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Flavorful Cajun Shrimp Boil Recipe Easy Homemade Corn and Potatoes

Cajun shrimp boil recipe - featured image

A quick and easy Cajun shrimp boil featuring shrimp, baby red potatoes, corn, and optional smoked sausage, all cooked in a spicy Cajun seasoned broth. Perfect for gatherings and packed with bold, comforting flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 quarts (3.8 liters) water
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 3 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 2 pounds (900 g) large shrimp, shell-on, deveined
  • 1 pound (450 g) baby red potatoes, halved
  • 4 ears corn, husked and cut into thirds
  • 1/2 pound (225 g) smoked sausage, sliced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry. Halve the baby red potatoes and cut corn ears into thirds. Slice the smoked sausage if using. Smash garlic cloves and halve the lemon.
  2. In a large stockpot, combine water, Cajun seasoning, smashed garlic, lemon halves, bay leaves, and salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
  3. Add the halved potatoes to the boiling water and boil for about 10 minutes until they start to become tender.
  4. Add the corn chunks and sliced sausage to the pot. Continue boiling for another 5 minutes.
  5. Add the shrimp and boil just until they turn bright pink and curl up, about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Using a slotted spoon or spider strainer, lift the shrimp, corn, potatoes, and sausage out of the pot. Drain well and spread on a large tray or newspaper-covered table.
  7. Drizzle the melted butter over the top and garnish with chopped parsley and fresh lemon wedges.
  8. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

Do not peel shrimp before boiling to lock in flavor and moisture. Add ingredients in stages to avoid overcooking. Save a cup of the spicy cooking water for broth or soup later. Adjust spice level by modifying Cajun seasoning or adding cayenne pepper. For gluten-free, verify seasoning and sausage ingredients.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun shrimp boil, shrimp boil recipe, Cajun seasoning, seafood boil, corn and potatoes, easy shrimp boil, Southern cooking