Onion Boil Shrimp Sausage

There's something magical about a meal that brings together the bold, smoky flavors of the South with the ease of hands-off cooking. These Onion Boil Shrimp and Sausage Foil Packets capture the essence of a classic Cajun seafood boil—juicy shrimp, savory smoked sausage, tender baby potatoes, and sweet corn—all seasoned with aromatic spices and wrapped up in convenient foil packets. Whether you're firing up the grill for a summer cookout or roasting them in the oven for a quick weeknight dinner, these packets deliver restaurant-quality flavor with minimal cleanup. Each bite is a celebration of Southern comfort food, perfectly portioned and bursting with zesty, smoky, and slightly spicy notes that'll have everyone coming back for seconds.

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The beauty of foil packet cooking lies in its simplicity and versatility. By sealing all the ingredients together, the steam and juices mingle inside the packet, infusing every piece with rich, layered flavors. The potatoes become tender and flavorful, the corn takes on a subtle sweetness, and the shrimp cook to perfect succulence alongside the smoky sausage. A squeeze of fresh lemon at the end brightens everything up, adding a refreshing contrast to the warm spices. This dish is as practical as it is delicious—ideal for camping trips, backyard barbecues, or busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 12 oz (340 g) smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 large onion, cut into wedges
• 2 ears corn, each cut into 4 pieces
• 1 lb (450 g) baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp Old Bay or Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
• Additional lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven or grill

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C), or preheat grill to medium-high heat.

Step 2: Combine all ingredients

In a large bowl, combine shrimp, sausage, onion, corn, potatoes, and garlic.

Step 3: Season the mixture

Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with Old Bay or Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Prepare the foil packets

Cut 4 large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil (about 12x16 inches each).

Step 5: Assemble the packets

Divide the mixture evenly among the foil sheets, placing in the center of each. Top each with lemon slices.

Step 6: Seal the packets

Fold the long sides of the foil over the mixture, then roll up the ends tightly to seal and create packets.

Step 7: Cook the packets

Arrange packets on a baking sheet (for oven) or directly on the grill. Bake or grill for 20–25 minutes, until potatoes are tender and shrimp are cooked through.

Step 8: Serve and garnish

Carefully open packets (watch for steam), garnish with fresh parsley and serve with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure your foil packets turn out perfectly every time, use heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent tearing and leaking. Make sure the potatoes are cut into uniform pieces so they cook evenly—if they're too large, they won't be tender by the time the shrimp are done. For even cooking, arrange the packets in a single layer on your baking sheet or grill, and resist the urge to open them early, as this releases the steam that helps everything cook through. If you're grilling, you can flip the packets halfway through for more even heat distribution. Always be cautious when opening the finished packets, as the escaping steam can be very hot.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is wonderfully flexible and easy to customize based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the seasoning mix. Swap the smoked sausage for chicken sausage if you want a lighter option, or try andouille sausage for a more authentic Cajun kick. Add colorful bell peppers or zucchini for more vegetables, or substitute sweet potatoes for the baby potatoes for a touch of natural sweetness. You can even make it more indulgent by adding a tablespoon of butter to each packet before sealing. For a complete seafood boil experience, toss in some crab legs or mussels alongside the shrimp.

Serviervorschläge

These foil packets are a complete meal on their own, but there are plenty of ways to round out your dinner. Serve with crusty French bread or garlic bread to soak up all the flavorful juices at the bottom of each packet. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, spicy shrimp and sausage. For a true Southern feast, pair with coleslaw, cornbread, or hushpuppies. Don't forget to set out plenty of napkins and extra lemon wedges—this is deliciously messy, hands-on eating at its best. For drinks, consider a crisp white wine, cold beer, or sweet iced tea to balance the bold Cajun spices.

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Whether you're hosting a casual summer gathering or just need a fuss-free weeknight dinner, Onion Boil Shrimp and Sausage Foil Packets deliver on every front. They're flavorful, filling, and endlessly adaptable, making them a go-to recipe you'll return to again and again. The combination of tender shrimp, smoky sausage, hearty potatoes, and sweet corn, all brought together with aromatic Cajun spices, creates a satisfying one-packet meal that feels like a celebration. Plus, with virtually no cleanup required, you'll have more time to relax and enjoy the company of family and friends. Give this recipe a try, and discover just how easy and delicious foil packet cooking can be.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare these packets ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the packets in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook. Just add lemon slices and fresh parsley before serving.

→ What cooking methods work best for these packets?

Both baking in the oven at 425°F and grilling over medium-high heat work well. The packets should cook for about 20-25 minutes until shrimp are opaque and potatoes are tender.

→ Can I substitute different vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes can be added for extra color and flavor, adjusting cooking time slightly if needed.

→ Is it possible to use other types of sausage?

Yes, chicken sausage or other smoked sausages can be used as alternatives to the traditional smoked sausage for a lighter or varied flavor profile.

→ How do I add heat to this dish?

Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or extra Cajun seasoning before sealing the packets to bring in more spice.

→ Are these foil packets safe for grilling?

Yes, heavy-duty aluminum foil packets are sturdy enough for grill cooking, sealing in moisture and flavor while preventing flare-ups.