The Best Sausage for a Seafood Boil
Sausage is not seafood, but it is one of the ingredients that makes a Southern seafood boil feel complete. It adds smoky, savory flavor and gives guests another hearty bite between shrimp, crab, corn, and potatoes.
Smoked Sausage
Classic smoked sausage is an easy all-purpose choice. It has enough flavor to stand up to seasoned butter without overpowering the seafood. Slice it into thick rounds so it stays juicy.
Andouille Sausage
Andouille is a popular choice when you want a more assertive, smoky, peppery flavor. It can make the overall boil taste spicier, so keep that in mind when seasoning the butter.
Beef Smoked Sausage
Beef sausage is a good option for people who prefer not to use pork. Look for a smoked variety with a firm texture so the pieces hold together in the pot.
Turkey Smoked Sausage
Turkey sausage can also work well and is often a little lighter in flavor. Because brands vary in sodium, seasoning, and fat, taste the finished butter sauce before adding extra salt or seasoning.
How Much Sausage Should You Add?
For a mixed seafood boil, plan enough sausage to complement rather than replace the seafood. Around 12 to 16 ounces works well in many family-size boils serving four to six people, depending on how much seafood and other food you are serving.
When to Add Sausage
Many smoked sausages are sold fully cooked, but you should always follow the package directions. In a seafood boil, sausage can usually be added after the potatoes have had a head start and before the quick-cooking seafood goes into the pot.
Pair your sausage choice with Chef Bae's guide to the perfect seafood boil.
Shop Chef Bae® Seafood Boil Seasoning to bring the whole pot together.
About Chef Bae® Sherri Smith
Sherri Smith, known as Chef Bae®, is an Atlanta-based celebrity private chef, cookbook author, recipe developer, and culinary entrepreneur with more than 20 years of culinary experience. Through Chef Bae®, she shares Southern-inspired recipes, cooking tips, seasonings, and cookbooks designed to help home cooks create flavorful meals with confidence.