The Grill's Calling: My Go-To Flattop Seafood Boil for Summer Nights

There's something about summer that just screams for good food, good company, and outdoor cooking. And while I love a classic backyard BBQ, sometimes you just want to shake things up and create a truly memorable meal. Lately, my flattop grill has become my absolute favorite way to make that happen.

I've been experimenting with a recipe that takes all the amazing flavors of a traditional seafood boil and brings them right to the griddle. The result? A Flattop Seafood Boil with Creole Butter Sauce that's been a massive hit with everyone I've shared it with. It's less messy than a big pot boil, and that flattop char adds a whole new dimension of deliciousness. Trust me, the aroma alone will have everyone gathered around before you even call them for dinner!

This isn't just a recipe; it's an experience. We're talking tender crab legs, perfectly cooked shrimp, smoky Andouille sausage, sweet corn, and those adorable little potatoes, all swimming in a rich, spicy Creole butter. It's the kind of meal that encourages digging in with your hands, laughing, and making memories.

Here’s how I put it all together:

My Favorite Flattop Seafood Boil with Creole Butter Sauce

This recipe is all about maximizing flavor and making the cooking process as fun as the eating!

Yields: 4-6 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 30-40 minutes

What You'll Need:

• For the Pre-Cook (Boil or Steam):
  • 1.5 lbs small potatoes (red or Yukon gold work perfectly, aim for about 1-1.5 inches in diameter)
  • 4 ears of corn on the cob, halved
  • 1.5 lbs pre-cooked Andouille sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
  • 2 lbs crab legs (snow crab or Dungeness are great choices, thawed if frozen)
• For the Flattop & Finishing Touches:
  • 1.5 lbs large shrimp, in the shell (the bigger, the better for grilling!)
  • 1 cup (that’s 2 sticks!) unsalted butter
  • 4-6 tablespoons Creole seasoning (use your favorite brand, and don't be afraid to adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges, for serving (optional, but highly recommended for a bright finish)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional, but makes it look extra special!)

Your Tools:

• A large pot for boiling
• A colander for draining
• Your trusty large flattop grill or griddle

Let's Get Cooking!

1. The Prep Work (Getting Things Tender):

   • Potatoes First: Get a large pot of generously salted water boiling. Toss in your small potatoes and let them cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape. Drain them well.
   • Corn on the Cob: You can use the same pot of boiling water! Add your halved corn cobs and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re tender. Drain thoroughly.
   • Crab Legs: If your crab legs are frozen, a quick 3-5 minute dip in the boiling water will heat them through. If they're already thawed and cooked, you can simply warm them on the flattop later. Drain completely.

2. The Flavor Bomb (Butter Sauce & Sausage):

   • While your veggies are doing their thing, slice up your Andouille sausage if it's not already.
   • Now, for the absolute star of the show: the butter sauce! In a small saucepan, melt your butter over low heat. Once it’s liquid, stir in all that wonderful Creole seasoning. Give it a taste and adjust – want more kick? Add more! Keep this warm; it's going to tie everything together.

3. Flattop Time! (This is where the magic happens):

   • Heat up your flattop grill to a medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot!
   • Sausage First: Lay your pre-cooked Andouille sausage rounds directly on the flattop. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they're beautifully browned and slightly crispy. Once done, push them to a cooler part of the griddle to keep warm.
   • Shrimp next: Arrange your shrimp in a single layer on the hot flattop. Cook for just 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Don't overcrowd the flattop; cook in batches if you need to. Overcooked shrimp are a no-go!
   • Bringing it All Together: Once the shrimp are cooked, add your pre-cooked potatoes, corn, and those gorgeous crab legs to the flattop with the sausage and shrimp. Gently toss everything together, letting all the ingredients warm through and start to meld their flavors for about 2-3 minutes.

4. The Grand Finale (Creole Butter Drench!):

   • This is the best part! Generously pour your warm Creole butter sauce all over everything on the flattop. Grab your tongs or two spatulas and gently toss and coat every single piece. Make sure everything is shimmering with that amazing flavor.

5. Serve it Up!

   • Transfer your incredible seafood boil from the flattop to a large serving platter or directly onto individual plates.
   • Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like, and always serve with lemon wedges on the side for that extra burst of freshness.

There you have it! This Flattop Seafood Boil is truly a game-changer for summer entertaining. It’s vibrant, full of flavor, and creates such a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out for you! I'd love to hear about your flattop adventures in the comments below.

Happy Grilling!

My Take on Belt Squats: Everybody Should Do Them

 

As a bodybuilder and athlete pushing almost half a century on this earth, I've learned a thing or two about longevity in this game. Building a powerful physique is the goal, but doing it sustainably, without constantly battling nagging injuries, becomes increasingly crucial. That's why I wanted to share my thoughts on an exercise that's become a real staple in my leg days: the belt squat.

