Garlic Butter Shrimp Crockpot Recipe: The Easiest Way to Make Restaurant-Quality Shrimp!
There’s something magical about garlic butter shrimp—succulent, flavorful, and irresistibly rich. But what if I told you that you could make it even easier by using a crockpot?
There is no standing over the stove, no babysitting the pan; just set it and let the flavors come together beautifully.
Whether you’re making this for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this garlic butter shrimp crockpot recipe will become your go-to for a fuss-free, restaurant-quality dish at home.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large shrimp (peeled & deveined) | 1.5 lbs | Fresh or frozen (thawed) |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (1 stick) | Adjust for richness |
| Garlic (minced) | 6 cloves | More if you love garlic! |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | Freshly squeezed for the best flavor |
| Chicken broth | 1/4 cup | Adds depth |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | For a hint of smokiness |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/2 tsp | Optional for heat |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | Freshly ground |
| Parsley (chopped) | 2 tbsp | For garnish |
Optional Add-ins:
- Grated Parmesan for a cheesy twist.
- White onion (chopped) for extra flavor.
- Zucchini or bell peppers for a veggie boost.
Equipment Needed
- Crockpot (slow cooker) – A 4-quart or larger model works best.
- Mixing bowl – For combining ingredients.
- Tongs or spoon – For serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepping the Shrimp
If using fresh shrimp, rinse and pat them dry. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them first by placing them in a colander under cold running water for about 5 minutes.
2. Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
Melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave. Stir in minced garlic, lemon juice, chicken broth, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good mix.
3. Combining Everything in the Crockpot
Place the shrimp in the crockpot and pour the garlic butter sauce over them. Toss gently to coat.
4. Cooking Time & Settings
- LOW: Cook for 1 hour (best for juicier shrimp).
- HIGH: Cook for 30 minutes (if you’re in a rush).
Shrimp cook quickly, so don’t leave them in for too long, or they’ll turn rubbery.
5. Final Touches
Once done, sprinkle with fresh parsley and give everything a light toss. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Tips for Best Results
- Choose high-quality shrimp – Fresh, wild-caught shrimp have the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook – Shrimp should be pink and opaque.
- Customize the seasoning – Feel free to tweak the spices based on your preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your garlic butter shrimp with:
- Rice or quinoa – To soak up that delicious sauce.
- Pasta – Toss shrimp over spaghetti or linguine.
- Garlic bread – Because extra garlic is always a good idea!
- Steamed veggies – For a lighter meal.
Variations & Substitutions
- Dairy-free? Use olive oil instead of butter.
- Want it spicier? Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- No chicken broth? Use vegetable broth or white wine (non-alcoholic if preferred).
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat Gently: Warm on low heat in a pan with a splash of broth or butter. Avoid microwaving too long to prevent rubbery shrimp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp without thawing?
A: It’s best to thaw them first so they cook evenly. Otherwise, they might release too much water into the sauce.
Q: Can I cook this longer on low heat?
A: Shrimp cook fast, so anything beyond 1 hour on low might make them tough.
Q: Can I make this dish creamy?
A: Yes! Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream at the end for a rich, creamy version.
Q: What if my shrimp are overcooked?
A: Unfortunately, overcooked shrimp can’t be undone, but serving them with extra sauce or butter can help improve texture.
Conclusion
This garlic butter shrimp crockpot recipe proves that gourmet flavors don’t have to be complicated. It’s simple, quick, and packed with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort.
Try it out, experiment with your own twists, and let me know how it turns out!
