Shrimp Boil Kabobs

These Shrimp Boil Kabobs are the perfect way to enjoy the bold, zesty flavors of a traditional Southern shrimp boil without the mess. Stacked with juicy shrimp, tender potatoes, sweet corn, and spicy sausage, they’re grilled to smoky perfection and served with a creamy Old Bay Aioli that’s downright irresistible. Ideal for outdoor entertaining or a laid-back family dinner, this dish brings coastal comfort straight to your plate.

What makes this recipe a standout is its ease and visual appeal. The ingredients are simple, but the result is colorful, vibrant, and packed with flavor. Skewering the components not only makes them grill-friendly but also turns the shrimp boil experience into a hand-held meal that’s fun and festive. Pair it with a cold drink and sunshine, and you’ve got the ultimate summer feast.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 ears of corn, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1/2 lb baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large

• 1/2 lb andouille sausage, sliced into rounds

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning

• Wooden or metal skewers

Old Bay Aioli:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 small garlic clove, minced

Directions:

1. Boil potatoes in salted water until just tender, about 10–12 minutes. Drain and let cool.

2. Boil corn pieces for 5–7 minutes, then drain and cool.

3. In a bowl, toss shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes with olive oil and Old Bay seasoning.

4. Thread shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes onto skewers, alternating for visual appeal.

5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and grill skewers for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp is pink and cooked through.

6. For the aioli, whisk together mayonnaise, Old Bay, lemon juice, and minced garlic in a small bowl until smooth. Chill until ready to serve.

7. Serve skewers hot with a side of Old Bay aioli for dipping.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 370 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Shrimp Boil Kabobs with Old Bay Aioli are a vibrant, fun, and flavorful twist on the classic Southern shrimp boil. Rather than cooking everything in a big pot, this recipe reimagines the traditional dish by threading the key ingredients shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes onto skewers and grilling them to smoky perfection. What sets this variation apart is its convenience and presentation. It delivers all the flavor of a low-country boil but without the need for a huge outdoor setup. Paired with a zesty Old Bay Aioli, these kabobs become an irresistible summer staple perfect for grilling season.

Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner, planning a backyard cookout, or just craving the bold flavors of the South, Shrimp Boil Kabobs are a dish that brings people together. This recipe combines the simplicity of grilling with the nostalgic flavor notes of Old Bay seasoning and creamy garlic aioli, making it an ideal recipe for those who love seafood and bold, satisfying flavors.

The Inspiration Behind the Dish

The traditional shrimp boil has deep roots in Southern coastal cuisine, especially popular in the Carolinas and Gulf Coast. Typically, this dish is prepared by boiling a medley of shrimp, corn on the cob, sausage, and potatoes in a heavily seasoned broth often laden with garlic, lemon, and the unmistakable spice of Old Bay. The meal is usually poured out onto a newspaper-lined table and shared among friends and family, eaten by hand in a joyful, communal style.

While the communal nature of a classic shrimp boil is part of its charm, it’s not always practical. The Shrimp Boil Kabob was born from the idea of making that same experience more portable, easier to prepare, and perfect for grilling. By threading everything onto skewers and grilling it, the dish becomes more manageable and accessible even for a weeknight dinner. The essence of the traditional boil is retained, but the process is streamlined and elevated.

A Versatile Approach to Classic Flavors

One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions without compromising flavor. Don’t like sausage? Substitute it with mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Prefer scallops or chunks of fish? Go ahead and swap out the shrimp. Even the seasoning can be tailored to taste, though Old Bay remains a tried-and-true favorite.

Additionally, the skewered format allows for perfect portion control and beautiful presentation. The ingredients hold up well to grilling, developing a caramelized exterior while remaining juicy and flavorful inside. You can mix and match colors and textures to make each skewer as beautiful as it is delicious.

This format is also kid-friendly. Children who may not enjoy seafood stews or large platters often find skewered foods more approachable and fun. It’s a great way to introduce them to new ingredients and flavors without overwhelming them.

