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How to Make the Best Seafood Boil Sauce Recipe

How to Make the Best Seafood Boil Sauce Recipe


  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 1 ½ cups 1x

Description

This rich and flavorful seafood boil sauce elevates any seafood feast! Made with butter, garlic, spices, and a hint of lemon, it’s the perfect dipping sauce or drizzle for shrimp, crab, lobster, and more.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup butter (unsalted)
  • 6 cloves garlic (minced)
  • ½ onion (finely diced)
  • 1 cup broth (chicken, seafood, or vegetable)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (Louisiana-style, optional)
  • 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar (optional, for balance)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  • Melt Butter – In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt half of the butter.
  • Sauté Aromatics – Add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
  • Add Spices – Stir in Old Bay, paprika, cayenne, red pepper flakes, and lemon pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to release the flavors.
  • Incorporate Liquids – Pour in the broth and lemon juice. Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Finish with Butter – Lower the heat and stir in the remaining butter, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce until fully combined.
  • Adjust and Serve – Simmer for another 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm over seafood or as a dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat on low heat or microwave in short bursts.
  • Mild Version: Reduce cayenne and omit red pepper flakes.
  • Vegan Option: Substitute butter with vegan butter and use vegetable broth.
  • Variations: Add Cajun seasoning for a spicier Louisiana-style sauce.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun, Southern

Keywords: seafood boil sauce, garlic butter sauce, Cajun seafood sauce