Cajun Shrimp Boil in Garlic Butter Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A Cajun shrimp boil in garlic butter sauce is the ultimate crowd-pleasing meal. It’s bold, messy in the best way, and bursting with flavor. Tender shrimp, smoky sausage, corn on the cob, and baby potatoes are boiled together in Cajun spices, then tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce that takes everything to the next level. What makes this dish special is the way it brings people together—it’s meant to be piled high on the table and shared family-style. I tried this once with snow crab legs added in, and it turned the feast into something even more decadent. Whether you serve it for a summer gathering, a backyard party, or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe guarantees smiles and satisfied appetites.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp – Large, shell-on shrimp are ideal for flavor and presentation.

Smoked sausage – Adds savory, smoky depth and complements the Cajun spices.

Baby potatoes – Hearty and filling, they absorb the Cajun seasoning during the boil.

Corn on the cob – Sweet corn balances the spice and adds texture.

Garlic – Fresh minced garlic is the backbone of the garlic butter sauce.

Butter – Melted butter transforms the Cajun spices into a rich, flavorful coating.

Cajun seasoning – The star of the dish, bringing smoky heat and bold flavor to both the boil and the sauce.

Old Bay seasoning – Enhances the seafood flavor and works in harmony with Cajun spices.

Lemon – Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and cuts through the richness.

Fresh parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness for serving.

Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to balance the flavors.

Directions

Fill a large stockpot with water and bring to a boil. Season generously with Cajun seasoning, Old Bay, salt, and a few lemon wedges. Add the baby potatoes first and cook until just tender. Next, add the corn and sausage, allowing them to cook for several minutes. Finally, add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, just 2–3 minutes. Drain the boil and transfer the ingredients to a large bowl or spread them out on a parchment-lined table for serving.

Meanwhile, in a skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Stir in more Cajun seasoning, Old Bay, black pepper, and lemon juice. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the shrimp boil, tossing everything until coated. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people generously. Prep time is about 15 minutes, cooking time is 30 minutes, making it a 45-minute meal that feels like a feast.

Storage/reheating

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a skillet with a little butter and gently warm over low heat. Avoid microwaving the shrimp for too long, as it can make them rubbery. This dish is best enjoyed fresh.

Variations and Customizations

Add crab or lobster – Include crab legs or lobster tails for an even more indulgent seafood boil.

Spicy kick – Stir in hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for extra heat.

Different sausage – Use andouille sausage for a more authentic Cajun flavor.

Garlic overload – Double the garlic in the butter sauce if you’re a true garlic lover.

Herb twist – Add thyme or bay leaves to the boil for more aromatic depth.

Beer boil – Replace part of the boiling water with beer for a unique flavor.

Vegetable boost – Add mushrooms or green beans to the boil for more variety.

Cheesy dip pairing – Serve with a side of cheesy garlic bread for dipping into the sauce.

FAQs

What shrimp should I use?

Large, shell-on shrimp are best for maximum flavor, but peeled shrimp also work.

Can I make this less spicy?

Yes, reduce the Cajun seasoning and skip the hot sauce for a milder version.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

You can par-cook the potatoes and corn ahead, but boil the shrimp fresh for best results.

Do I need Old Bay seasoning?

It’s traditional and adds depth, but you can stick with Cajun seasoning if preferred.

What sides pair well with shrimp boil?

Garlic bread, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad are great choices.

Can I cook this in the oven?

Yes, assemble everything on a sheet pan, drizzle with garlic butter, and roast until done.

How do I prevent overcooking shrimp?

Add them last and cook only until pink and opaque, 2–3 minutes.

Can I make this in smaller portions?

Yes, simply halve the recipe ingredients for fewer servings.

What drinks go well with Cajun shrimp boil?

Beer, iced tea, or lemonade pair wonderfully with the bold spices.

How do I serve this dish?

Traditionally, it’s poured onto a large table lined with paper for communal eating.

Conclusion

Cajun shrimp boil in garlic butter sauce is more than a meal—it’s an experience. With shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and corn tossed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce, every bite is bursting with flavor. Perfect for gatherings or special weekends, this recipe combines bold Cajun spices with the fun of communal dining. Whether you keep it classic or add crab, lobster, or extra veggies, this shrimp boil is sure to impress. Once you try it, it will become a signature dish you return to again and again.

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