Shrimp scampi is a classic dish known for its rich garlic butter sauce and tender seafood flavors. Traditionally cooked quickly on the stovetop, we’ve found a way to make this favorite even easier by using a slow cooker. This method lets the flavors meld beautifully while freeing us up from constant stirring and monitoring.
Using a slow cooker for shrimp scampi means we get perfectly cooked shrimp with minimal effort. It’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or when we want a hands-off meal that still feels special. Plus, the slow cooker gently infuses the garlic, lemon, and herbs into every bite, making this dish incredibly flavorful.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating a delicious slow cooker shrimp scampi that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a simple way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Slow Cooker Shrimp Scampi we need to gather fresh ingredients that blend beautifully to deliver that classic garlic-lemon flavor with ease. Below are the essential components we’ll use to craft this irresistible dish.
Shrimp and Seafood
- 1 ½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined (preferably fresh or thawed)
- Optional: ½ pound scallops or chopped white fish for added seafood variety
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (key for that signature scampi aroma)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (adds herbal brightness)
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced (for vibrant citrus notes)
Liquids and Seasonings
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup (1 stick) | Rich creaminess and flavor |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Adds smooth texture |
| Dry white wine | ½ cup | Enhances depth and complexity |
| Chicken broth | ¼ cup | Balances liquids and moisture |
| Red pepper flakes | ¼ teaspoon (optional) | Adds subtle heat |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Enhances all other flavors |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Adds mild spice |
Optional Garnishes
- Extra fresh parsley, chopped finely for a pop of color
- Grated Parmesan cheese for added richness
- Lemon wedges for serving, to squeeze over just before eating
- Crusty bread for dipping in the luscious sauce
Using these ingredients ensures our Slow Cooker Shrimp Scampi bursts with authentic flavors and textures while providing effortless hands-off cooking.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Slow Cooker Shrimp Scampi perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. Here is a detailed list and explanation of what we need:
- Slow Cooker (Crock-Pot)
Choose a slow cooker with a capacity of at least 4 to 6 quarts. This size ensures enough room for the shrimp, broth, and sauce to meld without overcrowding. A programmable slow cooker allows setting precise cooking times, critical for perfectly tender shrimp.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements of ingredients like butter, olive oil, and broth make a big difference in the balance of flavors. We recommend using both standard measuring cups for liquids and spoons for smaller quantities such as garlic or lemon juice.
- Mixing Bowl
A medium-sized bowl helps us combine the marinade ingredients and toss the shrimp before adding everything into the slow cooker.
- Knife and Cutting Board
Sharp knives and a clean cutting board are necessary for chopping garlic, parsley, and slicing lemons. These aromatics bring vibrant flavors to the scampi.
- Tongs or Slotted Spoon
For handling the shrimp delicately and serving, tongs ensure we don’t break the tender pieces, while a slotted spoon helps drain excess liquid if needed.
- Serving Dish
Choose a shallow bowl or wide platter for a beautiful presentation alongside garnishes like fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
| Equipment | Purpose | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Slow Cooker | Slow, even cooking | Use 4-6 quarts for perfect capacity |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement | Prefer stainless steel for durability |
| Mixing Bowl | Combine sauces and marinade | Use medium size for easy mixing |
| Knife & Cutting Board | Chop garlic and garnish | Keep knives sharp for best results |
| Tongs/Slotted Spoon | Handle shrimp without damage | Silicone-tipped tongs prevent scratching |
| Serving Dish | Present finished dish | Choose wide and shallow for easy access |
By assembling these tools ahead of time, we streamline our cooking process and ensure the Slow Cooker Shrimp Scampi turns out rich, flavorful, and effortlessly delicious every time.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing our Slow Cooker Shrimp Scampi ahead of time helps us save time while still delivering a rich, flavorful dish with minimal effort on the day of serving. Here’s how we can efficiently make this recipe in advance without compromising its delicate, garlicky, lemon-infused taste.
1. Prepare the Aromatics and Sauce
- Chop Garlic and Onion: Mince the garlic and finely dice the onion. Store them in an airtight container or resealable bag to preserve freshness.
- Mix the Sauce: Combine the unsalted butter, olive oil, dry white wine, and chicken broth along with freshly chopped parsley and lemon juice in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate this mixture.
Pro tip: Letting the sauce sit in the fridge for a few hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
2. Clean and Devein Shrimp
- Rinse the shrimp thoroughly, peel if desired, and devein. Place them on a paper towel-lined tray and cover loosely with foil. Refrigerate until ready to use.
