Imagine coming home to the comforting aroma of a rich and creamy garlic shrimp pasta, ready to be served with minimal effort. This Slow Cooker Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a culinary gem that brings gourmet flavors to your kitchen without the fuss. By utilizing the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both decadent and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this easy-to-make pasta dish will leave everyone impressed.
Ingredients
- 450 grams of shrimp, cleaned and shells removed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 TBSP olive oil
- 2 TBSP unsalted butter
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- A pinch of chili flakes (optional, for a touch of spice)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 225 grams of your favorite pasta (like fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker Base: Begin by setting your slow cooker to low heat. Add the olive oil and unsalted butter to the cooker. Once the butter has melted, stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Allow the garlic to sauté lightly in the butter and oil mixture for about 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic mixture. Allow the mixture to heat through for about 10-15 minutes on low, so the flavors can begin to develop.
- Incorporate the Pasta: Break the pasta in half if necessary to fit it into the slow cooker. Add the pasta directly into the slow cooker, making sure it is submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook on low for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be tender and have absorbed much of the liquid.
- Add the Shrimp: Once the pasta is nearly cooked, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the slow cooker. Stir to combine, ensuring the shrimp is evenly distributed throughout the dish. Cover and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink and fully cooked.
- Finish with Cheese and Garnish: Once the shrimp is cooked through, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and create a creamy sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the garlic shrimp pasta hot, straight from the slow cooker. For an extra burst of flavor, serve with lemon wedges on the side, allowing each person to squeeze fresh lemon juice over their portion. Enjoy your effortless gourmet meal!
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Garlic Shrimp Pasta is proof that delicious, restaurant-quality meals can be achieved with minimal effort. By letting the slow cooker do the work, you’re free to enjoy your day while it creates a meal that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection. Gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and look forward to a comforting and indulgent dinner with minimal cleanup.