Get ready to transform your kitchen into a Southern culinary paradise with this mouthwatering Crock Pot Shrimp Boil that's so easy, you'll feel like a gourmet chef without breaking a sweat! Imagine tender shrimp, succulent sausage, perfectly cooked potatoes, and sweet corn, all swimming in a sea of zesty Old Bay seasoning – this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort meal that'll have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb baby potatoes
- 2 ears corn, cut into thirds
- 1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
- 4 cups water
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and set aside. Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt, and cut any larger ones in half to ensure even cooking.
- Next, prepare the corn. Take the two ears of corn and cut them into thirds. This will make them easier to handle and ensure they cook evenly in the crock pot.
- Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces. This will allow the flavors to meld better with the other ingredients as they cook.
- In your crock pot, combine the 4 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning. Stir well to dissolve the seasoning into the water.
- Add the baby potatoes to the crock pot first. Since they take longer to cook, they should be placed at the bottom where they can absorb the flavors from the water and seasoning.
- Next, layer the corn pieces on top of the potatoes, followed by the sliced smoked sausage. This will allow the sausage to impart its smoky flavor into the dish.
- Finally, gently place the peeled and deveined shrimp on top of the other ingredients. The shrimp will cook quickly and should be placed last to avoid overcooking.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4 hours. This slow cooking method will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
- After 4 hours, check the shrimp for doneness. They should be pink and opaque. If everything is cooked to your liking, turn off the crock pot.
- Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the shrimp, potatoes, corn, and sausage from the crock pot and transfer them to a large serving platter. Be cautious, as the ingredients will be hot.
- Serve the shrimp boil immediately, garnished with additional Old Bay seasoning if desired. Enjoy your delicious Southern-style crock pot shrimp boil!
Tips
- Ingredient Freshness is Key: Always use fresh shrimp and high-quality smoked sausage for the most authentic flavor.
- Don't Overcook the Shrimp: Place the shrimp on top and check them after 4 hours. They should be pink and opaque but not rubbery.
- Customize Your Seasoning: While Old Bay is traditional, feel free to experiment with Cajun seasoning or add extra garlic and herbs for a personal touch.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with lemon wedges, crusty bread, and have plenty of napkins ready – this is a hands-on, messy meal that's totally worth it!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep your ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator to save time on cooking day.
- Cleanup Hack: Line your crock pot with a slow cooker liner for super easy cleanup after your delicious meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 198kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 107mg
