This grilled shrimp boil packets recipe is a flavorful and fun twist on the traditional shrimp boil. By assembling individual packets of shrimp, corn, potatoes, and sausage, you can enjoy a deliciously seasoned meal with minimal cleanup. Perfect for summer grilling, these packets lock in all the vibrant flavors and juicy textures.
While most ingredients in this recipe are commonly found, you might need to look for Old Bay seafood seasoning, a classic blend of spices perfect for seafood. Chicken sausage may also be less common, but it adds a unique flavor and can be found in the refrigerated section of your supermarket.
Ingredients for Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets
Baby or small red potatoes: These potatoes are small, tender, and perfect for grilling.
Corn: Fresh ears of corn bring sweetness and crunch.
Chicken sausage: A flavorful sausage that pairs well with seafood.
Large raw shrimp: Fresh or frozen, these shrimp will become succulent when grilled.
Butter: Adds richness and helps to meld flavors together.
Fresh lemon juice: Provides bright, fresh citrus notes.
Fresh thyme leaves: An aromatic herb that complements the seafood.
Garlic: A must-have for its robust, savory flavor.
Old Bay seafood seasoning: A spice blend that gives a distinctive, savory heat.
Fresh parsley leaves: Adds a pop of color and freshness when garnishing.
One reader, Austin Lightfoot says:
The grilled shrimp boil packets were a hit at our BBQ! The flavors melded perfectly, and the shrimp were juicy and tender. The convenience of the foil packets made cleanup a breeze. Definitely adding this to our summer grilling rotation!
Techniques for Grilling Shrimp Boil Packets
How to preheat a gas grill: Set the gas grill to medium-high heat and allow it to reach a temperature of about 425 degrees F. How to microwave potatoes: Place potatoes on a plate and microwave on high power for 1½ minutes, rotate them, and microwave for an additional 1½ minutes. How to melt butter in the microwave: Place butter in a microwave-safe dish and heat it in the microwave until melted. How to wrap foil packets: Use two sheets of foil per packet, place ingredients in the center, wrap up the sides of the first sheet, then place the second sheet going in the opposite direction and crimp edges to seal. How to grill foil packets: Place the sealed packets on the grill with the sealed side up and cook for 12 to 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the shrimp are cooked through.
How To Make Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets
Enjoy a delightful meal with these grilled shrimp packets with potatoes, corn, and sausage, cooked in a blend of lemon juice, garlic, and thyme.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbbaby or small red potatoes
- 2ears corn,shucked and sliced into 1-inch thick disks
- 8ozchicken sausage,or turkey cajun style andouille sausage links, sliced into ¼-inch thick slices
- 1lblarge raw shrimp,peeled and deveined
- 6tbspbutter,diced into 1 tbsp pieces
- 2tbspfresh lemon juice
- 2tspfresh thyme leaves,chopped
- 2clovesgarlic,minced
- 2tspOld Bay seafood seasoning,or more to taste
- 2tbspfresh parsley leaves,chopped
Instructions
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Preheat a gas grill over medium-high heat to about 425 degrees F. Cut 8 sheets of 12×14-inch Reynolds Wrap Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil. Use two sheets of foil per packet.
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Place potatoes on a plate and microwave on high power for 1½ minutes, rotate and microwave for 1½ minutes longer. Once cool enough to handle cut into slices.
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Divide potatoes among each of the four double lined foil sheets (layering ingredients in the center), followed by corn, sausage, and shrimp.
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Melt butter in a microwave-safe dish in the microwave. Stir in lemon juice, thyme, and garlic. Divide butter mixture among packets drizzling about 2 tablespoons evenly over each.
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Sprinkle each with about ½ teaspoon of the seasoning. Wrap up sides of the first sheet of foil, then place the second sheet going opposite length and wrap while crimping edges to seal.
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Grill sealed side up about for 12 to 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender and shrimp have cooked through. Serve warm garnished with parsley.
Nutrition
- Calories: 506.09kcal
- Fat: 27.99g
- Saturated Fat: 13.48g
- Trans Fat: 0.79g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8.18g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.36g
- Carbohydrates: 30.87g
- Fiber: 3.43g
- Sugar: 5.21g
- Protein: 35.85g
- Cholesterol: 282.80mg
- Sodium: 595.63mg
- Calcium: 146.89mg
- Potassium: 1104.64mg
- Iron: 2.83mg
- Vitamin A: 160.22µg
- Vitamin C: 19.90mg
Helpful Technique for Grilling Shrimp Boil Packets
To ensure even cooking and maximum flavor absorption, make sure to cut the potatoes into uniform slices and distribute them evenly in the foil packets. This allows the butter mixture to coat each piece thoroughly, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Shrimp Boil Packets
Pre-cook the potatoes: Microwave the baby red potatoes to soften them before grilling, reducing overall cooking time.
