Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

These Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets are perfect for summer meals. They offer a delightful mix of tender shrimp, savory sausage, sweet corn, and baby potatoes, all seasoned to perfection. Not only do they provide incredible flavor, but they also make for easy clean-up, allowing you to enjoy your time with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or looking for a quick dinner option, these packets are versatile and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Clean-Up: Cooking in foil means less mess on the grill and fewer dishes to wash afterward.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of seasonings and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will enjoy.
• Perfect for Gatherings: These packets are ideal for cookouts or family dinners; everyone can customize their own packet!
• Quick Preparation: In just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready to grill.
• Outdoor Cooking: Keep the heat outside while enjoying a flavorful meal—perfect for warm summer nights.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil
• Microwave Safe Dish
• Grill
• Sharp Knife
• Cutting Board

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil: Keeps all the ingredients enclosed while cooking, ensuring that flavors meld beautifully.
• Microwave Safe Dish: Great for melting butter quickly without making a mess.
• Grill: Provides that smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the shrimp boil packets.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes

• 1 lb baby or small red potatoes

For the Corn

• 2 ears corn (shucked and sliced into 1-inch thick disks)

For the Sausage

• 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 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.
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 the Potatoes

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

Step 3: Assemble Ingredients

1. Divide potato slices among each of the four double-lined foil sheets, layering them in the center.
2. Follow with corn, sausage slices, and shrimp.

Step 4: Add Seasoning

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

Step 5: Season Each Packet

1. Sprinkle about 1/2 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning over each packet.
2. Wrap up sides of the first sheet of foil, then place a second sheet going opposite length and crimp edges to seal tightly.

Step 6: Grill

1. Grill sealed side up for about 12-15 minutes or until potatoes are tender and shrimp are cooked through.
2. Serve warm garnished with chopped parsley.

Enjoy your deliciously prepared Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets!

How to Serve Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in several creative ways. These packets can be served on their own or with various sides to enhance the dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Casual Family Style

• Serve directly on the table for a fun, communal meal. Let everyone dig into the packets and enjoy the vibrant flavors together.

Lemon Wedges

• Offer fresh lemon wedges alongside. A squeeze of lemon adds a zesty brightness that complements the shrimp beautifully.

Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme. This not only adds color but also enhances the aroma and taste of the dish.

Dipping Sauces

• Provide a selection of dipping sauces like cocktail sauce or garlic butter. These extra flavor options allow guests to customize their bites.

Crusty Bread

• Pair with slices of crusty bread. This is perfect for soaking up the delicious juices from the packets.

How to Perfect Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

To ensure your Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose quality shrimp: Fresh or frozen, make sure your shrimp is large and deveined for optimal texture and flavor.
• Don’t skip pre-cooking potatoes: Microwaving potatoes first guarantees they will be tender by the time everything else cooks.
• Use heavy-duty foil: Opting for heavy-duty aluminum foil prevents tearing and ensures steam stays inside for even cooking.
• Season well: Feel free to adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences. Adding more Old Bay can elevate flavors significantly.
• Check doneness: Make sure shrimp turn pink and opaque, while potatoes should be fork-tender before serving.
• Let them rest: Allow packets to sit for a couple of minutes after grilling before opening, as this helps flavors meld.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw balances the richness of the shrimp boil nicely.
2. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the savory elements in the packet and adds a comforting touch.
3. Garden Salad: A light garden salad provides freshness and balances out the hearty nature of the main dish.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf serves as a great base for soaking up any leftover juices from the packets.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies tossed on the grill add smokiness and nutritional value to your meal.
6. Potato Salad: A chilled potato salad offers a creamy contrast that pairs well with the grilled flavors.
7. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scraping up every last drop of buttery goodness from your plate.
8. Pickles or Relish Tray: A variety of pickled vegetables bring acidity and crunch, enhancing overall taste balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcrowding the Packets: When you add too many ingredients to each foil packet, it can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to spread the ingredients evenly across the packets.
• Skipping Pre-cooking Potatoes: Not microwaving the potatoes beforehand can result in tough, undercooked potatoes. Always microwave them for a few minutes before adding them to the grill.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your shrimp boil bland. Don’t be shy with spices; use enough seasoning to enhance the flavors of your shrimp and vegetables.
• Not Sealing Properly: If the foil packets aren’t sealed tightly, juices will escape, making your meal dry. Be sure to crimp the edges securely before grilling.
• Grilling at Incorrect Temperature: Cooking at too low a temperature can lead to longer cooking times and mushy ingredients. Aim for medium-high heat around 425 degrees for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your leftover Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets in an airtight container.
• They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

• For longer storage, freeze the uncooked packets before grilling.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the foil packet on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place the packet on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat on high for about 3-5 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water. Cover and steam for about 5-7 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets that you might find helpful.

Can I use frozen shrimp in my Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed before adding them to your packets for even cooking.

What other vegetables can I add to Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets?

Feel free to customize by adding bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus. These will complement the shrimp and enhance flavors.

How do I know when my shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are perfectly cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They should curl into a C shape but avoid overcooking them as they can become rubbery.

Can I make Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble packets ahead of time, refrigerate them, and grill when ready.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Shrimp Boil Packets offer an excellent way to enjoy a delicious summer dinner with minimal cleanup. This recipe is not only versatile but also allows for endless customization with your favorite seafood and veggies. Try it out this summer for a delightful meal that everyone will love!