For those unfamiliar, the belt squat, typically done on a specialized machine, involves loading the weight around your hips rather than across your upper back. Now, at 48, my lower back has seen its share of heavy lifting, and while I still love my barbell squats, the belt squat has become a fantastic tool for continuing to build serious quad and glute development without the same axial spinal load. Trust me, that difference is noticeable.

The setup is straightforward. You step onto the platform, get that belt snug around your hips – right below those hip bones – and you're essentially ready to go. The movement itself feels surprisingly natural. I focus on pushing my hips back and down, keeping my chest proud and my spine locked in neutral. I aim for a good, deep squat, really feeling the stretch in my quads and glutes. The beauty of it is, because the weight isn't compressing my spine, I can often push a little harder and really focus on those target muscles. The controlled descent and powerful drive back up, squeezing those glutes at the top – it just feels good. And let's not forget the breathing: deep breath in on the way down, strong exhale on the way up. It's fundamental.

What I've found particularly beneficial as I've gotten older is the reduced strain on my lower back. It allows me to train my legs intensely, which is essential for maintaining that balanced physique we bodybuilders strive for, without constantly worrying about aggravating my lumbar region. Plus, I've noticed a real emphasis on my quads and glutes with this movement. Because I can often maintain a more upright posture, I can really isolate those muscles in a way that sometimes feels different from a traditional back squat. It’s like hitting the same muscle groups from a slightly different angle, which, as any seasoned bodybuilder knows, is key for complete development.

Honestly, I think the belt squat is a winner for a lot of us, no matter where you are in your fitness journey. Younger guys looking to build a solid foundation? It’s a great way to learn the squat pattern without the added complexity of managing a barbell on your back. Lifters with some mileage on their bodies, like myself? It’s a fantastic way to keep those leg gains coming while being a bit kinder to the spine. Even if you’re just starting out, the stability of the machine can make learning the squat movement feel a bit more secure.

The core difference, and it’s a significant one, boils down to where the weight is. That barbell on your back compresses everything downwards. The belt squat? It’s a direct pull from the hips. This changes the whole dynamic. While barbell squats are still a king exercise for overall strength and hitting that posterior chain hard, the belt squat offers a unique advantage in terms of spinal decompression and targeted quad and glute work. For me, incorporating both into my routine has been a game-changer for continued growth and, perhaps more importantly at this stage, for staying in the game long-term. It's about smart training, listening to your body, and finding those tools that allow you to keep pushing your limits, intelligently.

Now, if you're intrigued by the belt squat and looking to incorporate it into your own training, you might be wondering about equipment. While a dedicated belt squat machine is ideal, there are also belt attachments that can be used with a power rack or even loaded independently. For those interested in exploring belt squat belts, I've found a few resources that might be helpful. 

Spud Inc. offers a robust-looking belt designed specifically for belt squats, which you can check out here: https://www.spud-inc-straps.com/collections/belts Another reputable option can be found at Bells of Steel: https://bellsofsteel.us/products/belt-squat-belt?_pos=1&_psq=belt+squa&_ss=e&_v=1.0

Additionally, for a visual demonstration of various belt squat setups and techniques, this YouTube link provides some useful insights: https://youtu.be/iHDWaCo7jfU Exploring these resources can help you determine the best way to integrate this valuable exercise into your own home or gym setup.

May Magic: Unlocking Heartland Bass with the Floating Worm

 

ShakaOG here in the heartland of the USA...as May rolls along and the spawn bite is on, the waters get warmer many anglers turn to more aggressive presentations. I've found significant success this May by utilizing the nuanced approach of fishing a floating worm. This technique, focusing on a slow, deliberate presentation just beneath the surface, has been incredibly effective at enticing strikes from quality bass in our local lakes and ponds.

My preferred choice for this subtle subsurface action is the renowned Zoom Trick Worm. This slender, straight-tailed worm possesses a unique buoyancy and action in the water that bass find irresistible. Unlike lures designed to churn the surface, the floating worm suspends enticingly in the water column, often just a few inches down, mimicking a dying or injured baitfish fluttering gently. This less aggressive presentation can be particularly effective when fish are pressured or the water is calm.

Color selection plays a vital role in maximizing the effectiveness of the Trick Worm. This May, I've had success with several key colors depending on water clarity and light penetration. In clearer water with sunny skies, Watermelon Red Flake has been a consistent producer, the subtle red flecks providing a touch of realism. On overcast days or in slightly stained water, Bubblegum and Pink offer increased visibility, allowing the bass to track the bait more easily. For a more natural profile in clearer conditions, Green Pumpkin and June Bug remain reliable choices, blending seamlessly with the underwater environment. Experimentation is key to dialing in what the fish prefer on any given day.