Use pre-cooked sausage: Opt for chicken sausage that is already cooked to save time on the grill.
Melt butter in advance: Melt the butter and mix with lemon juice, thyme, and garlic ahead of time to streamline the assembly process.
Prep ingredients ahead: Cut the corn and slice the sausage before starting to assemble the packets.
Double up on foil: Use two sheets of aluminum foil per packet to ensure they don’t tear, saving you from potential messes and re-wrapping.
Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets Recipe
baby or small red potatoes - Substitute with fingerling potatoes: Fingerling potatoes have a similar texture and cook time, making them a great alternative.
baby or small red potatoes - Substitute with Yukon Gold potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes have a creamy texture and hold up well when boiled or grilled.
ears corn - Substitute with frozen corn kernels: If fresh corn is not available, frozen corn kernels can provide a similar sweetness and texture.
ears corn - Substitute with canned corn: Canned corn can be used in a pinch, though it may be slightly softer than fresh or frozen corn.
chicken sausage - Substitute with turkey sausage: Turkey sausage has a similar flavor profile and is a leaner option.
chicken sausage - Substitute with andouille sausage: Andouille sausage adds a smoky, spicy flavor that complements the other ingredients well.
large raw shrimp - Substitute with scallops: Scallops have a similar texture and cook quickly, making them a good alternative.
large raw shrimp - Substitute with chunks of firm white fish: Firm white fish like cod or halibut can provide a similar texture and absorb flavors well.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier fat option and adds a rich flavor.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a higher smoke point and a nutty flavor, making it a good alternative for grilling.
fresh lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and freshness.
fresh lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar adds a tangy flavor that can mimic the acidity of lemon juice.
fresh thyme leaves - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used in smaller quantities to provide a similar herbaceous flavor.
fresh thyme leaves - Substitute with fresh oregano: Fresh oregano has a slightly different flavor but can provide a similar aromatic quality.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in smaller quantities to provide a similar flavor.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor but can add a similar aromatic quality.
old bay seafood seasoning - Substitute with Cajun seasoning: Cajun seasoning provides a similar blend of spices with a bit more heat.
old bay seafood seasoning - Substitute with homemade spice blend: A mix of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and cayenne can mimic the flavors of Old Bay.
fresh parsley leaves - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a different but complementary fresh herb flavor.
fresh parsley leaves - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil provides a sweet, aromatic flavor that can enhance the dish.
Presenting Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets
Use elegant plating: Arrange the potatoes in a neat, circular pattern on the plate, creating a base for the other ingredients. Place the corn pieces upright in the center, forming a small tower.
Highlight the shrimp: Position the shrimp around the corn tower, ensuring they are evenly spaced and tails are pointing outward for a visually appealing presentation.
Showcase the sausage: Slice the chicken sausage into thin, diagonal pieces and intersperse them between the shrimp and potatoes to add color and texture contrast.
Drizzle with butter sauce: Use a small spoon to artistically drizzle the butter mixture over the entire dish, ensuring each component gets a touch of the lemon juice, thyme, and garlic infused sauce.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Finely chop the fresh parsley leaves and sprinkle them delicately over the top of the dish, adding a pop of green and a fresh aroma.
Add a touch of seasoning: Lightly dust the entire plate with a final sprinkle of old bay seafood seasoning to enhance the flavors and add a subtle visual cue of spice.
Serve with elegance: Present the dish on a pristine white plate to make the colors of the ingredients stand out, and place a small wedge of lemon on the side for an optional extra burst of citrus.
Essential Tools for Making Shrimp Boil Packets
Gas grill: Used to cook the foil packets at a consistent medium-high heat of about 425 degrees F.
Reynolds Wrap heavy duty aluminum foil: Essential for creating the packets that will hold all the ingredients together while grilling.
Microwave: Used to pre-cook the potatoes and melt the butter.
Plate: Needed to hold the potatoes while microwaving.
Microwave-safe dish: Used to melt the butter safely in the microwave.
Knife: Necessary for slicing the potatoes, corn, and sausage.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting the ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the lemon juice, thyme, and seasoning accurately.
Tongs: Useful for handling the hot foil packets on the grill.
Serving plate: For presenting the finished grilled shrimp boil packets.
Basting brush: Optional, but can be used to evenly distribute the butter mixture over the ingredients.
