Old Bay seasoning: 1/2 cup (adjust according to taste)
Garlic: 4 cloves, smashed
Lemon: 2, halved
Bay leaves: 2
Small red potatoes: 1.5 lbs, halved if large
Smoked sausage: 1 lb, sliced into 1-inch pieces (andouille or your favorite kind)
Corn on the cob: 4, husked and broken into halves
Large shrimp: 2 lbs, shell-on and deveined
Butter: 1/2 cup, melted (for serving)
Fresh parsley: Chopped (for garnish)
Additional lemon wedges: for serving
Cocktail sauce: for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Cooking Liquid:
Fill a large pot with enough water to cover all the ingredients. Add the Old Bay seasoning, smashed garlic, halved lemons, and bay leaves. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
Cook the Potatoes:
Add the red potatoes to the boiling water and cook for about 10 minutes, or until they start to become tender.
Add Sausage and Corn:
Add the sliced sausage to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes. Then, add the corn on the cob pieces and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Add the Shrimp:
Lastly, add the shrimp to the pot. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook.
Drain and Serve:
Carefully drain the water from the pot and discard the lemon halves and bay leaves. You can serve the shrimp boil directly on a large table covered with newspaper or a tablecloth for a rustic feel, or transfer everything to a large serving platter.
Garnish and Accompaniments:
Drizzle the melted butter over the shrimp boil and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve with additional lemon wedges and cocktail sauce on the side.