafood feast. Swap Old Bay seasoning with Cajun seasoning for a spicier kick. Customize the size of shrimp or opt for different corn varieties to suit your preferences and seasonal availability.
Serviervorschläge
Serve your Seaside-Inspired Shrimp Boil with crusty bread to soak up the buttery, spicy juices. Fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley brighten the dish, making it perfect for casual gatherings and family meals.
Save Pin Whether you're hosting a coastal-themed dinner or simply craving the comforting flavors of the South, this Seaside-Inspired Shrimp Boil brings together simplicity, flavor, and tradition in every bite. Enjoy the ease of a one-pot meal with the festive spirit of a seafood boil.
Questions & Answers
- → Can I use peeled shrimp instead of shell-on?
Yes, peeled shrimp can be used but shell-on shrimp add more flavor during simmering. Adjust cooking time as peeled shrimp cook faster.
- → Is it necessary to sauté the smoked sausage before adding?
Sautéing sausage first enhances its smoky flavor, but it can also be added directly to the pot. Either method works well.
- → What can I substitute for Old Bay seasoning?
Cajun seasoning is a great alternative, providing similar spiced heat and flavor complexity to the broth.
- → How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?
Shrimp are ready when they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes 2-3 minutes. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
- → Can other seafood like clams or crab be added?
Yes, adding clams or crab legs can elevate the dish, providing richer seafood variety and flavor.