If you’re looking to dive into a meal that’s bursting with Southern charm and flavors that just sing, you’ve got to try this Frogmore Stew Recipe. It’s a one-pot wonder from South Carolina’s Lowcountry that brings together tender shrimp, smoky sausage, sweet corn, and perfectly cooked potatoes in one hearty, flavorful feast. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll understand why it’s a fan-freaking-tastic dish that makes every gathering feel like a celebration.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Magic: Everything cooks together, which means minimal mess and maximum flavor.
- Authentic Southern Flavor: The Old Bay seasoning gives it that classic Lowcountry boil taste you won’t forget.
- Crowd-Pleasing: It’s perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking a sweat.
- Simple and Quick: Ready in just about 40 minutes – perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend get-togethers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Frogmore Stew Recipe, the ingredients are straightforward, but they pack a punch when combined. I always recommend using fresh shrimp and quality smoked sausage to get that perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory in every bite.
- Water: The base for this stew; using fresh water helps keep the flavors clean and true.
- Old Bay Seasoning: This is the heart of the flavor—it adds a spicy, savory kick that’s iconic to Lowcountry boils.
- New Red Potatoes: Choose small to medium-sized potatoes for even cooking and a creamy texture.
- Hot Smoked Sausage: I prefer links with a little spicy heat; it balances the sweetness of the corn perfectly.
- Corn on the Cob: Fresh ears that you husk and quarter—you’ll love the sweet crunch it adds.
- Large Fresh Shrimp: Keep them unpeeled for deeper flavor and that authentic rustic vibe.
Variations
This Frogmore Stew Recipe is wonderfully flexible, and over time, I’ve found a few ways to make it your own. Don’t hesitate to tweak it based on what you love or what’s in season.
- Spice Levels: For those who like it milder, I suggest dialing back the Old Bay a bit; if you want a punch, throw in some cayenne or hot sauce.
- Seafood Mix: Sometimes I swap half the shrimp for crab legs or mussels for an extra seafood fiesta.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and add smoked paprika with extra veggies like mushrooms and bell peppers for a smoky, satisfying twist.
- Batch Size: This recipe scales up beautifully so you can feed a party or keep leftovers for an easy meal the next day.
How to Make Frogmore Stew Recipe
Step 1: Boil That Perfect Seasoned Base
Start by bringing 6 quarts of water and ¾ cup of Old Bay Seasoning to a full boil in a large stockpot over high heat. This is where the magic begins — the water will soak up all that spicy, savory goodness, and it’s the foundation for cooking everything else perfectly.
Step 2: Potatoes First for Perfect Texture
Add 2 pounds of new red potatoes to the pot and cook for 15 minutes. This longer cooking time helps soften the potatoes just right so they’re tender but not falling apart — you’ll want to give them a pokey test with a fork.
Step 3: Add The Sausage
Next, toss in the 2 pounds of hot smoked sausage links cut into 2-inch pieces. Let those simmer for 5 minutes so they heat through and start infusing their smokiness throughout the pot.
Step 4: Sweet Corn Joins the Party
Add 12 ears of corn, husked and quartered, to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes — the corn should be crisp-tender, adding that delightful snap and natural sweetness.
Step 5: The Star Shrimp Finale
Gently stir in 4 pounds of large, unpeeled fresh shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 5 minutes. This short cooking time keeps the shrimp perfectly juicy and flavorful. Drain everything immediately so your stew doesn’t get soggy.
Pro Tips for Making Frogmore Stew Recipe
- Timing is Everything: Don’t rush the potatoes – undercooking leaves them hard, and overcooking makes them mushy.
- Shrimp Peeling Tip: Keep the shells on during cooking for that intense flavor, but peel before eating for ease.
- Old Bay Mix: Try using a sprinkle of Old Bay on the cooked stew for a finishing touch that elevates the flavor.
- Drain Well: After cooking, drain immediately to keep the textures and flavors vibrant – nobody likes soggy sausage or corn!
How to Serve Frogmore Stew Recipe
Garnishes
I love scattering fresh parsley or sliced green onions on top — they add a pop of color and a fresh bite that balances the robust flavors. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving amps up the seafood flavors and adds brightness to every bite.
