Slow Cooker Gumbo Recipe: A Hearty Stew with Cajun Flavors
This flavorful Slow Cooker Gumbo is a perfect blend of savory ingredients and Cajun-inspired spices, ideal for serving on a cozy evening or at a family gathering. Despite not starting with a traditional roux, this gumbo still delivers a rich, satisfying taste that captures the essence of Southern cooking. Adapted from “5 Tastes of the South,” this recipe was demonstrated on PBS during a telethon, which left such a lasting impression that I made a donation just to get the cookbook. Though I haven’t tried it yet, this easy-to-make gumbo certainly looks like a winner! With a mix of smoked sausage, vegetables, and spices, it’s an excellent option for those craving a warm, comforting meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need for this slow cooker gumbo:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Smoked sausage | 2-3 links |
| Onions | 2 large, chopped |
| Celery | 2 stalks, chopped |
| Okra | 2 cups, chopped |
| Bell peppers | 2, chopped (preferably a mix of red and green) |
| Canned tomatoes (diced) | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Dried parsley | 1 1/4 tsp |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Chicken bouillon powder | 1 tsp |
| Bouillon cubes | 2 cubes |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/2 tsp |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/2 tsp (optional, adjust to taste) |
| File powder | 1 tbsp (for garnish, optional) |
Nutritional Information
Here’s an overview of the nutritional content per serving, assuming the recipe serves 8:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 195.7 |
| Fat Content | 2.9g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.8g |
| Cholesterol | 26.2mg |
| Sodium | 429.2mg |
| Carbohydrates | 31.1g |
| Fiber | 4.8g |
| Sugar | 10.2g |
| Protein | 13.2g |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 hours (8 hours on medium in slow cooker + 30 minutes to finish)
- Total Time: 9 hours 30 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Smoked Sausage:
Start by slicing the smoked sausage into bite-sized rounds. Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the sausage slices for a few minutes on each side until they’re golden and slightly crispy. This will help enhance the flavor and texture of the sausage, giving it a rich, smoky taste. -
Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:
Once the sausage is browned, transfer it into the slow cooker. Add the following ingredients: chopped onions, celery, okra, bell peppers, canned diced tomatoes (with juice), dried parsley, Worcestershire sauce, chicken bouillon powder, bouillon cubes, red pepper flakes, and cayenne pepper. Stir everything together to combine the flavors evenly. -
Cook the Gumbo:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on medium for 8 hours. As it cooks, the vegetables will soften and release their flavors into the broth, while the sausage imparts its smoky essence into the stew. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together perfectly. -
Finish the Gumbo:
After 8 hours, taste the gumbo and adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you want a bit more heat, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper at this point. Next, stir in the uncooked Minute Rice, cooked chicken or seafood (such as shrimp or crab), and let the mixture cook for an additional 30 minutes to heat through and let the rice absorb the flavors. -
Serve and Garnish:
When the gumbo is ready, serve it hot in bowls over a scoop of freshly cooked white rice. For an authentic touch, garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of file powder. If you prefer a more soupy version, you can skip the rice and serve it as a hearty stew on its own.
Serving Suggestions
This Slow Cooker Gumbo is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth. For a light, refreshing contrast, a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette can provide balance to the rich gumbo.
Recipe Tips & Variations
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Protein options: This recipe is quite flexible when it comes to protein. While smoked sausage is the base, you can also add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even a combination of both for a heartier gumbo. If you prefer a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or green beans for a rich, satisfying stew.
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Spice level: Adjust the spice level to your liking. If you prefer a milder gumbo, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes. If you love heat, feel free to double the cayenne or add a dash of hot sauce when serving.
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Rice options: While Minute Rice is used here for convenience, you can swap it out for other types of rice. Long-grain white rice or brown rice are excellent choices, though they may require a longer cooking time.
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Freezing instructions: This gumbo freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Slow Cooker Gumbo is a one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy days when you want a hearty, flavorful dinner without a lot of fuss. The convenience of the slow cooker allows you to set it and forget it while the ingredients meld together, creating a robust dish full of southern flavors. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at a potluck or enjoying a cozy meal with family, this gumbo is sure to become a favorite.
Final Thoughts
With a simple set of ingredients and minimal prep, this Slow Cooker Gumbo offers all the rich flavors of a traditional Cajun stew without the complexity of making a roux. The hearty combination of smoked sausage, vegetables, and spices will transport you straight to the heart of Louisiana. Try it for your next dinner, and I’m sure it will be a hit!
