Description

This Simple Shrimp Boil is a flavorful and easy-to-make meal featuring succulent large shrimp, tender new potatoes, and sweet corn on the cob all boiled together with aromatic Old Bay seasoning, garlic, and fresh lemon. Perfect for a casual gathering or weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers a fresh and vibrant seafood feast that’s quick to prepare and full of bold flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Seafood and Vegetables

2 pounds Large Shrimp, deveined and peeled (Fresh shrimp are preferred for best flavor.)
1.5 pounds Small New Potatoes (Scrubbed clean and left whole.)
3-4 ears Corn on the Cob (Cut into halves or thirds.)

Seasonings and Extras

3 tablespoons Old Bay Seasoning (Adjust to taste.)
4-5 cloves Garlic, minced (Fresh garlic is recommended.)
1 large Lemon, halved (Adds brightness to the dish.)
8-10 cups Water (For boiling the ingredients.)
2 tablespoons Salt (For seasoning the water.)
0.5 cup Butter, melted (For drizzling before serving.)

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Instructions

Prepare the boiling water: Fill a large pot with 8-10 cups of water, add 2 tablespoons of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat to create a flavorful cooking base.
Cook the potatoes: Add the whole small new potatoes to the boiling water and cook for 10-15 minutes until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Add the corn: While potatoes are nearing completion, husk and cut the corn on the cob into halves or thirds, then add them to the pot and boil for an additional 5 minutes to soften thoroughly.
Season the water: Stir in the minced garlic and 3 tablespoons of Old Bay seasoning, distributing the flavors evenly throughout the boiling water.
Cook the shrimp: Carefully add the peeled and deveined shrimp into the pot, cooking them for 3-5 minutes until they turn pink and opaque, indicating they are perfectly cooked.
Add lemon flavor: Squeeze the juice from the halved lemon into the pot and add the lemon halves themselves to infuse a bright, citrusy note into the boil.
Infuse flavors: Turn off the heat and let the pot sit for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors of the seasoning and lemon to deepen and mingle with the shrimp, potatoes, and corn.
Drain the boil: Using a colander, drain the shrimp, potatoes, and corn carefully, removing excess water but keeping the ingredients intact.
Serve: Transfer the boiled shrimp, potatoes, and corn to a serving platter and drizzle generously with melted butter. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley or additional lemon wedges for extra brightness.
Enjoy: Serve the shrimp boil hot, inviting guests to dig in and savor the fresh, seasoned flavors of this classic seafood meal.

Notes

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture; however, frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly.
Adjust Old Bay seasoning according to your spice preference; add more for a spicier boil.
For easier clean-up, consider lining your serving platter with foil or newspaper.
You can add other ingredients like smoked sausage or crab legs for a variation on the classic shrimp boil.
Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.
Butter can be infused with garlic or herbs for an extra flavorful drizzle.