crab and shrimp boil recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
crab and shrimp boil recipe
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The Best crab and shrimp boil recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite crab and shrimp boil recipe. This classic dish has been a staple in the Southern United States for centuries, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re planning a casual dinner party or a family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. I’ve been making it for years, and my kids and husband just can’t get enough of it.

The combination of succulent crab and shrimp, along with the savory flavors of the seasonings and spices, is simply irresistible. And the best part?

It’s incredibly easy to prepare – just throw all the ingredients into a big pot and let the magic happen! In this recipe, I’ll walk you through the simple steps of making a delicious crab and shrimp boil that will be the star of your next family dinner or special occasion.

So grab some fresh seafood, get out your largest pot, and let’s get cooking!

Classic Crab and Shrimp Boil

Classic Crab and Shrimp Boil

4.9 from 1891 votes

A flavorful seafood boil featuring crab legs and shrimp, cooked with corn, potatoes, and smoked sausage in a seasoned broth. This communal dish is perfect for gatherings and delivers a taste of the coast.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Boil

1 pound crab legs, thawed if frozen
1 pound large shrimp, shell-on and deveined
1 pound small red potatoes
4 ears corn, husked and halved
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 2-inch pieces
1 large onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, smashed
2 lemons, halved
1/2 cup seafood seasoning (such as Old Bay)
2 tablespoons kosher salt
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (optional)
8 cups water
1/4 cup melted butter for serving
Lemon wedges for serving

👨‍🍳Directions

1Fill a large stockpot with 8 cups of water.
2Add the seafood seasoning, kosher salt, cayenne pepper if using, quartered onion, smashed garlic, and halved lemons.
3Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat, which should take about 10 minutes.
4Add the small red potatoes to the boiling seasoned water.
5Cook for 10 minutes until the potatoes are just tender when pierced with a fork.
6The potatoes should offer slight resistance but not be hard in the center.
7Add the sliced smoked sausage and halved corn ears to the pot.
8Continue boiling for 5 minutes until the corn is bright yellow and tender, and the sausage is heated through.
9The corn kernels should be plump and easily pierced.
10Add the crab legs and shrimp to the pot.
11Boil for 3 to 4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the crab legs are heated through.
12The shrimp should curl into a loose C shape, indicating they are cooked.
13Drain the entire mixture in a colander, discarding the lemon halves and garlic cloves.
14Transfer the seafood, potatoes, corn, and sausage to a large serving platter or spread on newspaper.
15Serve immediately with melted butter and lemon wedges on the side.

🔧Equipment

Large stockpot (at least 8 quarts)
Colander
Slotted spoon
Large serving platter or newspaper
Small bowls for melted butter

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 180mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a spicier boil, increase cayenne pepper to 2 tablespoons. You can substitute or add other seafood like crawfish or clams. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Watch Video Of How Classic Crab and Shrimp Boil Works

This crab and shrimp boil is the recipe I keep coming back to because it feeds a crowd without keeping me in the kitchen all night, and everyone at the table can pile their plate with what they like.

It works just as well for a birthday, a holiday get together, or a random Sunday when the whole family shows up hungry.

If you want something that feels like a party but stays simple, this is the one to make.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crab and Shrimp Boil

Q: What is a traditional crab and shrimp boil?

A: A traditional crab and shrimp boil is a classic Southern dish that originated in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina. It typically consists of a large pot filled with a variety of seafood, including crab legs, shrimp, mussels, clams, and crawfish. The seafood is cooked in a flavorful broth made with onions, garlic, lemons, and seasonings.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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