Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful yet simple dish that brings together succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and tender pasta. This slow cooker version makes it even easier to enjoy, with minimal prep and rich, melded flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Let the slow cooker do the work for you.
- Minimal Ingredients: Only four main ingredients for a delicious meal.
- Customizable Flavors: Add your favorite spices or veggies for a personal touch.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or seafood stock for extra flavor)
- 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your choice)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic and pour the chicken broth (or seafood stock) over the shrimp to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Shrimp
Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the shrimp are tender and cooked through.
3. Cook the Pasta
About 20 minutes before the shrimp are done, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
4. Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and toss gently to combine with the shrimp and garlic sauce.
5. Serve and Garnish
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Pairing Suggestions
This Garlic Shrimp Pasta pairs wonderfully with:
- Fresh Salad: Toss mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
- Citrus Zing: Serve with lemon wedges to brighten the flavors.
Variations & Tips
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for a luscious sauce.
- Vegetables: Include cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrients and color.
- Herbs: Add fresh basil or thyme for a fragrant boost.
- Seafood Stock: Swap chicken broth for seafood stock to enhance the dish’s depth.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the shrimp and garlic mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Add to the slow cooker when ready to cook.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to refresh the sauce.
Why This Recipe Works
Using the slow cooker for this Garlic Shrimp Pasta ensures the shrimp absorb the garlicky broth, resulting in tender, flavorful bites. Tossing the cooked pasta in the slow cooker allows the sauce to coat every strand, creating a perfectly harmonious dish. It’s an easy, elegant meal that will make any dinner special.