Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that captures the vibrant essence of New Orleans: Crock Pot New Orleans Spicy Barbecue Shrimp. This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of bold flavors, easy preparation, and a true taste of Southern hospitality. For those who adore shrimp, a touch of spice, and the convenience of a slow cooker, this dish is a dream come true. Imagine succulent shrimp steeped in a rich, buttery, and zesty sauce, infused with classic Cajun spices – all simmering to perfection without constant attention. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a kick, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive, hassle-free party appetizer. This recipe truly combines the best of New Orleans culinary traditions with modern slow-cooker convenience, guaranteeing a delicious outcome every time.
Why You’ll Love This New Orleans Slow Cooker Shrimp Recipe
This Crock Pot New Orleans Spicy Barbecue Shrimp recipe isn’t just another dish; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can transform into something truly extraordinary with minimal effort. What makes it so irresistible? Firstly, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. You simply combine the ingredients, set it, and let the magic happen. This means less time fussing in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family, or simply relaxing after a long day.
Secondly, the flavor profile is second to none. It’s a harmonious blend of spicy, tangy, and rich, with the deep, complex notes of Cajun seasoning and Worcestershire sauce beautifully complemented by a hint of fresh lemon. It evokes the lively streets and soulful kitchens of New Orleans, bringing that authentic Southern charm directly to your table. The plump, juicy shrimp soak up every drop of this incredible sauce, creating a burst of flavor in every bite.
Moreover, this dish is incredibly versatile. While it makes a fantastic appetizer that disappears quickly at any gathering, it’s also substantial enough to serve as a satisfying main course. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping, creamy grits, fluffy rice, or your favorite pasta, and you have a complete meal that caters to various tastes and preferences. It’s a recipe that has quickly become a family favorite, beloved for its amazing taste and remarkable ease.
The Magic of New Orleans BBQ Shrimp: A Flavorful Journey
When most people hear “BBQ shrimp,” they often imagine shrimp grilled on an outdoor barbecue. However, in New Orleans, “Barbecue Shrimp” refers to a distinct, iconic dish traditionally prepared on the stovetop, where unpeeled shrimp are simmered in a rich, buttery, peppery, and intensely flavorful sauce. This Crock Pot version captures that authentic spirit beautifully, adapting it for modern convenience without compromising on taste.
The sauce is the heart and soul of this dish. It’s not a thick, tomato-based barbecue sauce you’d typically slather on ribs. Instead, it’s a thin, highly seasoned, and incredibly aromatic butter sauce that’s bursting with garlic, Cajun spices, and a generous kick from hot pepper sauce. The Worcestershire sauce adds a savory depth, while fresh lemon juice brightens everything up, cutting through the richness and adding a delightful tang. Cooking it in a slow cooker allows these incredible flavors to meld and deepen over time, creating a remarkably complex and satisfying sauce that coats every shrimp perfectly.
This recipe invites you to experience a culinary tradition that’s cherished in Louisiana. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with care and attention to flavor, can create a truly memorable meal. The aroma alone as it cooks will transport you straight to the heart of the French Quarter, promising a delicious adventure ahead.
Crafting Your Perfect Crock Pot Spicy Barbecue Shrimp
The beauty of this slow cooker recipe lies in its simplicity and the deep flavors it develops. While traditional New Orleans BBQ shrimp is often cooked quickly on the stovetop, using a crock pot allows for a more hands-off approach, letting the spices and butter infuse into an incredibly rich and aromatic base. This method is particularly forgiving, making it ideal for busy individuals or when entertaining guests.
For the best results, selecting quality ingredients is key. Fresh, large shrimp will offer the best texture and flavor. Don’t be afraid to keep them unpeeled; the shells add an extra layer of flavor to the sauce and make for a more authentic, hands-on eating experience, much like you’d find in a New Orleans eatery. However, if you prefer, peeled and deveined shrimp can also be used for convenience. The cooking time might be slightly shorter in that case, so keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.
The slow cooker truly shines here, allowing the sauce to gently simmer and develop its complex character. While the shrimp itself only needs a short cooking time to reach opaque perfection, the initial simmering of the sauce ensures all the aromatic compounds from the garlic, Cajun seasoning, and other ingredients are fully extracted and blended, creating a truly irresistible base for your shrimp.
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Flavor
Creating an authentic New Orleans Barbecue Shrimp dish relies on a few key ingredients that work together to build that signature bold flavor:
- Garlic: The foundation of flavor in many Cajun and Creole dishes. Freshly minced garlic is always best for maximum aromatic impact.
- Cajun Seasoning: This spice blend is crucial. It typically contains paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Choose a good quality blend for the best results, adjusting quantities to your preferred spice level.
- Unsalted Butter: Essential for the rich, luscious sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish. Cut it into pieces to help it melt evenly.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a deep umami flavor and a touch of tanginess, contributing to the complexity of the sauce.
- Hot Pepper Sauce: A dash of your favorite hot sauce provides that characteristic New Orleans kick. Adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is vital for brightening the rich sauce, providing a zesty counterpoint to the butter and spices.
- Salt and Pepper: Season to taste. Remember that Cajun seasoning often contains salt, so taste before adding extra.
