Shrimp Boil on the Grill

Grilled Shrimp Boil Extravaganza: A Flavorful Feast for Summer Nights

Step into the realm of outdoor culinary delights with our Grilled Shrimp Boil—a feast that brings the heartiness of a Southern shrimp boil to your backyard grill. This recipe is an ode to summer nights, bringing together succulent shrimp, zesty andouille sausage, baby potatoes, sweet corn, and a medley of aromatic spices—all grilled to perfection. As we embark on this gastronomic journey, be prepared to elevate your grilling game and savor the explosion of flavors that awaits.

Ingredients

Meat

  • 1 (12 ounce) package Andouille sausage

Seafood

  • 4 tsp Seafood seasoning
  • 1 1/2 lbs Shrimp, large

Produce

  • 1 lb Baby potatoes
  • 2 ears Corn
  • 4 tsp Garlic, fresh
  • 1 Lemon, wedges
  • 2 tbsp Parsley, leaves

Baking & Spices

  • 1 Kosher salt and ground black pepper

Oils & Vinegars

  • 2 tbsp Olive oil

Dairy

  • 1 1/2 tbsp Butter

Other

  • Heavy-duty aluminum foil

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

  1. Sausage Showcase: Slice the andouille sausage into bite-sized pieces, ensuring each piece captures the essence of this flavorful ingredient.
  2. Shrimp Symphony: Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails intact for a visually appealing presentation.
  3. Potato Perfection: Halve the baby potatoes to ensure they cook evenly on the grill.
  4. Corny Elegance: Shuck the corn and cut each ear into halves or thirds, depending on your preference.
  5. Garlic Glamour: Finely chop the fresh garlic for a burst of aromatic intensity.
  6. Lemon Love: Cut the lemon into wedges to add a zesty touch to the shrimp boil.

Step 2: Create Flavor Packets

  1. Aluminum Artistry: Tear off sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil, creating individual packets for each serving.
  2. Sausage Base: In the center of each foil sheet, layer the sliced andouille sausage, creating a flavorful foundation.
  3. Potato Palette: Add halved baby potatoes to the foil packets, distributing them evenly.
  4. Shrimp Showcase: Place the seasoned shrimp on top of the potatoes, ensuring they are showcased prominently.
  5. Corn Crown: Nestle corn pieces alongside the shrimp and potatoes for a visually appealing arrangement.
  6. Garlic Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh garlic over each packet, infusing every bite with aromatic goodness.
  7. Spice Spectacle: Season each packet generously with seafood seasoning, kosher salt, and ground black pepper.
  8. Olive Oil Oasis: Drizzle a touch of olive oil over the ingredients, enhancing the moisture and flavors.

Step 3: Seal and Grill

  1. Foil Folding: Carefully seal each foil packet, creating a pouch that will lock in the flavors as they grill.
  2. Grill Preheat: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it’s ready for the flavorful bounty.
  3. Packet Placement: Place the foil packets on the grill, allowing them to cook for approximately 15-20 minutes or until the shrimp is opaque and the potatoes are fork-tender.
  4. Butter Bliss: In the last few minutes of grilling, add a pat of butter to each packet, letting it melt into a luscious finishing touch.
  5. Parsley Parade: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the contents of each packet, adding a burst of color and freshness.

Step 4: Unveil and Serve

  1. Grilled Grandeur: Carefully open each foil packet, revealing the grilled masterpiece within.
  2. Serve with Panache: Transfer the contents of each packet onto serving plates, allowing everyone to enjoy their individual servings.

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Cajun Kick: Elevate the spice level by incorporating cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes into the seafood seasoning.
  • Citrus Splash: Experiment with lime wedges or orange slices for a citrusy twist.

Keto Version

For a keto-friendly adaptation, replace the baby potatoes with cauliflower florets, ensuring they are well-coated with olive oil and seasoning.

Low-Carb Version

To create a low-carb version, reduce the quantity of baby potatoes and corn, replacing them with low-carb vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?

A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but ensure they are thawed before grilling for even cooking.

Q: What other seafood can I add?

A: Feel free to customize your shrimp boil with additions like crab legs, mussels, or clams for a seafood extravaganza.

Q: Can I bake the foil packets in the oven?

A: Absolutely! Bake the foil packets in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for a similar duration.

Q: How do I prevent the packets from burning on the grill?

A: Ensure your grill is at medium-high heat, and monitor the cooking time closely. If needed, you can move the packets to a cooler part of the grill.

Q: Can I make the foil packets in advance?

A: While you can prep the ingredients in advance, it’s best to assemble and grill the foil packets just before serving to retain the freshness and flavors.

Elevate your grilling experience with the Grilled Shrimp Boil—a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or craving a taste of the coastal South, this recipe brings the essence of a shrimp boil to your grill. The combination of juicy shrimp, smoky andouille sausage, and perfectly grilled veggies is a celebration of summer that will transport you to a culinary paradise. So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and embark on a flavorful adventure that will make your summer nights unforgettable!