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Shrimp and Crab Boil Recipe

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A classic and flavorful Shrimp and Crab Boil recipe featuring succulent seafood, tender fingerling potatoes, sweet corn, and smoky kielbasa, all simmered in a seasoned broth with Old Bay and fresh lemon. Perfect for a communal feast that’s easy to prepare and bursting with vibrant, comforting flavors.

Ingredients

Seasoning and Broth

  • 2 containers (2.62 oz each) Old Bay Seasoning
  • 2 lemons (cut in half, plus additional for serving)
  • 1 bulb garlic
  • Water (enough to fill a large 5-gallon pot halfway)

Vegetables and Sausage

  • 3 lb fingerling potatoes
  • 8 ears corn (cut in half)
  • 2 kielbasa rings (cut into 2-inch pieces)

Seafood

  • lb large shrimp
  • 7 lb crab legs

Other

  • 1 stick salted butter (divided, for serving and optional melting)

Instructions

  1. Boil and season water: Fill a large 5-gallon pot halfway with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add both containers of Old Bay seasoning to infuse the broth with classic seafood flavors.
  2. Add initial ingredients: Stir the seasoned water thoroughly with a large spoon to distribute the seasoning evenly before adding half of your other main ingredients.
  3. Add vegetables and sausage: Add the halved lemons, whole garlic bulb, fingerling potatoes, corn halves, and kielbasa pieces into the pot. Cover with a lid and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and flavor melding.
  4. Add seafood: After the 20 minutes, add the large shrimp and crab legs to the pot. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and the crab legs turn a vibrant red color, signaling they are done.
  5. Drain and prepare to serve: Turn off the heat and carefully drain as much liquid as possible from the pot. Transfer the cooked seafood, vegetables, and sausages onto large trays or bowls. Alternatively, line a table with newspaper and spread the food out for a communal dining experience.
  6. Serve: Serve immediately with ramekins of melted butter, freshly cut lemon wedges, and crusty bread on the side to soak up the flavorful juices. Enjoy this hearty and festive seafood boil!

Notes

  • Ensure the pot is large enough to hold all ingredients with room for boiling liquid to prevent overflow.
  • Stirring occasionally during the middle cooking stage helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
  • You can adjust Old Bay seasoning amount to taste, adding more or less depending on your preferred spice level.
  • Serve with crusty bread to help soak up the delicious buttery juices.
  • Use fresh seafood for best flavor and texture, and ensure all seafood is properly thawed if using frozen.