Side Dishes
My go-to sides are some crusty French bread to soak up all those juices and a simple crisp coleslaw or green salad to keep things fresh and crunchy. If you’re feeling indulgent, a buttery garlic biscuit pairs beautifully, too.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family-style presentation, I love spreading the entire stew out on a newspaper-covered picnic table — it’s festive, casual, and invites everyone to dig in together. For dinner parties, plating on large platters with decorative lemon wedges and fresh herbs turns it into a Southern showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Frogmore Stew is a treasure. I usually transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors deepen overnight, though the shrimp can get a bit tougher, so try to enjoy it fresh when you can.
Freezing
I don’t typically freeze Frogmore Stew because shrimp tends to lose texture after freezing and reheating. But if you do, freeze components separately (like sausage and potatoes) and add fresh shrimp when reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Avoid the microwave when possible — it can dry out the shrimp and sausage. A light hand here keeps everything juicy and delicious.
FAQs
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Can I make Frogmore Stew without Old Bay seasoning?
Old Bay is traditional and really defines the flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can try a blend of cayenne, paprika, celery salt, and black pepper to mimic the spice profile. Just adjust to your taste.
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Should I peel the shrimp before or after cooking?
For maximum flavor, cook the shrimp with the shells on, then peel before eating. The shells add depth to the broth without you having to do extra work before cooking.
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Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before adding them to the pot so they cook evenly and don’t cool down the water.
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What’s the best way to serve Frogmore Stew at a party?
Lay out the stew on a large table covered with parchment or newspaper, provide plenty of napkins, and encourage casual, hands-on eating. It turns the meal into a fun, communal experience!
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this Frogmore Stew Recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it’s hearty, festive, and surprisingly easy to pull off. I love how it brings people together — you don’t need fancy plating or months of prep, just friends, family, and a big pot filled with incredible flavors. Give it a try, and I bet you’ll become a fan just like me. It’s the kind of dish that makes seconds not only acceptable but necessary!
Print
Frogmore Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Seafood Boil
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Frogmore Stew, also known as Low Country Boil, is a flavorful and hearty one-pot Southern seafood dish from South Carolina. It combines fresh shrimp, new red potatoes, corn on the cob, and hot smoked sausage, all seasoned with zesty Old Bay seasoning and boiled together to develop rich, comforting flavors. This dish is perfect for casual gatherings and showcases the bounty of coastal ingredients in a simple, satisfying preparation.
Ingredients
Broth and Seasoning
- 6 quarts water
- 0.75 cup Old Bay Seasoning™
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds new red potatoes
- 2 pounds hot smoked sausage links, cut into 2 inch pieces
- 12 ears corn, husked, cleaned, and quartered
- 4 pounds large fresh shrimp, unpeeled
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth: In a large stockpot over high heat, bring 6 quarts of water together with 0.75 cup Old Bay Seasoning™ to a rolling boil, infusing the water with the seasoning’s signature savory and spicy flavor.
- Cook the Potatoes: Add 2 pounds of new red potatoes to the boiling seasoned water. Let them cook uncovered for 15 minutes until they begin to soften but remain firm.
- Add the Sausage: Introduce 2 pounds of hot smoked sausage pieces (cut into 2 inch lengths) into the pot. Cook with the potatoes for an additional 5 minutes to allow the sausage to warm through and release smoky flavors.
- Add the Corn: Place 12 ears of corn, husked and quartered, into the pot. Let the ingredients boil together for 5 more minutes so the corn softens and absorbs the seasoning.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add 4 pounds of large fresh, unpeeled shrimp last. Cook stirring gently for about 5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and curl, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Drain and Serve: Immediately drain the entire contents of the pot using a large colander or carefully pour off the water. Serve the Frogmore Stew hot, ideally family-style on newspapers or large platters for communal enjoyment.
Notes
- Frogmore Stew is a traditional South Carolina Low Country boil known for its simple preparation and bold seasoning.
- Use unpeeled fresh shrimp to enhance flavor and maintain juiciness in the boil.
- Serve with melted butter and lemon wedges for added richness and brightness.
- This dish is perfect for social gatherings, offering a communal and informal dining experience.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated but are best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/12th of recipe)
- Calories: 499 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 2733 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 39 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 53 g
- Cholesterol: 299 mg
