Shrimp and Sausage Foil Packet Dinner

This one-pan foil packet meal is loaded with succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, sweet corn, and tender potatoes, all seasoned to perfection. It’s an easy, no-fuss dinner that can be baked in the oven, grilled outdoors, or even cooked over a campfire! The foil locks in moisture, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor.

This meal is not only delicious and satisfying, but it also requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights, summer cookouts, or meal prep. Plus, you can customize it with different proteins, veggies, and seasonings to suit your taste.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Main Ingredients:

1 pound shrimp – Large shrimp, peeled and deveined. You can leave the tails on for extra flavor, but removing them makes for easier eating.
2 cups corn – Use fresh corn cut off the cob, frozen (thawed), or canned (drained). Fresh corn will have the best texture and natural sweetness.
2 medium potatoes – Dice into small cubes for faster cooking. Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well. Russet potatoes will work but may be slightly softer.
1 pound smoked sausage – Slice into ¼-inch rounds. Andouille sausage adds a spicy kick, while kielbasa or chicken sausage offer milder flavors.

Seasonings & Flavor Enhancers:

2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps coat and roast the ingredients. Melted butter is an excellent substitute for a richer taste.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Fresh minced garlic (2 cloves) can be used for an even stronger flavor.
1 teaspoon paprika – Smoked paprika enhances the depth of flavor.
½ teaspoon onion powder – Optional, but adds a savory balance.
Salt and black pepper to taste – Adjust as needed based on your preference.
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper – Optional, for a little spicy heat.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – Adds a zesty brightness and balances out the richness.
Fresh parsley or chopped green onions – A garnish that adds freshness and color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven or Grill

If baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
If grilling, set the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
If using a campfire, ensure the coals are hot and glowing.

2. Prepare the Foil Packets

Cut 4 large pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil (about 12×12 inches each).
If using regular aluminum foil, double-layer it to prevent tearing and ensure even cooking.

3. Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, corn, diced potatoes, and sliced sausage.
Drizzle with olive oil (or melted butter) and toss to coat.
Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, onion powder (if using), salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using) evenly over the mixture.
Add lemon juice for a hint of citrusy freshness.
Toss everything together until well coated with seasonings.

4. Assemble the Foil Packets

Divide the mixture evenly between the foil sheets, placing it in the center of each piece.
Fold the foil over the ingredients and seal the edges tightly to form a packet, leaving some space inside for steam to circulate.
Make sure the seams are sealed well to prevent juices from leaking out.

5. Cooking Methods

Oven Method (Best for Indoor Cooking)

Place foil packets on a baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender and shrimp is pink and fully cooked.

Grill Method (Great for Outdoor Cooking)

Place the packets directly on the grill grates.
Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping once halfway through.

Campfire Method (Perfect for Camping Trips)

Place packets over hot coals and cook for 15-20 minutes, rotating occasionally.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Carefully open the packets (watch out for hot steam!).
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or green onions for a bright finish.
Serve straight from the foil for easy cleanup, or transfer to plates.
Optionally, squeeze extra lemon juice over the top before serving.

Tips for the Best Shrimp & Sausage Foil Packets

1. Prevent Overcooking Shrimp

Shrimp cooks very quickly, so if using extra-large shrimp, you can add them halfway through cooking to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
If you prefer, cook the shrimp separately and toss them into the packets just before serving.

2. Cut Potatoes Small for Faster Cooking

Dice potatoes into small ½-inch cubes so they cook at the same rate as the shrimp and sausage.
If using larger chunks, pre-boil the potatoes for 5 minutes before assembling the packets.

3. Add a Buttery Finish

Before sealing the packets, place a small pat of butter inside each one. This melts into the ingredients, making the dish extra rich and flavorful.

4. Customize the Seasoning

For a spicy Cajun kick, replace paprika with Cajun or Old Bay seasoning.
Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a deep umami boost.

5. Make It a Complete Meal

Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or coleslaw for a well-rounded meal.
Pair with a refreshing drink like lemonade or a cold beer.

Variations & Substitutions

Protein Swaps

Chicken Option: Use diced boneless chicken breast or thighs instead of shrimp.
Fish Option: Replace shrimp with salmon or white fish fillets.
Vegetarian Option: Use mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini instead of meat.

Low-Carb/Keto Version

Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets or sliced zucchini to reduce carbs.

Extra Veggies for More Nutrition

Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, mushrooms, or green beans can all be added for extra color and nutrients.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

Make-Ahead Tips

Assemble the foil packets up to 12 hours ahead and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or in a skillet over medium heat.
Avoid microwaving shrimp for too long to prevent rubbery texture.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp and Sausage Foil Packet Dinner is the perfect meal for busy nights, outdoor grilling, or a fun family dinner. The combination of juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and seasoned vegetables creates an unforgettable dish with minimal effort. Try different seasonings, add your favorite veggies, or swap out the proteins to make it your own!

Would you like a printable version of this recipe? Let me know how else I can help!