Imagine gathering with friends and family under a warm, setting sun, the air filled with laughter and the mouth-watering aroma of spices. This is the essence of a shrimp boil, a beloved Southern tradition.
Sound tantalizing? That’s probably why you’re here, planning your own shrimp boil for your next event. A shrimp boil is a fantastic way to bring people together in many different environments, from backyard BBQ’s to large festivals and corporate picnics. But once you start planning, one of the first questions to come to mind is probably “But wait, many pounds of shrimp do you need per person for a shrimp boil?!”
Not to worry, we’re here to answer that question and give you a complete rundown of how to plan a shrimp boil for any group of people. In this blog, we’ll help you calculate how much food you’ll need, essentials for a shrimp boil, and some delicious southern sides that will go amazingly with your shrimp boil.
- How Many Pounds of Shrimp Do You Need Per Person?
- What Do You Need to Host a Shrimp Boil?
- What Should You Serve With a Shrimp Boil?
How Many Pounds of Shrimp Do You Need Per Person?
When planning a shrimp boil, the amount of shrimp per person can vary depending on the size and nature of the event. For casual backyard BBQs, where the vibe is relaxed and there are multiple food options, half a pound of shrimp per person might be sufficient, especially if you’re serving a variety of side dishes.
For larger events or gatherings where the shrimp boil is the main attraction, you might want to increase the amount to one pound per person to ensure that all guests can indulge fully. This is particularly important if the guests are expected to have larger appetites or if fewer side dishes are served.
| Number of Guests | Shrimp Needed (Half lb/person) | Shrimp Needed (One lb/person) |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 2.5 lbs | 5 lbs |
| 10 | 5 lbs | 10 lbs |
| 20 | 10 lbs | 20 lbs |
| 50 | 25 lbs | 50 lbs |
| 75 | 37.5 lbs | 75 lbs |
What Do You Need to Host a Shrimp Boil?
Here is everything you’ll need to host:
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Large Boiler: You’ll need a large pot or outdoor cooker capable of boiling large quantities of shrimp along with potatoes, corn, and sausage. If you’re hosting a large event, you might want to rent more than one of these to ensure you have plenty of cooking supplies.
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Propane Tank: Most outdoor boilers are propane-powered, so you’ll need a full propane tank to keep the boil going.
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Tables and Chairs: Provide ample seating and table space for your guests to enjoy their meal. Consider long, communal tables to enhance the social, communal feel of the event.
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Cooking Utensils: Have a large slotted spoon, tongs, and other necessary utensils for handling hot food safely.
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Ingredients: Stock up on shrimp, corn on the cob, whole potatoes, smoked sausage, onions, and lemons. Don’t forget plenty of seafood boil seasoning to give your boil that signature spicy flavor.
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Serving Supplies: You’ll need large serving platters or bowls, as well as plenty of paper plates, napkins, and disposable cutlery for easy cleanup.
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Condiments and Extras: Offer cocktail sauce, hot sauce, and melted butter for dipping. Bread and a simple salad can complement the richness of the shrimp boil.
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Beverages: Keep guests refreshed with a selection of beverages. Iced tea, lemonade, and cold beers are popular choices at shrimp boils.
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Garbage Bins: Have several large bins available for easy disposal of shells and other waste.
What Should You Serve with a Shrimp Boil?
When planning what to serve with shrimp, it’s best to choose side dishes that complement the flavors of the seafood while adding variety to the meal. Here are some easy and delicious options that are sure to please you and your guests:
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Corn on the Cob: A classic at any shrimp boil, corn on the cob not only adds a sweet, crunchy contrast but also soaks up the flavorful seasoning from the boil.
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Hush Puppies: These deep-fried cornmeal balls are a Southern favorite and pair perfectly with the spices and textures of a shrimp boil. Serve them hot with a side of butter or a tangy dipping sauce.
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French Fries: A crowd-pleaser at any gathering, French fries are easy to prepare and serve as a great side that both kids and adults will enjoy. Their crispy texture makes them a perfect match for the tender, juicy shrimp.
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Salad: Offer a light, refreshing salad to balance the hearty and spicy flavors of the shrimp boil. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing or a tangy coleslaw can provide a cool contrast.
These side dishes not only round out the meal but also ensure that there’s something for everyone to enjoy at your shrimp boil. And you can’t forget about the drinks! Serve up a variety of cold sodas, sweet tea, fresh lemonade, and ice water to ensure there’s plenty for everyone to drink!
Planning a Shrimp Boil? Let Us Help!
A shrimp boil is a fantastic way to take any event to the next level, but planning the details can become a pain. If you need rentals for your party or event, let us help! Reventals is the largest online marketplace in the US! Simply visit our marketplace, find what you need, and submit a cart. We’ll find the best rentals in your area and send you an invoice. Consider us your free party planning assistant!
Ready to plan your shrimp boil? Start here!
