Pin Celebrate Southern flavors with this festive seafood boil that brings together juicy crab legs, plump shrimp, and spicy sausage cooked alongside tender potatoes and sweet corn. Infused with aromatic Cajun spices, this dish bursts with bold, comforting flavors perfect for sharing around the table with family and friends.
Pin This seafood boil is not just a meal but a joyful event, perfect for gatherings or weekend feasts. The combination of shellfish and smoky sausage adds layers of texture and taste, while the spicy Cajun seasoning awakens the palate. Serve it hot and fresh for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients
- Seafood: 2 lbs (900 g) snow crab legs, cleaned; 1.5 lbs (680 g) large shrimp, shell-on, deveined
- Meats: 1 lb (450 g) andouille sausage or smoked sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- Vegetables: 1.5 lbs (680 g) baby potatoes, halved; 4 ears corn, cut into thirds; 1 large onion, quartered; 1 lemon, sliced
- Aromatics & Spices: 4 cloves garlic, smashed; 1/4 cup (35 g) Old Bay or Cajun seasoning; 2 tsp smoked paprika; 2 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Liquids: 8 cups (2 L) water; 1 bottle (12 oz/355 ml) light beer (optional)
- For Serving: 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon wedges
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the cooking liquid
- Fill a large stockpot with 8 cups water and beer (if using). Add Old Bay/Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, cayenne, garlic, onion, and lemon slices. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- 2. Cook the potatoes
- Add potatoes; boil for 10 minutes.
- 3. Add corn and sausage
- Add corn and sausage; boil for 7 minutes.
- 4. Add crab legs
- Add crab legs; boil for 5 minutes.
- 5. Add shrimp
- Add shrimp; boil just until pink and cooked through, about 2–3 minutes.
- 6. Drain
- Drain the seafood and vegetables, discarding the cooking liquid and aromatics.
- 7. Serve
- Transfer everything to a large platter or cover a table with parchment and pile the boil on top.
- 8. Finish with butter and parsley
- Drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve with extra lemon wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For a richer taste, toss the completed seafood boil with extra melted butter and additional Cajun seasoning. Adjust the heat by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper based on your preference. Using fresh shellfish and quality sausage will elevate the flavors dramatically.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If andouille sausage is unavailable, swap it with kielbasa or your favorite smoked sausage variety. You can omit the beer for a non-alcoholic version, substituting with extra water. Customize the vegetables by adding your preferred seasonal options.
Serviervorschläge
Serve the seafood boil piled high on a large platter or spread over parchment paper for a fun, family-style presentation. Offer crusty bread on the side to soak up the flavorful juices and pair the meal with a crisp lager or chilled white wine for a complete dining experience.
Pin This Southern-style seafood boil is a celebration of bold flavors and communal dining that always delights. Whether it’s a special occasion or a weekend treat, this vibrant dish invites everyone to dig in, share stories, and savor every bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute the sausage variety?
Yes, you can use kielbasa or another smoked sausage for a different flavor profile and texture.
- → How spicy is this seafood boil?
The dish has a mild to moderately spicy kick depending on the amount of cayenne. Adjust to personal taste.
- → Is it necessary to use beer in the cooking broth?
No, beer is optional. Water alone works, but beer adds a subtle extra depth to the broth.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep ingredients ahead and cook just before serving.
- → What is the best way to serve this dish?
Serve on a large platter or parchment for communal eating. Add melted butter and fresh parsley on top.