Here’s a complete, detailed recipe profile for Slow Cooker Garlic Shrimp Pasta with your requested sections and the wide line removed:
Introduction
Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a savory, comforting dish that brings together tender shrimp, aromatic garlic, and perfectly cooked pasta. This slow cooker version transforms a classic into a set-it-and-forget-it meal, allowing the flavors to develop deeply while freeing up your time. It’s a satisfying yet elegant dish that feels restaurant-quality but is effortless to prepare at home.
Origin and Cultural Significance
This dish draws inspiration from traditional Italian cuisine, where seafood and pasta pairings are celebrated for their simplicity and fresh flavors. Garlic shrimp (or gamberi all’aglio) is a Mediterranean favorite, often served with pasta or bread for soaking up the flavorful sauce. Over time, home cooks adapted the recipe to suit modern lifestyles by using slow cookers, making it more convenient without sacrificing taste. This dish reflects the Italian philosophy of la dolce vita — enjoying life through simple, high-quality ingredients.
Ingredients Quantity (Serves 4)
- 1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
- 8 ounces (225 g) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Additions
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter – for a richer sauce
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes – for a spicy kick
- Juice of ½ lemon – for a bright, fresh finish
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese – for creaminess and umami
- Fresh parsley – for garnish and freshness
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Add shrimp toward the end of cooking (about 15–20 minutes before serving) to keep them tender and juicy.
- Cook Pasta Separately: For best texture, cook pasta on the stovetop and stir it into the sauce just before serving.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will provide the most robust flavor.
- Taste and Adjust: Season the dish after cooking to balance saltiness and acidity.
- Avoid Overfilling: Make sure there’s enough liquid in the slow cooker to keep shrimp from drying out.
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Add chicken broth and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
- Cook the Base: Cover and cook on low for 2–3 hours to allow the garlic to infuse the broth.
- Add Shrimp: In the last 15–20 minutes of cooking, add the shrimp. Stir occasionally until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine and Season: Stir the cooked pasta into the slow cooker with the shrimp and garlic broth. Add olive oil or butter if desired. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese. Serve warm with crusty bread and salad.
Description
This dish is light yet flavorful — the garlic-infused broth creates a delicate sauce that coats the pasta, while the shrimp add a tender, slightly sweet bite. It’s balanced, satisfying, and perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant yet low-effort meal for guests.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximation)
- Calories: ~360
- Protein: ~28g
- Carbohydrates: ~40g
- Fat: ~8g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sodium: ~700mg
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect combination of convenience and flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Recommendation
Serve this dish with a crisp green salad and a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days, making it a great option for meal prep.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This recipe offers a lighter alternative to creamy pasta dishes by using broth instead of heavy cream. You get lean protein from the shrimp, complex carbs from the pasta, and antioxidant-rich garlic — a wholesome way to indulge in a comforting, restaurant-style meal at home.
Would you like me to create a creamy variation of this recipe (using cream or Parmesan for a thicker sauce) as an alternative option?