Easy One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp Boil with Old Bay Seasoning
Experience the vibrant flavors of the South with this incredibly easy and utterly delicious **Garlic Butter Shrimp Boil**, ready to impress in just 30 minutes! This fuss-free, one-pan recipe brings together succulent shrimp, smoky andouille sausage, sweet corn on the cob, and creamy baby potatoes, all generously smothered in a rich garlic butter and classic Old Bay seasoning. Forget the massive pots and the messy clean-up; our oven-baked shrimp boil delivers all the authentic taste and festive atmosphere of a traditional boil, but with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Whether you’re planning a lively family dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or simply craving the comforting spice of Southern-style seafood, this garlic butter shrimp boil is your perfect answer. Serve it piping hot straight from the pan, generously drizzled with extra garlic butter, a sprinkle of fresh parsley and green onions, and plenty of lemon wedges for a bright finish. It’s a foolproof recipe designed for flavor enthusiasts who appreciate simplicity and a clean kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Easy One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp Boil
This isn’t just another shrimp boil; it’s a game-changer! What truly elevates this **garlic butter shrimp boil** recipe is the incredible depth of flavor delivered by the rich garlic butter and iconic Old Bay seasoning, perfectly infused into every single ingredient. Unlike traditional methods, baking it in the oven guarantees uniformly tender shrimp, lusciously juicy corn, and perfectly creamy potatoes without the risk of overcooking or mushiness. The magic lies in the one-pan approach, which not only ensures that all components cook harmoniously together, absorbing all those fantastic spices, but also significantly cuts down on your post-dinner cleanup. You get all the robust, spicy, and buttery goodness of a classic Southern seafood boil with far less fuss, making it ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a casual gathering where you want maximum impact with minimal stress.
What Goes Into This Flavor-Packed Shrimp Boil
A successful shrimp boil celebrates fresh, simple, and bold ingredients. This oven-baked, one-pan version utilizes classic components, enhanced by a luscious garlic butter mixture and a generous hand of Old Bay seasoning, ensuring maximum taste and minimal fuss. Here are the stars of our delicious seafood feast:
- Baby Potatoes: We opt for small red or yellow baby potatoes because they provide a wonderfully creamy, hearty base. Their small size means they cook quickly and evenly, becoming irresistibly tender while soaking up all the savory garlic butter and Old Bay spices. Quartering larger baby potatoes ensures optimal texture and cooking time.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn is an absolute must in any shrimp boil. Its natural sweetness perfectly balances the smoky sausage and the rich, spiced shrimp, adding a delightful crunch and vibrant color. Cutting the ears crosswise into smaller pieces makes them easier to handle and eat.
- Shrimp: Jumbo shrimp are highly recommended for this recipe. Peeled and deveined, they are ready for easy eating and cook quickly to a succulent, tender perfection in the oven. Their larger size prevents them from overcooking and becoming rubbery, ensuring a delightful bite every time.
- Smoked Andouille Sausage: This spicy, smoked sausage is the heart of the Southern flavor profile. It brings a robust, savory kick and a delightful smokiness that complements the sweetness of the corn and shrimp beautifully. Thinly slicing the sausage allows its flavors to disperse throughout the dish and ensures even heating.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is absolutely essential, infused into melted butter to create the aromatic, rich sauce that coats every single ingredient. We use it twice – once in the initial seasoning mix and again as a fresh drizzle right before serving for an extra fragrant boost.
- Butter & Olive Oil: A generous amount of melted butter is crucial for that signature rich, luxurious taste. A touch of olive oil helps to create a balanced sauce and assists in achieving beautifully roasted ingredients.
- Old Bay Seasoning: The undisputed champion of seafood boils! This classic spice blend, with its unique mix of celery salt, paprika, black pepper, and other secret ingredients, provides that iconic, zesty, and savory flavor that defines a true shrimp boil. Don’t skimp on it!
Note: For precise measurements and a full list of ingredients, please refer to the recipe card located at the bottom of this page.
