Introduction
If you love seafood and enjoy a little spice in your meals, this Quick Cajun Seafood Boil with Garlic Butter Sauce is perfect for you. It’s full of flavor, easy to make, and looks impressive when served. This dish is a mix of shrimp, crab, corn, and potatoes cooked together with Cajun spices and topped with rich garlic butter.
Whether it’s a family dinner, a weekend feast, or a casual gathering, this seafood boil is sure to be a hit. The best part? You don’t need to be a professional chef to make it. With a few simple steps and basic ingredients, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
Ingredients – Cajun Seafood Boil with Garlic Butter Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:
For the Seafood Boil:
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb (450 g) crab legs
- 2 cups small red potatoes
- 2 cups corn on the cob, cut into pieces
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 4 cups water
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Step by Step Process – Cajun Seafood Boil with Garlic Butter Sauce
Follow these simple steps to make your seafood boil:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Wash the shrimp and crab legs thoroughly. Cut the potatoes into halves if they are large, and slice the corn into smaller pieces. Keep the garlic and lemon ready for the boil.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes and Corn
In a large pot, add 4 cups of water, Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, onion, garlic, and lemon slices. Bring the water to a boil. Add the potatoes first and cook for 10 minutes. Then, add the corn and cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Seafood
Now, add the shrimp and crab legs to the pot. Boil for 5–7 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and the crab is fully heated. Be careful not to overcook the seafood, as it can become tough.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
While the seafood is boiling, melt the butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley. Remove from heat.
Step 5: Serve the Seafood Boil
Drain the seafood, potatoes, and corn from the pot. Place everything on a large serving tray or a newspaper-covered table for a classic seafood boil style. Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the top. You can also serve extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Grab a fork, dig in, and enjoy the mix of juicy shrimp, sweet corn, and flavorful crab. This meal is messy but fun, perfect for sharing with family or friends.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Cholesterol | 220 mg |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?
Yes! Frozen shrimp and crab legs work fine. Just thaw them before adding to the boil.
Q2: Can I make this recipe less spicy?
Absolutely! Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild version to suit your taste.
Q3: Can I add other seafood like mussels or clams?
Yes, mussels, clams, or even lobster can be added. Just make sure to adjust cooking time so nothing overcooks.
Q4: Can I prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce in advance and reheat it gently before serving.
Q5: What can I serve with this seafood boil?
It goes great with crusty bread, rice, or a simple green salad to balance the flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Quick Cajun Seafood Boil with Garlic Butter Sauce is a fun and flavorful way to enjoy seafood at home. The combination of spicy Cajun seasoning, tender shrimp, crab, sweet corn, and buttery garlic sauce is simply irresistible. It’s easy to make, visually appealing, and perfect for any occasion.
Cooking a seafood boil at home might seem intimidating, but once you follow these simple steps, you’ll see how effortless it is. Plus, it’s a great way to bring family and friends together over a shared meal. So, grab your pot, gather your seafood, and get ready to enjoy a feast full of flavor. This recipe will definitely become a favorite in your home.
