Old Bay Spiced Shrimp Boil Foil Packets
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever dreamt of a seafood feast without the fuss? This Bay seasoning recipe , starring my fave Old Bay seasoning , is your ticket.
Honestly, the flavor is like a party in your mouth.
Brief Overview
Originating from the Chesapeake Bay area, the seafood boil is a communal culinary tradition. This simplified foil packet version is easy peasy , taking only 45 minutes from prep to plate.
It makes 4 generous servings, perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together.
Main Benefits
These foil packets are packed with protein and flavour. It's a fantastic, fun dinner option with minimal cleanup. What makes this recipe special is how Crab Leg Seasoning Recipe simplicity meets incredible flavour in a way that would be great to use for your next Shrimp boil recipe .
Craving a taste of the coast, right here at home? You're in for a treat with my Old Bay Spiced Shrimp Boil Foil Packets.
Seafood Boil Magic Starts Here
I remember my first proper seafood boil foil packets . It was a sticky summer evening, with paper plates piled high and everyone elbow-to-elbow, cracking crab legs like there was no tomorrow!
Now, I can't always get my act together for that level of commitment, so I have created this Shrimp boil recipe inspired packet version! These little foil boats are bursting with flavour, and super easy to clean up afterwards.
What's the Deal with Old Bay?
Let's talk about Old Bay seasoning . This Chesapeake Bay staple isn't just for crab. It's a magic dust for any seafood! This blend of herbs and spices brings a salty, slightly sweet, and subtly spicy kick that just screams summer.
If you cannot find it ( Old bay seasoning substitute options are out there!), look for a Seafood Seasoning Blend with celery salt, paprika, and mustard powder.
This Crab seasoning will be the perfect addition to your next meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
These foil packets are like a mini seafood party. Plus, there is hardly any mess. Each packet contains shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and corn.
All infused with the zesty Chesapeake bay seasoning of Old Bay. You can chuck it all in a foil and grill!
Ingredients for the Win
You'll need: 1 lb shrimp, 1 lb sausage, 1 lb baby red potatoes, 2 ears of corn, 1 red bell pepper, 1 yellow onion, garlic, olive oil, butter, Old Bay seasoning , salt, pepper, and lemons.
Ingredients & Equipment
Right, let's get our act together. These Old Bay shrimp boil foil packets are easy peasy. You basically chuck everything in foil.
It tastes like a proper seafood boil. Think seaside holiday, innit? Let’s dive in!
Main Ingredients
Okay, listen up. Here’s what you'll need. Don't skimp on the Old Bay seasoning , yeah?
- 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp. Peeled and cleaned.
- 1 lb (450g) andouille sausage. Sliced nicely.
- 1 lb (450g) baby red potatoes. Quartered, like.
- 2 ears of corn. Cut into chunks.
- 1 red bell pepper. Diced, obviously.
- 1 yellow onion. Quartered too.
- 4 cloves garlic. Minced finely.
- 4 tablespoons (60ml) olive oil.
- 4 tablespoons (50g) unsalted butter, melted, not burnt!
- 4 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning . This is key!
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- 2 lemons. Cut into wedges.
- Fresh parsley. Chopped, if you're feeling fancy.
The shrimp should smell fresh, not fishy. A good sausage should be firm and have a smoky smell.
Seasoning Notes
Honestly, you can’t beat Old Bay seasoning for that proper Chesapeake Bay seasoning flavor. A good seafood seasoning blend has paprika, celery salt, and a bit of a kick.
If you ain’t got Old Bay seasoning , try a mix of celery salt, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of mustard powder.
It won’t be quite the same, but it'll do! The crab seasoning smell should make you think of seaside holidays.
Equipment Needed
You don't need much. The key item is foil for the seafood boil foil packets .
- 4 large sheets of heavy duty aluminum foil. About 18x12 inches.
- Large mixing bowl.
If you don’t have heavy duty foil, double up with regular foil. Sorted! I made the old bay shrimp recipe once, and the foil broke. Disaster!. Now I always use strong foil.
Cooking Method: Old Bay Spiced Shrimp Boil Foil Packets
Oh my gosh, you guys HAVE to try this! This Old Bay Spiced Shrimp Boil Foil Packets recipe is a total game changer.
Seriously, it's like a party in a packet, and the cleanup is a breeze. This brings the fun of a traditional shrimp boil recipe straight to your table.
I reckon its the best bay seasoning recipe .
Prep Steps: Get Your Act Together!
Alright, listen up! Mise en place is key here. Roughly means everything in its place. Peel and devein your 1 lb (450g) shrimp.
Slice that 1 lb (450g) andouille sausage. Chop your veggies: 1 lb (450g) baby red potatoes (quartered), 2 ears of corn (2 inch pieces), 1 red bell pepper (1 inch pieces), and 1 yellow onion (quartered).
Mince 4 cloves of garlic. Trust me; it's much easier when everything is ready to go. Safety wise, just be careful with your knife, yeah? And don't forget to switch on the oven.
step-by-step: Let's Get Cooking!
Right then, here’s the plan:
- Toss those potatoes, corn, bell pepper, onion, and garlic into a big bowl.
- Drizzle with 4 tablespoons (60ml) olive oil. Then, sprinkle on 2 tablespoons of that Old Bay seasoning , plus 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Give it a good mix. This really amps up the seafood seasoning blend .
