Mardi Gras Shrimp Boil (Print Version)
A festive blend of shrimp, corn, potatoes, and sausage infused with Creole spices, perfect for a Southern gathering.
# What You'll Need:
→ Seafood & Protein
01 - 2 pounds large raw shrimp, shell-on, deveined
02 - 12 ounces Andouille sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces
→ Vegetables
03 - 4 ears corn on the cob, husked and cut into thirds
04 - 1.5 pounds small red potatoes, halved
05 - 1 large yellow onion, quartered
06 - 1 lemon, sliced
→ Boil Flavorings & Seasonings
07 - 1/3 cup Creole or Cajun seasoning
08 - 2 bay leaves
09 - 4 cloves garlic, smashed
10 - 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
11 - 1 tablespoon salt
12 - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
→ For Serving
13 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
14 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
15 - Extra lemon wedges
# Directions:
01 - Fill a large stockpot with 4 to 5 quarts of water. Add Creole seasoning, bay leaves, garlic, peppercorns, salt, onion, lemon slices, and cayenne pepper if desired. Bring to a rapid boil over high heat.
02 - Add halved potatoes to the boiling water. Cook for 10 minutes until slightly tender.
03 - Add sliced sausage and corn pieces to the pot. Boil for another 8 to 10 minutes until potatoes are nearly tender.
04 - Add shrimp to the boiling mixture. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes just until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to prevent tough texture.
05 - Drain the entire boil in a large colander. Discard bay leaves and lemon slices. Arrange shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes on a large platter or newspaper-lined surface.
06 - Drizzle everything with melted butter and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- Everything cooks in one pot, so you spend more time with people and less time at the stove
- The build your own plate setup makes everyone feel like part of the celebration
02 -
- I learned the hard way that overcrowding the pot drops the temperature and creates uneven cooking
- Timing matters tremendously, and adding shrimp too early results in rubbery disappointment
03 -
- Cold beer and crusty bread aren't optional accompaniments, they're essential for the full experience
- If you're worried about spice levels, serve hot sauce on the side so everyone can control their own heat