How To Make This Easy One-Pan Shrimp Boil
Preparing this incredible garlic butter shrimp boil is surprisingly simple, designed for ease and efficiency. Follow these steps to create a show-stopping meal with minimal effort:
- Preheat Oven & Prep Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to a hot 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats up, prepare a large baking sheet (or two if needed to avoid overcrowding) by lightly greasing it with nonstick cooking spray or a thin smear of butter. This prevents sticking and helps with easy cleanup. Set the pan aside as you move on to the next steps.
- Boil Potatoes, Onion & Corn: In a large pot, bring plenty of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your baby potatoes and onion wedges, cooking them for approximately 5 minutes to give them a head start. Then, add the corn on the cob pieces and continue boiling for another 5-7 minutes, or until the potatoes are just tender when pierced with a fork. It’s crucial not to overcook them at this stage, as they will finish cooking in the oven.
- Arrange Ingredients on Baking Sheet: Carefully drain the par-boiled vegetables using a colander. Transfer the potatoes, onions, and corn onto your prepared baking sheet. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and the thinly sliced smoked andouille sausage. Spread all the ingredients out into a single, even layer to ensure consistent cooking and beautiful caramelization. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can steam the ingredients instead of roasting them.
- Coat with Garlic Butter & Seasoning: In a small, separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, and the generous tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning until well combined. This is your magical flavor elixir! Pour this aromatic mixture evenly over all the ingredients on the baking sheet. Use tongs or your hands (wear gloves if preferred) to gently toss and ensure every piece of shrimp, sausage, potato, and corn is thoroughly coated in the buttery, spiced goodness.
- Bake to Perfection & Broil for Crispiness: Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven and bake for approximately 10 minutes. The shrimp should turn opaque and pink, and the corn should be tender. Keep a close eye on the shrimp to prevent overcooking. For an extra layer of flavor and texture, briefly broil (grill) the shrimp boil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end. This step creates beautifully crispy edges on the sausage and a slight char on the corn.
- Finish and Serve Immediately: Once baked and broiled, remove the pan from the oven. In a tiny bowl, mix an additional two tablespoons of melted butter with one minced garlic clove. Drizzle this fresh garlic butter over the hot shrimp boil and toss lightly to distribute. Garnish generously with cracked pepper, freshly chopped parsley, and vibrant green onions. Serve your magnificent one-pan shrimp boil immediately, accompanied by fresh lemon wedges, extra Old Bay seasoning for those who crave more kick, and your favorite hot sauce.
This garlic butter shrimp boil is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Round out your Southern-style feast with Cheesy Pizza Pull Apart Bread for a fun, shareable treat, or serve alongside a crisp green salad for a lighter touch. Add a simple yet elegant Garlic Browned Butter Baked Asparagus for an additional vegetable pairing. And for the perfect sweet ending, a light, fruity Easy Mango Blueberry Crumble provides a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.
Why This One-Pan Shrimp Boil is a Game Changer
This isn’t just an easy dinner; it’s a revelation for seafood lovers! Traditional shrimp boils often involve large pots, outdoor burners, and a considerable amount of clean-up. Our oven-baked, one-pan approach eliminates all that hassle without sacrificing an ounce of flavor. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Effortless Preparation: From prep to plate, you’re looking at about 30 minutes of active time. Most of the cooking happens in the oven, freeing you up to enjoy your company or prepare other elements of your meal.
- Minimal Cleanup: One baking sheet means significantly fewer dishes. Line it with foil or parchment paper for even easier cleanup, making this a dream for busy weeknights.
- Consistent Flavor: Baking ensures that the garlic butter and Old Bay seasoning evenly coat every ingredient, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The dry heat of the oven also helps to slightly caramelize the ingredients, adding extra depth.
- Perfect Texture Every Time: The controlled environment of the oven helps to cook each component to perfection. Shrimp stay tender, corn remains juicy, and potatoes become wonderfully creamy without becoming waterlogged or mushy.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is designed to feed a family or a small group, making it an excellent option for entertaining. The vibrant colors and irresistible aroma are sure to draw everyone to the table.
