If you love a hearty and flavorful seafood boil recipe, this one will be your new go-to! Packed with succulent shrimp, sausage, corn, red potatoes, and eggs, all smothered in a rich, buttery sauce infused with banana peppers, this dish is perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a backyard feast or just craving a Southern-style seafood spread, this recipe will hit the spot. Follow along to create a seafood boil that’s bold, spicy, and packed with unforgettable flavors!
Ultimate Seafood Boil Recipe
Ingredients
Before diving into the step-by-step process, let’s break down everything you’ll need:
Seafood Boil Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 lb smoked sausage (sliced)
- 4 ears of corn (cut into halves)
- 1 lb red potatoes (halved)
- 4 large eggs (boiled)
Seasonings & Sauce:
- 1/2 stick of butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/2 sweet onion (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup banana peppers (with juice)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by prepping your ingredients. Slice the sausage, halve the red potatoes, and cut the corn into halves. Boil the eggs separately and set them aside for later.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes and Corn
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the red potatoes and cook for about 10–12 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Then, add the corn and let it cook for another 5 minutes. Once done, drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Flavorful Butter Sauce
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped sweet onions, cooking until they become fragrant and translucent. Stir in the seasonings—garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, Old Bay, lemon pepper, and dried parsley. Mix well.
Next, add the brown sugar and water, stirring to create a slightly thickened sauce. Finally, add the banana peppers and a bit of their juice to bring in that tangy kick. Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Crisp the Sausage
For extra texture and flavor, place the sliced sausage in an air fryer at 400°F for about 5 minutes, or pan-fry until slightly crispy. This step enhances the smoky depth of the dish.
Step 5: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the butter sauce, letting them cook for just 3–5 minutes. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done!
Step 6: Assemble the Seafood Boil
Now comes the fun part—assembling your seafood boil! In a large serving dish or tray, layer the boiled potatoes, corn, sausage, and eggs. Pour the rich butter sauce with shrimp all over the top, ensuring everything is well coated. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color.
Tips for the Best Seafood Boil
- Use fresh shrimp for the best taste and texture.
- Don’t overcook the potatoes—they should be tender but not mushy.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
- For extra flavor, squeeze fresh lemon over the boil before serving.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
FAQs
Can I use other seafood?
Absolutely! You can add crab legs, crawfish, or mussels to customize your boil.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a bit of extra butter.
What’s the best side dish for a seafood boil?
Garlic bread, coleslaw, or a fresh salad pairs beautifully with this dish.
This seafood boil recipe brings bold flavors, a touch of spice, and the perfect buttery sauce infused with banana peppers. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a special treat for yourself, this dish will impress every time. Try it out and enjoy a restaurant-quality seafood feast right at home!
