30-Minute Instant Pot Low Country Boil
This classic Southern seafood boil brings together tender red potatoes, smoky sausage, sweet corn, and succulent shrimp in one pot. The Instant Pot makes this traditional feast quick and convenient while maintaining all the bold flavors of creole seasoning and liquid crab boil. Perfect for casual gatherings, summer dinners, or when you want to feed a crowd with minimal cleanup. The garlic butter sauce adds a rich finishing touch that complements the spiced seafood and vegetables beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds red potatoes, on the small side
- 1 14-ounce package smoked sausage, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 ears corn, cut into thirds
- 1 tablespoon liquid shrimp and crab boilold bay seasoning1 tablespoon:2 tablespoonsseafoodshellfish-free
different flavor profile
- 3 teaspoons creole or cajun seasoning, divided
- 1 ¼ pounds medium to large shrimp
- ½ cup butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 cups water
Instructions
- 1
Place potatoes, sausage, and corn in the Instant Pot with water, liquid shrimp and crab boil, and creole seasoning
- 2
Set Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 4 minutes with valve sealed
- 3
Quick release pressure and remove lid
- 4
Add shrimp with remaining seasoning, optionally removing corn for space
- 5
Replace lid and let residual heat cook shrimp for 3 to 4 minutes with Instant Pot off or on warm
- 6
Remove all ingredients with slotted spoon to serving platter
- 7
Microwave butter with garlic powder until melted and serve alongside
Tips
Remove corn after initial cooking to make more room for the shrimp to cook evenly
Don't overcook the shrimp - the residual heat method prevents them from becoming tough
Use a slotted spoon to drain excess liquid when transferring to the serving platter
Good to Know
Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking shrimp.
Can prep vegetables and sausage up to 1 day ahead. Add shrimp fresh when cooking.
Serve immediately on large platter with garlic butter for dipping and plenty of napkins.
Common Mistakes
Don't overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture - residual heat is sufficient
Quick release pressure promptly to prevent overcooking vegetables
Substitutions
different flavor profile
Full guide →FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry first. Frozen shrimp may release excess water and need slightly longer cooking time.
What if I don't have liquid crab boil?
Substitute with Old Bay seasoning using about 2 tablespoons, or make your own with bay leaves, peppercorns, and cayenne.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store in refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in microwave or stovetop to avoid overcooking the shrimp.