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 mussels, cleaned; 1 pound clams, cleaned; 1 pound fish fillets (like cod or halibut), cut into chunks; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Dinner Recipes

A hearty seafood stew made easy in the slow cooker, perfect for cozy nights.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-11T17:09:06.129Z

Slow Cooker Cioppino is a traditional seafood stew that hails from the Italian-American community in San Francisco. This delightful dish combines a medley of seafood in a rich tomato-based broth, making it a comforting meal for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A comforting blend of fresh seafood flavors
Effortless preparation with a slow cooker
Perfect for serving a crowd or special gatherings

      

The Origins of Cioppino

Cioppino is a beloved seafood stew that has its roots in San Francisco, California, where Italian fishermen would use the day’s catch to create a hearty meal. The dish reflects the rich maritime culture of the region, combining various types of seafood in a flavorful broth. Traditionally, cioppino is made with whatever fish and shellfish are available, making it a versatile recipe that can be adapted to include your favorites.

While cioppino originated from the blending of Italian and American culinary traditions, it has evolved over the years into a comfort food enjoyed by many. Its warming, robust flavors make it perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or special occasions. Each bowl of cioppino tells a story of the sea, making it more than just a meal—it's an experience.

Slow Cooking Benefits

Using a slow cooker for cioppino brings out the best in the seafood and broth. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and aromatic stew that is hard to resist. Unlike traditional stovetop cooking, where time and attention are required, the slow cooker allows you to set it and forget it, making it ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.

Slow cooking also ensures that the seafood remains tender and moist, preventing overcooking, which can often happen with quicker methods. Not only does this technique enhance flavor, but it also makes meal prep a breeze, giving you more time to enjoy the company of friends and family.

Serving Suggestions

Cioppino is best served hot and fresh, accompanied by crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping. The bread not only complements the stew but also helps soak up the delicious broth. For a complete meal, consider pairing cioppino with a light salad or a side of roasted vegetables to balance the flavors.

If you're hosting a gathering, serve cioppino in individual bowls for an elegant touch. A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the dish, enhancing the seafood's natural flavors. Don't forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Ingredients

Seafood Ingredients

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound mussels, cleaned
1 pound clams, cleaned
1 pound fish fillets (like cod or halibut), cut into chunks

Broth Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all the ingredients and prepare to create a delicious seafood stew.

Instructions

Prepare the Broth

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

Combine Ingredients

Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, white wine, lemon juice, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Add Seafood

Carefully add the shrimp, mussels, clams, and fish to the slow cooker. Stir gently to coat the seafood in the broth.

Cook

Cover the slow cooker 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 for dipping.

Enjoy your homemade Slow Cooker Cioppino with friends and family!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, cioppino can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the seafood. It's important to note that the texture of the seafood may change slightly after being reheated, but the flavors will still be delicious.

For longer storage, consider freezing cioppino. Place the cooled stew in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and it can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Customizing Your Cioppino

One of the great things about cioppino is its versatility. Feel free to mix and match seafood based on your preferences or what’s available in your area. Seafood like scallops, squid, or even crab can be wonderful additions to the stew, giving you a chance to create your own signature version.

You can also adjust the spice level to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder broth, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. Alternatively, if you love a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen seafood. Just ensure to thaw it before adding to the slow cooker.

→ What type of wine is best for Cioppino?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the broth and seafood mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just heat it in the slow cooker when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with Cioppino?

Crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a side of pasta complement Cioppino nicely.