Bring summer gatherings to life with Shrimp Boil Foil Packets, brimming with juicy sausage, sweet corn, and tender potatoes. These little pouches steam everything together in their own savory broth, whether you grill or bake them. With almost no cleanup, they’re a fuss-free feast perfect for backyard dinners or casual outdoor meals with friends.
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Ingredients for Shrimp Boil Foil Packets
For the packets
- Large raw shrimp – Peeled and deveined for quick and easy prep.
- Smoked sausage – Sliced into thick rounds for maximum flavor in every bite.
- Small red potatoes – Quartered so they cook evenly and soak up all the delicious seasoning.
- Fresh corn – Cut into pieces for that classic shrimp boil vibe.
For the seasoned butter sauce
- Unsalted butter – Melted and ready to coat everything in rich, savory goodness.
- Garlic – Minced for that aromatic punch we all love.
- Old Bay seasoning – A must-have for that iconic seafood boil flavor.
- Fresh lemon juice – Adds a bright, zesty kick to balance the richness.
- Kosher salt – Just enough to enhance all the flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper – A little goes a long way here.
For garnish and serving
- Fresh parsley – Finely chopped for a fresh, herby finish.
- Lemon wedges – Perfect for squeezing over the top for an extra burst of citrus.
Cook Time for Grilled Shrimp Packets
I love how quickly these shrimp boil packets come together, even on the busiest evenings. You’ll have this summer foil packet dinner on the table in no time, leaving you more moments to relax with your family and friends.
The prep is a breeze, taking just 20 minutes. Then, your grill or oven does most of the work, cooking everything to perfection in 18-20 minutes. From start to finish, you’re looking at a total of just 40 minutes for a meal that feels special.
If you’re looking for other quick and delightful seafood ideas, you might enjoy my light and refreshing Shrimp Sesame Salad.
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
How to Make Easy Shrimp Boil
Creating these savory garlic butter shrimp packets is like packaging up a little piece of summer. The steam inside works its magic, mingling all the wonderful flavors together into a complete and delicious meal.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your outdoor grill to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F, or your oven to 425°F. Tear off four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil, each one roughly 12×18 inches.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This creates the incredibly flavorful base for our oven baked seafood boil packets.
Step 3: Coat the Veggies and Sausage
Add your quartered red potatoes, corn pieces, and sliced smoked sausage to the bowl. Give everything a good, gentle toss until every piece is beautifully coated in that seasoned butter sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Packets
Divide the potato, corn, and sausage mixture evenly among the four foil sheets, piling it in the center. Top each pile with the raw shrimp in a single layer and drizzle any remaining sauce over the top.
Step 5: Seal Them Tight
Bring the long sides of the foil up and over the filling, folding them down a few times to create a tight seal. Then, fold and crimp the short ends to form a completely sealed packet, locking all the steam inside for cooking. For a foolproof method, you can follow this guide on Step-by-Step Foil Packet Folding.
Step 6: Cook to Perfection
Place your foil packets directly on the grill grates or on a baking sheet in the oven. Cook for 18-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the potatoes are tender and the shrimp are opaque and firm.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully transfer the packets to plates—watch out for the hot steam! Open them up, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing. This lemon herb grilled foil meal is best enjoyed straight from the pouch.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve learned a few secrets to making these shrimp boil foil packets truly unforgettable. Here are my favorite ways to tweak, tailor, and perfect this classic foil packet dinner for any occasion.
- Flavor Swap: For a different twist, try using Zatarain’s Crab Boil Seasoning instead of Old Bay. It gives a wonderfully authentic Southern flavor that’s just divine.
- Diet Tweak: To keep it lighter, you can easily swap the smoked sausage for a chicken or turkey sausage. The result is just as satisfying but a bit leaner.
- Prep Fix: If you’re short on time, parboil the quartered potatoes for 5-7 minutes before adding them to the packet. This guarantees they’ll be perfectly tender every single time.
- Storage Tip: Leftovers reheat beautifully! Just seal them back up in a fresh piece of foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. It’s a fantastic next-day easy lunch option.
Shrimp Boil Foil Packets
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds large raw shrimp peeled and deveined
- 12 ounces smoked sausage sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1 pound small red potatoes quartered
- 2 ears fresh corn each cut into 4 pieces
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped for garnish
- 1 lemon cut into wedges for serving
Equipment
- outdoor grill or oven
- baking sheet
Method
- Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F) or oven to 425°F. Tear off four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil, each approximately 12×18 inches.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the ingredients are fully incorporated into a seasoned butter sauce.
