Seafood Boil Crab Shrimp (Printable)

A vibrant Southern boil with crab, shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and corn infused with Cajun spices for a festive meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Seafood

01 - 2 lbs snow crab legs, cleaned
02 - 1.5 lbs large shrimp, shell-on, deveined

→ Meats

03 - 1 lb andouille or smoked sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces

→ Vegetables

04 - 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved
05 - 4 ears corn, cut into thirds
06 - 1 large onion, quartered
07 - 1 lemon, sliced

→ Aromatics & Spices

08 - 4 cloves garlic, smashed
09 - 1/4 cup Old Bay or Cajun seasoning
10 - 2 tsp smoked paprika
11 - 2 tsp salt
12 - 1 tsp black pepper
13 - 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

→ Liquids

14 - 8 cups water
15 - 1 bottle (12 oz) light beer (optional)

→ For Serving

16 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
17 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
18 - Lemon wedges

# Step-by-Step:

01 - Combine water and beer (if using) in a large stockpot. Add seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, cayenne, garlic, onion, and lemon slices. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
02 - Add halved baby potatoes to the boiling liquid and cook for 10 minutes.
03 - Introduce corn pieces and sausage slices to the pot. Continue boiling for 7 minutes.
04 - Add crab legs and boil for an additional 5 minutes.
05 - Add shrimp and cook just until pink and opaque, about 2 to 3 minutes.
06 - Drain the seafood and vegetables, discarding the cooking liquid and aromatics. Transfer to a large platter or prepare a serving area covered with parchment. Drizzle melted butter over the top and sprinkle chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Bursting with a medley of seafood and savory sausage flavors
  • Ideal for parties and gatherings
02 -
  • This dish contains shellfish, dairy, and possibly gluten depending on the sausage and beer used
  • Check sausage labels for potential soy or wheat allergens
03 -
  • Toss the finished seafood with extra Cajun seasoning and melted butter for more flavor
  • Serve with crusty bread and a crisp lager or chilled white wine
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