Seafood Boil Crab Shrimp (Printable)

A Southern-style boil featuring crab legs, shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and corn in bold Cajun spices.

# Components:

→ Seafood

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

→ Meats

03 - 1 lb andouille 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 - 12 fl oz light beer (optional)

→ For Serving

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

# Directions:

01 - Fill a large stockpot with 8 cups water and beer if using. Add Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, cayenne, smashed garlic, quartered 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 - Stir in the corn pieces and sliced sausage. Boil for 7 minutes.
04 - Add crab legs to the pot and boil for 5 minutes.
05 - Add shrimp and boil until they turn pink and are cooked through, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
06 - Drain all seafood and vegetables, discarding the cooking liquid and aromatics. Transfer to a large platter or onto parchment paper on a table.
07 - Drizzle melted butter over the boil, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Celebratory one-pot meal for gatherings
  • Customizable with your favorite seafood and spice level
02 -
  • This recipe contains shellfish, dairy, and possible gluten in sausage and beer
  • Adjust spice level easily by changing cayenne amount or seasoning choice
03 -
  • Toss finished boil with extra Cajun seasoning and melted butter for bold flavor
  • Serve with crusty bread and a chilled lager or white wine for an authentic experience
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