As the aroma of garlic and butter fills the air, I can’t help but smile thinking about how this Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes dish has become a weeknight favorite in our home. With just a little prep, you can sit back and let the slow cooker work its magic, creating a creamy, comforting meal that makes you feel like a culinary wizard. This easy one-pot dinner not only promises a delightful blend of tender shrimp and velvety potatoes but is also a gluten-free option that brings family-style flavors straight to your table without the fuss. What’s your favorite way to enjoy seafood on a busy night?

Why is this dish a weeknight winner?

Ease of Preparation: With a simple toss-and-cook method, you can have this dish ready with minimal effort. Family-Friendly Flavors: The rich garlic butter sauce combined with tender shrimp and creamy potatoes is sure to please both kids and adults alike. One-Pot Convenience: Say goodbye to multiple dishes; everything cooks together in the slow cooker for hassle-free cleanup. Flavorful Variations: Feel free to experiment with spices like Cajun or Tuscan styles for a unique twist. And if you love garlic butter like I do, check out this Garlic Butter Steak recipe for more inspiration!

Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes Ingredients

For the Potatoes
Baby Gold or Red Potatoes – These are creamy and perfect when halved for optimal cooking.
Olive Oil – Helps toss the potatoes before cooking; can use any neutral oil if needed.
Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate the dish’s flavors.

For the Shrimp
Large Raw Shrimp – The main protein; make sure they’re peeled and deveined for convenience.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; melted and divided to enhance flavor throughout.

For the Sauce
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic is key for that aromatic kick; can use garlic powder in a pinch.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth or Seafood Stock – Provides moisture and keeps the sauce silky; vegetable broth is a lighter option.
Lemon – Zest and juice add delightful brightness; consider adding extra juice at the end for more punch.
Old Bay Seasoning – Adds a classic seafood flavor; feel free to swap in Cajun seasoning for extra heat.
Smoked Paprika – A hint of smokiness that enhances the overall flavor; use regular paprika for a milder taste.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Introduces a delightful heat; adjust to taste or omit if preferred.

For the Finishing Touches
Fresh Parsley & Dill (optional) – Adds a fresh and vibrant touch at the end.
Grated Parmesan (optional) – Enhances the creamy sauce; omit for a dairy-free version.
Lemon Wedges – Serve alongside for an extra burst of brightness.

Each ingredient harmonizes beautifully to create this comforting Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes dish that’ll have your family coming back for seconds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, toss halved baby gold or red potatoes with olive oil, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, half of the minced garlic, along with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Old Bay seasoning. Add half the lemon zest for a bright kick. Once well-coated, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth or seafood stock, then transfer the mixture to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on High for 3 to 4 hours, or Low for 6 to 7 hours, until the potatoes become just tender when pierced with a fork. The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a creamy base for your Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture
While the potatoes are cooking, combine the remaining melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, the rest of the lemon zest, and if you like, crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This aromatic garlic butter sauce will pour over the shrimp, infusing it with delicious flavor. Set it aside, allowing the flavors to enhance while the potatoes finish cooking.

Step 4: Add the Shrimp
Once the potatoes are tender, gently add the peeled and deveined shrimp into the slow cooker. Pour the prepared garlic butter mixture over the shrimp and potatoes, tossing everything together to thoroughly coat the shrimp in the flavorful sauce. This step ensures every bite of shrimp is deliciously enveloped in the buttery goodness.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp
Cover the crockpot again and continue to cook on Low for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on the shrimp; they’re done when they turn opaque and pink. Avoid overcooking to maintain a tender texture, ensuring a delightful seafood experience in your Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes.

Step 6: Final Touches
After cooking, sprinkle fresh parsley and dill over the dish for a pop of color and flavor. Taste the final mixture and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. Consider adding grated Parmesan for extra creaminess if preferred, then serve warm.

