This hearty and flavorful seafood stew features tender shrimp, clams, and flaky white fish in a rich, tomato-based broth. Infused with garlic, onions, bell peppers, and Italian herbs, the broth simmers for hours, creating deep, savory flavors. The seafood is added just before serving to ensure it remains perfectly tender. Enjoy this comforting stew with crusty bread for dipping or over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. It’s an easy, wholesome dish for busy days or cozy evenings.

Imagine coming home after a long day to the tantalizing aroma of a hearty seafood stew simmering gently in your slow cooker. This Slow Cooker Seafood Stew brings the rich, comforting flavors of the ocean right to your table with minimal effort. This stew is the ultimate cozy meal, packed with tender shrimp, succulent clams, and flaky white fish, all nestled in a savory tomato broth. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this fuss-free recipe is a seafood lover’s dream. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with crusty bread for dipping or over cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. Let’s dive into this delicious, hands-off dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Slow cookers are a lifesaver for busy days, and this seafood stew is no exception. The tomato-based broth, infused with garlic, onions, and Italian herbs, simmers low and slow, developing deep, rich flavors. The seafood—added just before serving—stays perfectly tender and juicy, ensuring every bite is as fresh as it is flavorful. It’s a one-pot wonder perfect for cozy nights, casual gatherings, or even a special weekend meal. And with minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this hearty seafood stew:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined – Adds sweetness and a tender bite.
- 1 pound clams, cleaned – For a briny, oceanic touch.
- 1 pound cod (or other white fish like halibut or haddock), cut into chunks – Provides a mild, flaky base.
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes – Forms the rich, tangy broth.
- 1 large onion, chopped – Adds depth and natural sweetness.
- 2 bell peppers, chopped – Use red, green, or a mix for color and flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – For a savory kick.
- 2 cups seafood stock – Enhances the oceanic flavors (chicken or vegetable stock works, too).
- 1 tablespoon Italian herbs (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme) – For a fragrant, herbaceous note.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – To balance and enhance the flavors.
Instructions: How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create your slow cooker masterpiece:
- Build the Broth
Combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, bell peppers, minced garlic, seafood stock, and Italian herbs in your slow cooker. Stir to mix everything evenly. - Season
Add salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the seasoning later, so start with a light touch. - Let It Simmer
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This slow simmering allows the vegetables to soften and the flavors to meld into a rich, comforting broth. - Add the Seafood
About 30 minutes before serving, gently stir in the shrimp, clams, and cod chunks. The seafood cooks quickly in the hot broth, so this timing keeps it tender and prevents overcooking. - Check for Doneness
The stew is ready when the shrimp are pink and opaque, the clams have opened, and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Discard any clams that don’t open.
Serving Suggestions
This seafood stew shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a few simple additions:
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for soaking up the flavorful broth.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that complements the stew’s richness.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or squeeze lemon for a bright finish.
Tips for Success
- Seafood Timing: Add the seafood in the last 30 minutes to keep it tender. If using frozen seafood, thaw it entirely first.
- Flavor Boost: Try a splash of white wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra depth.
- Make It Ahead: Cook the broth base overnight or during the day, then add seafood just before serving.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the seafood.
This Slow Cooker Seafood Stew combines convenience and comfort in every spoonful. With a rich tomato broth and a medley of shrimp, clams, and cod, it’s a hearty yet easy dish that brings the ocean’s bounty to your table. So grab your slow cooker and let it work its magic—you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal ready with almost no effort!
Estimated Nutritional Information (Per 1.5-cup Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g (from tomatoes, onion, and peppers)
- Net Carbs: 9g (total carbs minus fiber)
- Sodium: 820mg (varies based on stock and added salt)
My Takeaway
This Slow Cooker Seafood Stew is a heartwarming ode to the sea, effortlessly blending tender shrimp, juicy clams, and flaky cod into a rich, tomato-infused broth that’s pure comfort in a bowl. The slow cooker works its magic, melding flavors over hours while you go about your day, leaving you with a seafood-packed masterpiece that requires minimal hands-on time. With 8 generous servings, it’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with its vibrant taste and wholesome appeal. Serve it with crusty bread or cauliflower rice, and let this dish transport you to a cozy coastal escape—no matter where you are!
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