Crawfish Boil
A crawfish boil is more than just a meal—it’s a full-blown event. Gathering around a steaming pot of perfectly seasoned crawfish, corn, potatoes, and sausage is the ultimate way to bring people together. Whether you’re deep in Cajun country or hosting your first boil, this recipe will help you get it right.
Ingredients
1 bag (30-35 lbs) live crawfish, washed
6 gallons water
4 lbs crawfish boil seasoning
4 heads garlic, halved
4 large onions, quartered
6 celery stalks, cut into thirds
6 lemons, halved
2 pounds smoked sausage, cut into chunks
6 ears corn, halved
5 pounds baby potatoes
4 bay leaves
2 tablespoons black peppercorns
1 stick butter
1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Boil: In a large (AT LEAST 60 qt, but 100 qt is preferred) stockpot, bring 6 gallons of water to a rolling boil. Add the crawfish boil seasoning, garlic, onions, celery, lemons, bay leaves, and black peppercorns. Let the flavors infuse for 2-3 minutes.
Cook the Vegetables & Sausage: Add the potatoes and sausage to the pot and cook for 10–12 minutes. Then, add the corn and cook for another 5 minutes.
Boil the Crawfish: Carefully add the crawfish to the pot and stir. Bring back to a boil and cook for 3 minutes, then cut all heat.
Soak for Maximum Flavor: Turn off the heat and stir in the butter. Let the crawfish soak in the seasoned water for 20–30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even seasoning.
THE LONGER YOU LET THESE SOAK, THE SPICIER THEY WILL BE. (I do not suggest going over 45 minutes)
Drain & Serve: Remove the crawfish, sausage, and vegetables from the pot and spread them out on a large table lined with butcher paper. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips
Using pre-washed crawfish saves time, but a final rinse is always a good idea.
The longer the crawfish soak, the spicier they’ll get.
Adjust soaking time based on how much seasoning intensity you prefer.
Serve with cold beer, melted butter, and extra lemon wedges for the best experience.
A crawfish boil is meant to be messy, flavorful, and full of good company. Gather your crew, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy one of the best communal meals around.
