Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Finished Forrest Gump Shrimp Boil with shrimp, potatoes, corn, and sausage on a wooden table.

Forrest Gump Shrimp Boil

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Inspired by the iconic movie ‘Forrest Gump,’ this shrimp boil recipe brings the flavors of the Gulf Coast right to your kitchen. A perfect blend of fresh shrimp, sweet corn, hearty potatoes, and smoky sausage, this one-pot wonder is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or craving a taste of Southern comfort, this Forrest Gump shrimp boil recipe delivers big, bold flavors with minimal effort.

  • Total Time: 35 mins

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs large shrimp (1620 count), shell-on
  • 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 lb baby red potatoes
  • 4 ears of corn, husked and cut into thirds
  • 1 large onion, quartered
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 2 lemons, halved
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 tbsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 8 cups water

Instructions

  1. In a large stockpot (at least 8 quarts), combine water, lemons, garlic, bay leaves, Old Bay seasoning, cayenne pepper, and salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
  2. While the water comes to a boil, rinse the shrimp under cold water. Leave the shells on for maximum flavor.
  3. Once the water is boiling, add the potatoes and onion. Cook for 10 minutes.
  4. Add the corn and sausage, cooking for another 5 minutes.
  5. Finally, add the shrimp to the pot. Cook for just 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and curl slightly.
  6. Drain the boil and serve family-style on a large platter with melted butter and lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Use the freshest shrimp you can find for best results
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level
  • Add crab legs or crawfish for variety
  • Don’t skip the Old Bay seasoning – it’s essential
  • Cook outdoors if possible for easy cleanup
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 20 mins

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
  • Calories: 420 Kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 1200mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 280mg