Tips for Success: Mastering Your One-Pan Shrimp Boil
While this recipe is incredibly forgiving, a few expert tips can elevate your garlic butter shrimp boil from great to unforgettable:
- Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: The initial boiling step is crucial. Cook the potatoes until they are *just* tender enough to pierce with a fork, but still slightly firm. They will continue to cook in the oven, and you want them to finish creamy, not mushy.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: For best results, arrange all ingredients in a single, even layer on your baking sheet. If your pan is too full, use two baking sheets. Overcrowding traps steam, which can prevent browning and lead to soggy ingredients.
- Quality Shrimp Matters: Use fresh or flash-frozen, high-quality jumbo shrimp. Ensure they are peeled and deveined for the best eating experience. Patting them dry before coating can help the seasoning adhere better.
- Customize Your Spice Level: Old Bay seasoning provides a classic, balanced flavor. If you prefer more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to your garlic butter mixture, or serve with your favorite hot sauce on the side.
- Fresh Herbs are Key: The fresh parsley and green onions added at the end aren’t just for garnish; they add a burst of freshness and aroma that brightens the entire dish. Don’t skip them!
- Lemon is Your Friend: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished dish cuts through the richness of the butter and enhances all the flavors. Always serve with extra lemon wedges.
Customizing Your Shrimp Boil: Variations and Add-ins
One of the beauties of a shrimp boil is its versatility. Feel free to experiment and make this recipe truly your own:
- Sausage Swap: While smoked andouille sausage is traditional and highly recommended for its spicy, smoky depth, you can certainly experiment with other sausages. Kielbasa or Polish sausage offer a milder flavor profile, while a spicier chorizo could add a different kind of kick.
- Potato Choices: Baby red or yellow potatoes are ideal, but quartered Yukon golds or even small wedges of russet potatoes (boiled a little longer) can work in a pinch. The key is to get them tender before they go into the oven.
- Add More Veggies: Want to boost your vegetable intake? Bell peppers (sliced), mushrooms, or even green beans can be added to the baking sheet during the last 10-15 minutes of baking, ensuring they cook through without getting mushy.
- Spice it Up: For those who love extra heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce (like Tabasco or Louisiana hot sauce) can be mixed into the garlic butter or served on the side.
- Herb Variations: While parsley and green onions are classic, fresh dill or cilantro could also offer interesting flavor twists if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Seafood Medley: While this is a shrimp boil, you could certainly add other quick-cooking seafood like mussels, clams, or even small pieces of firm white fish during the last few minutes of baking.
Storing and Reheating Your Delicious Leftovers
Leftover garlic butter shrimp boil can be just as delicious as the fresh batch! Here’s how to handle them:
- Storage: Allow any leftovers to cool completely. Transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- Reheating: For best results, gently reheat leftovers in the oven or an air fryer. Spread the shrimp boil components in a single layer on a baking sheet and reheat at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. You can also microwave them, but be aware that shrimp tend to become tougher when microwaved.
- Freezing: Freezing is generally not recommended for shrimp boil, as the texture of shrimp and potatoes can suffer upon thawing and reheating, becoming less appealing.
Recipe FAQ’s
Jumbo shrimp (typically 21-25 count per pound) are highly recommended for this oven-baked shrimp boil recipe. Their larger size helps them retain moisture and stay incredibly juicy and tender throughout the baking process. Smaller shrimp (like medium or large) can easily overcook and become rubbery very quickly in the oven, so opting for jumbo ensures a more pleasant texture.
Absolutely! While baby red or yellow potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and quick cooking time, you have options. Quartered Yukon Gold potatoes or small Dutch Yellow potatoes also work beautifully in a garlic butter shrimp boil. If using larger potatoes, ensure they are cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking, and adjust their initial boiling time accordingly until they are just tender.
