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Crockpot Shrimp Jambalaya

  • Author: Lana
  • Total Time: 6-7 hours

Description

Crockpot Shrimp Jambalaya is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the best of Creole and Cajun cuisine with the convenience of a slow cooker. This recipe features succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, tender rice, and a medley of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and celery, all simmered together in a seasoned tomato-based broth. The slow cooking process allows the spices to meld perfectly, creating a rich, comforting dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with bold, vibrant flavors. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this Crockpot Shrimp Jambalaya is sure to impress!

Ingredients

Scale

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Crockpot Shrimp Jambalaya:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (halal-friendly)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper (green or red), chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to spice preference)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a fresh, tangy finish)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Shrimp: The shrimp are the star of the dish. They’re cooked to perfection, absorbing all the delicious flavors while remaining tender and juicy.
  • Rice: Long-grain white rice is the best option for jambalaya, as it absorbs the broth and spices while staying fluffy and separate.
  • Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: These provide the dish with a rich base and contribute to the deep, savory flavor of the jambalaya.
  • Spices: A blend of thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne, oregano, and bay leaf creates the perfect Cajun-inspired flavor profile.
  • Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth adds depth to the dish, ensuring the rice is flavorful and perfectly cooked.

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Crockpot Shrimp Jambalaya:

Prepare the Ingredients:

  1. Chop the Vegetables: Start by chopping the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Mince the garlic and set aside.
  2. Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. This will help the rice cook properly in the crockpot without becoming too sticky.

Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot:

  1. Add the Vegetables: In the crockpot, layer the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic.
  2. Add the Rice: Pour the rinsed rice into the crockpot, spreading it evenly over the vegetables.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Next, add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste to the crockpot. Stir to combine all the ingredients slightly.

Add the Spices and Broth:

  1. Season the Dish: Sprinkle in the thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to evenly distribute the spices throughout the mixture.
  2. Add the Bay Leaf: Toss the bay leaf into the crockpot for extra flavor.
  3. Pour in the Broth: Pour the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) over the ingredients in the crockpot. Stir to combine, ensuring that the rice is submerged in the broth.

Slow Cook the Dish:

  1. Set the Crockpot: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The rice should be tender, and the liquid should be mostly absorbed by the time the cooking is complete.

Add the Shrimp:

  1. Stir in the Shrimp: About 20-30 minutes before serving, stir in the shrimp, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dish. Cover the crockpot again and continue to cook on low or high until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.

Finish and Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve: Once the shrimp is cooked, remove the bay leaf and discard it. Squeeze a little lemon juice over the jambalaya for a fresh, zesty finish. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve Your Crockpot Shrimp Jambalaya:

  1. Serving Suggestions: Serve the jambalaya hot, either as a main dish on its own or with a side of garlic bread or a green salad. This dish pairs wonderfully with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6-7 hours

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6-8
  • Calories: 350-400 kcal
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Protein: 25g

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Find it online: https://epicuremeals.com/crockpot-shrimp-jambalaya/