Slow Cooker Southern Shrimp Boil

A bubbling slow cooker packed with shrimp sausage potatoes and sweet corn makes an impressive Southern shrimp boil with almost no effort This is my go to crowd pleaser for outdoor gatherings or whenever I want something festive and fuss free at home

Shrimp boils always remind me of summers spent with family friends laughing over tables covered in newspapers and buttery shells It has become our tradition for birthday cookouts when I want to keep it easy but memorable

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: peeled and deveined with tails on for easy eating Freshness is key so look for shrimp with a firm texture and bright color
• Smoked sausage: slices bring rich smoky flavor Choose a sausage with a little kick for extra depth
• Baby red or Yukon gold potatoes: hold their shape during simmering The thin skins add texture so no need to peel them
• Fresh corn cobs: cut small for easy scooping Sweet and juicy corn kernels soak up all the spicy goodness
• Fresh lemon: both juice and rinds amplify the seafood flavor and keep everything bright
• Chicken broth: low sodium to control seasoning and tie all the flavors together Choose a good quality broth
• Old Bay seasoning: classic blend for an authentic taste Feel free to adjust to your spice preference
• Cajun seasoning: brings a warm peppery kick Pick a blend you love or try homemade
• Minced garlic: gives aromatic depth look for fresh or high quality refrigerated
• Smoked paprika: boosts smokiness opt for Spanish smoked paprika for the richest flavor
• Crushed red pepper flakes: for some fire totally optional depending on your heat tolerance
• Salt and pepper: always taste and adjust
• Unsalted butter: melted and drizzled at the end for richness I use real butter for that classic finish
• Chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges: make for a pretty garnish Use flat leaf parsley for best flavor

Instructions

Prep the Veggies and Sausage:

Wash and halve or quarter potatoes Slice sausage into thick coins Cut each ear of corn into three pieces Set everything aside in separate bowls to keep the workflow smooth and tidy

Mix the Broth and Seasonings:

In the slow cooker add chicken broth Old Bay Cajun seasoning minced garlic smoked paprika crushed red pepper if using salt and pepper Squeeze in fresh lemon juice from both halves then toss the squeezed halves in too They will infuse their oils into the broth

Layer Ingredients:

Add potatoes to the bottom of the slow cooker Add sausage coins Nestle in corn sections This keeps the shrimp from overcooking later

Slow Cook Everything:

Cover and cook on High for three to three and a half hours or on Low for six to seven hours Potatoes should be fork tender and corn succulent before shrimp goes in

Add the Shrimp:

When potatoes are completely tender scatter shrimp on top Set to High Cover and cook for an additional twenty to thirty minutes Shrimp is done the instant it turns pink and opaque

Finish with Butter:

Drizzle melted butter over the entire mixture Stir gently to coat without breaking up the corn and potatoes

Plate and Garnish:

Lift out all the delicious bits with a slotted spoon Arrange on a large platter Garnish generously with parsley and lemon wedges Serve immediately with extra melted garlic butter if desired

My kids always fight over the last ear of corn I secretly sneak extra buttery corn just for them It takes me back to Louisiana trips when family dinners meant stories and huge bowls of shellfish

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in a shallow airtight container in the fridge up to two days The potatoes can get a little softer with reheating but the flavors remain bold For best texture reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap turkey sausage for smoked sausage if you prefer a lighter flavor Large frozen shrimp defrosted and patted dry works in a pinch Sweet potatoes can substitute regular potatoes for a sweeter note Cajun or Creole blends are easily adjusted—taste and tweak before you cook

Serving Suggestions

Pile shrimp boil onto a big serving tray and scatter with fresh herbs Serve with warm baguette hot sauce extra lemon and maybe a big green salad You can add a quick side of coleslaw or hushpuppies for a true Southern feast

Cultural and Historical Context

Shrimp boils are a Southern tradition born from communal seafood catches and celebration They are meant to be shared with hands and laughter Often served atop newspaper the messy delicious nature means nobody feels fancy and everyone feels welcome

Seasonal Adaptations

Corn is sweetest in late summer Try fresh green beans in place of corn during winter For spring I sometimes add chunks of asparagus during the last thirty minutes of cooking In chilly months add extra smoked sausage or substitute sweet potato to make it extra hearty

This shrimp boil is guaranteed to bring everyone together for fun and great food The flavors are bright and memorable and cleanup is a breeze

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can frozen shrimp be used?

Yes, simply thaw the shrimp first for even cooking and best texture.

→ What type of sausage works best?

Smoked sausage like andouille or kielbasa adds rich, savory depth to the boil.

→ Is it possible to add other vegetables?

Yes, add bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and color.

→ How long should shrimp cook in the slow cooker?

Shrimp only need about 20–30 minutes on High to turn pink and opaque.

→ What sides complement this dish?

Warm bread, coleslaw, and lemon wedges pair perfectly with the bold, hearty flavors.