For an authentic, spicy, and smoky flavor, smoked andouille or a Cajun-style sausage is definitely the top choice. These sausages bring a wonderful depth that complements the seafood and vegetables perfectly. If you prefer a milder taste or have trouble finding andouille, you can certainly use kielbasa or other smoked Polish sausages as a delicious alternative. Just ensure whatever sausage you choose is fully cooked before adding it to the pan, as it’s primarily for flavor and heating through.
While some traditional boils leave the shells on for extra flavor, for this oven-baked, one-pan garlic butter shrimp boil, we highly recommend using peeled and deveined shrimp. This makes for much easier and more enjoyable eating, especially when serving a crowd. Most grocery stores offer pre-peeled and deveined shrimp, saving you prep time.
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Shrimp Boil
Ingredients
- 1 lb baby potatoes red or yellow, quartered if large
- 4 ears corn on the cob cut crosswise into 4 pieces each
- 1 medium onion peeled and cut into 8 wedges
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted, for the initial seasoning mixture
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced, for the initial seasoning mixture
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 pound jumbo shrimp peeled and deveined, tails on or off
- 12 ounces smoked andouille sausage thinly sliced (about 1/4-inch thick)
TO SERVE
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted, for finishing drizzle
- 1 clove garlic minced, for finishing drizzle
- 1 pinch cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh green onions chopped, for garnish
- 2 lemons cut into wedges, for serving
Instructions
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Preheat Oven & Prep Pan: Preheat your oven to a robust 425°F (220°C). Prepare a large baking sheet (or two, if needed to avoid overcrowding) by lightly greasing it with nonstick cooking oil spray or a thin smear of butter. Set aside.
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Par-Boil Veggies: In a large pot of generously salted boiling water, add the baby potatoes and onion wedges. Cook for 5 minutes. Then, add the corn on the cob pieces, stir, and continue boiling for another 5-7 minutes, or until the potatoes are *just* tender when pierced with a fork. Do not overcook them, as they will finish in the oven. Drain all vegetables very well.
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Arrange on Baking Sheet: Transfer the drained, cooked potatoes, onions, and corn onto the prepared baking sheet. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and the thinly sliced smoked andouille sausage. Spread all ingredients out into a single, even layer to ensure proper cooking and browning.
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Coat with Garlic Butter & Old Bay: In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup melted butter, olive oil, 4 cloves minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning until thoroughly combined. Pour this flavorful mixture evenly over all the ingredients on the baking sheet. Gently toss with tongs or spoons to ensure everything is well coated.
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Bake & Broil: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque, pink, and cooked through, and the corn is tender. For an extra crispy finish and enhanced flavor, broil (grill) the shrimp boil for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
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Final Garlic Butter Drizzle: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven. In a tiny bowl, mix the extra 2 tablespoons of melted butter with the remaining 1 minced garlic clove. Drizzle this fresh, aromatic garlic butter over the hot shrimp boil and lightly toss everything with two spoons to distribute evenly.
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Garnish & Serve: Finish your shrimp boil by topping it with a pinch of cracked black pepper, freshly chopped parsley, and vibrant green onions. Serve immediately on a large platter or directly from the baking sheet, accompanied by plenty of fresh lemon wedges for squeezing, an extra tin of Old Bay for those who crave more seasoning, and your favorite hot sauce. Enjoy this easy and delicious Southern feast!
Notes
- Double Garlic Butter: Drizzling fresh garlic butter and lemon over your shrimp boil as soon as it comes out of the oven is key for an extra burst of irresistible flavor and aroma.
- Devein Your Shrimp: While not strictly necessary, deveining your shrimp significantly enhances the eating experience, making each bite more enjoyable.
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly. Watch them closely during the baking and broiling steps to ensure they remain tender and succulent. They’re done when they turn opaque and pink.
- Uniform Sizing: Cut your corn and potatoes into roughly similar sizes to ensure they cook evenly.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.