Slow Cooker Cioppino

Name: Slow Cooker Cioppino
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lb mussels, cleaned; 1 lb white fish fillets, cut into chunks; 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup fish stock; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

This Slow Cooker Cioppino is a comforting seafood stew that's easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-11T15:55:08.786Z

Cioppino is a classic Italian-American seafood stew that originated in San Francisco. This recipe simplifies the process by using a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and flavorful broth with a medley of seafood
Hands-off cooking makes it easy to prepare
Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions

      

What is Cioppino?

Cioppino is a flavorful seafood stew that originated in San Francisco, blending the culinary traditions of Italian immigrants and the abundant seafood of the Pacific Ocean. Its rich history and comforting nature make it a beloved dish for seafood lovers. Traditionally, cioppino features a variety of fish and shellfish simmered in a savory tomato-based broth, resulting in a hearty meal that warms the soul.

This Slow Cooker Cioppino takes the classic recipe and simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy all the flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. By using a slow cooker, you can let the ingredients meld together while you go about your day, making it an ideal choice for busy families or those looking to entertain guests with minimal effort.

Perfect Pairings

When serving Slow Cooker Cioppino, a crusty loaf of bread is a must-have. It serves as the perfect vessel for sopping up the delicious broth. A side salad with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette can complement the rich flavors of the stew, adding a refreshing contrast to the meal.

For beverages, consider pairing cioppino with a chilled glass of dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity of the wine will balance the richness of the seafood and enhance the overall dining experience. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon can also be a delightful choice.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Slow Cooker Cioppino can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day! To reheat, simply transfer the stew to a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

If you plan to freeze the cioppino, consider doing so before adding the seafood. The broth can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw the broth, then add the seafood and simmer until cooked. This method ensures the seafood remains fresh and tender, avoiding any rubbery texture that can occur when freezing cooked seafood.

Ingredients

Seafood and Vegetables

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb mussels, cleaned
1 lb white fish fillets, cut into chunks
1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup fish stock
1 cup dry white wine
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker for a delicious meal!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

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

Cook the Base

In the slow cooker, add diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, bell pepper, fish stock, white wine, olive oil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Add the Seafood

Carefully add the seafood mixture on top of the tomato base. Do not stir.

Slow 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 homemade Cioppino!

Nutritional Benefits

Slow Cooker Cioppino is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Seafood is an excellent source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals. Including a variety of seafood, such as shrimp, mussels, and white fish, provides diverse nutrients that support heart health and overall well-being.

The inclusion of vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes adds fiber and antioxidants, enhancing the stew's health benefits. This makes cioppino a great choice for those looking to incorporate more nutrient-dense meals into their diet without sacrificing flavor.

Variations to Try

While this recipe showcases a classic cioppino, feel free to customize it by incorporating your favorite seafood. Scallops, clams, or even crab can be delicious additions, allowing you to tailor the dish to your personal taste. Experimenting with different spices or adding a splash of lemon juice can also elevate the flavors.

For a heartier stew, consider adding cooked pasta or rice to the cioppino before serving. This change transforms the dish into a complete meal, perfect for those looking to satisfy larger appetites or create a filling family dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cioppino ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the base and add the seafood closer to serving time for the best texture.

→ What can I serve with cioppino?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad to balance the meal.

→ Can I freeze leftover cioppino?

It's best to consume cioppino fresh, but you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What type of fish is best for cioppino?

White fish like cod or halibut works well, but feel free to use your favorites.