This Seafood Boil is all about big flavors and shared experiences. It’s incredibly customizable—use your favorite seafood and add-ins—and it comes together in one pot for easy cooking and cleanup. The combination of juicy shrimp, tender crab, sweet corn, and spicy sausage soaked in a seasoned butter sauce is irresistible. Plus, it’s fun to eat with your hands, making it a perfect interactive meal for family and friends.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
shrimp, deveined and shell-on crab legs or clusters clams or mussels (optional) smoked sausage, sliced corn on the cob, cut into pieces baby potatoes unsalted butter garlic, minced Old Bay seasoning or Cajun seasoning lemon wedges fresh parsley, chopped salt and black pepper optional: hot sauce for serving
Directions
Fill a large stockpot with water and bring it to a boil. Add salt and your choice of seasoning (Old Bay or Cajun).
Add the potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, until slightly tender.
Add the corn and sausage to the pot and boil for another 5–7 minutes.
Add the crab legs (and clams or mussels, if using) and cook for 5–6 minutes.
Finally, add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until pink and cooked through.
While the boil cooks, melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and more seasoning, stirring until fragrant.
Drain the cooked seafood and vegetables, then toss them in the seasoned garlic butter.
Spread the seafood boil on a large serving tray or parchment-lined table. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
Serve immediately with extra melted butter and hot sauce on the side.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6–8 people. Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes Total time: 50 minutes
Variations
Add more seafood: Include lobster tails, scallops, or snow crab for an extra luxurious twist.
Spicy version: Increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add sliced jalapeños to the boil.
Butter sauce upgrade: Mix in lemon juice, paprika, and a dash of cayenne for more kick.
Vegetarian option: Skip the seafood and sausage and boil corn, potatoes, mushrooms, and artichokes with flavorful seasoning.
Low country style: Include eggs and serve with cocktail sauce or remoulade for a Southern flair.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the seafood and vegetables in a large pan with a splash of water or butter. Cover and steam over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving seafood as it can become rubbery. Do not freeze, as texture may suffer.
FAQs
What is a seafood boil?
A seafood boil is a one-pot dish where various seafood, vegetables, and sausage are boiled in seasoned water, then tossed in butter or served as-is. It’s typically served on a large platter or table for sharing.
Can I make a seafood boil without crab?
Yes. You can use just shrimp, clams, mussels, or any combination of your preferred seafood. Crab adds richness but isn’t essential.
What kind of sausage is best for a seafood boil?
Smoked sausage or andouille are the most common choices. They add a spicy, savory depth that complements the seafood.
How do I prevent overcooking the seafood?
Add each type of seafood at different times based on its cooking time. Shrimp should go in last since it cooks quickly.
Do I need to clean the seafood before boiling?
Yes. Rinse the shellfish, devein shrimp, and scrub clams or mussels if using. Proper cleaning ensures safety and better flavor.
Can I use frozen seafood?
Absolutely. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking for the best texture.
Is a seafood boil spicy?
It can be, depending on the seasoning and sauces used. Adjust the spice level to your preference by using mild or spicy seasoning blends.
What sides go well with seafood boil?
Crusty bread, coleslaw, and green salad are popular sides. You can also serve it with rice or garlic butter noodles.
How do I serve a seafood boil?
Traditionally, it’s poured onto a lined table for a communal eating experience. You can also serve it in large bowls or platters.
Can I prepare the ingredients in advance?
Yes. You can chop the vegetables and clean the seafood ahead of time. Store everything in the fridge until ready to cook.
Conclusion
A Seafood Boil is a delicious, festive way to feed a crowd while enjoying a variety of flavors in one meal. With its easy preparation, customizable ingredients, and bold taste, it’s no wonder this dish is a favorite for summer cookouts, holidays, and casual gatherings. Bring out the newspaper, roll up your sleeves, and dive into a feast that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
A Seafood Boil is a festive, hearty one-pot dish loaded with shrimp, crab, sausage, corn, and potatoes all simmered in a flavorful seasoned broth. Tossed in garlicky butter and served family-style, it’s a hands-on, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
1 lb shrimp, deveined and shell-on
1 lb crab legs or clusters
1 lb clams or mussels (optional)
12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
4 ears corn on the cob, cut into pieces
1.5 lbs baby potatoes
1/2 cup unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2–3 tbsp Old Bay seasoning or Cajun seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 lemons, cut into wedges
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: hot sauce for serving
Instructions
Fill a large stockpot with water and bring to a boil. Add salt and seasoning (Old Bay or Cajun) to the water.
Add baby potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, or until slightly tender.
Add corn and sausage, cooking for an additional 5–7 minutes.
Add crab legs (and clams or mussels if using), and cook for 5–6 minutes.
Add shrimp last and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until pink and opaque.
While seafood cooks, melt butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and extra seasoning, stirring until fragrant.
Drain the seafood and vegetables, then transfer to a large bowl or tray. Pour the seasoned garlic butter over and toss to coat evenly.
Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately with hot sauce and extra melted butter on the side.
Notes
Stagger seafood additions based on cooking time to avoid overcooking.Use frozen seafood if needed, but thaw fully before boiling.Serve over parchment or newspaper for an easy cleanup and authentic feel.Add lobster, scallops, or eggs for variations.
