How to Make Shrimp Boil Scampi: A Flavor-Packed Seafood Feast



How to Make Shrimp Boil Scampi: A Flavor-Packed Seafood Feast

Few dishes bring people together like a hearty seafood boil, and when you combine it with the buttery, garlicky richness of scampi, you’ve got the ultimate coastal feast: Shrimp Boil Scampi. This recipe blends the zesty, seasoned boil method with the luxurious flavors of scampi sauce, making it perfect for family gatherings, backyard parties, or a casual weekend dinner.

What is Shrimp Boil Scampi?

Traditionally, a shrimp boil involves cooking shrimp, potatoes, corn, and sometimes sausage in a seasoned broth. A scampi is a classic Italian-American dish featuring shrimp sautéed in butter, garlic, white wine, and lemon. By merging the two, you get the best of both worlds: a seafood boil packed with spices and hearty add-ins, finished with a silky garlic-butter scampi sauce that ties everything together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For 4–6 servings:

For the Boil

  • 2 lbs large shrimp (shell-on for more flavor)
  • 1 lb baby red potatoes
  • 4 ears of corn, halved
  • 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 3–4 tbsp Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
  • Salt to taste

For the Scampi Sauce

  • 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Boil

  1. Fill a large stockpot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.
  2. Add Old Bay seasoning, onion, garlic, and lemon halves to season the water.
  3. Drop in the potatoes and cook for 10–12 minutes until almost tender.
  4. Add the sausage and corn, cooking for another 5–6 minutes.
  5. Finally, add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, until they turn pink and opaque. Drain everything well.

2. Make the Scampi Sauce

  1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in white wine and simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  4. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes.

3. Combine and Serve

  • Toss the drained shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes directly in the scampi sauce until everything is well coated.
  • Spread the mixture over a large serving platter (or even directly on parchment paper for a rustic, communal style).
  • Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges.

Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Boil Scampi

  • Shell-on shrimp add flavor during cooking, but peel them before tossing in the scampi sauce for easier eating.
  • Don’t overcook shrimp—they cook fast and can become rubbery.
  • Make it spicy by adding extra Cajun seasoning or hot sauce to the scampi sauce.
  • Add variety—mussels, crab legs, or clams can easily be included for a seafood party.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Shrimp Boil Scampi with warm crusty bread (perfect for soaking up the scampi sauce), a crisp green salad, and chilled white wine or lemonade. It’s a complete feast that’s both indulgent and crowd-pleasing.

✅ In short: Shrimp Boil Scampi combines the hearty comfort of a traditional seafood boil with the elegance of garlic-butter scampi, creating a dish that’s as festive as it is delicious.


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