Quick Foil Packet Cajun Shrimp for Campfire or Grill
Serving Ideas
Eat straight from the packet — that's the easiest camp meal. Or spoon the shrimp and sausage over instant grits, rice, or crusty bread. The juices in the packet are liquid gold. Pour them over your starch. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onion adds color but isn't necessary.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding: Shrimp need a single layer to cook evenly. If you double the recipe, make more packets, not bigger ones.
- Skipping the flip: Flipping the packet halfway through ensures even cooking. The bottom gets more heat, so flipping redistributes it.
- Using thin foil: Regular foil tears on hot coals. Heavy-duty or extra-wide foil holds up to the heat and the flip.
Takeaway
Foil packet Cajun shrimp is the kind of camp meal that feels like a treat but takes almost no work. The smoky spice, the tender shrimp, the juicy lemon — it all comes together in a sealed packet over fire. Learn the timing, respect the flip, and you'll have a dinner that makes everyone at the picnic table lean in for another bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, but thaw them first. Place frozen shrimp in a sealed bag and submerge in cool water for 10-15 minutes, changing the water once. Pat them very dry before seasoning, or the packet will be watery and the shrimp will steam instead of sear.
How do I keep the shrimp from getting rubbery?
Don't overcook. Shrimp cook fast — in a foil packet over hot coals, they're done in 10-12 minutes total. Check one packet at the 10-minute mark. The shrimp should be opaque, pink, and just firm to the touch. If they curl into a tight C shape, they're overdone.
What if I don't have andouille sausage?
Use any smoked sausage like kielbasa or chorizo. The key is a smoky, fully cooked sausage that adds flavor to the shrimp. If using raw sausage, cook it through before adding to the packet.
Can I add vegetables to the packet?
Absolutely. Add bell pepper strips, sliced okra, or diced onion. Cut them thin (1/4-inch) so they cook in the same time as the shrimp. Add them to the packet with the sausage, before the shrimp.