- Grab your foil sheets (18x12 inches). Divide the veggie mix onto each sheet, in the centre.
- Top with your sausage and shrimp.
- Drizzle 4 tablespoons (50g) melted butter over each packet. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning on top.
- Seal those packets up tight. Fold the long sides together, then the short sides.
- Bake at 400° F ( 200° C) for 20- 25 minutes . Shrimp should be pink and cooked through. Potatoes tender!
- Serve hot with lemon wedges and some parsley if you're feeling fancy. A tasty crab leg seasoning recipe , using chesapeake bay seasoning .
Pro Tips: Secrets From the Kitchen
Honestly, the key is to not overcook the shrimp. They'll go rubbery, and nobody wants that. Aim for that perfect 20-25 minute mark and check them out before going longer.
I used to use thin foil and my juices would leak. Don't do that, use Heavy duty foil! A well sealed packet ensures proper steaming, which helps cook the ingredients evenly and infuses them with flavor.
This is great for seafood boil foil packets too.
Also, a little secret? If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the veggies! For a great old bay shrimp recipe , try using the same amount of seasoning.
If you are missing it, you can google an old bay seasoning substitute .
Enjoy that fish spice recipe !
Recipe Notes That Will Knock Your Socks Off!
Honestly, these Old Bay Spiced Shrimp Boil Foil Packets are a game changer. They are so easy, so flavourful. You know? Here are some extra tips and tricks to make them absolutely perfect every time.
Plating Like a Pro
Presentation matters, even when you're just chilling at home. Lay the opened foil packet on a plate. Or tip the contents into a bowl! Garnish with extra parsley and those lemon wedges.
A side of crusty bread is also a must. Perfect for soaking up all those delicious juices. Thinking of drinks? A crisp glass of chilled white wine goes down a treat with this Bay Seasoning Recipe .
Storing Like a Boss
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Let the seafood seasoning blend cool completely before popping it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing isn't ideal because the potatoes can get a bit mushy. But if you must, freeze for up to a month.
Reheat in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until warmed through, or gently in a skillet. Make sure the shrimp reaches 165° F ( 74° C) .
Mixing It Up
Fancy a change? No problem! To make it dairy-free, ditch the butter for extra olive oil. For a crab leg seasoning recipe , toss in some crab legs along with the shrimp (they may need a little longer to cook, so keep an eye on them!).
If you're thinking of fish spice recipe use cod.
Nutrition Nuggets
Okay, so it's not exactly health food. But these crab seasoning packets do have some nutritional perks. Shrimp is packed with protein.
And the veggies offer vitamins and fiber. Just be mindful of the sodium content, especially from the Old Bay seasoning and sausage.
Each serving is about 550 calories with 35g of protein, 35g of fat, and 30g of carbs.
So there you have it, my friend! Your guide to Old Bay Shrimp Recipe perfection. Get ready to rock that Shrimp Boil Recipe and impress everyone with these tasty Seafood Boil Foil Packets that capture the essence of Chesapeake Bay Seasoning .
Don't forget, Old Bay Seasoning is the key, but a good Old Bay Seasoning Substitute of paprika, cayenne, and celery salt will also work in a pinch! Time to get cooking! You got this!.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prep these Old Bay Spiced Shrimp Boil Foil Packets ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the foil packets a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This is a great way to save time, especially if you're having a BBQ. Just be sure to add the Old Bay seasoning right before cooking to prevent the vegetables from getting soggy.
Think of it as your own personal 'ready steady cook' moment!
My family isn't crazy about spicy food. How can I reduce the heat in this Old Bay seasoning recipe?
No worries, mate! Old Bay itself isn't super spicy, but you can definitely control the heat. Start with less Old Bay seasoning than the recipe calls for and add more to taste after cooking. You can also skip the spicy sausage (like andouille) and use a milder option like smoked turkey sausage.
Remember, it's always easier to add spice than to take it away!
Can I cook these foil packets on the grill instead of in the oven?
You bet! Grilling is actually a brilliant way to cook these foil packets, giving them a lovely smoky flavour. Just preheat your grill to medium heat and place the packets directly on the grates. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink and the potatoes are tender.
Think of it as a proper 'barbie' with a tasty seafood twist.
How do I store leftovers, and how long will they last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave them, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp. For better results, gently reheat in a skillet on the stovetop with a little bit of water or broth to prevent them from drying out.
Enjoy your "bubble and squeak" with a seafood twist!
I'm watching my sodium intake. Is there a way to reduce the sodium in this recipe?
Definitely! Old Bay seasoning can be quite high in sodium, so using a low-sodium version is a great start. Look for sausages with reduced sodium content, and be mindful of how much extra salt you add.
You can also enhance the flavours with herbs and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a squeeze of lemon juice instead of relying heavily on salt.
Can I add other vegetables to these Old Bay foil packets?
Absolutely, get creative and customize it to your liking! Adding other vegetables is a fantastic way to use what you have on hand and boost the nutritional value. Zucchini, asparagus, mushrooms, green beans, or even artichoke hearts would all work beautifully.
Just ensure that the vegetables you choose have similar cooking times to the potatoes and corn.
Old Bay Spiced Shrimp Boil Foil Packets
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 35g |
| Fiber | 30g |
