Shrimp Foil Packets

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Shrimp Foil Packets recipe is a dream come true for busy weeknights or when you're craving a delicious seafood boil without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of shrimp, sausage, and vegetables delivers a mouthwatering mix of flavors, and the foil packet method means no messy cleanup. The ingredients cook perfectly together, absorbing all the rich, buttery seasoning, making each bite irresistible. Plus, you can prepare the meal ahead of time and cook it when you're ready, whether on the grill or in the oven.

Ingredients

• 1 pound baby red potatoes, halved or quartered

• 2 corn ears, shucked, cleaned, and each cut into 1" to 2” pieces

• 1 pound large or jumbo uncooked shrimp, peeled & deveined (tail on or off)

• 13 ounces kielbasa or andouille sausage, sliced diagonally into ½" thick slices

• 5 tablespoons salted butter, melted

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (about one lemon)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (Creole seasoning, Old Bay, or blackening seasoning can be used instead)

• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (plus more for optional garnish)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. For the grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F – 450°F.
   For the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F.

2. Tear off four large pieces of aluminum foil (about 12×16 inches). Spray with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

3. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the baby red potatoes and corn pieces. Boil for about 7 minutes or until the potatoes are just tender (al dente). Be careful not to overcook the potatoes, as they can fall apart later. Drain and set aside.

4. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning (or your preferred seasoning like Old Bay, blackening, or Creole). Whisk thoroughly to combine.

5. Add the potatoes, corn, sausage, shrimp, and parsley to the bowl. Toss everything together, making sure it’s evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.

6. Divide the mixture evenly among the four foil sheets, placing the ingredients in the center of each piece of foil. Be sure each packet has an even amount of corn, sausage, shrimp, and potatoes.

7. Fold up the sides of the foil to seal each packet tightly.

8. For the grill: Cook the packets for 4 to 6 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turns pink and the vegetables are fork-tender.
   For the oven: Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes.

9. Once done, let the packets sit for 5 minutes before carefully opening them.

10. Plate the contents, garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired, and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Seasoning Swap: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference. Try a blend of smoked paprika and garlic powder for a different flavor profile or use a mild seasoning like lemon pepper.

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the shrimp and sausage for a vegetarian version, and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for more texture.

• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the seasoning mix for a spicy boost.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also reheat the packets on the grill for a few minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make Shrimp Foil Packets in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the foil packets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking.

2. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp will work. Just make sure they are thawed before adding them to the foil packets.

3. What other types of sausage can I use?

You can use any sausage you like, such as smoked sausage, Italian sausage, or chorizo, depending on your flavor preference.

4. Can I cook these foil packets on a campfire?

Yes, these packets are perfect for cooking over a campfire. Just be sure to keep an eye on the cooking time, as campfires may vary in temperature.

5. Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, you can substitute baby red potatoes with any waxy potatoes, such as Yukon Gold, for similar results.

6. What can I serve with Shrimp Foil Packets?

These foil packets are a meal on their own, but you can serve them with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad for a complete dinner.

7. Can I cook these in the microwave?

While not ideal, you can microwave the foil packets for about 5 to 7 minutes on high, checking the shrimp and vegetables for doneness.

8. How can I make the shrimp spicier?

Add some cayenne pepper or use a spicy Cajun seasoning to bring up the heat.

9. Can I use baby carrots instead of corn?

Yes, baby carrots work well as a substitute for corn, but be sure to cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking.

10. How do I know when the shrimp is done cooking?

The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when fully cooked. If it’s curled tightly, it’s a sign it’s ready!

Conclusion

Shrimp Foil Packets offer the perfect balance of ease and flavor. With minimal prep and cleanup, you can enjoy a seafood boil-style meal that’s packed with delicious ingredients. Whether you're grilling outdoors or baking in the oven, this recipe is ideal for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite seasonings and veggies, and you'll have a meal that everyone will love.