Slow Cooker Cioppino

Name: Slow Cooker Cioppino
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 pound scallops; 1 pound white fish fillets, cut into chunks; 1 cup mussels, cleaned; 1 cup clams, cleaned; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes; 4 cups seafood stock; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Exotic Recipes Made Easy

A hearty and flavorful seafood stew that simmers to perfection in your slow cooker.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-11T16:49:05.001Z

This Slow Cooker Cioppino is a delightful blend of fresh seafood, tomatoes, and herbs that transforms into a comforting stew with just a little patience. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this dish captures the essence of coastal cooking.

        Why You'll Love This Cioppino
        A rich and savory broth that brings out the fresh flavors of seafood
Easy to prepare, letting the slow cooker do all the work
Perfectly paired with crusty bread for dipping

      

The Origins of Cioppino

Cioppino is a beloved seafood stew that hails from the San Francisco Bay Area, with roots tracing back to Italian fishermen. The dish was created as a way to utilize the catch of the day, often combining various types of seafood available in the region. Traditionally, cioppino is made with fresh fish, shellfish, and a rich tomato-based broth, making it a staple in coastal communities and a favorite among seafood lovers.

The name 'cioppino' is derived from the Italian word 'ciuppare', which means 'to chop', referencing the method of preparing the seafood. Over the years, this dish has evolved, incorporating diverse flavors and ingredients from various cultures, while still maintaining its essence as a comforting and hearty stew.

A Nutritional Powerhouse

This Slow Cooker Cioppino is not only delicious but also packs a nutritional punch. Seafood is a fantastic source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals. Shrimp, scallops, and fish provide high-quality protein that supports muscle health, while shellfish like mussels and clams offer iron and vitamin B12, both crucial for energy production and overall well-being.

Additionally, the stew is loaded with vegetables, including onions and bell peppers, which bring fiber and antioxidants into the mix. The use of fresh herbs, like parsley, not only enhances the presentation but also adds fresh nutrients, making this cioppino a wholesome choice for any meal.

Perfect Pairings

One of the best things about cioppino is its versatility when it comes to pairing. This hearty seafood stew is perfectly complemented by crusty bread, which is ideal for soaking up the flavorful broth. A slice of sourdough or a baguette can elevate the dining experience, providing a satisfying crunch with every dip.

For a complete meal, consider serving cioppino alongside a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables. A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs wonderfully with the seafood flavors, enhancing the overall taste experience and offering a refreshing contrast to the rich broth.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious cioppino:

Seafood and Vegetables

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound scallops
1 pound white fish fillets, cut into chunks
1 cup mussels, cleaned
1 cup clams, cleaned
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
4 cups seafood stock
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all these ingredients ready for a delightful cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious cioppino:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, scallops, fish, mussels, and clams. Set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.

Combine in Slow Cooker

Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes, seafood stock, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Add Seafood

Gently place the seafood mixture into the slow cooker. Stir to ensure everything is covered with the broth.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the seafood is cooked through and tender.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread.

Enjoy your cioppino with friends and family!

Slow Cooker Tips

When using a slow cooker for this cioppino recipe, it's essential to layer the ingredients correctly. Start by placing the sautéed vegetables at the bottom, which allows the seafood to cook evenly as it absorbs the flavors from the broth above. Avoid overcrowding the slow cooker; if you're making a larger batch, consider cooking it in two separate pots to ensure everything cooks properly.

For those who enjoy a little extra spice, feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes according to your taste. You can also experiment with additional ingredients like fresh herbs or different types of seafood to customize the stew to your liking.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover cioppino can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a convenient meal option for busy weekdays. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop to prevent the seafood from overcooking. You can add a splash of seafood stock or water to loosen the broth if it has thickened during storage.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cioppino. However, it's best to freeze only the broth and vegetables, as seafood may become rubbery when thawed and reheated. To freeze, let the stew cool completely, then portion it out and store in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, you can use frozen seafood, just ensure it's fully thawed before adding it to the slow cooker.

→ What can I substitute for seafood stock?

You can use vegetable or chicken broth as a substitute, but seafood stock enhances the flavor the most.

→ Is cioppino gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free bread for serving, the cioppino itself is gluten-free.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.