Put Raw Shrimp in a Slow Cooker with These 3 Ingredients — It’s Seafood Heaven!
There’s something truly magical about a meal that’s both effortless and delicious. And when it comes to easy seafood recipes that pack a punch, this slow cooker shrimp dish takes the crown. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp infused with bold, buttery, garlicky goodness — all made with just three simple ingredients and zero stress.
Yes, you read that right. Toss raw shrimp into your slow cooker with a handful of pantry staples, and in just a short time, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish that tastes like seafood heaven.
In this article, we’ll walk through the method step by step, plus bonus tips to level it up and make it your new go-to seafood sensation.
The Power Trio: Only 3 Ingredients Needed
You’ll be amazed at how much flavor you can get from just three basic ingredients:
- Raw Shrimp – 1 to 1.5 pounds, peeled and deveined (tail-on or tail-off depending on preference)
- Unsalted Butter – 1/2 cup (1 stick), cut into cubes
- Minced Garlic – 5 to 6 cloves (or 2 tablespoons pre-minced)
Optional but highly recommended: a pinch of red pepper flakes, lemon juice, parsley, or Old Bay seasoning to customize the flavor.
Step-by-Step Method: How to Make It
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
- If using frozen raw shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Peel and devein the shrimp if they’re not already cleaned.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
- Place the raw shrimp in the bottom of a small slow cooker (a 3- to 4-quart size works well).
- Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the shrimp.
- Distribute the butter cubes on top of everything.
Optional Add-ins (at this point):
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes for heat
- Juice of half a lemon for brightness
- 1 tsp Old Bay or Cajun seasoning for extra depth
Step 3: Slow Cook
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
- Cook on LOW for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and fully cooked.
- Do not overcook, or the shrimp will turn rubbery. Check after 1 hour and stir once to coat the shrimp evenly in butter and garlic.
Step 4: Stir and Serve
- Once the shrimp are cooked through, give everything a good stir to coat them in the garlicky butter sauce.
- Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
How to Serve This Heavenly Shrimp
This versatile dish can be enjoyed in many delicious ways:
- Over steamed rice or garlic butter noodles
- With toasted baguette or crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce
- As a protein-packed topping for salads, grits, or zucchini noodles
- Paired with roasted veggies for a light, low-carb meal
Tips and Tricks for the Best Results
- Don’t cook on HIGH — shrimp are delicate and low, gentle heat is best.
- Want it creamy? Stir in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream in the last 10 minutes.
- Use wild-caught shrimp for a firmer, more flavorful bite.
- Add a few cherry tomatoes or chopped spinach during the last 20 minutes for color and nutrition.
Why This Dish Works
This slow cooker shrimp recipe is a weeknight lifesaver. The slow cooking process lets the shrimp absorb every ounce of flavor from the garlic and butter while staying juicy and tender. It’s rich, savory, and aromatic — and the best part? You barely have to lift a finger.
With just 3 ingredients and minimal prep, you get a gourmet-level seafood dish that impresses every time. It’s comfort food with an elegant twist, perfect for everything from casual dinners to special occasions.
Would you like a printable recipe card, or maybe a spicier version with Cajun heat or Thai inspiration? Let me know — seafood heaven has no limits!
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