Shrimp Boil Foil Packets: Easy and Delicious Seafood Dinner Recipe

Shrimp Boil Foil Packets are a delightful and convenient way to enjoy a classic seafood feast without the fuss of traditional cooking methods. Imagine the aroma of seasoned shrimp mingling with fresh vegetables and spices, all sealed in a foil packet, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for any occasion. This dish has its roots in coastal communities, where shrimp boils are a beloved tradition, often enjoyed during family gatherings and summer cookouts.

What I love most about Shrimp Boil Foil Packets is their incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The combination of juicy shrimp, tender potatoes, and vibrant corn creates a symphony of textures that is simply irresistible. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or outdoor barbecues. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a quick and tasty meal, these foil packets are sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
• 2 ears of corn, cut into thirds
• 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Aluminum foil (heavy-duty recommended)

Preparing the Ingredients

1. **Prep the Shrimp**: Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. Make sure they are peeled and deveined. If you prefer, you can leave the tails on for presentation, but I usually remove them for easier eating. 2. **Prepare the Potatoes**: Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly. Cut them in half to ensure they cook evenly. If you have larger potatoes, you can quarter them. 3. **Cut the Corn**: Take the ears of corn and cut them into thirds. This size is perfect for fitting into the foil packets and allows for even cooking. 4. **Slice the Sausage**: Cut the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces. This will add a delicious smoky flavor to the dish. 5. **Melt the Butter**: In a small bowl, melt the unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stovetop. Once melted, add the minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

Assembling the Foil Packets

6. **Prepare the Foil**: Tear off large sheets of aluminum foil, about 12-14 inches long. You’ll need enough to create a packet that can hold all the ingredients without leaking. 7. **Layer the Ingredients**: On each piece of foil, start by placing a handful of halved baby potatoes in the center. This will be the base of your packet. 8. **Add the Corn and Sausage**: Next, layer the corn pieces and sliced sausage on top of the potatoes. This will allow the flavors to meld together as they cook. 9. **Add the Shrimp**: Now, add a generous portion of shrimp on top of the sausage and corn. The shrimp will cook quickly, so placing them on top ensures they don’t overcook. 10. **Drizzle the Butter Mixture**: Pour the melted butter and seasoning mixture evenly over the shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes. Make sure everything is well-coated for maximum flavor. 11. **Add Lemon Slices**: Place a few slices of lemon on top of the shrimp. The lemon will infuse a fresh, zesty flavor as everything cooks. 12. **Seal the Packets**: Fold the sides of the foil over the ingredients, then fold the ends to create a sealed packet. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to prevent any steam from escaping.

Cooking the Shrimp Boil Foil Packets

13. **Preheat the Grill or Oven**: If you’re using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat (about 400°F). If you’re using an oven, preheat it to 400°F as well. 14. **Cook the Packets**: Place the foil packets directly on the grill grates or on a baking sheet if using the oven. Cook for about 15-20 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your shrimp and the heat of your grill or oven. 15. **Check for Doneness**: After 15 minutes, carefully open one of the packets (watch out for steam!) and check if the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the potatoes are tender. If they need more time, reseal and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Serving the Shrimp Boil Foil Packets

16. **Open the Packets**: Once cooked, remove the packets from the grill or oven. Let them sit for a minute before opening, as the steam will be very hot. 17. **Garnish**: Carefully open the packets and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. 18. **Serve**: You can serve the shrimp boil foil packets directly in the foil for a fun, rustic presentation. Just make sure to have some plates and forks ready for your guests! 19. **Enjoy

Conclusion:

In conclusion, these Shrimp Boil Foil Packets are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, hassle-free meal that captures the essence of a classic seafood boil. The combination of succulent shrimp, tender potatoes, and vibrant corn, all infused with zesty seasonings, creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, the convenience of cooking everything in a foil packet means minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. For serving suggestions, I love to pair these foil packets with a side of crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the shrimp. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding other ingredients like sausage, bell peppers, or even a splash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility; you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give these Shrimp Boil Foil Packets a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. Once you’ve made them, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you add any unique twists? How did your family or friends react? Share your thoughts and any variations you tried in the comments below. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together! Happy cooking! Print