Frogmore Stew

Frogmore Stew, also known as Lowcountry Boil, is a classic Southern seafood dish that brings together shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes in one flavorful and aromatic pot. Originally hailing from Frogmore, South Carolina, this dish is a celebration of coastal ingredients, bold seasoning, and communal dining. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or creating a special weekend feast, Frogmore Stew delivers on taste and tradition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for parties and gatherings

• One-pot meal that’s quick and easy to prepare

• Loaded with flavor from Old Bay seasoning

• Customizable with your favorite seafood or extras

• No fancy equipment or advanced techniques needed

• Great hands-on eating experience

• Fun and casual presentation—often served on newspaper

• Ideal for warm-weather outdoor dining

• Naturally dairy-free and low in processed ingredients

• A Southern tradition with rich cultural roots

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Water

• Old Bay Seasoning

• New red potatoes

• Hot smoked sausage links (or substitute with kielbasa)

• Corn on the cob, husked and quartered

• Large fresh shrimp, unpeeled

Directions

1. In a large stockpot, bring the water and Old Bay seasoning to a boil over high heat.

2. Add the red potatoes and cook for 15 minutes.

3. Stir in the sausage pieces and cook for 5 minutes.

4. Add the corn and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.

5. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 5 minutes.

6. Drain immediately and serve hot. Traditionally, the stew is poured out onto a table covered in newspaper for a hands-on feast.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add beer or lemon to the boiling liquid for added flavor.

• Include other seafood like crab legs, mussels, or scallops.

• Use different sausages—try sweet, spicy, or kielbasa.

• Add aromatics such as garlic, onions, or bay leaves.

• Stir in some heat with red pepper flakes or cayenne.

• Serve with condiments like melted butter, cocktail sauce, or hot sauce.

• Add quartered cabbage or carrots for extra vegetables.

• Cook with seafood boil bags for convenience and intensity.

• Finish with a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

• Include hard-boiled eggs—a classic twist in some Southern versions.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Freezer: Not recommended as shrimp and potatoes lose texture when frozen and reheated.

• Reheating: Gently warm in a pot with a splash of water or broth. Reheat just until hot to avoid overcooking shrimp.

FAQs

What is Frogmore Stew?

Frogmore Stew is a South Carolina-style seafood boil made with shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and corn, all cooked together in a seasoned broth.

Why is it called Frogmore Stew?

It’s named after Frogmore, a small community on St. Helena Island in South Carolina where the dish originated.

Do I need to peel the shrimp before cooking?

No. Unpeeled shrimp are preferred for flavor and texture. Diners peel them as they eat.

Can I make Frogmore Stew ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead and cook right before serving.

Is this dish spicy?

It can be mildly spicy depending on the sausage and seasoning used. Adjust to your taste.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but thaw them completely before adding to the pot to avoid overcooking.

What’s the best way to serve Frogmore Stew?

Traditionally, it’s drained and served dumped onto a newspaper-covered table for a casual, communal dining experience.

What side dishes go with this?

Crusty bread, coleslaw, and cold beer are classic accompaniments.

How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?

Add them last and cook just until pink—about 3 to 5 minutes. You can even remove the pot from heat and let them cook in residual heat.

Can I adjust this recipe for a smaller group?

Absolutely. Just reduce all ingredients proportionally. Timing remains about the same.

Conclusion

Frogmore Stew is the ultimate Southern seafood feast—flavorful, festive, and irresistibly fun. Whether you’re serving a dozen guests at a backyard gathering or preparing a special family dinner, this one-pot wonder never disappoints. With its ease, versatility, and classic charm, Frogmore Stew is a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

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