- Add the quartered red potatoes, corn pieces, and sliced sausage to the bowl with the butter sauce. Toss thoroughly until all components are evenly coated.
- Divide the mixture equally among the four foil sheets, placing it in the center of each. Top each portion with the raw shrimp, arranging them in a single layer. Drizzle any remaining butter sauce from the bowl over the shrimp.
- Bring the long sides of the foil together over the ingredients and fold down several times to seal, then fold and crimp the short ends to create a tightly sealed, packet. Ensure no steam can escape.
- Place the foil packets on the preheated grill grates or on a baking sheet in the oven. Cook for 18-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
- Carefully open one packet to check for doneness (be mindful of the hot steam). The shrimp should be pink and firm, and the potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork.
- Transfer the packets to serving plates. Open them carefully and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
While these Shrimp Boil Foil Packets taste like a special treat, they’re surprisingly balanced. Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and healthy fats, this foil packet dinner offers a wholesome meal that fits right into a mindful lifestyle.
Shrimp provides a fantastic source of low-calorie protein and important nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12. The red potatoes offer potassium and vitamin C, while corn adds a touch of natural sweetness and fiber. Using a light hand with the seasoned butter sauce keeps things rich in flavor but reasonable in calories.
For those tracking their intake more closely, here’s a general breakdown per serving. Keep in mind, exact values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Approx. Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Fat | 20g |
This meal is a wonderful way to enjoy a satisfying, savory garlic butter shrimp packet without compromise. If you’re looking for other nutrient-packed ideas, browse my collection of healthy soup recipes that are perfect for any season. For more insights on building balanced meals for the whole family, you can find some great Family-Friendly Meal Ideas from trusted resources.
A Lighter Version of Grilled Shrimp Packets
I love that this recipe is so adaptable. Whether you’re counting calories or just want to feel a bit lighter, a few simple swaps can transform these grilled shrimp packets into an even healthier feast.
First, try using a lean turkey or chicken sausage instead of the traditional smoked variety. It cuts down on fat but still delivers that hearty, savory flavor we all crave. You can also reduce the amount of butter by half and supplement with a splash of low-sodium vegetable broth. It still creates that essential steam and carries the seasoning beautifully.
For an extra veggie boost, add in some sliced zucchini or bell peppers. They cook quickly and add vibrant color and nutrients. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of smoked paprika or chili flakes can make the flavors pop without adding any calories. For more light and vibrant meal inspiration, my Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad is a fantastic side. And if you love taco night, these simple chicken tacos are another great option for a healthier twist.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
In my kitchen, I believe everyone should have a seat at the table, no matter their dietary needs. I often cook for loved ones who are sugar conscious or managing their blood sugar, so I’ve learned a few simple ways to make our favorite meals work for them.
For a more diabetic-friendly version of these shrimp boil foil packets, focus on the potatoes. Their glycemic load can be balanced by ensuring you keep the portion size of potatoes moderate and include plenty of the lean shrimp and sausage. Swapping half the potatoes for lower glycemic index veggies like cauliflower florets is a wonderful trick I use often.
Always check your sausage labels for hidden sugars, as some varieties can contain added sweeteners. Opting for a pure, smoked sausage with minimal ingredients is your best bet. The natural lemon juice and garlic provide so much flavor that you won’t miss a thing, making this a truly satisfying and blood sugar friendly meal.
How to Serve Shrimp Boil Foil Packets
One of my favorite summer memories is serving these packets straight from the grill onto a big, rustic platter right in the middle of our patio table. Everyone gathers around, opening their own little pouch of steam and savoring the incredible aroma that spills out. It feels so communal and joyful.
For sides, I always keep it simple. A crisp, green salad or some crusty bread for soaking up every last drop of that delicious broth is all you need. If you’re feeding a crowd, my healthy Mexican layer dip makes a fantastic starter. And for a true taste of the coast, you can’t go wrong with a classic shrimp cocktail to begin your meal. This lemon herb grilled foil meal is meant to be relaxed, messy, and utterly delicious—so dig in and enjoy every bite!
