Ready to bring a taste of the South to your table? This Shrimp Boil Recipe is a one-pot wonder featuring tender shrimp, hearty potatoes, smoky sausage, and sweet corn, all infused with bold seasonings. Perfect for gatherings or a fun family dinner, this dish is as delicious as it is simple, ready in under an hour. With its vibrant flavors and communal appeal, this Shrimp Boil Recipe is a classic you’ll want to make again and again—messy hands and happy hearts guaranteed!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Ease: Everything cooks together in this Shrimp Boil Recipe for minimal cleanup.
- Big Flavors: Old Bay and thyme create a zesty, Southern kick.
- Hearty and Filling: Potatoes, corn, and sausage make it a meal in itself.
- Quick Cooking: Ready in 50 minutes from start to finish.
- Fun to Share: Perfect for casual, hands-on dining.
Tools Needed
To whip up this Shrimp Boil Recipe, you’ll need a few essentials. Want to upgrade your kitchen gear? Visit Our Shop at for top-quality tools! Here’s what you’ll need and why:
- Large Pot (12-quart): Holds all ingredients comfortably for your Shrimp Boil Recipe.
- Slotted Spoon: Lifts shrimp and veggies out easily.
- Large Serving Platter or Baking Sheet: Spreads the feast for sharing.
- Knife: Slices onions, potatoes, and sausage with precision.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Boil
- 4 quarts hot water
- 1 large red or yellow onion, sliced into 4-6 wedges
- 1 garlic bulb, halved horizontally
- ½ cup Old Bay seasoning
- 1 ½ tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 ½ teaspoons dried)
- 1 ½ lbs medium red potatoes, cut into fourths
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 ears corn, husked, cut into fourths or halved
- 14 oz andouille sausage, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
- 1 ½ lbs shrimp, deveined (peeled if preferred)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, or more to taste
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
Directions
- Start the Broth: Fill a 12-quart pot with 4 quarts hot water. Add sliced onion, halved garlic bulb, ½ cup Old Bay seasoning, and 1 ½ tablespoons thyme. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Potatoes: Add 1 ½ lbs quartered red potatoes and 1 tablespoon salt. Boil 10-15 minutes until nearly tender.
- Add Corn and Sausage: Stir in 4 pieces of corn and cook 3 minutes. Add 14 oz sliced andouille sausage and cook 4 minutes more.
- Cook Shrimp: Gently stir in 1 ½ lbs shrimp and cook 1-2 minutes until just opaque and pink.
- Drain and Dress: Drain the mixture (reserve ¼ cup broth if desired). Spread on a large platter or baking sheet. Drizzle with 6 tablespoons melted butter and 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons parsley, extra Old Bay, and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Enjoy your Shrimp Boil Recipe warm, straight from the platter!
Expert Tips For Perfect Shrimp Boil Recipe
- Timing is Key: Add ingredients in stages to avoid overcooking in this Shrimp Boil Recipe.
- Fresh Shrimp: Look for firm, pink shrimp for the best texture.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and Old Bay for bold flavor.
- Rest Briefly: Let it sit a minute after draining to soak up the butter.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Shrimp: Cook just until pink to keep them tender in your Shrimp Boil Recipe.
- Undercooked Potatoes: Test with a fork—they should be nearly tender before adding corn.
- Skipping Seasoning: Layer flavors in the broth for a tasty base.
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add cayenne or hot sauce to the broth.
- Veggie Swap: Try artichokes or green beans.
- Sausage Swap: Use kielbasa or chorizo instead of andouille.
- Seafood Mix: Toss in crab legs or crawfish with the shrimp.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover Shrimp Boil Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pot with a splash of water or broth over medium heat—microwaving works but may soften veggies. Freezing isn’t ideal due to texture changes, but if needed, freeze for up to 1 month and thaw overnight before reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Boil Recipe?
Yes, thaw fully and pat dry before adding.
2. What’s the best potato for Shrimp Boil Recipe?
Red potatoes hold their shape well—waxy varieties are ideal.
3. Can I skip sausage?
Yes, double the shrimp or add more veggies instead.
4. How do I know shrimp are done?
They turn pink and opaque in 1-2 minutes.
5. Can I make it ahead?
Cook components separately and combine just before serving.
6. Is this kid-friendly?
Reduce Old Bay for a milder Shrimp Boil Recipe kids will enjoy.
Conclusion
This Shrimp Boil Recipe is a Southern gem—tender shrimp, hearty potatoes, and sweet corn in a flavorful broth, all in one pot. Perfect for casual feasts or a fun night in, it’s as easy as it is delicious. Grab your pot, boil up this Shrimp Boil Recipe, and dive into a messy, tasty tradition that’s sure to bring smiles all around!
