Slow Cooker Shrimp Boil with Andouille Sausage

Introduction

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a shrimp boil, especially when it’s made easy in a slow cooker. This Slow Cooker Shrimp Boil with Andouille Sausage has quickly become a family favorite. The combination of shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and corn, all seasoned to perfection, brings everyone to the table, excited for a delicious meal. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, and the best part? It practically cooks itself while you enjoy your day!

Ingredients

• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 8 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
• 4 bay leaves
• 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
• 3 cups low-sodium seafood broth, vegetable broth, or water
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
• 6 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning (or more, to taste)
• 2 ears of corn, cut into 4 pieces
• 12 ounces andouille sausage, sliced on a bias (1/2-inch thick)
• 1 pound large peeled, deveined, tail-on shrimp
• 1 lemon, cut into 8 wedges
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, smashed garlic, bay leaves, halved potatoes, seafood broth, white vinegar, mustard seeds, celery salt, and 4 teaspoons of Old Bay seasoning. Cover and cook on high for 1 hour.
2. Add Corn and Sausage: After the hour is up, add the corn pieces and sliced andouille sausage to the slow cooker. Stir to combine, then cover and continue to cook for another 2 hours.
3. Add Shrimp: Uncover the slow cooker and stir the mixture. Season the shrimp with the remaining 2 teaspoons of Old Bay seasoning. Add the shrimp and 4 lemon wedges to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high until the shrimp are cooked through, which should take about 10 minutes.
4. Make Sauce: Carefully strain the shrimp mixture through a large fine-mesh sieve or colander into a medium pot. Return the shrimp and vegetables to the slow cooker to keep warm. Bring the strained liquid to a boil, stirring occasionally, until it reduces by about half, approximately 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in the butter until melted.
5. Serve: Pour the butter mixture over the shrimp mixture in the slow cooker. Top with chopped parsley and serve with the remaining lemon wedges on the side.

Enjoy your delicious and easy Slow Cooker Shrimp Boil with Andouille Sausage!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6-8
• Calories per Serving: 450
• Total Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 200mg
• Sodium: 1200mg
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 25g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve directly from the slow cooker for a casual family-style meal.
• Provide lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
• Offer crusty bread or rice on the side to soak up the delicious broth.

Additional Tips

1. Broth Alternatives: If you don’t have seafood broth, vegetable broth or water can work well too.
2. Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to add more Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor according to your taste preference.
3. Make It Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
4. Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp can enhance the flavor, but frozen shrimp work just as well; just be sure to thaw them first.
5. Experiment with Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like carrots or green beans for more variety.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp and sausage with a variety of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Shrimp Boil: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a spicy sausage to give your boil an extra heat.
• Cajun Twist: Add Cajun seasoning instead of Old Bay for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a cold beer to complement the seafood flavors.
• A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the shrimp boil.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can freeze the shrimp boil without the sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

• Yes, just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the slow cooker.

1. How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

• The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when cooked through.

1. What can I substitute for andouille sausage?

• You can use any smoked sausage or kielbasa if you prefer.

1. Can I cook this on low instead of high?

• Yes, if you cook it on low, it will take about 6-7 hours.

1. Is this recipe gluten-free?

• Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on your broth and sausage.

1. How spicy is this recipe?

• It’s mildly seasoned. You can adjust the heat level by adding more Old Bay or hot sauce.

1. Can I add other seafood?

• Absolutely! You can include crab, lobster, or clams to elevate your shrimp boil.

1. What if I don’t have Old Bay seasoning?

• You can create a mix using celery salt, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for a similar flavor.

1. How do I make this dish dairy-free?

• You can skip the butter and use olive oil or a dairy-free alternative instead.

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   • While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in the refrigerator before cooking.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Shrimp Boil with Andouille Sausage is a crowd-pleaser that brings the vibrant flavors of the coast right to your kitchen. With its blend of shrimp, sausage, and fresh vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth, it’s an effortless way to serve a delicious meal without the fuss. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a comforting family meal, this dish is sure to impress. So gather your loved ones, serve up generous portions, and enjoy the taste of this delightful seafood feast!

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