Put raw shrimp in a slow cooker with these 4 ingredients. You’ll dream about this meal

Instructions for Slow Cooker Shrimp:

1. Prepare the Shrimp: If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them first. Place them in a colander and rinse under cold water until thawed, or leave them in the fridge overnight to thaw naturally. Once thawed (or if using fresh shrimp), peel and devein the shrimp if necessary, removing the shells and any veins.
2. Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Add the raw shrimp to the bottom of your slow cooker. Top with the minced garlic, butter cubes, and cocktail sauce. You want to make sure the shrimp are evenly coated with the sauce and the butter is spread throughout the dish for extra richness and flavor.
3. Cook the Shrimp: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook the shrimp for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring once halfway through to make sure the shrimp cook evenly. Keep an eye on the shrimp—they cook quickly, and you’ll know they’re done when they turn a pinkish color and curl up. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery if left too long.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Once the shrimp are fully cooked, give them a final stir to coat them in the sauce, and they’re ready to serve. Pair the shrimp with rice, pasta, a side of steamed vegetables, or simply enjoy them on their own with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Shrimp:

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, and because you’re using a slow cooker, they’ll absorb the flavors in a short amount of time. Check on them around the 1-hour mark to avoid overcooking.
• Add Extra Seasoning: If you prefer a spicier or more robust flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes, a squeeze of lemon, or a dash of hot sauce. You can also mix in some Italian seasoning, paprika, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil to elevate the flavor.
• Customize the Sauce: While cocktail sauce works wonderfully in this recipe, feel free to use your favorite marinara, tomato sauce, or even a creamy sauce like Alfredo or a garlic butter sauce. You can experiment with different flavors to suit your taste.
• Pair with Sides: Serve your shrimp with rice, pasta, quinoa, or even on a bed of fresh greens for a light and healthy meal. You can also top it with freshly grated Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor.
• Meal Prep Tip: This recipe is great for meal prep! The shrimp will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for leftovers or packed lunches. You can also freeze any extra cooked shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Why This Slow Cooker Shrimp Recipe is a Winner:

This Slow Cooker Shrimp with 4 Ingredients is the perfect meal for those who want something quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. The shrimp come out perfectly tender, infused with the savory richness of garlic and butter, and balanced with the tangy sweetness of cocktail sauce. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or impressing guests with a delicious seafood dish, this recipe guarantees a satisfying meal with minimal effort.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. By using just a few pantry staples and fresh shrimp, you can create a meal that is both comforting and flavorful. It’s one of those dishes that will have you coming back for more, making it the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation.

So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a delicious shrimp meal that’s so easy, you’ll be dreaming about it every time you take a bite!