Slow Cooker Crockpot Gumbo: 6 Bold Flavors to Savor

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Slow Cooker Crockpot Gumbo is a delightful blend of flavors that brings the essence of Creole cuisine right into your home. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, zesty sausage, and aromatic spices, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; it provides a warm, filling meal without requiring extensive cooking time. Join me as we explore how to create this enticing gumbo that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Crockpot Gumbo

This slow cooker gumbo offers numerous reasons to fall in love with it. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to set it and forget it while it cooks to perfection. Second, it’s a one-pot meal, eliminating the need for multiple dishes and simplifying cleanup. Third, the blend of spices and ingredients creates a rich flavor profile that warms the soul. Fourth, this dish is highly customizable; you can easily adapt it to be a vegetarian gumbo in a crockpot or add your favorite seafood for a slow cooker seafood gumbo recipe. Fifth, it’s a family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will enjoy. Lastly, it’s perfect for busy nights when you need a quick crockpot gumbo recipe without compromising on taste!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Crockpot Gumbo

Gather these items:

10 oz andouille sausage (sliced into pieces)
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup chopped green peppers
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped onion (white onion)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
2 cups frozen chopped okra
14 oz diced tomatoes (optional)
24 oz chicken broth
1 pound skinless chicken breasts
1 pound raw shrimp
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon oregano
1 tablespoon Creole seasoning
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spicy)
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Slow Cooker Crockpot Gumbo Step-by-Step

Step 1: Add the sliced sausage to a skillet on medium-high heat. Cook for 3-4 minutes on both sides. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Add the butter and olive oil to the pan on medium heat. While it melts, add the flour in 3 phases. Whisk well with each addition.
Step 3: Continue to stir until the roux turns deep brown, which will take several minutes of constant stirring.
Step 4: Add the green peppers, celery, and onions to the roux. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until the veggies are soft.
Step 5: Add all of the spices, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce to the roux and stir.
Step 6: Add the roux and vegetables to the slow cooker along with the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and okra. Stir to combine.
Step 7: Place the chicken breasts and cooked sausage in the slow cooker. Place the lid on and cook for 3-4 hours on High or 7-8 hours on Low.
Step 8: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it.
Step 9: Add the raw shrimp and shredded chicken back to the slow cooker.
Step 10: Cook for a few minutes until the shrimp turns bright pink.
Step 11: Serve hot.

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Crockpot Gumbo

Keep these in mind:

For a richer flavor, let your roux cook a little longer until it achieves a deep brown color.
Feel free to use a mix of proteins like chicken, sausage, and shrimp for varied textures.
Adjust the spices according to your heat tolerance, especially the cayenne pepper for a spicy slow cooker gumbo recipe.
This dish is perfect for meal prep! Cook a large batch and store leftovers for a quick meal later on.

Slow Cooker Crockpot Gumbo: 6 Bold Flavors to Savor - Slow Cooker Crockpot Gumbo - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Crockpot Gumbo

Here are some delicious serving ideas:

Serve the gumbo over a bed of fluffy white rice for a filling meal.
Top with freshly chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color.
Pair with crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth.

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Crockpot Gumbo

To store your gumbo, simply let it cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For reheating, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. This dish is great for meal prep, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights!

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Crockpot Gumbo

What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Crockpot Gumbo?

The secret lies in the roux. Cooking it to a deep brown color enhances the flavor of your gumbo made in a slow cooker. It adds a nutty, rich depth that is essential for an authentic taste.

Can I make Slow Cooker Crockpot Gumbo ahead of time?

Absolutely! This traditional gumbo made in a slow cooker tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Crockpot Gumbo?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your roux is well-cooked and don’t skip the seasoning. Adjust the spices according to your taste, and always taste before serving for the best results.

Variations of Slow Cooker Crockpot Gumbo You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix it up, here are some variations:

For a vegetarian gumbo in a crockpot, replace the meat with extra vegetables and vegetable broth.
Try making Cajun gumbo in a crockpot by using different types of sausage and seafood.
For a lighter option, substitute chicken thighs for skinless chicken breasts.
Experiment with different spices to create a unique flavor profile that suits your palate.

For more delicious recipes, check out Gingerbread Tiramisu or Cranberry Custard Pie. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, you might enjoy Slow Cooker Maple Brown for a sweet twist!