As the weather starts to cool down, there’s nothing more comforting than gathering around the table for a warm, satisfying meal. Boiled dinners have been a staple in many cultures for centuries, and it’s easy to see why – they’re simple, affordable, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for classic comfort food or something a little more adventurous, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 hearty boiled dinner recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From traditional dishes like corned beef and cabbage to international flavors like sauerkraut-topped sausage, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab a spoon, get cozy, and let’s dive in!
Classic Corned Beef and Cabbage Boiled Dinner
Classic Corned Beef and Cabbage Boiled Dinner Recipe
A hearty, comforting boiled dinner recipe that’s a staple of many cultures. This classic dish is easy to make and perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound corned beef brisket
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, chopped
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 6 cups of water
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Rinse the corned beef under cold running water, then place it in a large pot or Dutch oven.
2. Add the chopped cabbage, carrots, potatoes, and onion to the pot.
3. Pour in the water, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 2-1/2 hours, or until the corned beef is tender.
5. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired. This boiled dinner recipe makes a great main course for a family meal or special occasion.
New England Boiled Dinner with Ham and Root Vegetables
A classic New England boiled dinner featuring a juicy ham, tender root vegetables, and a flavorful broth. This comforting meal is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless ham
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 stalks of celery, chopped
– 6 cups of water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the ham, carrots, potatoes, onion, and celery.
2. Pour in the water, making sure that all the ingredients are covered.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the ham is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Irish Boiled Bacon and Cabbage
A classic Irish dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this boiled bacon and cabbage recipe is a hearty and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boiled bacon (thick-cut), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the sliced bacon, chopped cabbage, carrots, and onion.
2. Pour in the water, making sure that all the ingredients are covered.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Southern-Style Boiled Peanuts and Sausage
A classic Southern combination that’s perfect for a backyard BBQ or tailgating party, boiled peanuts and sausage make for a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raw peanuts
– 2 pounds smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 1 gallon water
– 1 tablespoon salt
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the peanuts and soak them in cold water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and add the peanuts to a large pot or boilermaker with enough water to cover them by about an inch.
3. Add salt and any desired seasonings (such as garlic powder or paprika).
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
5. While the peanuts are cooking, grill or cook the sausage according to your preference until browned and cooked through.
6. Serve the boiled peanuts with the sliced sausage and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours (including soaking time).
Boiled Shrimp and Potato Dinner with Old Bay
This classic Southern-inspired dish is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With the bold seasonings of Old Bay, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
– 4 cups water
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 4 cups of water and add salt to taste.
2. Add the shrimp and potatoes to the pot.
3. Sprinkle the Old Bay seasoning evenly over the top.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Remove the pot from heat and let it sit for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Boiled Lobster and Corn on the Cob Feast
A classic summer celebration deserves a feast fit for kings (and queens)! This Boiled Lobster and Corn on the Cob recipe is sure to impress your guests with its simplicity, flavor, and presentation.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 lobsters (depending on size and number of servings)
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Lemon wedges and melted butter for serving
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the lobsters by at least 2 inches. Add salt and white wine (if using).
2. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Place the lobsters in the pot, headfirst. Cover with a lid or foil.
4. Boil for 5-7 minutes per pound, or until the meat is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Meanwhile, place the corn on the cob in a separate pot of boiling water. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
6. Remove the lobsters from the pot with tongs and transfer to a platter. Serve with melted butter and lemon wedges. Arrange the corn on the cob alongside.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-30 minutes
German-Style Boiled Sausage and Sauerkraut
A classic German comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. This recipe combines juicy sausages with tangy sauerkraut, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 German-style boiled sausages (such as knockwurst or bratwurst)
– 1 head of sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of white bread, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to a simmer and add the sausages. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
3. While the sausages are cooking, combine the sauerkraut, caraway seeds, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a separate pot.
4. Simmer the sauerkraut mixture over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together and the sauerkraut has reached your desired level of tanginess.
5. Serve the cooked sausages with the sauerkraut and warm bread, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Boiled Chicken and Dumplings Comfort Bowl
Elevate a classic comfort food with this easy-to-make recipe that combines tender boiled chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, combine flour, baking powder, and milk in a bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough into the boiling broth, stirring gently to prevent sticking.
5. Simmer dumplings for 10-15 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are cooked through.
6. Serve chicken with warm dumplings and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Spicy Cajun Boiled Crawfish and Potatoes
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy and savory recipe for boiled crawfish and potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs live crawfish, rinsed and drained
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and halved
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 1/4 cup cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup paprika
– 2 tbsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 quarts water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the crawfish, potatoes, Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
2. Pour in the water and add the lemon juice.
3. Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the crawfish are bright red and the potatoes are tender.
4. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Boiled Mussels in White Wine and Garlic Broth
Experience the simplicity and elegance of this classic French recipe, featuring fresh mussels cooked to perfection in a flavorful white wine and garlic broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the mussels under cold water, then place them in a large saucepan or pot.
2. Add the white wine, garlic, and butter to the pot. Cover with a lid.
3. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the mussels open.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve the mussels in their broth, accompanied by crusty bread or over rice.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Boiled Artichokes with Lemon Butter Dip
Brighten up your table with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of artichokes with a tangy lemon butter dip.
