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shrimp boil for gatherings

One-Pot Shrimp Boil

This classic one-pot shrimp boil combines succulent shrimp, smoky kielbasa, sweet corn, and tender red potatoes, all infused with the distinctive flavor of Old Bay seasoning. Perfect for casual gatherings, this crowd-pleasing dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss and cleanup.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pounds unpeeled shrimp 21-25 count
  • 4 ears white corn halved
  • 4 ears yellow corn halved
  • 3 medium onions quartered from stem to root
  • 1/2 cup Old Bay Seasoning
  • 4 cloves garlic smashed
  • 2 pounds kielbasa cut into 16 slices
  • 4 pounds small red potatoes scrubbed
  • 2 lemons halved, plus extra wedges for serving
  • 3 quarts water
  • salt to taste
  • melted butter for serving

Equipment

  • Large stockpot
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Fill a large stockpot with 3 quarts of water. Add the quartered onions, smashed garlic cloves, and Old Bay Seasoning.
  2. Season with salt to taste. Squeeze the juice from the halved lemons into the pot, then add the spent lemon halves to the mixture.
  3. Bring the seasoned water to a boil over medium heat.
  4. Once boiling, add the red potatoes and sliced kielbasa to the pot. Return to a boil, then partially cover and reduce heat to a simmer.
  5. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are just becoming tender.
  6. Add all the halved corn ears to the pot and increase heat to medium-high. Cover and cook for approximately 5 more minutes until the corn is tender.
  7. Add the unpeeled shrimp to the pot and cook just until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook.
  8. Drain the mixture or use a slotted spoon to transfer the contents to a large serving platter or newspaper-covered table.
  9. Serve with melted butter for dipping and additional lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

For the best results, use fresh unpeeled shrimp if possible, though frozen shrimp will work if thawed completely before cooking. Don't be alarmed by the amount of Old Bay—it's perfect for infusing everything with that signature coastal flavor.
This dish is traditionally served family-style on a newspaper-covered table for easy cleanup. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days, though the shrimp is best enjoyed fresh.
For a complete meal, serve with crusty French bread for sopping up the flavorful broth, a simple green salad, and cold beverages like iced tea or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.