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Flavorful Shrimp Boil with Old Bay Seasoning

shrimp boil with old bay seasoning - featured image

A quick and easy shrimp boil recipe featuring bold Old Bay seasoning, tender shrimp, potatoes, corn, and optional sausage. Perfect for weeknights or gatherings, this flavorful dish is a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen)
  • 3 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 pound red potatoes, halved or quartered
  • 3 ears fresh corn, cut into thirds (or frozen corn on the cob)
  • 1/2 pound andouille sausage, sliced (optional)
  • 4 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • About 8 cups water
  • Optional: melted butter or hot sauce for serving

Instructions

  1. Rinse and halve the potatoes, cut corn into thirds, slice the sausage, and smash the garlic cloves. Thaw frozen shrimp under cold running water and pat dry. (About 10 minutes prep)
  2. In a large stockpot, add 8 cups water, 3 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning, 1 tablespoon salt, bay leaves, and smashed garlic. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
  3. Add potatoes to the boiling water and cook for about 10 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
  4. Add corn pieces and sliced andouille sausage to the pot. Cook together for another 5 minutes.
  5. Add shrimp last and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until shrimp turn pink and curl slightly. Avoid overcooking.
  6. Drain shrimp, potatoes, corn, and sausage using a colander or slotted spoon. Transfer to a large serving dish or newspaper-lined table.
  7. Squeeze fresh lemon wedges over the top and sprinkle a light dusting of Old Bay seasoning if desired. Serve with melted butter or hot sauce on the side.

Notes

Keep a close eye on timing to avoid overcooking shrimp. Season the boiling water with Old Bay for infused flavor. Smaller red potatoes or new potatoes work best to avoid mushiness. Add a splash of hot water if water level drops during cooking. For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon and extra Old Bay seasoning before serving. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid drying shrimp.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp boil, Old Bay seasoning, seafood, quick dinner, easy recipe, shrimp, potatoes, corn, andouille sausage, comfort food