A warm, comforting meal with Southern roots, this Crock Pot Shrimp Boil is a dish that brings family and friends together. It’s packed with bold flavors, simple ingredients, and the ease of slow cooking. Perfect for summer gatherings, weeknight meals, or even special occasions, this recipe lets your slow cooker do the work while you sit back and relax. It combines tender potatoes, juicy sausage, sweet corn, and succulent shrimp — all seasoned with Old Bay, garlic, and lemon — to create a meal that’s both rustic and satisfying.
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds red potatoes, quartered
1 small head of garlic, cloves removed and peeled
2 bay leaves
6 cups water
¼ cup Old Bay seasoning
1 tablespoon hot sauce (like Frank’s)
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 pound smoked Andouille sausage, sliced
3 ears corn, shucked and sliced into thirds
2 pounds raw shrimp, tails removed
Lemon wedges, for serving
¼ cup butter, melted (optional)
3 tablespoons fresh minced parsley (optional)
Instructions
Add the potatoes, garlic cloves, and bay leaves to the bottom of a 6-quart oval slow cooker. For stronger garlic flavor, gently smash the cloves before adding them.
Pour in the water, Old Bay seasoning, hot sauce, and lemon juice. Stir gently to mix. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2 hours.
After 2 hours, add the sliced sausage and corn pieces. Stir lightly, cover, and continue cooking on high for another 2 to 3 hours. The potatoes should be fork-tender and the corn fully cooked.
Add the shrimp to the slow cooker. Gently stir the contents, cover, and cook on high for about 15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
Drain most of the cooking liquid. If using, pour melted butter over the mixture and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Serve directly from the slow cooker or transfer to a large platter with a slotted spoon. Add lemon wedges for squeezing just before serving.
Flavor Tips and Notes
To intensify the broth, use seafood stock instead of water.
For more spice, increase the hot sauce or add cayenne pepper.
For a milder version, reduce the Old Bay slightly and omit the hot sauce.
The sausage adds a smoky depth — feel free to experiment with other varieties such as kielbasa, chorizo, or turkey sausage.
Serving Suggestions
Crock Pot Shrimp Boil is best enjoyed family-style. Spread parchment or butcher paper on the table and pour out the contents for a casual, shareable experience.
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices, a simple side salad for freshness, and extra lemon wedges for a bright finish.
Pair with iced tea, light beer, or a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for a refreshing balance.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or butter. Avoid microwaving the shrimp too long as it can make them rubbery.
If storing the ingredients separately, keep shrimp and sausage apart from the corn and potatoes to maintain texture.
Make It Your Own
Add crab legs or clams for a deluxe seafood experience.
Try baby Yukon gold or fingerling potatoes instead of red potatoes for a different texture.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning for a bolder, smokier flavor.
Substitute vegetable broth and a vegetarian sausage for a meatless version.
Why the Crock Pot Works So Well
Slow cooking allows the ingredients to absorb flavor gradually, making the dish more cohesive.
It frees up your stovetop and oven, reducing stress when cooking for guests.
Minimal cleanup, one pot, and consistent results every time make it a dependable favorite.
Entertaining with Shrimp Boil
This dish is made for casual gatherings. Offer bibs, napkins, and hand wipes for guests to dig in with their hands.
Provide side bowls for shrimp tails and corn cobs.
Consider offering a range of condiments such as spicy remoulade, garlic butter, or cocktail sauce.
More Crock Pot Variations
If you like this method, consider trying:
– Crock Pot Cajun Chicken and Corn
– Slow Cooker Seafood Gumbo
– Slow Cooked Clambake with Mussels and Potatoes
– Crock Pot Crawfish Boil (if in season)
What Makes This a French-Inspired Boil?
Though shrimp boils are deeply Southern, adding a touch of French flair like butter, fresh herbs, and good presentation elevates the dish. Consider using French Andouille sausage and fresh thyme or tarragon for added depth. Serve with baguette slices or a chilled white Burgundy.
Nutritional Estimates (Per Serving)
Calories: 500 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 26g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 1200mg
Time Estimates
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours (total slow cook time)
Final Assembly: 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 5 hours 20 minutes
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Shrimp Boil is a beautiful blend of flavor and simplicity. Whether you’re entertaining guests or feeding your family, it brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Customize it to your taste, pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the rich flavors that come from slow, steady cooking.