Ingredients:
– 4 large artichokes
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the artichokes under cold water, then trim the stems and remove any tough leaves.
2. In a large pot, bring 4-6 quarts of water to a boil. Add the artichokes, cover, and cook for 25-30 minutes or until the outer leaves can be easily removed.
3. Meanwhile, mix together the softened butter, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
4. Once the artichokes are cooked, remove them from the water with tongs and let cool slightly.
5. Serve the artichokes with the lemon butter dip spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (artichoke boiling time)
Boiled Clam and Chorizo Stew
Boiled Clam and Chorizo Stew Recipe
This hearty stew combines the brininess of boiled clams with the spicy kick of chorizo, perfect for a cold winter’s night. A flavorful and satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boiled clams, chopped
– 1/2 cup chorizo, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chorizo and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add chicken broth, white wine, tomato paste, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Add boiled clams and cooked chorizo back into the pot. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Boiled Beef Tongue with Mustard Sauce
Transform a humble beef tongue into a tender and flavorful treat with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 beef tongue (about 2 lbs)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
– 1/4 cup yellow mustard
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Rinse the beef tongue under cold running water, then place it in a large pot or Dutch oven.
2. Add salt and black pepper to taste, along with the water, vinegar, and tongue.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 2-1/2 hours, or until the tongue is tender.
4. Remove the tongue from the pot and let it cool in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
5. Slice the cooled tongue into thin strips and serve with a dollop of mustard sauce (see below).
Mustard Sauce:
1. Whisk together yellow and Dijon mustards, honey, salt, and pepper.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Boiled Pork Belly and Daikon Radish Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of boiled pork belly and daikon radish soup, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 kg pork belly, sliced into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium daikon radishes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pork belly, daikon radish slices, water, soy sauce, sake, sugar, and grated ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Boiled Salmon with Dill and Baby Potatoes
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp fresh dill
• 1 lb baby potatoes, peeled and halved
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water for boiling
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add the baby potatoes and cook for 10-12 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the salmon fillets, skin side up (if they have skin).
4. Simmer for 8-10 minutes per pound, or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
5. Stir in the chopped fresh dill into the water around the salmon.
6. Remove the salmon from the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the salmon atop the boiled potatoes, garnished with additional dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Boiled Duck Eggs with Soy and Five-Spice
This recipe elevates the humble boiled egg to new heights by adding a rich, savory flavor profile from soy sauce and five-spice powder. Perfect as a snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck eggs
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1 cup water
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a medium saucepan with the water and bring to a boil.
2. Gently place the duck eggs into the boiling water, being careful not to crack them.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are still slightly runny.
4. Remove the eggs from the water with a slotted spoon and transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking.
5. Once cooled, gently crack each eggshell and peel off the shells.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and five-spice powder until well combined.
7. Place the peeled duck eggs in a serving dish or individual cups and drizzle the soy-fivespice mixture evenly over them.
8. Season with salt to taste, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Boiled Quail and Wild Rice Pilaf
Experience the rich flavors of the wild with this hearty pilaf dish, featuring tender boiled quail and nutty wild rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 quail, boiled and quartered
Instructions:
1. Rinse the wild rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, mushrooms, and thyme to the saucepan. Cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the wild rice and water or broth to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and stir in the boiled quail quarters. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Boiled Vegetable Medley with Herb Butter
A vibrant and flavorful medley of boiled vegetables paired with a rich herb butter, perfect for a quick and satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 large yellow squash, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the vegetables. Bring to a boil.
2. Add the chopped carrot, potatoes, red bell pepper, and yellow squash to the boiling water.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
5. Season the herb butter with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the boiled vegetable medley hot with the herb butter on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Boiled Octopus and Potato Salad
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the tender texture of boiled octopus with the comforting warmth of a potato salad, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a seafood-inspired gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 large octopus (about 2 lbs)
– 4-5 medium-sized potatoes
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the octopus under cold water, then place it in a large pot with enough salted water to cover it.
2. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the tentacles are tender.
3. While the octopus is cooking, peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked potatoes, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
5. Once the octopus is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly before slicing it into thin strips.
6. Add the sliced octopus to the potato salad and mix gently to combine.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Boiled Turkey Legs with Cabbage and Carrots
Elevate your comfort food game with this easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a casual gathering. The tender turkey legs, flavorful cabbage, and sweet carrots are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
• 2-3 turkey legs (thawed)
• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
• 4-5 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 onion, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water for boiling
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the turkey legs. Add salt and pepper to taste.
2. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Place the turkey legs in the pot, making sure they’re fully submerged.
4. Add the chopped cabbage and carrots to the pot. If using onion, add it now as well.
5. Simmer for 1-2 hours or until the turkey is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Summary
Cozy up with these hearty boiled dinner recipes! From classic corned beef and cabbage to Southern-style boiled peanuts and sausage, there’s something for every taste. Try Irish boiled bacon and cabbage, or German-style boiled sausage and sauerkraut. For a comforting bowl, opt for boiled chicken and dumplings. Spice things up with spicy Cajun boiled crawfish and potatoes, or go seafood-forward with boiled shrimp and potato dinner. With over 20 recipes to choose from, you’ll find the perfect meal to warm your belly and your home.
