Name: Frogmore Stew: A Bold and Hearty Southern Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 pounds large, unpeeled shrimp; 2 pounds hot smoked sausage (cut into 2-inch pieces); 2 pounds new red potatoes (or Yukon Gold); 12 ears fresh corn (quartered); ¾ cup Old Bay Seasoning (or substitute mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, celery salt, and black pepper)

As I strolled along the vibrant streets of South Carolina’s Lowcountry, the enticing aroma wafting from open kitchens pulled me in, whispering tales of community and togetherness. This Frogmore Stew, inspired by those coastal gatherings, is a wonderful one-pot meal that captures the essence of Southern cuisine. Packed with juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, sweet corn, and tender red potatoes, it’s not just a dish, but a celebration on a plate—perfect for busy weeknights and sun-soaked weekends alike. One of my favorite perks? It’s incredibly easy to customize, allowing you to adapt it to your taste. Plus, you’ll have everyone gathered around the table, eager to dig into a hearty feast. Curious how to create your own sensational Frogmore Stew? Let’s dive in!

Frogmore Stew

Why is Frogmore Stew a Must-Try?

Comforting and Hearty: This stew is the epitome of a cozy meal that warms the heart and home, making every bite feel like a hug.
Flavorful Blend: The combination of shrimp, sausage, and corn creates an amazing medley of flavors—perfect for impressing family or guests!
One-Pot Wonder: With minimal cleanup, you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pots.
Customizable Delight: Feel free to experiment with different proteins or vegetables to suit your taste—it’s just as delicious with crab or veggies!
Impressive Presentation: Serve it on newspapers for a fun, Southern-inspired dining experience that everyone will love.
With these incredible qualities, Frogmore Stew is not just a meal; it’s an experience, perfect for capturing the essence of Southern gatherings!

Frogmore Stew Ingredients

For the Stew

Fresh Shrimp – Use large, unpeeled shrimp for a juicier bite, offering that classic Frogmore Stew flavor.
Smoked Sausage – A hot smoked sausage adds a rich flavor; consider substitutions like andouille or kielbasa for a different kick.
New Red Potatoes – These potatoes hold their shape well and provide a creamy texture when boiled; Yukon Gold works as a suitable alternative.
Sweet Corn – Fresh corn brings a delightful sweetness; in a pinch, frozen corn is an excellent substitute.

For the Seasoning

Old Bay Seasoning – This essential spice blend gives Frogmore Stew its signature flavor; if you don’t have it, a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, celery salt, and black pepper will work wonderfully as a substitute.

With this blend of ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable Frogmore Stew that captures the joy of Southern gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Frogmore Stew

Step 1: Boil Water and Seasoning
In a large stockpot, bring 6 quarts of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, stir in ¾ cup of Old Bay Seasoning, allowing the mixture to simmer for a couple of minutes. This fragrant blend will set the stage for your delicious Frogmore Stew, enhancing the flavors of the shrimp, sausage, and vegetables to come.

Step 2: Cook Potatoes
Add 2 pounds of new red potatoes to the boiling seasoned water. Cook them for about 15 minutes until they are fork-tender yet firm enough to hold their shape. The vibrant color of the potatoes will enhance the visual appeal of your Frogmore Stew and create a hearty base for the dish.

Step 3: Add Sausage
Once the potatoes are ready, mix in 2 pounds of hot smoked sausage, cut into 2-inch pieces. Let the sausage simmer with the potatoes for 5 minutes. This will allow the smoky flavors to infuse into the broth while the sausage heats through, making your Frogmore Stew even more delightful.

Step 4: Incorporate Corn
Next, add 12 quartered ears of fresh corn to the pot. Allow them to cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp. The corn will add a lovely sweetness and color to your Frogmore Stew, balancing the flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Finish with Shrimp
Gently stir in 4 pounds of large, unpeeled shrimp to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as this could detract from the tender texture you desire in your Frogmore Stew.

Step 6: Drain
Carefully drain the stew using a colander, ensuring not to let the delicious broth escape. You want to keep the ingredients intact while eliminating excess moisture, setting the stage for a vibrant Frogmore Stew ready to be served.

Frogmore Stew

Storage Tips for Frogmore Stew

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain flavor. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed.

Freezer: It’s best not to freeze Frogmore Stew due to potential changes in texture, particularly the shrimp and potatoes. Enjoy fresh for the best experience!

Reheating: If you choose to reheat, do so slowly on the stovetop over low heat to keep the shrimp tender and avoid toughness.

Frogmore Stew Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Frogmore Stew and make it uniquely yours—let those flavors sing!

