If you’re craving a seafood feast that feels like a celebration but comes together in a flash, this Easy Grilled Shrimp Boil Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and sweet corn all kissed by the grill’s smoky char, it’s a mouthwatering medley that’s bursting with classic coastal flavors. Perfect for a laid-back summer evening or a casual dinner with friends, this dish turns simple ingredients into a vibrant, flavorful meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of fresh, straightforward ingredients sets the stage for this delicious feast. Each one brings its own magic—from the sweetness of corn to the bold spice of Old Bay seasoning—making the flavors pop while keeping the prep easy and fuss-free.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the show, tender and quick to cook for perfect smoky bites.
- 8 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds: Adds a rich, savory depth and a satisfying bite to the mix.
- 2 ears of corn, cut into thirds: Brings natural sweetness and a vibrant burst of color.
- 1/2 lb baby potatoes, halved: Provide hearty texture and soak up the buttery, garlicky goodness.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps everything brown beautifully and packs in moisture.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Turns this dish into a luscious, rich treat that coats all components.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the boil with irresistible aroma and flavor.
- 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning): Delivers that iconic seafood boil kick with just the right amount of spice.
- 1 lemon, sliced: Brightens the entire dish with zesty freshness.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors.
How to Make Easy Grilled Shrimp Boil Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Grill and Potatoes
First things first, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). This sets the perfect temperature for grilling everything evenly and getting those coveted grill marks. While the grill heats up, toss your baby potatoes with a tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and black pepper, then microwave them for 5 to 6 minutes until just tender. Precooking the potatoes ensures they finish grilling at the same time as everything else without being crunchy.
Step 2: Mix the Magic
Grab a large bowl and combine your shrimp, smoked sausage slices, corn chunks, and those perfectly tender potatoes. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil, melted butter, and minced garlic, then sprinkle in the Old Bay seasoning or Cajun mix. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice for a bright, tangy lift before tossing everything together until evenly coated with that fragrant, buttery seasoning blend.
Step 3: Pack and Grill
Divide the mix between four large foil sheets or pile it all into a grill basket if you have one. Wrap the foil tightly to make individual packets that trap in all the juices and smoky flavor as they cook. Grill for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping once halfway through. You’ll know it’s done when the shrimp turn a gorgeous pink, the corn is hot and slightly charred, and sausage and potatoes have absorbed all those grilled flavors.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Carefully open your foil packets (watch out for steam!) or take your grill basket off the heat. Sprinkle everything with fresh chopped parsley and add lemon wedges for extra zing. Serve hot, and get ready for a satisfying medley of textures and tastes that will impress everyone at your table.
How to Serve Easy Grilled Shrimp Boil Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds a bright, verdant color and subtle herbal note. Lemon wedges are not only pretty but also perfect for a spritz of fresh acidity that cuts through the richness of the butter and sausage. You can even sprinkle a little extra Old Bay seasoning on top for those who crave a bit more spice and crunch.
Side Dishes
This Easy Grilled Shrimp Boil Recipe pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness while coleslaw adds crunch and creaminess. For something heartier, crusty bread or garlic toast is perfect for soaking up every buttery, garlicky drop left on your plate. Don’t forget a chilled glass of white wine or your favorite summer beer to complete the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Instead of serving on plates, consider laying down a piece of butcher paper or parchment on your table for a casual, hands-on feast. You can also serve the shrimp boil inside a large wooden bowl or cast iron skillet for a rustic touch. For parties, individual foil packets not only make for easy serving but also keep each portion warm and juicy. Adding edible flowers or colorful herbs on top can make your presentation extra festive and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which might be wishful thinking), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The shrimp boil keeps well for up to 2 days without losing much of its texture or flavor, making it a great option for a quick next-day meal.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t ideal for shrimp boil due to the delicate texture of shrimp and corn, which can become mushy when thawed. However, if necessary, separate components like cooked potatoes and sausage can be frozen and reheated separately later. Just avoid freezing assembled packets for best quality.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, gently warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat or use the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving shrimp boil directly as it can make shrimp rubbery. Adding a little butter or olive oil during reheating helps keep everything moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before tossing with the other ingredients. This helps them grill evenly and prevents excess moisture.
What can I substitute for Old Bay seasoning?
If you don’t have Old Bay, Cajun seasoning or a mix of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and cayenne works perfectly to bring that same bold, spicy kick.
Is foil packet grilling necessary?
While foil packets help lock in moisture and flavor, you can use a grill basket or even a cast iron pan on the grill. Just watch the cooking times closely and stir halfway to avoid burning.
Can I add other seafood to the boil?
Definitely! Feel free to throw in clams, mussels, or crab legs for a heartier seafood feast. Just adjust cooking times accordingly since shellfish may take a bit longer.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level is moderate and can be adjusted by using more or less Old Bay or Cajun seasoning. It’s flavorful without overwhelming heat, making it accessible for most palates.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Grilled Shrimp Boil Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together the best of the sea and hearty goodness in one effortless meal. Its balance of flavors, simplicity, and the joy of grilling make it a go-to option when you want something special without the fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your new favorite dish to share with family and friends!
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Easy Grilled Shrimp Boil Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Grilled Shrimp Boil is a perfect one-pan meal combining succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, tender baby potatoes, and sweet corn on the cob, all grilled to perfection with a delicious blend of Old Bay seasoning, garlic, and butter. It’s a quick and flavorful summer dish that brings the taste of a traditional seafood boil to your grill.
Ingredients
Seafood and Meat
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 8 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
Vegetables
- 2 ears of corn, cut into thirds
- 1/2 lb baby potatoes, halved
Sauces and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (200°C), ensuring it reaches the ideal temperature for grilling the ingredients evenly.
- Precook Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Microwave them for 5 to 6 minutes or until they are just tender. Remove and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In the same large bowl, add the peeled and deveined shrimp, sliced smoked sausage, corn pieces, and the precooked potatoes. Pour in the remaining olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture. Toss everything thoroughly so all pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning and butter mixture.
- Prepare Grill Packets or Basket: Divide the mixture evenly among four large sheets of foil and tightly wrap each one into a sealed packet. Alternatively, place the entire mixture into a grill basket that can be easily flipped on the grill.
- Grill the Packets: Place the foil packets or grill basket on the preheated grill. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping once halfway through the cooking time. Cook until the shrimp turns pink and is fully cooked, and the other ingredients are hot and develop a slight char for added flavor.
- Serve: Carefully open the foil packets or remove the grill basket from the heat. Garnish the grilled shrimp boil with chopped fresh parsley and serve with additional lemon wedges if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- The microwaving step for the potatoes ensures they cook faster on the grill without burning.
- You can substitute Old Bay seasoning with Cajun seasoning for a spicier kick.
- Ensure shrimp are cooked just until pink to avoid toughness.
- If using foil packets, make sure they are sealed tightly to steam the ingredients evenly.
- For an extra smoky flavor, use charcoal or wood chips on your grill.