Storing and Freezing Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets
Let the shrimp boil packets cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the packaging, which can lead to soggy or spoiled food.
If you plan to eat the leftovers within 3-4 days, store the cooled packets in an airtight container or resealable plastic bags in the refrigerator. This will help maintain their freshness and prevent any odors from spreading to other foods.
To reheat refrigerated shrimp boil packets, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can remove the contents from the foil and reheat them in a skillet or microwave.
If you want to freeze the shrimp boil packets for later consumption, wrap each cooled packet tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place the wrapped packets in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification and use within 2-3 months for the best quality.
To reheat frozen shrimp boil packets, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat the packets in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also remove the contents from the foil and reheat them in a skillet or microwave.
How To Reheat Leftover Shrimp Boil Packets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover grilled shrimp boil packets on a baking sheet and reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until the shrimp and vegetables are heated through. This method helps to maintain the texture and flavor of the ingredients.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Transfer the contents of the foil packets to a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the food is heated through. Stir the ingredients halfway through to ensure even heating. Keep in mind that microwaving may result in a slightly softer texture compared to the oven method.
If you have a steamer or a double boiler, you can reheat the shrimp boil using this method. Place the contents of the foil packets in the steamer basket or the top part of the double boiler, and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the food is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and texture of the ingredients.
For a stovetop option, heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil, and then transfer the contents of the foil packets to the pan. Stir the ingredients occasionally and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the food is heated through. This method allows you to add extra seasoning or flavoring if desired.
If you have access to an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your shrimp boil. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), transfer the contents of the foil packets to the air fryer basket, and heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the food is heated through. This method helps to maintain the crispy texture of the sausage and vegetables.
Interesting Fact About Shrimp Boil Packets
A fun fact about this recipe is that the Old Bay seafood seasoning used in the grilled shrimp boil packets is a classic blend of 18 herbs and spices, including celery salt, paprika, and mustard. It has been a staple in American seafood dishes since its creation in 1939.
Is Making Shrimp Boil Packets at Home Cost-Effective?
This grilled shrimp boil packets recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like baby red potatoes, corn, and chicken sausage are affordable, while shrimp might be the priciest component. The use of butter, lemon juice, and fresh herbs adds flavor without significantly increasing costs. Overall, this recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30 USD.
Is This Shrimp Boil Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The grilled shrimp boil packets recipe is a delightful mix of flavors and ingredients, but it does have some aspects that could be improved to make it healthier. Let's break it down:
Healthy elements:
- Shrimp is a lean protein source, low in calories and rich in nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids
- Corn provides dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants
- Red potatoes offer vitamin C, potassium, and fiber
- Garlic and thyme add flavor without significant calorie contribution and offer potential health benefits
Less healthy aspects:
- The recipe includes 6 tablespoons of butter, which is high in saturated fat and calories
- Chicken sausage, depending on the variety, may be high in sodium and saturated fat
- Old Bay seasoning, while flavorful, can contribute to high sodium content
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter used, or replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil or a smaller amount of ghee
- Opt for a low-sodium, lean chicken sausage or replace it with a vegetarian protein source like chickpeas or tofu
- Use a reduced-sodium Old Bay seasoning, or create your own seasoning blend with less salt and more herbs and spices
- Increase the proportion of vegetables in the recipe, such as adding bell peppers, onions, or zucchini, to boost fiber and nutrient content
- Serve the shrimp boil packets with a side salad or additional steamed vegetables to create a more balanced meal
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the flavors of the grilled shrimp boil packets while supporting your overall health and well-being.
Editor's Opinion on Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets
This grilled shrimp boil packet recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of tender shrimp, savory chicken sausage, and perfectly cooked potatoes and corn creates a harmonious balance. The butter mixture infused with lemon juice, thyme, and garlic adds a rich, aromatic depth. The use of Old Bay seasoning enhances the seafood's natural flavors, while the fresh parsley garnish provides a refreshing finish. The convenience of foil packets makes for easy grilling and cleanup, making this dish both practical and delicious. Overall, it's a well-rounded, flavorful recipe perfect for a summer cookout.
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Why trust this Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets Recipe:
This recipe for grilled shrimp boil packets is a must-try because it combines the best of summer flavors in a convenient and easy-to-make dish. The baby red potatoes and corn provide a hearty base, while the chicken sausage and shrimp add protein and richness. The butter and lemon juice mixture, infused with thyme and garlic, ensures every bite is flavorful. Plus, the use of Old Bay seasoning gives it that classic seafood boil taste. This recipe is perfect for grilling enthusiasts looking for a delicious and foolproof meal.
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