Seafood Boil Crab Shrimp Sausage (Print View)

Savor spicy crab, shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes simmered with Cajun spices. Perfect for gatherings.

# Components:

→ Seafood

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

→ Meats

03 - 1 pound andouille sausage or smoked sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces

→ Vegetables

04 - 1.5 pounds 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 teaspoons smoked paprika
11 - 2 teaspoons salt
12 - 1 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

→ Liquids

14 - 8 cups water
15 - 1 bottle (12 ounces) light beer (optional)

→ For Serving

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

# Directions:

01 - Fill a large stockpot with 8 cups water and beer if using. Add Old Bay or Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, cayenne, garlic, onion quarters, and lemon slices. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
02 - Add halved baby potatoes to the pot and boil for 10 minutes until just tender.
03 - Add corn sections and sliced sausage to the pot; boil for an additional 7 minutes.
04 - Add cleaned crab legs to the boiling liquid and cook for 5 minutes.
05 - Add shrimp and boil just until pink and cooked through, about 2 to 3 minutes.
06 - Drain the seafood and vegetables using a colander, discarding the cooking liquid and aromatics.
07 - Transfer seafood, sausage, potatoes, and corn to a large serving platter or atop parchment-covered table. Drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve hot with extra lemon wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Rich combination of seafood and smoky sausage creates a satisfying flavor balance.
  • Simple one-pot cooking method saves time and effort.
  • Aromatic Cajun spices infuse every bite with Southern charm.
  • Perfect for serving a crowd or celebrating special occasions.
02 -
  • Use a large stockpot (8-quart or larger) to comfortably fit all ingredients and allow even cooking.
  • Devein shrimp but keep shells on for enhanced flavor and juiciness during boiling.
  • Discard the cooking liquid and aromatics to avoid bitterness and keep the boil fresh.
  • Cover your serving table with parchment paper for easy cleanup and a rustic presentation.
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