If you’re craving a dish that brings together smoky, savory flavors with coastal charm, you’re in for a treat with this Easy Grilled Shrimp Boil Recipe. It’s a delightful combination of succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, tender baby potatoes, and sweet corn, all tossed in a buttery, garlicky sauce and cooked right on your grill. This recipe not only captures the spirit of a classic shrimp boil but does so in a way that’s fresher, faster, and perfect for any backyard gathering or quick weeknight meal. Let’s dive into the fun and flavorful world of this easy and satisfying seafood feast!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Grilled Shrimp Boil Recipe thrives on simple ingredients that each add their own delicious punch. From the juicy shrimp that star in the dish to the smoky sausage that deepens the flavor, every component plays a vital role in creating a harmony of taste and texture.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The main protein, tender and quick-cooking, delivering that fresh seafood goodness.
- 8 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds: Adds a smoky, savory layer that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- 2 ears of corn, cut into thirds: Sweet and crisp, providing a fun pop of color and texture.
- 1/2 lb baby potatoes, halved: Their creamy interiors soak up all the flavors perfectly.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps everything cook evenly while adding a light fruitiness.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Creates that rich, luscious coating that brings all ingredients together.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Punches up the aroma and depth of flavor with a garlicky warmth.
- 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning): For that classic seafood boil kick with a blend of spices.
- 1 lemon, sliced: Adds fresh acidity and a bright finish.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh herbal touch to finish the dish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all flavors.
How to Make Easy Grilled Shrimp Boil Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Pre-Cook Potatoes
First things first, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While it’s warming up, toss your halved baby potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Since potatoes take longer to cook than shrimp, microwave them for about 5 to 6 minutes until they’re just tender. This ensures they will finish perfectly on the grill without being undercooked or overdone.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Bowl
Grab a large bowl and add your shrimp, smoky sausage slices, corn pieces, and those pre-microwaved potatoes. Drizzle in the remaining olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, and Old Bay seasoning. Give everything a good squeeze of fresh lemon juice and toss all the ingredients until they’re evenly coated with the buttery, spicy mixture. This step is where all the flavors start their magic together.
Step 3: Prepare for the Grill
You have two great options here: either divide the mixture into four large foil sheets and wrap tightly to form packets or transfer everything into a grill basket. The foil packets will steam and char the ingredients gently while locking in all those wonderful juices. Whichever method you choose, make sure it’s secure to avoid any drips on the grill.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Place your foil packets or basket on the grill, cooking for 12 to 15 minutes. Be sure to flip everything halfway through to encourage even charring and cooking. You’ll know it’s done when the shrimp turn that irresistible pink color, and all ingredients feel hot and have a slight smoky char. The aroma alone will have you ready to dive in!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Carefully open your foil packets or remove the grill basket, being mindful of hot steam. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top and add lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of brightness. Serve everything right away while warm, letting the inviting scent and vibrant colors make your guests eager for their first bite.
How to Serve Easy Grilled Shrimp Boil Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of green color but also brings a fresh herbaceous note that balances the richness. Lemon wedges are essential for that final squeeze of tang that brightens every bite and cuts through the buttery goodness.
Side Dishes
This shrimp boil shines all on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, crisp coleslaw or a simple green salad offer refreshing contrasts. Crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the buttery sauce, making sure none of the delicious juices go to waste.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Easy Grilled Shrimp Boil Recipe family-style on a large wooden board or a picnic table covered with butcher paper. This encourages a casual, festive vibe where everyone can dig in and enjoy the feast together. You can also serve it in individual cast iron skillets for an inviting, rustic presentation that keeps the food warm at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover shrimp boil components to an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 2 days for optimal freshness, as the shrimp and potatoes can change texture if stored too long.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well, especially the sausage, corn, and potatoes. For best results, separate the shrimp before freezing, as seafood texture can be affected. Freeze leftovers in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. Warm the shrimp boil gently in a skillet over medium heat or use your grill for a few minutes to revive the smoky charred flavors. Avoid overheating to keep shrimp tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for the Easy Grilled Shrimp Boil Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent proper grilling and browning.
What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook this recipe on the stove?
Yes, you can prepare the recipe on the stove. Use a large skillet or pot to cook the ingredients together, starting with microwaving the potatoes, then sautéing shrimp, sausage, corn, and adding the butter and seasonings.
Is Old Bay seasoning necessary?
Old Bay is classic for seafood boils, but you can substitute with Cajun seasoning or your preferred seafood spice mix to suit your taste preferences.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! Add some sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a fiery kick that pairs wonderfully with the smoky sausage and buttery shrimp.
How do I know when the shrimp is perfectly cooked?
Look for the shrimp to turn pink and opaque with firm texture but not rubbery. Shrimp cook quickly, so grilling for 12-15 minutes with a flip halfway ensures they stay juicy without overcooking.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Grilled Shrimp Boil Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration no matter the occasion. Its combination of smoky, buttery flavors with vibrant corn and potatoes makes it an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just looking for a fuss-free way to impress your guests, this recipe is a guaranteed win. So fire up that grill and get ready for an unforgettable feast that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
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Easy Grilled Shrimp Boil Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Grilled Shrimp Boil combines succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, tender baby potatoes, and sweet corn all cooked together in flavorful foil packets on the grill. Perfect for a quick and delicious seafood feast with minimal cleanup, the blend of Old Bay seasoning, garlic, melted butter, and fresh lemon creates a vibrant, comforting dish bursting with summer flavors.
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
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (200°C), ensuring it is properly heated for even cooking.
- Prep Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Microwave the potatoes for 5 to 6 minutes until they are just tender. Set aside to combine later.
- Combine Ingredients: Using the same bowl, add the peeled shrimp, sliced smoked sausage, corn pieces, the precooked potatoes, remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Toss everything thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly with the seasoning mixture.
- Prepare Foil Packets or Grill Basket: Divide the seasoned mixture evenly into four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil, or place all ingredients into a grill basket. If using foil, wrap each packet tightly to seal.
- 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, until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked, and all ingredients are heated through with slight charring.
- Serve and Garnish: Carefully open the foil packets or remove from the grill basket. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Microwaving the potatoes before grilling ensures they are tender and cook evenly in the foil packets.
- If you don’t have a grill basket, foil packets work wonderfully and keep cleanup minimal.
- Adjust seasoning to taste—add more Old Bay or Cajun seasoning for extra spice.
- Make sure to seal foil packets tightly to trap steam and cook thoroughly.
- Use gloves or tongs when handling hot foil packets to avoid burns.