Crab or Lobster: Replace shrimp with fresh crab or lobster for a luxurious, succulent twist that brings the ocean straight to your bowl. Picture the tender morsels mingling with smoky sausage and sweet corn, enhancing that seafood delight!
Chorizo: Swap out the smoked sausage for spicy chorizo to introduce a punch of flavor and a bit of heat. The smoky, paprika-spiced sausage will transform the dish into a bold fiesta for your taste buds.
Turkey Sausage: For a lighter option, use turkey sausage instead of smoked sausage. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy hearty flavors while keeping it healthier.
Vegetarian: Create a vegetarian version by swapping shrimp and sausage for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. This colorful medley not only adds great texture but also makes for a delightful, plant-powered meal.
Cajun Spice: Spice things up by adding Cajun seasoning in place of Old Bay. This will give your stew a fiery kick, perfect for those craving a little more heat and boldness.
Frozen Corn: If fresh corn isn’t available, use frozen corn instead. It’s a convenient option that ensures you still capture that essential sweetness and a lovely pop of color!
Onions & Garlic: Enhance your stew by incorporating sautéed onions and minced garlic before boiling the water. These classic aromatics will form a fragrant base that deepens the flavor profile.
Potato Substitutes: Try sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness that complements the shrimp and sausage beautifully. Their vibrant color will also brighten up your dish!

With these versatile options, your Frogmore Stew can truly become a personal culinary canvas, allowing you to adapt flavors to fit any preference or season! Don’t forget to round out your meal with some delightful accompaniments like creamy coleslaw or a nice, crusty French bread to soak up all that savory goodness.

Expert Tips for Frogmore Stew

Flavor Boost: For added depth, cook the shrimp with the shells on. Peel them afterward for a more distinctive taste.
Prevent Overcooking: Stay vigilant when cooking the shrimp; they only need about 5 minutes to turn tender and pink. Overcooked shrimp can become chewy.
Serving Style: Consider serving Frogmore Stew on a table covered with newspaper for a fun, family-style experience that fosters togetherness.
Make-Ahead Tips: If preparing in advance, store the stew in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge. This enhances the flavors but be mindful that shrimp may toughen if re-heated.
Cooking Time: Avoid rushing through the cooking stages; proper timing is key in ensuring each ingredient shines in the Frogmore Stew.

Make Ahead Options

Frogmore Stew is a fantastic dish for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop and prepare the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and crisp. The shrimp and sausage should be added just before cooking to maintain their texture — this keeps the shrimp juicy and prevents the sausage from becoming too firm. When you’re ready to enjoy your Frogmore Stew, simply follow the cooking steps starting with boiling the seasoned water, adding the prepped potatoes and veggies, and finishing with the shrimp. This way, you’ll save precious time on busy weeknights while still treating your family to a delicious, hearty meal!

What to Serve with Frogmore Stew?

Create a delightful meal that captures the essence of Southern charm with these perfect pairings.

Crusty French Bread: The ideal companion for soaking up the delicious broth, adding a satisfying crunch to every bite.
Classic Coleslaw: This cool, crunchy side enhances the richness of the stew, providing a refreshing contrast that pleases the palate.
Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob: Building on the corn in the stew, this garlic-infused delight offers a buttery richness that complements the seafood beautifully.
Southern Potato Salad: Creamy and tangy, potato salad provides a lovely textural contrast while marrying perfectly with the warmth of Frogmore Stew.
Fresh Green Salad: A simple salad topped with vibrant, seasonal vegetables and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch to balance the hearty stew.
Sweet Tea or Lemonade: These classic Southern drinks offer a sweet, thirst-quenching finish, making them the perfect partners to your meal.
Peach Cobbler: For dessert, a warm peach cobbler brings an irresistible sweetness and nostalgia, rounding out your Southern feast beautifully.

With these delightful pairings, your Frogmore Stew will shine as the centerpiece of a memorable dining experience!

Frogmore Stew

Frogmore Stew Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for Frogmore Stew?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using large, unpeeled shrimp. Their shells help lock in moisture during cooking, and you’ll experience a juicier bite when you peel them just before eating.

How should I store leftovers of Frogmore Stew?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s important to reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to keep the stew moist and enjoyable.

Can I freeze Frogmore Stew?
Very! I generally advise against freezing Frogmore Stew because the shrimp and potatoes can lose their texture and become mushy when thawed. If you must freeze it, place the cooked stew in freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. It should be consumed within 3 months for the best quality; just be mindful of the texture changes when you thaw and reheat.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making Frogmore Stew?
One common mistake is overcooking the shrimp. They only need about 5 minutes to become tender and pink—keep an eye on them! Additionally, be sure to drain the stew properly to prevent sogginess while retaining that delicious broth.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for Frogmore Stew?
If you’re catering to dietary preferences, you can easily customize Frogmore Stew! For a vegetarian version, simply replace the shrimp and sausage with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Always check for potential seafood allergies among your guests before serving, as shrimp can be a common allergen.