Seafood Boil with Garlic Butter Sauce is a fun and delicious dish that brings everyone together! It’s packed with fresh seafood and a rich garlic butter sauce that makes every bite a delight. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just a special treat on a weekend, this dish is sure to impress.
Why Make This Recipe
Making a Seafood Boil is not just about food; it’s about creating memories with friends and family. It’s easy to prepare and customizable based on what you love. The garlic butter sauce adds a rich flavor that everyone adores. Plus, cooking seafood is a great way to enjoy fresh, healthy ingredients!
How to Make Seafood Boil with Garlic Butter Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4-6 crab legs, cracked
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 lemon wedges
- 1 small container of dipping sauce (optional)
Directions:
- Prepare the seafood: If you haven’t done this yet, peel and devein the shrimp. Crack the crab legs for easy access and peel the hard-boiled eggs.
- Cook the seafood: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt! Add the crab legs and cook for about 8-10 minutes. Next, add the shrimp and hard-boiled eggs for another 3-4 minutes, until the shrimp turns pink and is cooked through. Drain everything and set it aside.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add in the minced garlic and cook until it smells wonderful, about 1-2 minutes. Then stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne (if you want some heat), and lemon juice. Cook for another 2 minutes to let the flavors mix well.
- Toss the seafood: Add the cooked shrimp, crab legs, and hard-boiled eggs into the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Gently toss everything to coat it evenly in the sauce.
- Serve: Move the seafood to a serving dish or takeout container. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, and if you like, serve it with a side of dipping sauce.
How to Serve Seafood Boil with Garlic Butter Sauce
Serve the Seafood Boil warm straight from the skillet or transferred to a large bowl. It’s great for family-style dining—just let everyone dig in! Don’t forget the extra lemon wedges for squeezing over the top and the dipping sauce for added flavor.
How to Store Seafood Boil with Garlic Butter Sauce
If you have leftovers, let the Seafood Boil cool down. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Tips to Make Seafood Boil with Garlic Butter Sauce
- Make sure the seafood is fresh for the best flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. If you love it spicy, add more cayenne!
- For extra zest, add some chopped green onions or Old Bay seasoning along with the Cajun spice.
Variation
You can customize this boil by adding other seafood like mussels or clams. If you want more veggies, toss in some corn on the cob or potatoes to cook along with the seafood!
FAQs
Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes, frozen seafood works well! Just make sure to thaw it before cooking.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can create your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and some pepper.
How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?
The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when it’s cooked through, usually within 3-4 minutes in boiling water.
Now you’re ready to make your Seafood Boil with Garlic Butter Sauce! Enjoy the cooking and the delicious meal with your loved ones.