Step 7: Optional Broiling for Texture
For an additional layer of crispy texture, transfer the cooked potatoes to a baking sheet and broil for 3 to 5 minutes before adding the shrimp back into the slow cooker. This step gives your Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes a delightful contrast in texture, making it even more appetizing!

Expert Tips for Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes

  • Perfect Shrimp Timing: Add shrimp towards the end of cooking to prevent overcooking; they only need 15–20 minutes to become tender and opaque.
  • Creamy Sauce Tip: For a thicker sauce, consider whisking in a cornstarch slurry during the last 5 minutes of cooking to elevate the creamy texture.
  • Stock Smart Choice: Use low-sodium chicken broth for balanced flavor; avoid oversalting by tasting before serving and adjust with fresh lemon juice.
  • Allergy-Friendly Options: Substitute the shrimp for chicken or tofu if you have seafood allergies; adjust cook time as necessary depending on the protein.
  • Storing Leftovers: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days; gently reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to maintain flavor and moisture.
  • Flavor Variations: Experiment with Cajun or Tuscan spices for a unique twist on this classic Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes recipe.

What to Serve with Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes

Transport your family to a cozy coastal hideaway with delightful sides that perfectly complement this warm, buttery dish.

  • Crusty Bread: This is a must-have for soaking up every drop of the luscious garlic butter sauce. A warm, crusty baguette adds that perfect rustic touch.

  • Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish, providing a refreshing crunch.

  • Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a beautifully bright color and a vibrant bite, adding a wonderful texture contrast alongside the creamy potatoes.

  • Garlic Bread: Go all out on that garlic theme! Toasty and buttery garlic bread makes for an indulgent pairing, elevating the garlic experience.

  • Roasted Broccoli: Tender roasted broccoli drizzled with olive oil and lemon brightens the plate and contributes earthy flavor tones that marry well with the shrimp.

  • White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the seafood flavors beautifully, making your dinner feel that much more special.

Add these delightful pairs to your table for a complete meal that warms the heart!

How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to maintain moisture and flavor.
  • Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little broth if necessary to restore the creamy sauce. Avoid microwave reheating to prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery.
  • Serving Suggestions: Enjoy reheated leftovers over rice or with crusty bread for a comforting meal ready in no time.

Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp Variations

Get ready to elevate your Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes experience with these exciting twists!

  • Cajun Garlic Butter: Swap out Old Bay for Cajun seasoning and add andouille sausage slices for a spicy kick. This vibrant twist brings a taste of New Orleans right to your dinner table!

  • Tuscan Style: Introduce sun-dried tomatoes and a splash of cream at the end, finishing with fresh spinach. This variation adds a rich, Mediterranean flair that’s simply irresistible.

  • Lemon Pepper: Boost the zing by increasing the lemon zest and freshly cracked black pepper. This bright and zesty option is perfect for those who love a citrus burst in their dishes!

  • Sheet-Pan Finish: For a crispy finish, broil the potatoes for an extra few minutes before stirring them back in with the shrimp. This textural contrast takes the comfort of the dish to a whole new level.

  • Mediterranean Delight: Add kalamata olives and artichoke hearts during the last hour of cooking for a deliciously Mediterranean flavor. This addition creates a vibrant, hearty meal that’s full of flavor and color.

  • Dairy-Free Version: Omit the butter and cheese, substituting with coconut milk for creaminess. The creamy consistency will still shine through, catering to those with dairy sensitivities.

  • Garlicky Green Version: Toss in some fresh green beans or asparagus with the potatoes for added color and nutrition. The crisp veggies provide a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the shrimp.

  • Spicy Shrimp Boost: If you’re craving heat, add additional crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the garlic butter mixture. This fiery touch is sure to satisfy your spice-loving taste buds!

Feel free to experiment until you find your perfect version of this comforting Crockpot dish, and if you’re looking for more delicious ideas, make sure to check out this Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken that’s packed with flavor!

