Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi: A Burst of Flavor in Every Bite
Dive into a dish bursting with zesty flavors and succulent shrimp with our Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi recipe. This easy-to-make recipe combines the vibrant flavors of lemon and garlic with tender shrimp, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a comforting weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress. Join us as we explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this delectable shrimp scampi!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds of raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup of chicken broth (low-sodium is best!)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional for a little kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Lightly grease the insert of your slow cooker with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In the slow cooker, add the raw shrimp, minced garlic, chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir gently to ensure that the shrimp are evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Cook on Low:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Avoid overcooking the shrimp to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
- Add Butter and Parsley:
- Once the shrimp are cooked, stir in the unsalted butter and chopped parsley until the butter is melted and the sauce is well combined. This adds richness and freshness to the dish.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi hot, garnished with extra chopped parsley and lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the shrimp. Pair with your favorite pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Tail-On or Tail-Off: You can leave the tails on the shrimp for presentation purposes or remove them for easier eating. It’s purely a matter of personal preference.
- Adjusting Heat Level: If you prefer a spicier shrimp scampi, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Conversely, omit the red pepper flakes altogether for a milder flavor.
- Enhance Flavor: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a drizzle of olive oil to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: To make this recipe keto-friendly, simply omit the chicken broth or use a homemade broth with no added sugars or carbohydrates. Ensure that the lemon juice is freshly squeezed and not from concentrate to avoid added sugars. Serve the shrimp scampi over zucchini noodles or alongside a salad for a low-carb meal option.
- Low-Carb: For a lower-carb version, reduce the amount of lemon juice used in the recipe and replace it with a splash of chicken broth or water. Additionally, serve the shrimp scampi over cauliflower rice or with steamed vegetables instead of pasta or bread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Thaw the shrimp completely before adding them to the slow cooker, and be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I use other types of seafood in this recipe? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of seafood such as scallops, mussels, or lobster tails to create your own variation of this dish.
Q: Can I cook this recipe on high heat instead of low? A: While it’s possible to cook the shrimp scampi on high heat, we recommend using the low setting to ensure that the shrimp remain tender and juicy without overcooking.
Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.
With its bright and tangy flavors, our Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi is a delightful dish that’s sure to please seafood lovers and flavor enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe offers a hassle-free way to enjoy the classic flavors of shrimp scampi with minimal effort. From its tender shrimp to its aromatic garlic and zesty lemon, every bite is a taste sensation that transports you to coastal culinary bliss. Try it out in your slow cooker today and savor the irresistible flavors of this mouthwatering dish!
