As the summer heat sets in, I find myself craving light and refreshing meals that don’t require hours in the kitchen. That’s why I love this Shrimp Boil Foil Packets recipe – it’s a quick and easy 20-minute summer supper that is bursting with flavor and perfect for those warm evenings. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means minimal cleanup and more time to enjoy the beautiful weather outside.
Why This Recipe Works
There are several reasons why this recipe stands out and has become a staple in my summer meal rotation:
- The foil packets allow for easy and mess-free cooking, making it perfect for outdoor grilling or indoor oven baking.
- The combination of shrimp, corn, potatoes, and sausage creates a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
- The Cajun seasoning adds a delicious kick of flavor without being too spicy.
- The cooking time is only 20 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serving Size: 4 foil packets
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 ears of corn, husked and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 425°F.
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Divide the shrimp, corn, potatoes, and sausage evenly among 4 large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil.
- Drizzle the butter mixture over the ingredients in each foil packet.
- Seal the foil packets tightly, making sure there are no openings for steam to escape.
- If grilling, place the foil packets on the grill and cook for 10 minutes. If baking, place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes.
- Carefully open the foil packets and check if the shrimp is cooked through. If not, reseal the packets and continue cooking for a few more minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Pro tip: For an extra burst of flavor, you can also add lemon slices or a splash of white wine to the foil packets before sealing them.
My Pro Tips for Success
- Make sure to use heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent any tears or leaks while cooking.
- If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the foil packets.
- For a vegetarian option, you can omit the sausage and add in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, you can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add in some red pepper flakes.
What I Serve With This Recipe
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing pairs well with the bold flavors of the shrimp boil.
- For a heartier meal, you can serve the foil packets over a bed of rice or quinoa.
- A refreshing summer drink like lemonade or iced tea is the perfect accompaniment to this meal.
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the foil packets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Just make sure to cook them within 24 hours for the best results.
Can I use different types of seafood?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with a variety of seafood such as scallops, mussels, or even chunks of fish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this recipe in the oven if I don’t have a grill?
Yes, you can bake the foil packets in the oven at 425°F for 20 minutes. Just make sure to check the shrimp for doneness before serving.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
While you can freeze the leftovers, the texture of the shrimp may change once thawed. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table
This Shrimp Boil Foil Packets recipe is not only delicious and easy to make, but it also brings back fond memories of summer gatherings with friends and family. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is simply irresistible, and it’s a great way to enjoy a classic seafood boil without all the hassle. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to your liking, making it a perfect addition to any summer meal plan.
Your Turn
Now it’s your turn to give this recipe a try! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you try in the comments below. Happy cooking!
Shrimp Boil Foil Packets – 20-Minute Summer Supper
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 4 ears corn, husked and cut in half
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, combine shrimp, baby potatoes, smoked sausage, corn, Old Bay seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Cut large pieces of aluminum foil (about 18×12 inches) and create a bowl shape by folding up the edges.
- Divide the shrimp mixture among the foil packets, making sure to distribute evenly.
- Seal the foil packets tightly and place them on the grill.
- Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
- Carefully open the packets, being cautious of escaping steam. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
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