- Large Shrimp: The star of the show! Unpeeled, large shrimp (1½ pounds) are traditional, as the shells infuse the sauce with more flavor. If using peeled shrimp, adjust cooking time slightly.
- Green Onion: Finely chopped green onions add a fresh, mild oniony flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.
Choosing the Right Shrimp
The quality of your shrimp significantly impacts the final dish. When buying shrimp, look for those labeled “large” or “jumbo.” If you have the option, fresh, wild-caught shrimp often have a superior flavor and texture compared to farm-raised varieties. However, high-quality frozen shrimp are a perfectly acceptable and often more accessible option, especially if you live inland. Thaw frozen shrimp completely in the refrigerator overnight, or under cold running water for a quicker method, before using.
For an authentic New Orleans BBQ shrimp experience, opt for unpeeled shrimp. The shells contribute valuable flavor to the sauce as they cook. While some might find peeling shrimp at the table a bit messy, it’s part of the traditional charm and adds to the interactive enjoyment of the meal. If you prefer, you can use peeled and deveined shrimp, but be aware that the sauce may have a slightly less intense shrimp flavor, and the cooking time will be reduced.
The Secret to a Great Slow Cooker
A good slow cooker can make all the difference for a recipe like this. We highly recommend using a model that features a digital timer and an automatic “keep warm” function. This means you can set your desired cooking time and walk away, knowing that your dinner will perfectly transition to a warm setting once done. This feature is a game-changer for busy schedules, ensuring your shrimp are cooked to perfection without becoming overdone or cold, providing ultimate convenience and peace of mind.
Step-by-Step: Making Your New Orleans BBQ Shrimp
Crock Pot New Orleans Spicy Barbecue Shrimp Recipe
Dive into the vibrant flavors of the South with this incredibly easy slow cooker recipe for New Orleans Spicy Barbecue Shrimp. Perfect for parties or a delightful family dinner, these flavorful shrimp are guaranteed to be a hit!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 400 kcal
Author: Tammilee Tips
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Ingredients
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter, cut into pieces
- ¼ cup Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 Tablespoon hot pepper sauce
- Juice of 1 Lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ pounds large shrimp, unpeeled
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
Instructions
- Combine minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, butter pieces, Worcestershire Sauce, hot pepper sauce, and lemon juice in your crock pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on high for 30 minutes, or until the sauce is hot and the butter is fully melted and integrated. This step allows the flavors to truly meld and deepen.
- While the sauce is heating, rinse your shrimp thoroughly under cold water and drain well. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they don’t water down the sauce.
- Carefully spoon about half of the prepared sauce from the crock pot into a separate measuring cup or small bowl. This portion will be used for drizzling later.
- Add the rinsed shrimp directly into the crock pot with the remaining sauce. Drizzle the reserved sauce over the shrimp.
- Gently stir the shrimp to ensure they are evenly coated with the rich, spicy sauce.
- Cover the crock pot once more and continue to cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the shrimp turn opaque and pink. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery.
- Once cooked, switch your crock pot to the “warm” setting for serving. This keeps the shrimp hot without continuing to cook them.
- Just before serving, sprinkle generously with the finely chopped green onion for a burst of freshness and color.
Kitchen Tools
- Slow cooker (preferably with a digital timer)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board (for garlic, lemon, green onion)
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 225
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This New Orleans Spicy Barbecue Shrimp is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Traditionally, it’s served with plenty of crusty French bread to soak up every last drop of the glorious sauce – a non-negotiable step for any true enthusiast! However, its rich flavors also make it a fantastic accompaniment to a variety of side dishes.
Consider serving it over creamy grits for a hearty Southern meal. The spicy shrimp perfectly complement the mild, comforting texture of the grits. It’s also excellent with fluffy white rice, which absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully. For a pasta dish, toss the cooked shrimp and sauce with linguine or angel hair pasta for a quick and satisfying meal. Don’t forget a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables to round out your plate.
Looking for variations? Adjust the hot pepper sauce to control the spice level – add more for an extra kick or less for a milder flavor. You could also experiment with adding a splash of beer or dry white wine to the sauce along with the other liquids for an added layer of flavor. For a slightly different texture, a quick sauté on the stovetop after the sauce has simmered can also work, but the slow cooker ensures the shrimp remain incredibly tender.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover New Orleans Spicy Barbecue Shrimp can be a delightful treat! To store, transfer any remaining shrimp and sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days.
When reheating, gently warm the shrimp and sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as shrimp can become tough if cooked too long. You can also reheat small portions in the microwave, using short intervals and stirring between each, until warm. Avoid freezing the cooked shrimp, as the texture can become rubbery upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or after a short time in the refrigerator.
More Irresistible Shrimp Recipes to Try
If you’re a shrimp lover, you’re in for a treat! We’ve got a growing collection of delicious shrimp recipes that are sure to become new favorites:
- Kielbasa and Shrimp Stew
- Garlic Shrimp Linguine
- Shrimp and Cheese Grits
- Slow Cooker Gumbo
- Shrimp Remoulade
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Beyond our fantastic shrimp dishes, our recipe collection spans a wide array of culinary delights. Whether you’re looking for clever twists on classic dishes, indulgent desserts, or the convenience of slow cooker meals, you’ll find plenty to inspire your next kitchen adventure.
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Recipe originally shared on May 21, 2013.