Savory Slow Cooker Cajun Shrimp Scampi: A Flavorful Delight
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with our mouthwatering Slow Cooker Cajun Shrimp Scampi recipe! Bursting with bold Cajun flavors and succulent shrimp, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy all the deliciousness of classic shrimp scampi with minimal effort. Join us as we guide you through the steps of creating this delightful dish, along with helpful tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup of chicken broth
- 1/4 cup of white wine
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
- 1/4 cup of chopped parsley
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Season the shrimp: In a large bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
- Sauté the garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Brown the shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook until lightly browned on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer the shrimp to the slow cooker.
- Deglaze the skillet: Pour chicken broth, white wine, and lemon juice into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Combine with shrimp: Pour the broth mixture over the shrimp in the slow cooker. Add chopped parsley and stir to combine.
- Cook low and slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 1-2 hours, or until the shrimp are cooked through and tender.
- Finish with butter: Stir in butter until melted and incorporated into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the Cajun Shrimp Scampi over cooked pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Heat: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your spice preference. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Enhance the Flavor: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream for added richness and creaminess.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Thaw them before cooking and be sure to drain any excess moisture before seasoning and cooking.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply reheat the shrimp and sauce in the slow cooker until heated through.
Q: Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker? A: Absolutely! Simply follow the same steps using a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Cook the shrimp until opaque and pink, then stir in the sauce ingredients and simmer until heated through.
Q: Is this dish suitable for a keto or low-carb diet? A: While this recipe contains some ingredients that may not be keto-friendly in large quantities, such as white wine and lemon juice, you can make a keto version by using low-carb substitutes such as dry white wine or chicken broth and reducing the amount of lemon juice used.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this dish? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover Cajun Shrimp Scampi in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Elevate your dinner repertoire with the enticing flavors of our Slow Cooker Cajun Shrimp Scampi. With its tender shrimp, zesty Cajun seasoning, and aromatic garlic butter sauce, this dish is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests for a special occasion, it’s a delicious and satisfying option that’s sure to please. So why wait? Fire up your slow cooker and treat yourself to the irresistible flavors of Cajun Shrimp Scampi today!