An often underestimated piece of terminal tackle when fishing a floating worm is a swivel. The inherent twisting motion of the worm as it's worked through the water can quickly lead to significant line twist. Incorporating a quality barrel swivel, placed approximately a foot above your hook, is crucial for preventing frustrating line management issues and ensuring smooth casts and retrieves. This simple addition will significantly improve your fishing experience with this technique.

The benefits of using a floating worm are numerous, contributing to its effectiveness as a subsurface presentation. Its subtle and non-threatening action can trigger strikes when more aggressive lures are ignored, especially in heavily fished waters. The enticing flutter and suspension just below the surface present an easy target for cruising bass. Furthermore, the versatility of the floating worm allows it to be fished in various scenarios, from open water to around submerged vegetation and docks.

The key to effectively fishing a floating worm for big strikes lies in a slow and deliberate presentation. Gentle twitches of the rod tip impart subtle action to the worm, causing it to undulate and flutter enticingly. Crucially, pauses are essential. Often, the strike will occur during a pause as the bass moves in to investigate the seemingly vulnerable bait. Maintaining a semi-slack line allows the bass to take the bait without feeling immediate resistance, leading to better hooksets. Pay close attention to any subtle movements or tightening of your line, as these can signal a bite. A patient approach is often rewarded with quality fish.

For invaluable insights and advanced techniques on fishing the floating worm, I highly recommend checking out the wisdom shared by the renowned angler, Randy Blaukat. Randy has extensively discussed the effectiveness of this presentation and offers fantastic tips for success. You can find his insightful content on his YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@RandyBlaukatFishing. For a specific video where Randy delves into the intricacies of fishing a floating worm, be sure to watch https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wi446cVF0ys. His expertise is a game-changer for this technique!

Finally, let's delve into the history of the company behind the Trick Worm: Zoom Bait Company. Since its inception in the late 1970s, Zoom has become a dominant force in the soft plastic lure market. Their unwavering commitment to producing high-quality, fish-catching baits in a vast array of colors and styles has earned them a loyal following among anglers. The Trick Worm itself quickly gained popularity due to its unique, subtle action and its effectiveness in various presentations, including the enticing floating technique. Its simple yet incredibly effective design has made it a staple in tackle boxes for decades. To explore the wide selection of Zoom Trick Worms and other Zoom baits, and to find the best places to purchase them, I recommend visiting https://zoombait.com/trick-worm/ Tie on a Trick Worm, embrace the subtle presentation, and get ready for some exciting subsurface action in the heartland!

Heartland Hooksets: March Bass Fishing With Spinnerbait

 

The heartland of the USA, I have several ponds and lakes that I like to go to that offer fantastic fishing opportunities year-round. However, as the chill of winter begins to recede and the first hints of spring emerge in March, the bass fishing can truly turn on. This past March of 2025 was no exception, and I found myself consistently finding success with a particular spinnerbait setup across several of our local ponds and lakes.

My go-to lure during this period was a spinnerbait with a specific configuration that seemed to perfectly entice the awakening bass. It featured a smaller inner gold willow leaf blade paired with a larger outer silver willow leaf blade. This combination provided a significant amount of flash, mimicking the subtle glint of early spring baitfish in the often still-clear waters. The skirt was a subtle blend of white, chartreuse, and light purple strands. This color combination offers a hint of brightness for visibility while the purple adds a touch of realism, suggesting a distressed or injured baitfish.

To further enhance the presentation, I opted for a Kaitech "Easy Shiner" swimbait as a trailer. The natural swimming action of the Easy Shiner, combined with the flash and vibration of the spinnerbait, proved to be an irresistible combination for the prespawn bass. The subtle wiggle of the swimbait added another dimension of movement that really seemed to trigger strikes.
The consistent success I experienced in March with this spinnerbait setup highlights a few key factors for early spring bass fishing in the St. Louis region:

• Flash is Key: The clear water often found in March means that visual attraction is crucial. The dual willow leaf blades provided ample flash to draw attention from a distance.
• Subtle Colors Work: While bright colors can sometimes be effective, the more natural blend of white, chartreuse, and light purple in the skirt seemed to appeal to the bass as they transitioned out of their winter dormancy.
• Trailer Action Matters: The added movement of the Kaitech Easy Shiner swimbait provided a realistic profile and enticing wiggle that likely triggered more strikes than the spinnerbait alone.
• Target Transition Areas: In the prespawn period, bass often stage in areas where they can move easily from deeper wintering areas to shallower spawning grounds. Focusing on these transition zones with the spinnerbait proved to be a winning strategy.