Make Ahead Options

These Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can pre-cook the baby potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to soak in the flavors of the garlic and seasonings. Once cooked, let the potatoes cool, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and keep the shrimp and garlic butter mixture separately prepared. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the prepped potatoes to the slow cooker, toss in the shrimp and garlic butter, and cook on Low for 15-20 minutes until the shrimp are perfectly tender. This approach not only saves time on busy weeknights but ensures your meal is just as delicious, creating a comforting dinner with minimal effort!

Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right shrimp?
Look for large raw shrimp that are peeled and deveined for convenience. Freshness is key; they should smell like the ocean without any strong fishy odor. If you’re buying frozen shrimp, ensure they are well-thawed and patted dry to get the best texture in your dish.

How do I store leftovers of this dish?
Leftover Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, do so gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth, which helps maintain the creamy sauce and prevents the shrimp from becoming rubbery.

Can I freeze Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes?
Absolutely! For freezing, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth if necessary.

What can I do if my sauce is too thin?
If you find your sauce isn’t thickening as you’d like, mix a cornstarch slurry. Combine 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then whisk it into the sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will help achieve that creamy consistency you’re after, making your dish even more delicious!

Is this dish suitable for those with seafood allergies?
If you’re cooking for someone with a seafood allergy, you can substitute shrimp with chicken or firm tofu. Adjust the cooking times accordingly, as these proteins require different times to cook through based on their size. Always prioritize safety and consult with anyone’s dietary needs before serving.

How can I ensure my potatoes are perfectly cooked?
To achieve tender, perfectly cooked potatoes, make sure you cut them evenly in half and monitor their doneness. When they can be easily pierced with a fork after cooking for 3–4 hours on High or 6–7 hours on Low, you know they’re ready. Remember, adding shrimp to the pot towards the end of the cooking time is essential, as this prevents them from overcooking and getting tough.

Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes

Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes: Easy, Comfort Food

Crockpot Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes is an easy, gluten-free dish that transforms tender shrimp and creamy potatoes into a weeknight favorite.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Potatoes
  • 1.5 pounds Baby Gold or Red Potatoes halved for optimal cooking
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil for tossing the potatoes
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound Large Raw Shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter melted and divided
For the Sauce
  • 4 cloves Garlic freshly minced
  • 1 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth or Seafood Stock or vegetable broth
  • 1 whole Lemon zest and juice
  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning or Cajun seasoning for extra heat
  • 0.5 teaspoon Smoked Paprika or regular paprika for milder taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes optional, adjust to taste
For the Finishing Touches
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Parsley optional
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Dill optional
  • 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan optional
  • 1 whole Lemon Wedges for serving

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, toss halved baby gold or red potatoes with olive oil, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, half of the minced garlic, along with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Old Bay seasoning. Add half the lemon zest for a bright kick. Once well-coated, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth or seafood stock, then transfer the mixture to your slow cooker.
  2. Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on High for 3 to 4 hours, or Low for 6 to 7 hours, until the potatoes become just tender when pierced with a fork.
  3. While the potatoes are cooking, combine the remaining melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, the rest of the lemon zest, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This aromatic garlic butter sauce will pour over the shrimp, infusing it with delicious flavor.
  4. Once the potatoes are tender, gently add the peeled and deveined shrimp into the slow cooker. Pour the prepared garlic butter mixture over the shrimp and potatoes, tossing everything together to thoroughly coat the shrimp.
  5. Cover the crockpot again and continue to cook on Low for 15 to 20 minutes until the shrimp turn opaque and pink.
  6. After cooking, sprinkle fresh parsley and dill over the dish for a pop of color and flavor. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired, then serve warm.
  7. For additional crispy texture, transfer cooked potatoes to a baking sheet and broil for 3 to 5 minutes before adding the shrimp back into the slow cooker.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 220mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For a thicker sauce, consider whisking in a cornstarch slurry during the last 5 minutes of cooking to elevate the creamy texture.

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