Savor the Flavor: Cajun Seafood Boil with Garlic Butter Sauce

What Is a Cajun Seafood Boil?

A Cajun seafood boil is more than just a meal; it’s a lively gathering that embodies the spirit of Southern hospitality. Perfect for family reunions, summer cookouts, or festive celebrations, it showcases an irresistible mix of shrimp, crab, sausage, and zesty Cajun spices. The unveiling of a seafood boil, often served on a table covered in newspaper, invites everyone to dig in and enjoy a hands-on dining experience!

This Cajun seafood boil with garlic butter sauce is not only a feast for the senses but also easy to prepare. Here’s a quick overview:

• A flavorful, hearty seafood feast simmered in Cajun spices, garlic, and butter — served family-style for the perfect Southern seafood experience.

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  🕒 Recipe Overview

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

  • Total Time: 45 minutes

  • Servings: 6–8

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  🧂 Ingredients

  For the Boil

  • 2 lbs (900g) large shrimp, deveined (shells on for flavor)

  • 1 lb (450g) snow crab legs or king crab (optional)

  • 1 lb (450g) smoked sausage, sliced

  • 4 ears corn, cut into halves

  • 1½ lbs (700g) small red potatoes

  • 1 lemon, quartered

  • 1 packet (3 oz) Cajun or crab boil seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning

  • 1 tablespoon salt

  For the Garlic Butter Sauce

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter

  • 8 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 teaspoon lemon pepper

  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

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  🔪 Directions

  1. Boil the Potatoes and Corn
     Fill a large pot with water (about 4–5 quarts).
     Add lemon, Cajun/crab boil seasoning, Old Bay, and salt.
     Bring to a boil and cook potatoes for 10 minutes, then add corn and sausage and cook another 5 minutes.

  2. Add the Seafood
     Add shrimp and crab legs to the pot. Boil for 3–5 minutes or until shrimp turns pink and crab is heated through.
     Drain and set aside (reserve about ½ cup of the seasoned water).

  3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
     In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
     Add garlic and cook until fragrant (1–2 minutes).
     Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, lemon pepper, cayenne, and lemon juice.
     Add a few spoonfuls of the reserved boil water for flavor and simmer 2 minutes.

  4. Toss Everything Together
     Pour the drained seafood, corn, sausage, and potatoes into a large bowl or baking sheet pan.
     Pour the garlic butter sauce over top and toss well to coat everything evenly.

  5. Serve Family-Style
     Sprinkle with fresh parsley, serve with lemon wedges, and enjoy with crusty bread or steamed rice!

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  💡 Pro Tips

  • Add snow crab, crawfish, or lobster tails for an ultimate seafood feast.

  • Adjust spice level by adding or reducing Cajun seasoning and cayenne.

  • For a restaurant-style look, serve in a deep platter lined with parchment paper.