3. Storage Times and Safety
| Ingredient | Prep Step | Storage Method | Maximum Refrigeration Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garlic & onion | Minced / diced | Airtight container | Up to 2 days |
| Sauce mixture | Combined liquids & herbs | Covered bowl / jar | Up to 24 hours |
| Raw shrimp | Cleaned, peeled, deveined | Covered tray / bag | Up to 1 day |
“Freshness is key for shrimp scampi to maintain its vibrant flavor and perfect texture.”
4. Assemble in the Slow Cooker Before Cooking
- When ready to cook, pour the prepared sauce mixture into the slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic.
- Place the shrimp on top but do not stir yet to prevent overcooking.
5. Freezing for Longer Storage
- For prolonged storage, assemble the shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe container without cooking.
- Freeze for up to one month.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking according to the recipe.
By following these Make-Ahead Instructions, we can enjoy a stress-free preparation process while guaranteeing that our Slow Cooker Shrimp Scampi stays fresh and full of bright, buttery flavor.
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create our Slow Cooker Shrimp Scampi that bursts with rich, garlicky, and lemony flavors while letting the slow cooker do all the work.
Prep the Shrimp and Vegetables
- Clean and Devein the Shrimp:
Rinse 1 ½ pounds of large shrimp under cold water. Peel and devein the shrimp for the best texture. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Chop Aromatics:
Finely dice 1 small onion and mince 4 cloves of garlic. Set aside.
- Prepare Optional Vegetables:
If using, slice white fish or scallops into bite-sized pieces. Chop fresh parsley for garnishing later.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, combine the following:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | ½ cup (1 stick) | Melted |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons | Extra virgin preferred |
| Garlic | 4 cloves | Minced |
| Dry White Wine | ½ cup | Choose a crisp wine |
| Chicken Broth | ½ cup | Low sodium for balanced flavor |
| Lemon Juice | 2 tablespoons | Freshly squeezed is best |
| Lemon Zest | 1 teaspoon | Adds fresh citrus aroma |
| Red Pepper Flakes | ¼ teaspoon | Optional for subtle heat |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Black Pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Freshly ground |
- Whisk all ingredients until fully combined. This garlic butter sauce will infuse every bite with bright and buttery notes.
Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- Add the chopped onion into the slow cooker base.
- Pour half of the prepared garlic butter sauce over the onions.
- Layer the cleaned shrimp evenly on top. If using scallops or fish, add them now.
- Pour the remaining garlic butter sauce over the seafood to ensure flavorful coating.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
Cooking Time and Settings
Set your slow cooker to cook on low for 1 to 1 ½ hours. We recommend:
| Setting | Time | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 1 to 1 ½ hours | Tender, perfectly cooked shrimp |
| High (not advised) | 30 to 45 minutes | Higher risk of overcooking shrimp |
Important: Avoid cooking for longer than 1 ½ hours on low, as shrimp can become rubbery if overdone.
Finishing Touches
- Remove the slow cooker lid and add freshly chopped parsley to brighten flavors and add color.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed.
- Optional: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for a savory finish.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges and crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce.
Our Slow Cooker Shrimp Scampi is now ready to delight with its garlicky, buttery, and tender profile that highlights the ease of slow cooking without sacrificing any classic flavors.
Serving Suggestions
To maximize the flavors of our Slow Cooker Shrimp Scampi, thoughtful serving options enhance the dish’s vibrancy and appeal. Here are some carefully curated suggestions that complement the rich garlic lemon butter sauce and tender shrimp perfectly.
Classic Pasta Pairings
Serve the shrimp scampi over al dente linguine, spaghetti, or angel hair pasta to soak up the luscious sauce. The pasta acts as a neutral base that lets the garlic and lemon shine.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until just tender.
- Drain and toss immediately with a small drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Plate the pasta in shallow bowls, then spoon generous amounts of shrimp scampi on top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Rice and Grain Options
For a hearty, gluten-free alternative, present the shrimp scampi atop warm:
- Jasmine or Basmati rice
- Quinoa
- Couscous
Each grain absorbs the buttery, herbaceous sauce distinctly while balancing the shrimp’s delicate texture.
