Description
Classic Shrimp Boil is a flavorful, hearty one-pot seafood feast combining succulent shrimp, tender corn on the cob, and creamy baby potatoes, all infused with Old Bay seasoning and aromatics. Perfect for casual gatherings or family meals, this easy-to-make dish offers balanced textures and is easily customizable to suit any taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood and Proteins
- 1.5 pounds fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Optional: 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into thick rounds
Vegetables
- 4 ears corn on the cob, cut into smaller chunks
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, washed
- Optional: mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for variation
Seasonings and Aromatics
- 3 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 bay leaves
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and slice the corn cobs into smaller, manageable chunks. If using smoked sausage, slice it into thick rounds. Peel and devein the shrimp if they aren’t prepped already.
- Boil the Potatoes and Corn: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add Old Bay seasoning, smashed garlic cloves, and bay leaves to the water to infuse flavor. Add the baby potatoes and cook them for about 10 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add Corn and Sausage: Add the corn chunks and smoked sausage (if using) to the pot. Continue boiling for another 5 minutes to cook the vegetables and sausage through.
- Add the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp into the boiling pot. Cook for only 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook to avoid rubbery texture.
- Drain and Serve: Drain all contents in a colander and transfer to a large serving platter or spread over newspaper-lined table for an authentic experience. Scatter lemon wedges on top and sprinkle additional Old Bay seasoning if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh or fully thawed shrimp for best texture and flavor.
- Do not overcook shrimp; 2-3 minutes is sufficient.
- Season the boiling water generously with Old Bay and aromatics to maximize flavor.
- Keep the boil warm by covering with foil after draining while preparing garnishes or sides.
- Provide plenty of napkins and seafood forks, or pre-peel shrimp for easier eating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 190 mg
Keywords: shrimp boil, seafood feast, one-pot meal, classic shrimp boil, southern seafood, Old Bay seasoning, shrimp recipe, seafood party dish