Slow Cooker Cioppino

Name: Slow Cooker Cioppino
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 pound mussels, cleaned; 1 pound clams, cleaned; 1 pound white fish fillets, cut into chunks; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 cups fish stock or water; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

Experience the rich and savory flavors of the sea with this delightful Slow Cooker Cioppino, a classic Italian-American seafood stew.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-11T16:25:07.546Z

This Slow Cooker Cioppino is not just a meal; it's a celebration of fresh seafood and robust flavors. Originating from San Francisco's Italian-American community, this dish allows you to enjoy a seafood feast without the hassle of constant monitoring. Just set it and forget it!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful mix of fresh seafood that warms the soul
Rich tomato broth infused with aromatic herbs
Perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting family dinner

      

The History of Cioppino

Cioppino traces its origins back to the late 19th century in San Francisco, where Italian fishermen created this seafood stew from their daily catch. The name 'Cioppino' is derived from the Italian word 'cioppare,' which means 'to chop,' referring to the way the fish is prepared. This dish is a beautiful reflection of the Italian-American culinary tradition, showcasing the bounty of the sea and the rich flavors of Mediterranean cooking.

Traditionally, Cioppino includes a variety of fish and shellfish, making it a versatile dish that can be adapted based on what is available. While the base remains consistent with a tomato and wine broth, the specific seafood choices can vary, allowing families to create their own signature versions. This adaptability has contributed to Cioppino's enduring popularity, making it a beloved staple in many homes across the United States.

Choosing the Best Seafood

When making Cioppino, selecting the freshest seafood is crucial for achieving the best flavor. Visit your local fish market or grocery store to find high-quality shrimp, mussels, clams, and fish. Look for shrimp that is firm to the touch and has a mild, briny scent. Mussels and clams should be closed tightly; if they are open, give them a gentle tap—if they don’t close, they should be discarded.

For the fish component, opt for firm white fish like cod or halibut, which hold their shape during cooking. You can also experiment with different types of seafood, such as scallops or squid, to enhance your Cioppino. Remember, the key to a successful stew lies in the freshness and quality of the seafood, so choose wisely for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

Cioppino is best served piping hot, making it a perfect choice for cozy gatherings or family dinners. To enhance the experience, pair it with crusty bread for dipping. A good sourdough or baguette works wonderfully to soak up the flavorful broth. You could also serve a light side salad to balance the richness of the stew, such as a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.

For drinks, consider a chilled glass of dry white wine, as it complements the seafood beautifully. Alternatively, a light beer or a refreshing sparkling water can provide a nice contrast to the savory broth. With these serving suggestions, your Cioppino meal will be both delicious and memorable.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Cioppino:

Seafood Mix

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound mussels, cleaned
1 pound clams, cleaned
1 pound white fish fillets, cut into chunks

Broth Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 cup dry white wine
2 cups fish stock or water
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have crusty bread on hand for dipping!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Cioppino:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, white wine, fish stock, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Add Seafood

Gently add the shrimp, mussels, clams, and fish to the slow cooker. Stir to ensure seafood is well-coated with the broth.

Cook

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

Serve

Once cooked, ladle Cioppino into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread.

Enjoy your homemade Cioppino with friends and family!

Tips for Perfect Cioppino

One key to a flavorful Cioppino is to allow the broth to simmer gently before adding the seafood. This ensures that the flavors meld beautifully. Additionally, avoid overcooking the seafood, as it can become tough and chewy. Keep an eye on the cooking time and remove the pot from heat as soon as the seafood is just cooked through.

If you prefer a thicker broth, consider adding a few tablespoons of tomato paste to deepen the flavor. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste, and feel free to add a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Customizing your Cioppino makes it a personal culinary creation.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Cioppino can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat until heated through, being careful not to overcook the seafood. If the broth has thickened too much, add a splash of fish stock or water to achieve your desired consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the Cioppino without the seafood. The broth can be frozen for up to three months, and you can add freshly cooked seafood when you're ready to enjoy it again. This way, you can savor the flavors of this delightful stew any time you wish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, you can use frozen seafood, but make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the slow cooker.

→ What should I serve with cioppino?

Cioppino is best served with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or pasta to soak up the delicious broth.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

→ Can I add other types of seafood?

Absolutely! Feel free to add scallops, squid, or any other seafood you enjoy.