Accompaniments and Side Dishes
Well-chosen sides round out the meal and highlight the elegant simplicity of the shrimp scampi:
| Side Dish | Description | Serving Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Steamed Asparagus | Tender with a slight crunch | Drizzle with olive oil and lemon |
| Garlic Bread | Crispy, buttery slices | Toast until golden brown |
| Mixed Green Salad | Light, fresh leafy greens | Dress with lemon vinaigrette |
| Roasted Vegetables | Carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers | Roast with olive oil and herbs |
Garnishes and Finishing Touches
Enhance visual appeal and texture with these final touches:
- Freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley for color and herbal notes.
- A generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to add savory depth.
- Lemon wedges served on the side encourage guests to customize their dish’s brightness.
- Optional crushed red pepper flakes bring a subtle kick.
Beverage Pairings
Complement the meal with beverages that lift and echo the dish’s citrusy and buttery characteristics:
| Beverage | Notes |
|---|---|
| Dry White Wine | Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio |
| Sparkling Water | With lemon slices for freshness |
| Light Beer | Crisp lager or pilsner |
By selecting our serving elements carefully we emphasize the bold, garlicky flavors of the Slow Cooker Shrimp Scampi and create a restaurant-quality presentation at home.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage and reheating are essential to preserve the fresh flavors and delicate texture of our Slow Cooker Shrimp Scampi. Follow these tips to keep each bite as vibrant and buttery as the moment it was made:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the scampi to cool to room temperature before storing. Avoid leaving it out for more than two hours for safety.
- Transfer the shrimp and sauce into an airtight container.
- Refrigerate promptly. Stored properly, it will remain fresh for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to 2 months but is best enjoyed within the first month for optimal flavor.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Maximum Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Airtight container | 3 days |
| Freezing | Freezer-safe container | 1 to 2 months |
Reheating Instructions
To enjoy the rich garlic butter sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp without losing texture or flavor:
- Thaw frozen scampi overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for even warming.
- Reheat gently over low-medium heat in a skillet or saucepan to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
- Stir frequently and add a splash of chicken broth or a teaspoon of butter if the sauce appears too thick.
- Alternatively, reheat in the microwave using 30-second bursts, stirring between each interval, until warmed through.
- Avoid high heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
Quick Tips to Keep in Mind
- Never reheat shrimp scampi more than once to maintain food safety and flavor integrity.
- Add fresh lemon juice or chopped parsley after reheating to revive the brightness and garnish.
- Serve immediately once reheated to preserve the buttery texture and aroma.
By following these Storage and Reheating Tips, we ensure every plate of our Slow Cooker Shrimp Scampi remains as delightful and satisfying as freshly made.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Shrimp Scampi offers a perfect blend of convenience and flavor, making it a go-to recipe for busy nights. With minimal effort and maximum taste, it’s a dish that fits seamlessly into our weeknight routine.
By mastering this slow cooker method, we can enjoy restaurant-quality shrimp scampi anytime without the fuss. It’s a versatile recipe that invites creativity while delivering consistent, delicious results every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes slow cooker shrimp scampi different from the traditional method?
Slow cooker shrimp scampi cooks the dish hands-off, allowing flavors to meld slowly without constant stirring. It yields perfectly cooked shrimp with rich, infused flavors, ideal for busy nights.
What are the key ingredients needed for slow cooker shrimp scampi?
You’ll need large shrimp, garlic, onion, parsley, unsalted butter, olive oil, dry white wine, chicken broth, lemon, and optional items like scallops, Parmesan cheese, and crusty bread.
What size slow cooker should I use for this recipe?
A slow cooker with a 4 to 6-quart capacity is recommended for even cooking and enough space to layer ingredients comfortably.
Can I prepare ingredients in advance?
Yes, you can chop aromatics, make the sauce, and clean shrimp ahead of time. Store components properly to maintain freshness before slow cooking.
How long does it take to cook shrimp scampi in a slow cooker?
Cooking time typically ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours on low heat, which gently cooks the shrimp and allows flavors to blend.
What are some good serving suggestions for slow cooker shrimp scampi?
Serve it over linguine, spaghetti, or rice. Pair it with steamed vegetables, garlic bread, salads, and garnish with fresh parsley, Parmesan, and lemon wedges.
How should I store leftovers?
Store shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months to preserve freshness.
What’s the best way to reheat slow cooker shrimp scampi?
Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or microwave briefly. Add fresh lemon juice or parsley to refresh flavors and avoid overcooking shrimp.
Can I add other seafood to this recipe?
Yes, scallops or white fish can be added along with shrimp for variety without changing the basic recipe. Adjust cooking times slightly as needed.
Is this shrimp scampi recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The slow cooker method simplifies the process, requiring minimal hands-on time while delivering restaurant-quality flavors.