Expanding on the success we've seen with the Easy Shiner trailer, it's worth highlighting the company behind these effective lures: Keitech. Founded on a wealth of fishing knowledge and advanced production technology, Keitech has become a favorite among anglers for their innovative designs and high-quality soft plastic baits. Their commitment to creating lifelike action and using unique materials sets them apart in the competitive world of fishing lures.

Among their impressive lineup, several lures consistently stand out. The Keitech Fat Swing Impact series, with its ribbed body and enticing paddle tail, is renowned for its versatility and ability to attract a wide range of fish. Available in numerous sizes and colors, it excels on various rigs, including jig heads, A-rigs, and as a trailer. The Keitech Swing Impact, featuring a slimmer profile but equally captivating tail action, is another staple for many anglers, performing exceptionally well at various retrieve speeds. Lastly, the Keitech Shad Impact offers a more streamlined, shad-like profile with a unique balance achieved through different densities of salted plastics, ensuring a natural horizontal presentation that predators find irresistible. These, along with the incredibly effective Easy Shiner, showcase Keitech's dedication to crafting lures that simply catch fish.  If you want more information, head over to Keitech.

Keitech USA Website: https://www.keitechusa.com/ - This is the official website for Keitech in the USA. Readers can find detailed information about all their lures, including descriptions, colors, and sizes. They can also likely find information on where to purchase Keitech products.

While every fishing trip is different, my experiences in March of 2025 near St. Louis underscored the effectiveness of a well-chosen spinnerbait in enticing early spring bass. The combination of flash, subtle color, and trailer action proved to be a recipe for success in the heartland. As the water continues to warm in the coming weeks, I'm excited to see how this and other techniques continue to produce!

STL Favorite in our Family, The Pork Steak

 

While Saint Louisans are extremely proud to say the Pork Steak originated in Saint Louis, the cut of meat was around in earlier accounts of the Midwest. BUT, and this is a BIG BUT 😄...St. Louis, the city undeniably made the Pork Steak a culinary icon. Post-World War II, St. Louis embraced the affordable cut, with local grocery chains like Schnucks ensuring its wide availability. The city's robust barbecue culture, coupled with the pork steak's economical appeal, transformed it from a simple butcher's cut into a beloved backyard barbecue staple, solidifying St. Louis as the pork steak's heartland.

We made these beauties in the Traeger smoker over the weekend. The process involves a two-step smoking method: first, smoking at a low temperature (200°F) for two hours, then braising in a BBQ sauce and apple juice mixture, and finally, caramelizing the steaks at a higher temperature (300°F). The key is to cook them to an internal temperature of 195°F for optimal tenderness. 

Getting Started: Prep is Key

To begin, I like to slather my pork steaks with yellow mustard. This isn't about adding mustard flavor; it's about creating a sticky base for your favorite BBQ rub. Generously season both sides, and let them rest in the fridge for a few hours (or even overnight) to really let those flavors penetrate.

The Smoking Process: Two Stages to Tenderness

1. Low and Slow: Preheat your pellet grill to 200°F. Place the seasoned pork steaks directly on the grates and smoke them for two hours. This slow cook is crucial for breaking down the tough connective tissue.
2. Braised in BBQ Sauce: After two hours, move the steaks to an aluminum pan. Mix your favorite BBQ sauce with apple juice (or beer, if you prefer) to thin it out. Coat the steaks in this mixture, cover the pan with foil, and return them to the grill. Raise the temperature to 250°F and cook for another 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 195°F.
3. Caramelization: Finally, crank up the heat to 300°F. Place the steaks back on the grill grates and brush them with the remaining sauce. Cook for 10-15 minutes on each side, allowing the sauce to caramelize and create a beautiful, sticky glaze.

Optimal Tenderness: 195°F

The magic number for pork steaks is 195°F. This is when the connective tissue breaks down, leaving you with incredibly tender and juicy meat. Keep a close eye on your meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Serving Suggestions:

Pork steaks pair perfectly with classic BBQ sides. Think creamy coleslaw (in this case we had dill with cucumber salad) and macaroni and cheese (in this case we did cheesy mash potatoes).

Tips and Tricks:

• Don’t skip the mustard base; it really helps the rub adhere.
• Using apple juice or beer to thin the BBQ sauce adds extra flavor.
• A reliable meat thermometer is essential for perfect results.
• Rest your meat for 10 minutes after cooking, this allows the juices to redistribute.

I hope you enjoy these delicious BBQ pork steaks as much as my family does! Happy grilling!