Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

These Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets are a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious summer dinner while keeping the heat outside. With a delightful combination of tender shrimp, flavorful sausage, sweet corn, and baby potatoes, this recipe is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a simple family meal. The best part? Cleanup is a breeze since everything is cooked in foil packets!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Minimal chopping and prep work means you can spend more time enjoying your meal.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of shrimp, sausage, and fresh herbs creates a delicious blend of flavors.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for backyard barbecues or cozy dinners at home, adapting to various occasions effortlessly.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 33 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute plans.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s a satisfying dish without the guilt.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Gather these items before you begin.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-duty aluminum foil
• Microwave-safe dish
• Grill
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-duty aluminum foil: Ensures that your ingredients are securely wrapped during grilling, preventing leaks and ensuring even cooking.
• Microwave-safe dish: Ideal for melting butter quickly and combining with seasonings without hassle.
• Grill: Provides the perfect cooking method for these packets, imparting a smoky flavor that enhances the taste of the shrimp and vegetables.

Ingredients

For these Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets, gather the following ingredients:

For the Vegetables and Sausage

• 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

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb large raw shrimp, (peeled and deveined)

For the Flavoring

• 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

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

Step 2: Prepare Potatoes

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

Step 3: Assemble Packets

1. Divide sliced potatoes among each of the four double-lined foil sheets by layering them in the center.
2. Add corn, sausage, and shrimp on top.

Step 4: Create Butter Mixture

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

Step 5: Season Packets

1. Sprinkle each packet with approximately 1/2 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning.

Step 6: Seal and Grill

1. Wrap up the sides of the first sheet of foil securely.
2. Place a second sheet going opposite lengthwise; crimp edges to seal tightly.
3. Grill sealed side up for about 12 – 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender and shrimp are cooked through.

Serve warm garnished with chopped parsley for an extra burst of freshness! Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets!

How to Serve Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets are not just delicious; they also offer a fun and interactive dining experience. Serving these packets can enhance your meal and bring everyone together.

Family Style

• This method involves placing all the packets on a large platter. Guests can unwrap their own packets, making it a communal experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces like garlic butter or spicy remoulade. These add an extra layer of flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the contents of the packets over a fluffy bed of rice. This helps soak up any juices and adds heartiness to the meal.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top each serving with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness that elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise.

How to Perfect Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

Making perfect Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your meal is a hit.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp and seasonal vegetables for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on cooking time. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, while perfectly cooked shrimp are tender and juicy.
• Seal Properly: Make sure each packet is sealed tightly to keep all the flavors locked in during grilling.
• Try Different Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different spices or herbs, such as Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika, for varied flavors.
• Adjust Cooking Time: If using larger shrimp or additional ingredients, adjust the cooking time as needed for even doneness.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets can create a well-rounded meal. Here’s a list of delicious options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread

2. Crispy garlic bread is great for soaking up juices from your shrimp packets.

3. Coleslaw

4. A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the hearty flavors of the boil packets.

5. Cornbread

6. Sweet cornbread pairs well with savory shrimp and sausage flavors, adding comfort to your meal.

7. Steamed Vegetables

8. Lightly steamed seasonal vegetables provide nutrients and color to your plate without overpowering the main dish.

9. Potato Salad

10. A creamy potato salad offers another layer of texture, making it a classic pairing with any boil dish.

11. Fruit Salad

12. A light fruit salad can act as a refreshing palate cleanser after enjoying rich flavors from the shrimp boil packets.

13. Quinoa Salad

14. A protein-packed quinoa salad with fresh herbs can add an earthy touch that complements the seafood nicely.

15. Roasted Asparagus

16. Roasted asparagus drizzled with lemon juice adds brightness and pairs beautifully with seafood dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to keep in mind.

• Boldly Overcooking Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking results in rubbery texture. Keep an eye on the grill and remove packets as soon as shrimp turns pink.
• Ignoring Ingredient Sizes: Uniform sizes ensure even cooking. Cut potatoes and sausage into similar thickness to avoid unevenly cooked ingredients.
• Using Low-Quality Seasoning: Quality seasoning enhances flavor. Opt for fresh herbs and good brands of spices to elevate your dish.
• Skipping the Pre-Cook for Potatoes: Microwaving potatoes before grilling helps them cook through in time with shrimp. Don’t skip this step!
• Not Sealing Packets Properly: If not sealed well, juices may leak out. Make sure edges are crimped tightly to retain all flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover packets in airtight containers.
• Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.

Freezing Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

• Wrap packets tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and place packets on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place packet on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets that may help you:

How do I know when the shrimp is done?

The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when fully cooked. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes on the grill.

Can I customize the ingredients in my Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap out the sausage for another protein option.

What can I serve with Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets?

These packets pair wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even some rice for a complete meal.

Can I make Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the packets in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making them an ideal choice for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. The easy cleanup and customizable ingredients make this dish perfect for anyone looking to impress without much hassle. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!