Slow Cooker Shrimp Delight – A Flavorful & Easy Seafood Recipe

There’s something special about a dish that delivers bold, fresh flavors while requiring minimal effort. That’s exactly what you get with this Slow Cooker Shrimp Delight—a delicious, vibrant meal packed with succulent shrimp, juicy bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce.

I’ve always loved shrimp, but I used to think cooking it required standing over the stove, watching carefully to avoid overcooking. When I discovered that shrimp could be cooked perfectly in a slow cooker, it changed everything! This recipe allows you to prep the ingredients, set the slow cooker, and walk away—letting the flavors blend beautifully while you take care of other things.

Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal, hosting friends, or looking for something new to try, this dish is a winner. The combination of sweet shrimp, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic spices makes it irresistibly good.

Let’s dive into the ingredients, step-by-step cooking guide, and expert tips to help you make the perfect Slow Cooker Shrimp Delight every time!

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Ingredients for the Best Slow Cooker Shrimp Delight

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined) – Use fresh or frozen shrimp, but if using frozen, thaw and pat dry before cooking.
• 1 cup bell peppers (sliced, any color) – Adds sweetness, crunch, and vibrant color.
• 1 medium onion (chopped) – Brings depth and a slightly sweet, savory taste.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced) – A must-have for bold, aromatic flavor.
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) – Provides a rich, tangy base.
• 1 tbsp tomato paste – Thickens the sauce and enhances the umami flavor.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – Helps sauté the aromatics before slow cooking.
• ½ cup chicken or seafood broth – Adds depth and keeps the dish moist.
• 1 tsp paprika – Infuses a smoky, slightly sweet flavor.
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a little heat for spice lovers.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A perfect blend of herbs for a balanced taste.
• Salt & black pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• Juice of 1 lemon – Brightens the dish and enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
• Fresh parsley (for garnish) – A fresh, herby finish.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Slow Cooker Shrimp Delight

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by prepping your shrimp. If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes, then pat them dry with paper towels. If using fresh shrimp, peel and devein them for the best texture.

Next, slice the bell peppers, chop the onion, and mince the garlic. These will give the dish a beautiful aroma and a delicious balance of flavors.

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Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

For an extra boost of flavor, sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker is a game-changer.

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and cook for 2 minutes until soft.
• Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds (until fragrant but not browned).

This step enhances the dish by bringing out the natural sweetness of the onions and the bold aroma of the garlic.

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Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Now it’s time to layer the ingredients in your slow cooker:

1. Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth, stirring to combine.
3. Add the bell peppers, paprika, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well.
4. Cover and set the slow cooker to LOW for 3 hours or HIGH for 1.5 hours to allow the flavors to develop.

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Step 4: Add the Shrimp

Since shrimp cook quickly, adding them too early can result in overcooked, rubbery shrimp. Instead, wait until the last 20-30 minutes of cooking:

1. Stir in the shrimp and lemon juice.
2. Cover and cook for 20-30 minutes on LOW or 10-15 minutes on HIGH, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
3. Stir gently and taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed.

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Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Once the shrimp are perfectly cooked, it’s time to serve:

• Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a burst of freshness.
• Serve hot over rice, quinoa, or pasta, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb meal.

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Expert Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Shrimp

1. Avoid Overcooking the Shrimp

Shrimp cook very quickly, so always add them in the last 20-30 minutes of slow cooking. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and dry, which is why timing is key.

2. Use Fresh or Frozen Shrimp

• If using fresh shrimp, make sure they are peeled and deveined before adding them to the slow cooker.
• If using frozen shrimp, thaw them first by placing them in cold water for 15 minutes, then pat dry before cooking.

3. Adjust the Heat Level

If you love spicy food, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes altogether.

4. Let the Flavors Develop

The longer the base sauce (tomatoes, peppers, and spices) cooks, the richer and deeper the flavors become. Allow the dish to simmer on LOW for 3 hours to maximize taste.

5. Serve It Your Way

This dish is incredibly versatile! Try serving it over:

• Steamed rice – A classic pairing that soaks up all the flavorful sauce.
• Pasta or orzo – For a hearty, Italian-inspired twist.
• Quinoa – A protein-packed option.
• Zucchini noodles (zoodles) – A low-carb, keto-friendly alternative.

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Variations & Customizations

1. Cajun-Style Shrimp Delight

For a spicy, Southern twist, replace Italian seasoning with Cajun seasoning and add a dash of hot sauce. Serve with cornbread or over grits for a true Louisiana-inspired meal.

2. Creamy Shrimp Delight

Want a richer dish? Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a velvety, creamy sauce.

3. Mediterranean Shrimp Delight

For a Mediterranean twist, add:

• Kalamata olives (sliced)
• Feta cheese (crumbled)
• Fresh basil

This variation pairs beautifully with couscous or lemon-infused rice.

4. Garlic Butter Shrimp Delight

For an extra buttery, garlicky flavor, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and stir it in at the end. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

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What to Serve with Slow Cooker Shrimp Delight

1. Garlic Bread or Baguette

A crispy, warm baguette is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.

2. Steamed Rice or Quinoa

Rice absorbs the delicious sauce, making every bite flavorful.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Serve with roasted asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrients.

4. A Fresh Salad

Pair this dish with a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.

5. White Wine

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the shrimp’s natural sweetness and acidity.

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Storage & Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Avoid freezing, as shrimp can become tough when reheated.

How to Reheat Shrimp Delight

• Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds at a time) to prevent overcooking the shrimp.

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Final Thoughts – Try This Slow Cooker Shrimp Delight Today!

This Slow Cooker Shrimp Delight is packed with bold flavors, tender shrimp, and a delicious sauce that makes it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress!

Now it’s your turn! Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments. Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more delicious recipes: https://www.pinterest.com/memorecipes1/

Happy cooking! 🍽️

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