The Magic of Old Bay Seasoning

No shrimp boil would be complete without the classic kick of Old Bay seasoning. This iconic spice blend, made of celery salt, paprika, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and other spices, brings bold, tangy heat that pairs perfectly with seafood and grilled meats. It’s the defining flavor of the dish and adds that signature taste of summer.

Old Bay also shines in the accompanying aioli a creamy, garlicky dip that complements the grilled ingredients with a tangy twist. Blended with mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and a generous dose of Old Bay, the aioli elevates each bite and adds a luxurious finish. You can even make extra and use it as a sandwich spread or drizzle for grilled vegetables.

Perfect for Gatherings and Meal Prep

Shrimp Boil Kabobs are the kind of recipe that shines at gatherings. They’re easy to prep in advance just parboil the corn and potatoes, marinate the shrimp, and assemble the skewers. When it’s time to eat, simply toss them on the grill for a few minutes, and you’re done. It’s a fuss-free option that looks and tastes impressive.

But these kabobs aren’t just great for parties they’re also ideal for weekly meal prep. Store the cooked skewers in an airtight container and reheat them quickly for lunch or dinner throughout the week. You can even enjoy them cold over a fresh salad or rice bowl. The Old Bay Aioli stores well too, making it a handy dip or sauce for other dishes.

Nutrition and Balanced Eating

Despite its indulgent flavors, this dish is relatively balanced. Shrimp is low in fat and high in protein, making it a great lean protein option. Corn and potatoes provide fiber and complex carbs, while the sausage adds a hearty touch and a bit of indulgence. The use of olive oil keeps things heart-healthy, and the aioli while rich can be used sparingly if you’re watching your fat intake.

If you’re aiming for a lighter meal, you can use turkey sausage or reduce the number of potatoes and corn in favor of grilled veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. The flexibility of the dish allows you to cater to your own dietary needs while still delivering that satisfying shrimp boil experience.

Tips for Success on the Grill

Here are a few helpful tips to ensure perfect kabobs every time:

• Pre-cook the corn and potatoes: Since these take longer to cook than shrimp, boiling them until just tender before skewering ensures everything cooks evenly.
• Marinate the shrimp: A brief marinade in olive oil and Old Bay adds extra flavor and helps prevent sticking to the grill.
• Use skewers wisely: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning. Metal skewers are reusable and cook the ingredients more evenly.
• Grill over medium-high heat: This allows for a nice char without overcooking the shrimp, which can become rubbery if grilled too long.

Pairing Ideas

This dish pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides and beverages. Consider serving it with:

• A crisp garden salad with citrus vinaigrette
• Grilled sourdough or cornbread
• Watermelon feta salad
• Coleslaw with apple cider dressing
• Lemon iced tea, crisp white wine, or a light beer

These additions complete the experience and reinforce the summery, coastal vibes of the meal.

A Dish That Delivers Every Time

Shrimp Boil Kabobs with Old Bay Aioli offer everything you want in a summer recipe: bold flavors, easy preparation, stunning presentation, and universal appeal. They’re a great conversation starter and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether you’re feeding a group or simply indulging in a flavorful dinner at home.

The best part? It’s a fun, hands-on dish that invites creativity. From adjusting the ingredients to suit your taste, to experimenting with new dips and sauces, this is the kind of recipe you can return to again and again with fresh twists.

Conclusion: A Must-Try for Your Next Grilling Adventure

In every bite of these Shrimp Boil Kabobs, you’ll find a celebration of Southern heritage, the ease of modern cooking, and the bold joy of outdoor grilling. They’re perfect for entertaining, quick weeknight meals, or simply enjoying the flavors of summer on a stick.

If you’re looking for something festive, customizable, and full of flavor, these kabobs deserve a spot on your grill and your table. From the smoky shrimp to the spicy aioli, each skewer delivers a satisfying taste of summer that you’ll want to enjoy all season long.