Old Bay Shrimp Boil

This Old Bay Shrimp Boil recipe is a delightful way to bring the vibrant flavors of a Southern seafood feast right to your kitchen. The crockpot simplifies the process, allowing you to create a delicious and crowd-pleasing meal with minimal effort. It's perfect for summer gatherings, casual weeknight dinners, or any occasion when you crave a taste of the coast.

Gathering Your Ingredients

• Low Sodium Chicken Broth: Forms the flavorful base of the broth. You can also use beer for a different flavor profile.
• Lemons: Provide a bright, citrusy note that complements the seafood.
• Old Bay Seasoning: The star of the show, adding a unique blend of spices.
• Garlic and Hot Sauce: Enhances the overall flavor with a touch of heat.
• Yukon Gold Baby Potatoes: Adds a creamy, starchy element. You can also use red potatoes.
• Andouille Sausage: Provides a smoky, savory flavor. Use any fully cooked sausage you prefer.
• Fresh Corn: Adds a sweet, summery touch.
• Raw Shrimp: Deveined and peeled (tails left on), providing a succulent seafood component.
• Fresh Parsley and Chives: Used for garnish and added freshness.
• Unsalted Butter and Garlic (for Garlic Butter): Creates a rich, flavorful dipping sauce.

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Cooking Instructions

Setting Up the Crockpot:

In your slow cooker, combine the chicken broth, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, minced garlic, and hot sauce. Add the Yukon Gold baby potatoes.

Cooking the Potatoes:

Cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, until the potatoes are tender.

Adding Sausage and Corn:

Add the sliced andouille sausage and halved ears of fresh corn to the crockpot. Cook on high for 1 hour or on low for 2 hours. Remove the corn and set it aside in a covered dish to keep warm.

Adding the Shrimp:

Add the raw shrimp to the crockpot and cook on high for 20-30 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Making the Garlic Butter:

While the shrimp is cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Season with salt, pepper, and minced fresh parsley.

Serving the Shrimp Boil:

Arrange the shrimp boil ingredients on a large platter or spread them out on parchment paper or newspaper for a traditional presentation. Sprinkle with minced fresh parsley and chives. Serve with the garlic butter and lemon wedges on the side.

This Old Bay Shrimp Boil has become a favorite for casual gatherings at my house. It's so easy to prepare, and the flavors are always a hit with my guests. I love how versatile it is, allowing me to experiment with different ingredients and variations.

Creative Variations

Substitute chicken broth with beer for a different flavor profile. Add other types of shellfish, such as crab legs or clams. Use red potatoes or regular Yukon Gold potatoes. Add mushrooms or sliced sweet onions for extra vegetables.

Instant Pot and Stovetop Instructions

Instant Pot: Combine chicken broth, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, garlic, hot sauce, potatoes, sausage, and corn in the Instant Pot. Cook on manual high pressure for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release. Add shrimp and cook for 1 minute more, then perform a quick release.

Stovetop: Combine chicken broth, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, garlic, hot sauce, and potatoes in a large pot and bring to a boil. Cook until potatoes are tender (about 15 minutes), then add corn and sausage. Reduce heat to medium and cook for 5 minutes. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes more.

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Storage and Reheating

Store leftover shrimp boil in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

This Old Bay Shrimp Boil recipe is a fantastic and flavorful meal that's perfect for any occasion. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but thaw them first. Add them to cold water for about 5-10 minutes until defrosted, then drain well before adding to the slow cooker.

→ What if I can't find Old Bay seasoning?

You can make your own by combining paprika, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, celery salt, dried mustard, and a few other spices. Many grocery stores also carry similar seafood seasoning blends that would work well.

→ Can I add other seafood to this boil?

Absolutely! Crab legs or chunks of firm white fish like cod can be added during the last few minutes of cooking. Clams or mussels can also be added with the shrimp, but remove them as soon as they open.

→ Is there a way to make this recipe less spicy?

To reduce the heat, simply cut back on the hot sauce or omit it entirely. You can also reduce the amount of Old Bay seasoning if you find it too spicy, though this will affect the overall flavor profile.

→ What's the best way to serve leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet with a little butter. You can also use leftover shrimp and sausage in a pasta dish or jambalaya.