Print

Ultimate Spicy Cajun Shrimp Boil Recipe

spicy cajun shrimp boil recipe - featured image

A bold and flavorful Cajun shrimp boil featuring shrimp, andouille sausage, corn, and potatoes, seasoned with a smoky and spicy blend of Cajun spices. Perfect for quick, easy, and satisfying family meals or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 pound baby potatoes, halved (red or Yukon gold)
  • 3 ears corn on the cob, cut into thirds
  • 6 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 large yellow onion, quartered
  • 3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning (optional)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • About 8 cups water
  • Salt to taste (kosher salt recommended)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the baby potatoes and halve them. Cut corn into thirds. Slice the andouille sausage. Smash garlic cloves and quarter the onion. Peel and devein shrimp if not already done. (About 10 minutes)
  2. In a large bowl, toss shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt. Set aside to marinate briefly while you prepare the boil water.
  3. In your large pot, add 8 cups of water, 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, bay leaves, garlic, and onion. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. (5-7 minutes)
  4. Add potatoes and sausage to the boiling water. Cook until potatoes are just tender, about 10-12 minutes. Test by piercing a potato with a fork—should be soft but not falling apart.
  5. Toss in corn pieces and cook for another 5 minutes until bright and tender but not mushy.
  6. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and curl up. Be careful not to overcook.
  7. Using a slotted spoon or spider strainer, carefully remove all ingredients and spread them out on a large platter or newspaper-covered table.
  8. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything, drizzle melted butter, and sprinkle with remaining Cajun seasoning if desired.

Notes

Ensure shrimp are fully thawed if frozen to maintain water temperature and cooking times. Adjust spice level by modifying cayenne and Cajun seasoning amounts. Spread cooked ingredients on newspaper or tray to avoid sogginess. Lemon juice brightens flavors and melted butter adds richness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun shrimp boil, spicy shrimp boil, seafood boil, andouille sausage, Cajun seasoning, easy shrimp recipe, summer dinner, family meal