As summer approaches, it’s time to fire up the grill and gather around the table for a backyard bash. And what’s more festive than a big pot of spicy shrimp boil? This classic Southern dish has gained popularity nationwide, and with good reason: it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a crowd. In this article, we’ll dive into 18 different spicy shrimp boil recipes that will spice up your summer gatherings. From Cajun-inspired boils with corn and potatoes to beer-infused boils with smoked sausage, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Cajun Shrimp Boil with Corn and Potatoes
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this classic Cajun shrimp boil recipe, featuring succulent shrimp, sweet corn, and crispy potatoes. This hearty dish is perfect for a casual gathering or family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1 gallon water
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, cut into large chunks
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or boil basket, combine Cajun seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice.
2. Add the shrimp, potatoes, and corn to the pot.
3. Pour in the water, making sure that all ingredients are covered.
4. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and crusty bread on the side.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Boil with Sausage
Get ready for a flavorful and easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for a crowd! This Garlic Butter Shrimp Boil with Sausage recipe combines succulent shrimp, spicy sausage, and tender vegetables in a rich garlic butter broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 smoked sausages (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 4-6 potatoes, peeled and halved
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with the sliced potatoes, onion, and garlic.
2. Add the sliced sausage on top of the vegetables.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until pink and fully cooked.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the unsalted butter to melt. Serve hot with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Pepper Shrimp Boil with Old Bay Seasoning
Experience the bright flavors of summer with this refreshing shrimp boil infused with the boldness of Old Bay seasoning and the tanginess of lemon pepper. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Old Bay Seasoning
– 1 tablespoon lemon pepper
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or boil basket, combine shrimp, Old Bay Seasoning, lemon pepper, and kosher salt.
2. Add sliced lemons, garlic, water, and white wine (if using).
3. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and let stand for 1-2 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Creole Shrimp Boil with Andouille Sausage
Get ready for a flavorful boil that combines the spicy kick of Creole seasoning with the smoky goodness of Andouille sausage and succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons Creole seasoning
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 4 cups water
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 4 cups of water, Creole seasoning, cayenne pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil.
2. Add the sliced Andouille sausage to the pot and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp and garlic to the pot. Cook for an additional 4-6 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat, stir in butter, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southern-Style Shrimp Boil with Red Potatoes
A classic Lowcountry dish, this shrimp boil is a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for a summer gathering or family dinner. With the simplicity of ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s an ideal choice for a quick yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
– 2-3 red potatoes, scrubbed and halved
– 1/4 cup Old Bay seasoning
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 gallon water
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with the gallon of water and add the Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring to a boil.
2. Add the red potatoes to the boiling water and cook for 15-20 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until pink and fully cooked.
4. Remove from heat, season with salt to taste, and garnish with parsley or thyme.
5. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Beer-Infused Shrimp Boil with Smoked Sausage
Elevate your seafood boil game with this easy and flavorful recipe, perfect for a gathering of friends or family. A combination of succulent shrimp, savory smoked sausage, and the depth of beer creates a truly unforgettable experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 smoked sausages (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced
– 2 cups beer (any style, but darker beers work well)
– 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with beer, Old Bay seasoning, and cayenne pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Add sliced smoked sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes or until browned.
4. Add shrimp and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until pink and fully cooked.
5. Serve hot with lemon wedges and butter for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Coconut Curry Shrimp Boil with Jasmine Rice
Experience the exotic flavors of the East with this mouthwatering Coconut Curry Shrimp Boil, served over fluffy Jasmine Rice. This aromatic dish is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup Jasmine Rice
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add shrimp, onion, and garlic; cook for 2-3 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, mix curry powder, coconut milk, and water. Pour the mixture into the pot; stir to combine.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer for 5-7 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Serve hot over cooked Jasmine Rice, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican-Style Shrimp Boil with Chorizo and Lime
A flavorful and vibrant twist on traditional shrimp boils, this recipe combines succulent shrimp, spicy chorizo sausage, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a taste of Mexico in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 pound Mexican chorizo sausage, sliced
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with the water, lime juice, garlic, and oregano. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the chorizo sausage and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai-Inspired Shrimp Boil with Lemongrass and Chili
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful Thai-inspired shrimp boil, infused with the bright notes of lemongrass and a spicy kick from chili peppers. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lemongrass, chilies, onion, and garlic.
