Summer is the perfect time for a flavorful feast, and my Traeger Shrimp Boil is just what you need! Loaded with juicy shrimp, tender baby potatoes, and sweet corn, this dish is easy to make and delivers big taste. Grab your Traeger grill and follow my step-by-step guide to create a meal that will impress your friends and family. Let’s dive into this delicious summer recipe!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Traeger Shrimp Boil
– 2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb baby red potatoes, halved
– 2 ears of corn, cut into thirds
Seasonings and Additions
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 1/4 cup Old Bay seasoning
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
– Fresh parsley, chopped
– Lemon wedges for serving
When I make a Traeger shrimp boil, I focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The shrimp should be large and juicy, giving each bite a sweet, briny flavor. I like baby red potatoes for their smooth texture and taste. They complement the shrimp wonderfully. Corn adds a nice crunch, too.
For the seasonings, Old Bay is a must. It brings a classic seafood taste that everyone loves. I also add smoked sausage for a hearty flavor. Smoked paprika enhances the overall taste with its rich, smoky notes.
I often use fresh garlic to brighten the dish. You can adjust the salt and pepper to match your taste.
Don’t forget the garnish! Fresh parsley adds color and a fresh taste. Lemon wedges serve as a zesty finish. You can find the full recipe for all these flavors and more.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Traeger Grill
– Preheat grill to 350°F (175°C).
First, you need to get your Traeger grill ready. Set the temperature to 350°F. This heat will help cook everything evenly and give it a nice smoky flavor.
Cooking the Potatoes
– Boil potatoes with Old Bay seasoning and salt for 10-15 minutes.
Next, take a large pot and fill it with water. Add half of the Old Bay seasoning and a little salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Once it’s boiling, add the halved baby red potatoes. Cook them for 10-15 minutes. You want them tender but not mushy.
Adding Additional Ingredients
– Incorporate corn and sausage, boiling for an additional 5-7 minutes.
When the potatoes are almost done, it’s time to add the corn and smoked sausage. Toss them into the pot and let everything boil together for another 5-7 minutes. This step adds great flavor to your dish.
Cooking the Shrimp
– Add shrimp and remaining Old Bay, simmer for 3-5 minutes.
Now, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Add the shrimp and the rest of the Old Bay seasoning. Stir gently to coat the shrimp. Cook for 3-5 minutes. You’ll know they are done when they turn pink and opaque.
Mixing and Grilling
– Drizzle olive oil, garlic, and smoked paprika, then transfer to grill-safe pan.
In a large mixing bowl, drizzle in the olive oil, minced garlic, and smoked paprika. Toss everything together until the shrimp, potatoes, corn, and sausage are well-coated. Then, carefully transfer this mix into a grill-safe pan.
Final Grilling Process
– Cook on Traeger grill for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Place the pan on your preheated Traeger grill. Grill everything for about 10-15 minutes. Remember to stir halfway through. This helps get that delicious, smoky flavor throughout your dish.
Enjoy this amazing Traeger shrimp boil! For the complete details on ingredients and steps, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Optimal Flavor
To make your Traeger shrimp boil pop, use high-quality shrimp. Fresh shrimp has a sweet taste and firm texture. Pair it with fresh ingredients like baby red potatoes and corn. The fresher your items, the better the flavor. I always recommend visiting local markets to find the best produce.
Traeger-Specific Grilling Tips
Grilling on a Traeger is unique. You must monitor the temperature closely. Set your grill to a steady 350°F (175°C) for best results. This helps cook evenly and enhances the smoky flavor. Check your grill often to ensure it stays at the right heat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One big mistake is overcooking shrimp. If you cook them too long, they turn rubbery. Aim for a cook time of just 3-5 minutes after adding them to the pot. The shrimp will turn pink and opaque, which means they are done. Always keep an eye on them during cooking.
For the full recipe, check the details above.
Variations
Adding Vegetables
You can make your Traeger shrimp boil even tastier by adding more veggies. Bell peppers bring a nice crunch and color. Onions add sweetness and depth. Simply chop them up and toss them in while boiling. They will soak up the flavors and boost your dish.
Alternative Proteins
Want to switch things up? Try using crab or lobster instead of sausage. These seafood options add a rich, delicate flavor. Just remember to adjust cooking times. Crab and lobster cook quickly, so add them later in the process. This way, you get a seafood twist that’s sure to impress.
Spice Level Adjustments
Do you like heat? You can raise the spice level in your shrimp boil. Add more Old Bay seasoning for a kick. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the finished dish. This will give it a spicy zing that warms your taste buds. Adjust the heat to fit your crowd’s preferences.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After your feast, store any leftover shrimp boil in airtight containers. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping it sealed helps to maintain that delicious flavor.
Reheating Tips
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, gently reheat them. You can use a stovetop or your Traeger grill. This method keeps the shrimp tender and the potatoes soft, ensuring a great taste.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freeze portioned servings. They will last for up to 2 months in the freezer. Just make sure to seal them well to avoid freezer burn. Enjoy the smoky goodness whenever you like!
FAQs
What is the best way to peel shrimp?
Peeling shrimp can be simple. Start by holding the shrimp in one hand. Use the other hand to pinch the shell at the top. Gently pull the shell down toward the tail. The shell should come off easily. You can also remove the tail if you like. This method works great for fresh or thawed shrimp.
Can I use frozen shrimp for the recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the shrimp in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water. Frozen shrimp can be just as tasty as fresh. Look for shrimp that are labeled “wild-caught” for the best flavor.
How can I make this shrimp boil spicier?
To add heat, try using cayenne pepper or hot sauce. Mix these into the seasoning before cooking. You can also add sliced jalapeños for a fresh kick. If you like smoky heat, use chipotle powder. Taste as you go to find the right heat level for you.
What sides pair well with Traeger shrimp boil?
Many sides go well with shrimp boil. Crusty bread is great for soaking up juices. A fresh salad adds crunch and brightness. You might enjoy coleslaw for a creamy contrast. Grilled vegetables also work well, adding extra flavor to your meal.
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Perfectly cooked shrimp turn pink and opaque. They should curl slightly but not be tight. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes of cooking. To be sure, you can cut one open. It should not be translucent but fully cooked inside.
Where can I find the full recipe?
You can find the Full Recipe for the Traeger shrimp boil in the article above. It has all the steps and ingredients to get you started on this delicious meal.
In this blog post, we explored how to make a delicious Traeger shrimp boil. We covered main ingredients, seasonings, and step-by-step cooking instructions. I shared tips to boost flavor and avoid common mistakes. You can customize this dish with extra veggies or spices. Don’t forget to refrigerate leftovers properly.
This shrimp boil is simple, fun, and perfect for gatherings. Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. Enjoy grilling your next meal!