Mistakes to Avoid
Over the years, I’ve learned that even the simplest foil packet dinner can have a few pitfalls. The good news is they’re all easy to avoid with a little know-how! I want to share the common missteps I’ve seen (and made myself) so your Shrimp Boil Foil Packets turn out perfectly every time.
First, don’t skimp on the foil or the seal. Thin foil can easily tear, and a weak seal lets all that precious steam—and flavor—escape. I always use heavy-duty foil and double-fold the seams tightly. For a foolproof method, check out this guide on Step-by-Step Foil Packet Folding from the experts.
Next, be mindful of your vegetable sizes. If you cut the potatoes too large, they’ll still be crunchy when the shrimp is done. Aim for uniform, bite-sized pieces so everything cooks evenly. Conversely, don’t add delicate ingredients too early; things like fresh herbs are best added just before serving.
Finally, resist the urge to peek! Opening the packets during cooking releases the heat and steam, which can lead to uneven cooking. Trust the process and let the magic happen inside. For more grilling success, my collection of grilled appetizer recipes is full of great tips. These little lessons help make your summer foil packets a total breeze. It’s all about creating a cozy, stress-free meal that brings everyone together.
How to Store Shrimp Boil Foil Packets
I love making a double batch of these packets. It reminds me of summer weekends when my cousin would visit—we’d grill enough for days, ensuring our laughter and good meals lasted long after she’d gone home.
To store leftovers, let the packets cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld together beautifully, making lunch the next day something to look forward to!
You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. I wrap the cooled packet tightly in a fresh layer of foil, then slide it into a freezer bag. To reheat, you can pop the frozen packet right into a 375°F oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until hot. If you’re looking for other make-ahead ideas, my chicken taco soup is another fantastic freezer-friendly option. And for a fresh twist on shrimp the next day, try turning the leftovers into a vibrant shrimp sesame salad.
Try This Shrimp Boil Foil Packets Yourself
I truly hope you feel inspired to give these Shrimp Boil Foil Packets a try. There’s nothing quite like the moment you open that steaming packet at the table and savor the incredible aroma. It’s a little celebration, no matter the occasion.
This recipe is my go-to for bringing people together without keeping me stuck in the kitchen. It’s a surefire way to create your own warm memories, whether it’s a quiet weeknight or a festive backyard gathering. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready for a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
If you love the ease of foil packet cooking, you might also enjoy my bang bang shrimp for a crispy, flavorful appetizer. For a lighter, noodle-based dish, this shrimp noodle bowl is always a hit. And if you’re planning a fiesta, don’t miss my guide to healthy Mexican food and these classic ground beef tacos.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long to cook shrimp foil packets?
On a preheated grill, your shrimp boil packets usually take about 15-20 minutes. In a 400°F oven, plan for 20-25 minutes. The key is that the shrimp should be pink and opaque, and the potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork.
Can you make foil packets ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the packets a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to cook. This makes them perfect for easy entertaining. For another great make-ahead dish, try my slow cooker tacos.
What is a seafood boil made of?
A traditional seafood boil is a festive mix of shellfish like shrimp or crab, sausage, corn on the cob, and potatoes, all seasoned with a robust blend of spices. Our foil packet version captures all those classic flavors in a convenient, individual package.
What to serve with campfire nachos?
While these shrimp packets are a meal on their own, they pair wonderfully with campfire nachos for a bigger spread! A fresh salad or some grilled vegetables would also be lovely sides to round out the meal.
Is chili con carne spicy?
Chili con carne can be adjusted to your preferred heat level. It typically gets its spice from chili peppers, but you can control the amount to make it mild or fiery. It’s a different flavor profile but just as comforting as our savory shrimp boil.
What sausage is best for shrimp boil?
I love using a good quality smoked sausage or andouille for its robust, spicy flavor that stands up to the other ingredients. For a lighter option, a lean chicken or turkey sausage works beautifully too.
More Crowd-Pleasing Dinner Ideas
If you love gathering friends and family around the table for a memorable meal, here are a few more of my favorite recipes that are sure to impress.
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail – A refreshing, zesty appetizer that’s bursting with bright flavors and a tangy tomato sauce.
Ground Beef Tacos – The ultimate weeknight classic, featuring perfectly seasoned beef and all your favorite toppings.
Healthy Mexican Layer Dip – A lighter take on the party favorite, packed with fresh ingredients and bold taste.
Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad – All the smoky, creamy flavors of elote in a hearty and nutritious salad.