2. Add shrimp and pour in oil, water, and fish sauce (if using).
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Low-Country Shrimp Boil with Crab and Clams
Experience the authentic flavors of the Lowcountry with this mouthwatering seafood boil, featuring succulent shrimp, crab, and clams cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 pounds cherrystone clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
– 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons salt
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with the water and add the salt, Old Bay seasoning, and cayenne pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Add the shrimp, crab meat, and clams to the pot.
4. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the seafood is cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and let it sit for 2-3 minutes before serving.
6. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoky Paprika Shrimp Boil with Baby Corn
Add a smoky twist to your traditional shrimp boil with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp, baby corn, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup baby corn, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2-3 inches of water and add the sliced onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp and baby corn to the pot, stirring gently to combine.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Honey Sriracha Shrimp Boil with Sweet Potatoes
Add a twist to traditional shrimp boils by incorporating the sweet and spicy flavors of honey and sriracha. This recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with the water and bring to a boil.
2. Add the sweet potatoes and cook for 15 minutes or until tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and sriracha sauce.
4. Add the shrimp to the pot and stir in the honey-sriracha mixture.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and squeeze with lemon wedges.
7. Serve hot, garnished with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jerk-Seasoned Shrimp Boil with Pineapple
Get ready for a flavorful Caribbean-inspired boil that combines succulent shrimp with the sweetness of pineapple and the heat of jerk seasoning. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious seafood dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 4 cups water
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced
– 1/2 cup yellow onion, sliced
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with the water and add the jerk seasoning. Bring to a boil.
2. Add the shrimp, pineapple, bell pepper, and onion to the pot.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mediterranean Shrimp Boil with Feta and Olives
Bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with this vibrant and aromatic shrimp boil, infused with the tanginess of feta cheese and the brininess of olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water, enough to cover the shrimp
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil.
2. Add the sliced lemons, olives, feta cheese, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional lemon slices and olives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vietnamese Lemongrass Shrimp Boil with Rice Noodles
Experience the bold flavors of Vietnam with this quick and flavorful dish, featuring succulent shrimp, aromatic lemongrass, and tender rice noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 stalks fresh lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup rice noodles
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour in the water.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Discard solids.
6. Serve the shrimp with the warm rice noodles and garnish with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuscan-Style Shrimp Boil with White Wine and Herbs
Experience the bold flavors of Tuscany with this easy-to-make shrimp boil, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 potatoes, peeled and halved (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the shrimp and bring to a boil.
2. Add olive oil, onion, garlic, lemon slices, white wine, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender (if using).
4. Add shrimp and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until pink and fully cooked.
5. Serve hot with crusty bread and your choice of sides.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Korean Gochujang Shrimp Boil with Kimchi
This spicy and savory shrimp boil combines the bold flavors of gochujang, a Korean chili paste, with the tanginess of kimchi. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons gochujang
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped (any type)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, water, kimchi, garlic, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 4-5 minutes or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately with additional kimchi on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caribbean Shrimp Boil with Mango Salsa
Experience the flavors of the Caribbean with this vibrant shrimp boil, perfectly paired with a sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, sliced (optional)
– 1 teaspoon Caribbean seasoning blend
– 4 cups water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine olive oil, sliced onion, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook over medium-high heat for 5 minutes.
2. Add shrimp, Caribbean seasoning blend, and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve shrimp with Mango Salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your summer with these mouth-watering shrimp boil recipes! From classic Cajun flavors to international twists, we’ve got you covered. Try our Cajun Shrimp Boil with Corn and Potatoes or go for something new like our Coconut Curry Shrimp Boil with Jasmine Rice. Or maybe a spicy kick is what you’re looking for – our Thai-Inspired Shrimp Boil with Lemongrass and Chili will surely hit the spot! With 18 recipes to choose from, you’ll never get bored with this summer’s shrimp boil options.