Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

These Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets are a delightful way to enjoy a fresh and flavorful meal without heating up your kitchen. Perfect for summer gatherings, these packets combine tender shrimp, smoked sausage, sweet corn, and baby potatoes, all seasoned to perfection. The best part? Cleanup is a breeze! Enjoy these packets at a family barbecue or while camping, making them a versatile choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Clean-Up: Cooking in foil packets means less mess and no pots or pans to wash.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes creates a mouthwatering blend.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
• Outdoor Cooking: Keep the heat outside by grilling instead of using the oven.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can enhance your cooking experience and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-duty aluminum foil
• Gas grill
• Microwave-safe dish
• Plate for microwaving potatoes

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-duty aluminum foil: Ensures that the packets hold together well while grilling and prevents leaks.
• Gas grill: Provides even heat for perfectly cooked shrimp and tender vegetables.
• Microwave-safe dish: Allows you to melt butter quickly without fussing over pots on the stove.

Ingredients

These Shrimp Boil Packets are one of the easiest, tastiest summer dinners and you’ll love that they are cooked on the grill so they’ll keep all that heat outside. Tender shrimp, flavorful sausage, sweet corn cobs and baby potatoes are all brightly seasoned and cooked together, which gives great flavor and means easy clean up!

For the Shrimp Boil Packets

• 1 lb baby or small red potatoes
• 2 ears corn, (shucked and sliced into 1-inch thick disks)
• 2 (4 oz) chicken or turkey cajun style andouille sausage links, sliced into 1/4-inch thick slices
• 1 lb large raw shrimp, (peeled and deveined)
• 6 Tbsp butter, (diced into 1 Tbsp pieces)
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
• 2 cloves garlic, (minced)
• 2 tsp Old Bay seafood seasoning, (or more to taste)
• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley leaves

How to Make Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat a gas grill over medium-high heat to about 425 degrees. Cut 8 sheets of 12 by 14-inch Reynolds Wrap Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil. Use two sheets of foil per packet.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Place potatoes on a plate and microwave on high power for 1 1/2 minutes. Rotate them and microwave for an additional 1 1/2 minutes. Once cool enough to handle, cut them into slices.

Step 3: Assemble the Packets

Divide the sliced potatoes among each of the four double-lined foil sheets (layering ingredients in the center), followed by corn disks, sausage slices, and shrimp.

Step 4: Add Seasoning

Melt butter in a microwave-safe dish. Stir in lemon juice, thyme, and garlic. Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of this mixture evenly over each packet.

Step 5: Season Each Packet

Sprinkle each packet with about 1/2 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning. Wrap up the sides of the first sheet of foil, then place a second sheet going opposite length and crimp edges to seal tightly.

Step 6: Grill & Serve

Grill sealed side up for about 12-15 minutes or until potatoes are tender and shrimp have cooked through. Serve warm garnished with chopped parsley.

Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets!

How to Serve Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets are a delightful and easy summer meal. Serving them can be just as fun as cooking! Here are some great ways to enjoy your packets.

Casual Outdoor Dining

• Serve on a platter: Remove the contents from the foil and place them on a large serving platter for a communal feel.
• Add lemon wedges: Fresh lemon wedges enhance the flavors and give a bright finish.

Pairing with Dips

• Cocktail sauce: A classic choice that adds a zesty kick to your shrimp.
• Garlic butter dip: Melted garlic butter is always a favorite for dipping shrimp and potatoes.

Creative Garnishes

• Chopped scallions: Sprinkle fresh scallions on top for an extra layer of flavor.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, red pepper flakes can add a spicy touch.

How to Perfect Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

To make sure your Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• seasoning: Don’t be afraid to use more Old Bay seasoning or other spices for deeper flavor.
• Uniform sizes: Cut your potatoes and corn into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking throughout the packet.
• Monitor grill temperature: Ensure your grill stays at about 425 degrees for optimal cooking without burning.
• Let rest after grilling: Allow the packets to sit for a few minutes after grilling. This lets flavors meld and keeps everything juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets enhances the meal experience. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices.
2. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a crisp texture that complements the warmth of the packets.
3. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with Southern flavors and provides a hearty side.
4. Grilled Veggies: Seasonal vegetables grilled alongside the packets add color and nutrition to your meal.
5. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad is another comforting side that matches well with shrimp.
6. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with vinegar dressing refreshes the palate between bites of shrimp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the prep: Not preparing your ingredients in advance can lead to uneven cooking. Always microwave the potatoes before adding them to the packets.
• Overcrowding the packets: Packing too many ingredients into one packet can prevent even cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for steam circulation.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season each layer can result in bland flavors. Drizzle the butter mixture and sprinkle seasoning evenly over all ingredients.
• Using low-quality foil: Thin foil may tear or leak, ruining your meal. Always opt for heavy-duty aluminum foil for best results.
• Not checking doneness: Opening packets too early can let steam escape. Check that shrimp are pink and potatoes are tender before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

• Wrap individual packets tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• You can freeze them for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover; heat for about 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat gently on low, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets that you might find helpful.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure they are completely thawed before cooking for better results.

How do I customize my Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets?

Feel free to add other proteins like crab or lobster, or include different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini based on your taste preferences.

What type of sausage is best for these packets?

Andouille sausage adds great flavor, but feel free to substitute with any smoked sausage or kielbasa that you enjoy.

Can I make Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the packets a few hours in advance and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to grill them.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets offer a delightful blend of flavors and ease of preparation. They’re perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. Customize your packets with your favorite ingredients for a personalized touch!