🔥 Introduction:
This recipe is a fun twist on a classic Southern shrimp boil. Traditionally, shrimp boils include shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes boiled together in a spicy broth. In this version, we skip the potatoes and add flavorful stuffing on the side — the perfect way to soak up all those juicy, buttery drippings. This is a full-flavored, satisfying dish that hits every craving: smoky, spicy, savory, and buttery.
🍴 Ingredients:
For the Shrimp Boil:
- 1 lb large shrimp (shell-on, deveined)
- 12 oz smoked sausage (Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 3 ears of corn, cut into thirds
- 1 lemon, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 small onion, quartered
- 3 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
For the Stuffing:
- 4 cups cubed bread (day-old or lightly toasted)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
🍳 Instructions & Methods:
Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing (Can Be Made Ahead)
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery. Sauté until soft, about 5–7 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the sautéed veggies with cubed bread, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the broth slowly while mixing until the bread is moistened but not soggy.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden brown.
Step 2: Boil the Shrimp, Corn, and Sausage
- Fill a large pot with water (about 4 quarts). Add onion, garlic, lemon halves, Old Bay seasoning, and a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil. Add the corn and cook for 8–10 minutes until just tender.
- Add the sausage and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add shrimp last and cook just until they turn pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes. Don’t overcook!
- Drain everything and transfer to a large serving tray or bowl.
Step 3: Butter Drizzle (Optional but Recommended)
- In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add a sprinkle of Old Bay or Cajun seasoning.
- Drizzle over the shrimp boil mixture before serving.
Step 4: Serve It Up
- Serve the shrimp, corn, and sausage over a generous scoop of warm stuffing.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
- Optional: Serve with hot sauce or garlic aioli on the side.