This vibrant sheet pan meal combines succulent shrimp, sweet corn, tender baby potatoes, and smoky sausage all roasted to perfection. A flavorful blend of zesty seasonings enhances each ingredient, creating a harmonious dish perfect for an easy and satisfying dinner. The simple preparation and roasting process infuses every bite with Southern-inspired spice and warmth. Garnished with fresh parsley and served with lemon wedges, this dish brings bold, comforting flavors with minimal effort.
The first time I made a shrimp boil was for a summer dinner that ended up happening indoors because of unexpected rain. We spread newspapers across the kitchen table and dove in with our hands, and somehow the chaos made it even better. This sheet pan version captures that same communal spirit without the giant pot of boiling water.
Last summer my neighbor caught me carrying three bags of groceries and asked what I was making. When I explained the concept, she showed up twenty minutes later with a bottle of white wine. Now we make this together at least once a month.
Ingredients
- Large raw shrimp: Tails on helps them look elegant and gives you something to hold onto while eating
- Smoked sausage: Andouille adds authentic depth but Kielbasa works beautifully too
- Baby potatoes: No need to chop smaller ones, they roast evenly and stay creamy inside
- Fresh corn: Cutting each ear into quarters makes them perfect for grabbing and biting right off the cob
- Red onion: Sweetens as it roasts and adds beautiful color to the pan
- Old Bay seasoning: The classic blend that ties everything together with that familiar coastal flavor
- Smoked paprika: Deepens the color and adds another layer of smokiness to complement the sausage
- Lemon wedges: Essential for squeezing over everything right before eating
Instructions
- Get your oven ready:
- Preheat to 425°F and line your largest sheet pan with parchment, or you will regret the cleanup later
- Start the potatoes:
- Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out so they have room to roast evenly
- Give potatoes a head start:
- Roast them alone for 15 minutes while you prep everything else
- Season the corn and sausage:
- Coat them with olive oil, Old Bay, and smoked paprika in the same bowl you used for the potatoes
- Add the second wave:
- Pull the pan out, add the corn mixture, and roast for 10 more minutes
- Prep the shrimp last:
- Toss them with the remaining oil and seasonings so they are ready to go
- Final roast:
- Nestle the shrimp among the vegetables and roast just 5 to 7 minutes until they turn pink
- Finish and serve:
- Sprinkle parsley over everything and set out lemon wedges for squeezing
My brother-in-law finally admitted this was his favorite meal at our house when he requested it for his birthday. Nothing beats watching someone reach across the table to grab another piece of corn with butter dripping down their chin.
Making It Your Own
Turkey sausage lightens things up without sacrificing much flavor. I have also made this with chunks of white fish when I wanted something different from shrimp. The seasoning blend works on just about anything.
Perfect Sides
Crusty bread is nonnegotiable for soaking up the flavorful juices on the pan. Sometimes I serve this over steamed rice to stretch it further. A simple green salad with vinegar dressing cuts through the richness nicely.
Timing Is Everything
The trick is adding ingredients in stages so everything finishes at the same time. I set multiple timers on my phone because the shrimp can go from perfect to rubbery in minutes.
- Prep all ingredients before you start cooking
- Keep the shrimp cold until the moment you toss them with seasonings
- Have your serving platter ready because this smells incredible coming out of the oven
Serve this on a big platter in the middle of the table and let everyone help themselves. It is the kind of meal that turns strangers into friends.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I know when the shrimp is cooked through?
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The shrimp turns pink and opaque when cooked, usually after 5-7 minutes in the oven at 425°F. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
- → Can I substitute the smoked sausage?
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Yes, turkey sausage or a gluten-free variety can be used for a lighter or allergen-friendly option without sacrificing flavor.
- → What seasonings complement the dish best?
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Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper provide a balanced mix of smoky and zesty flavors ideal for this meal.
- → Is it possible to add extra heat?
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Sure, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce can be added before roasting or at serving for a spicier kick.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meal?
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Crusty bread or steamed rice make great accompaniments to soak up the flavorful juices and complete the hearty dish.