A Lowcountry Boil is a Southern classic from the Carolina coast, loved for its vibrant mix of shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes simmered in a flavorful broth. Ideal for outdoor gatherings, this easy-to-prepare dish serves a crowd and is perfect for a family reunion, beach party, or backyard bash.
In this article, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step Lowcountry Boil recipe for 20 people, complete with ingredients, directions, and tips to make this one-pot meal a memorable experience.
What is a Lowcountry Boil?
This Lowcountry Boil Recipe for 20 is a classic Southern seafood feast, also known as Frogmore Stew or Beaufort Boil, originating from South Carolina’s Lowcountry region. Unlike a Louisiana Crawfish Boil, this Carolina version highlights shrimp as the star seafood. Designed to feed a large crowd, this recipe involves cooking in layers for optimal flavor: start with potatoes, then add sausage, corn, and finally shrimp. Perfect for gatherings, this Lowcountry Boil is an easy, flavorful way to serve a memorable meal to friends and family!
Why Choose a Lowcountry Boil for Large Gatherings?
This Lowcountry Boil Recipe for 20 is a crowd-pleaser known for its simplicity, bold flavors, and easy scalability. Traditionally served family-style, the feast is often spread out on a newspaper- or butcher-paper-covered table, creating a relaxed, fun dining experience. With just one large pot and a bit of prep, you can easily cook up an impressive Lowcountry Boil to serve 20 or more. Perfect for gatherings, this recipe brings Southern charm and flavor to any occasion!
Ingredients for Lowcountry Boil Recipe for 20
This recipe includes classic Lowcountry Boil ingredients and allows some flexibility to suit your guests’ tastes. Here’s a list of everything you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Lemons | 6, halved |
| Garlic bulbs | 6, halved |
| Bay leaves | 4 |
| Kosher salt | 5 Tbsp |
| Whole black peppercorns | 3 Tbsp |
| Old Bay or seafood seasoning | 1 ½ cups |
| Small red potatoes | 10 pounds (about 1½” diameter) |
| Smoked sausage (or kielbasa) | 5 pounds, sliced into ¾” pieces |
| Large yellow onions | 4, peeled and quartered |
| Fresh corn | 20 ears, halved |
| Large shrimp (31-35 count) | 8 pounds, unpeeled |
| Hot sauce | For serving |
| Cocktail sauce | For serving |
Step-By-Step Instructions for Preparing a Lowcountry Boil
1. Gather Equipment
You’ll need:
- A large outdoor pot (7-10 gallons) with an outdoor propane burner
- A long-handled spoon
- Strainer or colander for draining
2. Season and Heat the Water
- Fill the Pot: Add about 7-8 quarts of water to the large pot.
- Add Seasonings: Toss in the lemon halves, garlic, bay leaves, kosher salt, black peppercorns, and Old Bay seasoning.
- Bring to a Boil: Cover and bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. This base will infuse the food with a flavorful aroma.
3. Add Ingredients in Layers
Each ingredient has a different cooking time, so they’re added in stages to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.
- Add Potatoes: Once the water is boiling, add the potatoes. Cover and boil for 10 minutes.
- Add Sausage and Onions: After the potatoes, add the sausage and onions. Boil for an additional 6-8 minutes.
- Add Corn: Next, add the corn and cook for another 5-6 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
- Add Shrimp: Add the shrimp last, and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes.Take care to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
4. Drain and Serve
- Drain the Pot: Use a colander or strainer to remove the ingredients from the pot.
- Serve Family-Style: Spread newspaper over a table, then pour the ingredients onto the table for a traditional Lowcountry Boil presentation.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 670 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 55 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Sodium | 1200 mg |
Tips for a Perfect Lowcountry Boil
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and corn enhance the flavor. If possible, buy shrimp with shells intact for extra flavor.
- Cook Outdoors: Using an outdoor burner and large pot allows ample room for ingredients and is ideal for big groups.
- Adjust Spice Level: For a spicier boil, add more Old Bay or substitute with a Cajun seasoning like Zatarain’s.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this recipe indoors? A: Yes, but you’ll need a very large pot. Reduce the quantities proportionally for indoor cooking.
What type of shrimp should I use? A: Opt for large, unpeeled shrimp (31-35 count).The shrimp shells enhance the flavor of the broth.
Can I use frozen shrimp? A: Fresh is best, but you can use frozen shrimp. Thaw them first, and add only during the final minutes to avoid overcooking.
Can I add other ingredients? A: Absolutely! Mussels, crab legs, or additional vegetables like bell peppers can add variety.
Conclusion
A Lowcountry Boil Recipe for 20 is more than just a meal – it’s a Southern experience that brings family and friends together for a fun, interactive dining experience. This traditional seafood boil is perfect for outdoor gatherings, where everyone can dig in and enjoy the bold flavors of shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes. The beauty of a Lowcountry Boil lies in its simplicity; it’s easy to prepare, requiring only one large pot, a few key ingredients, and minimal effort.
To make this feast even more memorable, serve it family-style on a table covered with newspaper or butcher paper, encouraging guests to roll up their sleeves and enjoy the meal in a relaxed, communal setting. Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard BBQ, a holiday gathering, or a celebration, this Lowcountry Boil for 25 will surely be the highlight of the event. With its rich flavors, effortless preparation, and festive atmosphere, this recipe is a must-try for any occasion!
