Slow Cooker Keto Gumbo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Keto Gumbo combines the depth of flavors you'd expect from a traditional gumbo with a keto-friendly twist. Thanks to the slow cooking process, the ingredients meld together, creating a rich and savory dish that doesn’t require any special cooking skills. Plus, with the hearty combination of protein and vegetables, this gumbo is satisfying and keeps you full longer. It’s a great way to enjoy Southern comfort food while staying on track with your diet. The best part? It’s super easy to make, especially when you let your slow cooker do the work.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, diced

• 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1 bell pepper, chopped

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

• 1 teaspoon thyme

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 bay leaf

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the ingredients: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and sausage slices, and sauté until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

3. Combine in the slow cooker: Transfer the cooked chicken, sausage, and sautéed vegetables into the slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, thyme, paprika, bay leaf, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt and pepper. Stir to combine.

4. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

5. Add shrimp: About 30 minutes before serving, add the shrimp to the slow cooker. Stir to combine and let them cook through.

6. Serve: Once the gumbo is done, discard the bay leaf, and taste to adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 6-8 hours (on low) or 3-4 hours (on high)

• Total time: 6-8 hours

Variations

• Vegetarian option: Replace the meat with tofu or a combination of additional vegetables like okra, zucchini, or mushrooms to make a vegetarian gumbo.

• Spice levels: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preference. For a milder gumbo, reduce or omit it entirely.

• Additional proteins: Add more seafood, such as crab or crawfish, for a variety of flavors and textures.

Storage/Reheating

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

• Freezing: You can freeze the gumbo for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

• Reheating: Reheat in a pot on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in a microwave-safe dish until hot. Add a little water or broth if the gumbo thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of sausage instead of andouille sausage?

Yes, you can use other sausages like smoked sausage or Italian sausage if you prefer, but andouille sausage gives it a distinctive flavor.

2. Can I make this gumbo ahead of time?

Yes, gumbo can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a couple of days. The flavors tend to deepen after sitting for a day or two.

3. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the slow cooker.

4. What can I serve with keto gumbo?

Keto-friendly sides like cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables complement gumbo well and keep the meal low-carb.

5. How do I make gumbo thicker without flour?

Gumbo is traditionally thickened with a roux, but this keto version doesn’t use flour. You can thicken it by using a small amount of xanthan gum or simply by cooking it longer to reduce the liquid.

6. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great choice for gumbo, adding more flavor and tenderness to the dish.

7. How do I make my gumbo spicier?

If you prefer a spicier gumbo, you can increase the cayenne pepper, add hot sauce, or even include some chopped jalapeños.

8. Can I use a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can use a pressure cooker to make gumbo. Set it to cook for 30 minutes on high pressure, and add the shrimp in the last 10 minutes of cooking.

9. How can I make this gumbo more authentic?

To get a more authentic gumbo flavor, consider adding okra, which is a traditional ingredient. You can also try adding filé powder at the end for added flavor.

10. Can I omit the tomatoes?

Yes, if you're avoiding tomatoes or want a different flavor profile, you can omit the tomatoes, though it will change the overall flavor slightly.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Keto Gumbo is a perfect balance of comfort and flavor, making it a great choice for anyone following a keto lifestyle without sacrificing the rich tastes of Southern cuisine. With a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can enjoy a hearty, satisfying dish that is both low in carbs and high in flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or meal prepping for the week, this gumbo is sure to become a favorite!