Shrimp Boil Foil Packets: Easy and Delicious Seafood Dinner Recipe

Shrimp Boil Foil Packets are a delightful and convenient way to enjoy a classic seafood feast without the fuss of traditional cooking methods. Imagine the aroma of seasoned shrimp mingling with fresh vegetables and spices, all sealed in a foil packet, ready to be grilled or baked to perfection. This dish has its roots in coastal Southern cuisine, where shrimp boils are a beloved social gathering, often enjoyed at family reunions and summer cookouts. The beauty of Shrimp Boil Foil Packets lies in their simplicity; they capture the essence of a traditional shrimp boil while offering an easy cleanup and a burst of flavor in every bite.

People adore this dish not only for its incredible taste and texture but also for its versatility. You can customize the ingredients to suit your preferences, making it a perfect option for both seafood lovers and those who prefer a vegetarian twist. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, Shrimp Boil Foil Packets are sure to impress your family and friends. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that brings the joy of a shrimp boil right to your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
• 2 ears of corn, cut into thirds
• 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Aluminum foil (heavy-duty recommended)

Preparing the Ingredients

1. **Prep the Shrimp**: Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. Make sure they are peeled and deveined. If you prefer, you can leave the tails on for presentation, but I usually remove them for easier eating. 2. **Prepare the Potatoes**: Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly. Halve them to ensure they cook evenly. If you’re using larger potatoes, you might want to quarter them. 3. **Cut the Corn**: Take the ears of corn and cut them into thirds. This size is perfect for fitting into the foil packets and ensures they cook through. 4. **Slice the Sausage**: Cut the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces. This will add a delicious smoky flavor to the boil. 5. **Melt the Butter**: In a small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave or on the stove. Once melted, add the minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

Assembling the Foil Packets

6. **Prepare the Foil**: Tear off four large pieces of aluminum foil, about 12 inches long. You want enough room to fold and seal the packets without spilling. 7. **Layer the Ingredients**: On each piece of foil, start by placing a handful of halved baby potatoes in the center. This will be the base of your packet. 8. **Add the Corn and Sausage**: Next, add a few pieces of corn and a generous amount of sliced sausage on top of the potatoes. 9. **Add the Shrimp**: Now, layer the shrimp on top of the sausage and corn. Make sure to distribute them evenly among the packets. 10. **Drizzle the Butter Mixture**: Spoon the melted butter and seasoning mixture over the shrimp, corn, and sausage. Make sure everything is well-coated for maximum flavor. 11. **Add Lemon Slices**: Place a couple of lemon slices on top of each packet. The lemon will infuse a fresh, zesty flavor as everything cooks. 12. **Seal the Packets**: Fold the sides of the foil over the ingredients, then fold the ends to create a sealed packet. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to keep the steam in while cooking.

Cooking the Shrimp Boil Packets

13. **Preheat the Grill or Oven**: If you’re using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat (about 400°F). If you’re using an oven, preheat it to 400°F as well. 14. **Cook the Packets**: Place the foil packets directly on the grill grates or on a baking sheet if using the oven. Cook for about 15-20 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your shrimp and the heat of your grill or oven. 15. **Check for Doneness**: After 15 minutes, carefully open one packet (watch out for steam!) to check if the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the potatoes are tender. If they need more time, reseal and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Serving the Shrimp Boil

16. **Open the Packets**: Once cooked, remove the packets from the grill or oven. Let them sit for a minute before opening, as the steam will be very hot. 17. **Garnish**: Carefully open each packet and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. 18. **Serve**: You can serve the shrimp boil directly in the foil packets for a fun, rustic presentation, or transfer everything to a large serving platter. Don’t forget to squeeze some extra lemon juice over the top for added brightness. 19. **Enjoy**: Dig in with your family and friends! This dish is perfect for sharing, and you can provide some crusty bread

Conclusion:

In summary, this Shrimp Boil Foil Packets recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, hassle-free meal that captures the essence of a classic seafood boil. The combination of succulent shrimp, tender potatoes, and vibrant corn, all infused with zesty seasonings, creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, the convenience of cooking everything in a foil packet means minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing your shrimp boil packets with a refreshing side salad or some crusty garlic bread to soak up all those delightful juices. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite seafood, such as crab or mussels, or even tossing in some sausage for an extra kick. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Shrimp Boil Foil Packets recipe a try and experience the joy of a seafood feast right at home. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, variations, and any tips you discover along the way. Cooking is all about creativity and sharing, so let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! Happy cooking! Print