Slow Cooker Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. It features juicy, tender shrimp cooked in a buttery garlic sauce that melds beautifully with al dente pasta. Using the slow cooker makes it incredibly easy, and it’s a great way to get a flavorful dinner on the table without much fuss. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your choice)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Stir in the dried Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), chicken broth, and lemon juice. Mix well.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Shrimp
- Place the raw shrimp in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour the garlic butter mixture over the shrimp, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Step 4: Combine with Pasta
- Once the shrimp are cooked, add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and toss gently to coat it in the garlic butter sauce.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the pasta is evenly coated.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the garlic shrimp pasta warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Notes
- Shrimp: Make sure to use raw shrimp for this recipe, as pre-cooked shrimp can become rubbery when slow-cooked.
- Butter: For extra flavor, consider using a combination of butter and olive oil.
- Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spice or leave them out if you prefer a milder dish.
Variations
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
- Add 1/2 cup heavy cream to the garlic butter sauce for a creamy version. Stir in the cream just before adding the pasta to the slow cooker.
Lemon Herb Shrimp Pasta
- Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill or basil for a fresh herbaceous note that complements the lemon and garlic.
Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
- Replace the Italian seasoning with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning for a spicy twist that adds extra depth to the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the garlic butter sauce and cook the shrimp ahead of time, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in the slow cooker or on the stovetop before adding the cooked pasta.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
What Should I Serve With This Pasta?
This pasta pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, also complements the flavors nicely.
Slow Cooker Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings together tender shrimp, buttery garlic, and perfectly cooked pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you make the classic version or try one of the variations, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Enjoy cooking, and savor every bite of this delicious shrimp pasta!