During the summer months, I tend to make a ton of seafood dinners. My kids crave it just as much as I do, so this past week I tried a shrimp boil which turned out to be the ultimate hit and will now be in constant rotation these next weeks of summer. There’s just something about large shrimp with cajun seasoning and fresh corn as a low country boil for dinner that screams summer to me. This easy shrimp boil recipe will be the best part of your summer nights and have you craving these tender shrimp as a delicious meal all season long!
This recipe is super easy to make and is perfect for outdoor gatherings because it takes little time to prepare and I promise your guests will be asking you for the recipe. I’m hoping you enjoy it as much as we do! Full disclosure: I plan to add potatoes and corn into the boil, I just didn’t have them in the house, so I made this with a salad. Tender potatoes can be made on a sheet pan or boiled in hot water in a large stockpot. A seafood boil recipe needs good veggies on the side and baby potatoes are easy to make and a typical crowd pleaser, especially for large groups.
Shrimp Boil Ingredients
1 onion
2 stalks celery
3 cloves garlic
2 bottles/cans of beer, I used Guinness (you’ll want a dark beer)
2 cups water
3 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
1/2 tablespoon black peppercorns or red pepper flakes
3 bay leaves
2 pounds raw shrimp – (I used peeled deveined shrimp, but you can use shell on as well)
3 lemons, halved
4 red potatoes quartered (optional)
4 corn cobs – cut into third (optional)
Salt/Pepper to taste
Preparation
1. In a large pot, add all ingredients (except shrimp) and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to and simmer, covered, for 5-8 minutes. You’ll see the broth starting to change consistency. This is where you will get the best flavor and having them all simmer in a big pot is not just a classic way to cook a low country shrimp boil recipe, but it requires a small amount of attention because the pot will cook all on it’s own with very little stirring. Fresh shrimp for the summer is one of my family’s favorite dishes and we try to take advantage of the freshest seafood during this season for the most part. A one-pot recipe is perfect for those who have a busy schedule and need an easy dinner option.
2. Bring back up to a full boil, add the shrimp and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through (cooking time will vary depending on the size of the shrimp). Stir occasionally during cooking.
3. Remove bay leaves and transfer the shrimp from the pot to a large serving bowl. Spoon some of the cooking liquid over the top and add the lemon wedges over the shrimp. Enjoy!
