Overview
Few meals capture the spirit of the American South quite like a Carolina Crab Boil. This festive dish, often served at outdoor gatherings along the Carolina coast, is more than just a meal — it’s an experience. Packed with blue crab, shrimp, corn, sausage, and potatoes, this one-pot wonder delivers layers of smoky, spicy, and briny flavor that celebrate the bounty of the Atlantic. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or a casual family dinner, this crab boil promises hearty portions and happy guests.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
- 12 live or fresh blue crabs (cleaned)
- 2 lbs large shrimp (shell-on)
- 1 lb smoked sausage (cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 6–8 small red potatoes
- 4 ears of corn (cut into halves)
- 1 large onion (quartered)
- 1 lemon (halved)
- 1 head garlic (halved crosswise)
- ½ cup Old Bay seasoning (or a Carolina-style seafood seasoning blend)
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 2 bay leaves
- Optional: hot sauce or melted butter for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Boil:
In a very large stockpot, fill about two-thirds full with water. Add the Old Bay seasoning, salt, peppercorns, bay leaves, onion, garlic, and lemon halves. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. The aromatic steam should already hint at what’s to come. - Cook the Potatoes and Sausage:
Add the red potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, or until slightly tender. Then, add the sausage pieces and continue to boil for another 5 minutes to allow their smoky flavor to infuse the broth. - Add the Corn and Crabs:
Carefully add the corn and live or fresh crabs to the pot. Cover tightly and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the crabs turn a bright orange-red. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. - Finish with the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp last, since they cook very quickly. Boil for about 3–4 minutes, or until pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them. - Drain and Serve:
Using a large strainer, carefully drain the pot and spread the contents over a large table lined with newspaper or brown paper. Sprinkle with additional Old Bay seasoning if desired. Serve immediately with melted butter, lemon wedges, and your favorite hot sauce.
Serving Tips
A Carolina Crab Boil is best enjoyed family-style. Let everyone dig in with their hands — the messier, the better! Pair with cold beer or sweet tea and finish with a simple dessert like peach cobbler for a true Southern feast.