Introduction
These Shrimp & Sausage Foil Packets with Corn and Potatoes are the kind of meal that feels like summer on a plate. Juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and sweet corn all cook together in one neat, flavorful bundle. Whether you’re cooking outdoors on the grill or in the oven, foil packets lock in moisture and flavor, making every bite juicy and perfectly seasoned. This dish brings a bit of that backyard cookout energy to your table — easy, hearty, and ready to impress with minimal cleanup.
Pro Tip
Dice the potatoes small. Smaller pieces cook faster, so everything in your foil packet will finish at the same time — tender shrimp, juicy sausage, and fork-tender potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices from the packet.
- Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad balances out the richness of the sausage and shrimp.
- Lemon Wedges or Hot Sauce: Add a squeeze of lemon or a splash of hot sauce for a bright, zesty kick.
Variations
- Spicy Cajun Style: Swap paprika for Cajun seasoning or Old Bay for an extra bold, spicy flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the shrimp and sausage, and load the foil packets with zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
- Butter Instead of Olive Oil: Use melted butter for a richer, more indulgent taste.
- Grilled Foil Packs: Cooking on the grill adds a smoky flavor that takes this dish to another level.
Equipment Needed
- Aluminum Foil: Essential for sealing in the steam and flavor.
- Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables, sausage, and slicing corn.
- Baking Sheet (if using oven): Helps transport and stabilize the foil packs.
- Tongs or Oven Mitts: For safely handling hot foil packets when they’re done.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcrowd: Spread ingredients in an even layer before sealing to help them cook uniformly.
- Seal Tightly: Fold the edges well to keep in all that flavorful steam while cooking.
- Rotate on Grill: If using a grill, rotate the packets once halfway through cooking for even heat distribution.
- Add Garnish After Cooking: Fresh parsley or green onions add a fresh pop of color and flavor.
- Check for Doneness: Carefully open one foil pack to test the potatoes for tenderness before serving the rest.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s a full meal in one packet, packed with flavor, and requires almost no cleanup. Whether you’re hosting a cookout, camping, or just want a fun weeknight dinner, this recipe is endlessly adaptable and guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, everyone gets their own little package, which makes the meal feel special and personal.
Recipe Card
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 ears corn (cut into thirds)
- 2 medium potatoes (diced)
- 1 smoked sausage (sliced)
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven or Grill: Heat oven to 400°F (200°C) or preheat grill to medium-high.
- Prepare Foil: Cut 4 large sheets of aluminum foil.
- Assemble: Divide potatoes, corn, sausage, and shrimp evenly between the sheets of foil.
- Season: Drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Seal: Fold each foil sheet into a sealed packet, making sure the edges are tightly crimped.
- Cook: Bake on a baking sheet or grill for 20–25 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender and shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Garnish & Serve: Carefully open the packets (watch out for steam), sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Nutrition Table (Per Packet, Estimated)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 410 | 24g | 26g | 23g | 3g | 4g | 880mg |
FAQ
1. Can I prep these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the foil packets a few hours in advance and keep them refrigerated until ready to bake or grill.
2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Remove from the foil and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
3. Can I freeze the assembled foil packs before cooking?
It’s best not to freeze raw potatoes with shrimp, but you can freeze cooked leftovers for up to 2 months.
4. What vegetables can I swap in?
Try adding zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or sliced bell peppers for more color and variety.
5. How do I know when the shrimp is done?
Shrimp is fully cooked when it turns pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking or it can become rubbery.
