Instant Pot Shrimp Boil Recipe

There’s something pure and joyful about sitting down to a vibrant Instant Pot Shrimp Boil—mounds of tender potatoes, juicy shrimp, sweet corn, and smoky sausage, all cozied up in a butter-garlic bath. This one-pot wonder brings classic summer vibes to your table any time of year (and with almost zero cleanup!).

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Trust me—every ingredient here plays a starring role in the final Instant Pot Shrimp Boil. Each one brings its own color, texture, or burst of flavor, and together they create the kind of meal people casually eat with both hands!

• Baby potatoes (red and yellow): Mini potatoes cook up creamy inside and hold their shape, making every bite hearty and satisfying.
• Smoked sausage (pork and beef): Slicing up a mix of sausages adds an extra dimension and just the right amount of smokiness.
• Medium sweet onion: Onion softens down and mingles flavors, soaking up all that seasoned broth.
• Old Bay seasoning: The classic spice blend is a Shrimp Boil must—don’t be shy with it!
• Hot sauce: A dash brings warmth (but skip or reduce for kid-friendly mildness).
• Corn on the cob: Chunks of sweet corn taste absolutely divine in the zesty broth.
• Chicken stock: Adds savory background notes that tie everything together.
• Medium shrimp: Juicy, tender, and the star of the show. Peel before cooking for maximum flavor absorption.
• Unsalted butter: Butter gives the finishing sauce its luscious, coordinated shine.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic or prepared minced garlic both work wonderfully for a bold, aromatic finish.
• Lemon slices: Lemon brightens every flavor, amps up the presentation, and makes things feel extra festive.

Variations

The real fun of an Instant Pot Shrimp Boil is how easily you can make it your own, whether you’re accommodating dietary needs or simply craving something new. Here are just a few ideas to get you inspired:

• Add Crab or Crawfish: Toss in crab legs or crawfish tails for a true seafood feast—just add them with the shrimp at the end.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Double-check the sausage or choose a gluten-free brand to keep the entire meal allergy-friendly.
• Vegetarian Twist: Skip the sausage and shrimp, double the potatoes and corn, and use veggie stock for a lush, meatless boil.
• Extra Veggies: Try throwing in sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans for even more color and freshness.
• Spice It Your Way: Swap hot sauce brands, use Cajun seasoning, or even add extra chili flakes for a custom heat level.

How to Make Instant Pot Shrimp Boil

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Pour your chicken stock right into the Instant Pot, then stir in 3 teaspoons of Old Bay seasoning and that generous spoonful of hot sauce. This mixture becomes your flavor-packed broth that penetrates every single ingredient with tangy, savory goodness.

Step 2: Layer and Pressure Cook

Add the halved potatoes, thick slices of smoked sausage, and chopped onion, then arrange the corn on top—the order matters so nothing overcooks! Secure the lid and set to manual high pressure for 5 minutes. That’s all it takes for perfectly cooked, tender vegetables and sausage.

Step 3: Quick Release & Remove Goodies

When the timer beeps, use quick release to let out the steam (stand back!). Scoop out the potatoes, sausage, onion, and corn onto a big serving platter, covering loosely with foil to keep them piping hot.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Hit the sauté button and add your shrimp to the bubbling broth. Simmer gently for about 4–5 minutes, stirring here and there, until the shrimp are opaque and juicy. Shrimp need barely any time, so watch closely!

Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter

While the shrimp finish up, melt the butter either in a small skillet or the microwave, then stir in your minced garlic and remaining 2 teaspoons of Old Bay. This aromatic goodness is your finishing touch.

Step 6: Drizzle & Serve

Pile the cooked shrimp over the potatoes and veggies on the platter, then drizzle the entire glorious thing with your garlic butter. Scatter with fresh lemon slices for a final burst of brightness—and let the feast begin!

How to Serve Instant Pot Shrimp Boil

Garnishes

You can’t go wrong with a final shower of fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a burst of color and herbal lift. Extra lemon wedges and a sprinkle of additional Old Bay right at the table let everyone tailor their plates just the way they love.

Side Dishes

This is a meal that practically stands on its own, but a loaf of crusty French bread or cornbread is ideal for mopping up all that garlicky butter. If you want to round things out, add a crisp salad or cool coleslaw to cut through the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For the true boil experience, serve your Instant Pot Shrimp Boil family-style: spread parchment or brown paper on your table and pour the bounty straight down the middle. Everyone digs in with their hands—just add napkins!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If by some miracle you have leftovers, store shrimp, veggies, and sausage together in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. It’s even easier to reheat when flavors meld together overnight.

Freezing

While the sausage and potatoes freeze well, shrimp can get a bit tough after thawing. If you want to freeze, do so before adding the shrimp, then add freshly cooked shrimp when you’re ready to reheat and serve.

Reheating

To reheat, a gentle warm-up on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water works wonders. Cover loosely and heat just until everything is hot—especially for shrimp, which needs only a minute or two!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you crave a meal that’s a little messy, incredibly delicious, and brings everyone to the table, give this Instant Pot Shrimp Boil a try. Just one pot, a handful of simple ingredients, and twenty-five minutes stand between you and your new favorite family tradition!

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