Shrimp Boil

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Boil is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and fun to eat. The shrimp,  corn, and potatoes are all cooked in a spiced broth that infuses them with bold, savory flavors. This dish is perfect for sharing with friends and family, as everyone can dive in and enjoy the feast. With the option to customize the spice level, this dish can be as mild or spicy as you like. It’s a great way to bring people together and enjoy a satisfying, delicious meal!

Ingredients

For the boil:

• 2 lbs large shrimp (peeled and deveined, with tails on)

• 4 medium potatoes (cut into quarters)

• 4 ears corn (cut in half)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 lemons (cut into wedges)

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

For the seasoning:

• 4-6 cups water (enough to cover the ingredients)

• 1/4 cup Old Bay seasoning (or your preferred seafood seasoning)

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 2 bay leaves

• 3 cloves garlic (smashed)

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a touch of tang)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the broth:

1. In a large pot or stockpot, add the water and bring it to a boil.

2. Once boiling, stir in the Old Bay seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, bay leaves, garlic, and apple cider vinegar (if using). Let the seasoning mixture boil for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Cook the potatoes:

1. Add the potatoes to the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. (You may need to adjust the time depending on the size of your potatoes.)

3. Add the shrimp:

1. Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp.

4. Drain and serve:

1. Once everything is cooked, carefully drain the contents of the pot, keeping the seasoning mixture separate.

2. Spread the cooked shrimp, potatoes, and corn out on a large platter or serving tray.

3. Drizzle with some of the reserved seasoning broth for extra flavor, and garnish with fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley.

6. Serve:

1. Serve the Shrimp Boil hot, and enjoy the feast! You can serve it with additional dipping sauce, such as melted butter or a tangy cocktail sauce, for extra flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add more cayenne pepper or chopped fresh jalapeños to the broth for extra heat.

• Different proteins: You can add other proteins like crab legs, clams, or lobster tails for an even more decadent boil.

• Vegetarian version: Omit the shrimp  and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots.

• Seasoning alternatives: You can use a different seasoning blend such as Cajun seasoning or your favorite seafood boil seasoning if you prefer.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat by steaming or microwaving the shrimp and vegetables. Be cautious not to overcook the shrimp during reheating.

Conclusion

Shrimp Boil is a fun, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying with family and friends. The combination of shrimp, potatoes, and corn in a seasoned broth makes for a comforting meal that’s bursting with bold flavors. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a seafood feast, this Shrimp Boil is sure to be a hit! The best part is, it’s easy to make, and everyone can dig in and enjoy this delicious, hands-on meal together.