Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi – How to Make the Best Weeknight Dinner in 5 Easy Steps
Looking for a dinner that’s both indulgent and easy to make? Look no further than Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi! This creamy, flavorful, and juicy dish is a perfect choice for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Picture this: tender shrimp bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, all cooked to perfection in the slow cooker – sounds heavenly, right? The beauty of this dish lies not only in its mouthwatering flavors but also in how effortlessly it comes together. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe guarantees a scrumptious result every time.
Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with the savory aroma of shrimp scampi, all thanks to your Crock Pot. It’s like magic, but better! If you’ve tried other easy weeknight favorites like Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo, you’ll love the simplicity and rich flavors of this shrimp scampi version. This dish is perfect for busy families or anyone looking to enjoy restaurant-quality food from the comfort of their own home. So, let’s dive in and get cooking – you won’t regret it!
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What is Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi?
Now, let’s take a moment to talk about the name “Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi.” Why “scampi”? Is it because it sounds fancy? Or maybe because it makes your taste buds do a little happy dance? Well, scampi is actually a classic Italian dish that typically features shrimp in a garlic butter sauce. And when you make it in a Crock Pot, you’re really giving the shrimp a chance to soak up all those flavors, turning them into little bites of perfection. Fun fact: “scampi” refers to a type of shrimp, but over time, the name has become synonymous with this buttery, garlic-filled dish.
They say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and after trying Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi, you might just discover that this is the dish that wins everyone over. Ready to try it? Grab your Crock Pot, and let’s get cooking – it’s time to make this delightful dish your new weeknight go-to!
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi
If you’ve ever craved a rich, buttery, and savory dish that doesn’t require a ton of prep time, Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi is your answer! Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Rich, Flavorful Shrimp: The shrimp practically melt in your mouth after being slow-cooked in a garlic butter sauce. This dish is all about delivering big flavors with minimal effort.
- Cost-Saving: Shrimp can sometimes be pricey, but by making this at home in your slow cooker, you’re getting an amazing, restaurant-quality meal for a fraction of the price. It’s a win-win!
- Tasty Ingredients: With garlic, butter, white wine, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish is packed with flavor. And let’s not forget that creamy texture that makes every bite irresistible. The combination of these ingredients creates a decadent sauce that coats the shrimp beautifully.
And if you’re already a fan of dishes like Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo, then you’re going to love the effortless approach this shrimp scampi offers. It’s simple, satisfying, and absolutely delicious. Ready to try it out? Let’s dive into the details!
How to Make Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi
Quick Overview
Making Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi is as easy as it sounds! With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a rich and indulgent dinner. The slow cooker does all the work, creating a creamy, flavorful sauce that coats the shrimp perfectly. Plus, it only takes about 20 minutes to prep – then the Crock Pot takes over for the rest of the magic. The best part? The shrimp stay tender and juicy, never overcooked, thanks to the slow and steady cooking process. Ready for a weeknight meal that delivers big flavor in no time? Let’s get started!
Key Ingredients for Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi
Here’s what you’ll need for this mouthwatering dish:
- Shrimp – 1 pound of large, peeled, and deveined shrimp (frozen shrimp works too! Just make sure they’re thawed before using).
- Garlic – 4 cloves, minced (fresh garlic adds an amazing flavor!).
- Butter – 1/2 cup (about 1 stick), unsalted for the best control over salt levels.
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons, for sautéing the garlic and helping to create a rich sauce.
- White Wine – 1/4 cup, adds depth and richness to the sauce (you can substitute with chicken broth if you prefer).
- Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon, to brighten up the flavors.
- Parmesan Cheese – 1/2 cup, freshly grated for an authentic touch.
- Parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped, for garnish.
- Salt & Pepper – to taste, for seasoning.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi:
- Sauté Garlic: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. This step infuses the oil with rich garlic flavor.
- Prepare the Crock Pot: Transfer the sautéed garlic into the bottom of your Crock Pot. Add the butter, white wine, and lemon juice, and stir to combine. This is the base for the creamy sauce that will infuse the shrimp with flavor.
- Add the Shrimp: Place the thawed shrimp into the Crock Pot on top of the sauce mixture. Season with salt and pepper, and gently toss to coat the shrimp in the sauce.
- Cook: Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for about 2-3 hours. The shrimp will cook through and absorb the delicious garlic butter sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Once the shrimp are cooked through, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the shrimp and sauce, stirring gently to combine. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve over pasta, rice, or enjoy on its own!
What to Serve Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi With
To make this meal even more amazing, here are a few side dishes that pair perfectly with Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi:
- Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
- Pasta: Toss the shrimp scampi with pasta for a comforting and filling meal.
- Salad: A fresh, light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the scampi.
A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water also pairs beautifully with this dish, elevating the dining experience.
Top Tips for Perfecting Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi
- Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor, try using fresh shrimp if possible. But frozen shrimp works too – just make sure to thaw it before cooking.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking them can make them rubbery. Stick to the 2-3 hour cook time on low to ensure the shrimp stay tender and juicy.
- Add Extra Flavor: If you like a little kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to spice things up.
- Don’t Skip the Lemon: Lemon juice really brings this dish to life, so be sure not to skip it!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Don’t worry, Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi stores beautifully!
- Storing: Let the shrimp scampi cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or chicken broth to bring it back to its creamy consistency.
Enjoy your Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi again for lunch or dinner the next day – it’s just as delicious the second time around!
There you have it! Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi is an easy, flavorful, and indulgent dinner that will make any weeknight feel special. With just a few simple ingredients and a Crock Pot, you can enjoy a meal that’s both fancy and effortless. So what are you waiting for? Get cooking and enjoy the savory goodness of this shrimp scampi recipe today!
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! You can absolutely use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them beforehand to ensure they cook evenly in the Crock Pot. If you’re in a pinch, you can also cook the shrimp directly from frozen, but they might release extra water into the sauce, making it a bit thinner.
2. How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Shrimp cook very quickly, so it’s important not to overcook them. They should be pink and opaque when done. For this Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi, the shrimp will typically cook within 2-3 hours on low. If they look curled up or tough, they may have been overcooked.
3. Can I make this dish without white wine?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth. The flavor will still be rich and delicious without the wine.
4. Can I make Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the shrimp and sauce the night before and store them in the fridge. Then, the next day, just add everything to the Crock Pot and cook. It’s a great way to save time if you’re planning a busy day.
5. What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you’re not a fan of Parmesan or want to try something different, you can substitute it with another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. The flavor will still be savory and complement the garlic butter sauce wonderfully.
6. Can I make this recipe with other seafood?
Yes! While shrimp is the classic choice for shrimp scampi, you can substitute it with other seafood like scallops or lobster tail. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different seafood may cook at different rates.
7. What should I serve this with?
Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi pairs wonderfully with pasta (linguine is a classic choice), garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. It’s versatile, so feel free to experiment with your favorite side dishes!
8. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
9. Can I freeze Crock Pot Shrimp Scampi?
While shrimp scampi can technically be frozen, shrimp doesn’t always hold up well after freezing and reheating, so we recommend enjoying it fresh or storing it in the fridge for a day or two. If you do freeze it, consume it within 1-2 months for the best taste and texture.
10. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like a little heat, you can add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a chopped fresh chili to the sauce. Adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance and enjoy a kick in your creamy scampi!
