Easy Cajun Boiled Peanuts in the crockpot are slow-cooked until tender and packed with bold, spicy flavor. This simple Southern snack is perfect for game days, gatherings, or anytime you’re craving something salty with a kick.
If you’ve never had boiled peanuts, you’re in for a treat. These Easy Cajun Boiled Peanuts made in the crockpot cook low and slow until perfectly tender, soaking up every bit of that bold, spicy Cajun seasoning.
They’re salty, a little spicy, and completely addictive, perfect for game day, road trips, backyard gatherings, or just because you want a classic Southern snack without standing over the stove.
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
- Set-It-and-Forget-It Easy: The crockpot does all the work while you go about your day.
- Bold Cajun Flavor: Spicy, salty, and packed with classic Southern seasoning.
- Perfect Party Snack: Great for game day, tailgates, or casual gatherings.
- Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients, big flavor, no fancy extras needed.
- Totally Addictive: Once you start snacking, it’s hard to stop.
Ingredients Needed
- Raw Peanuts: Fresh green or raw peanuts in shells.
- Cajun Seasoning: Bold spice blend with heat and flavor.
- Salt: Enhances flavor and balances the spice.
- Crushed Red Pepper: Adds extra heat and kick.
- Garlic Powder: Savory seasoning for deeper flavor.
- Water: Enough to fully cover peanuts while cooking.
How To Make Easy Cajun Boiled Peanuts in Crockpot
Step One: Place raw peanuts in a colander and rinse well under cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
Step Two: Transfer the cleaned peanuts to your slow cooker. Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning, salt, crushed red pepper, and garlic powder. Don’t be shy, this is where the flavor builds.
Step Three: Pour in enough water to fully submerge the peanuts. They’ll float at first, so give them a stir. Cover and cook on HIGH for 8–10 hours or LOW for 12–18 hours, until the peanuts are soft and tender inside.
Step Four: Test a peanut for tenderness and seasoning. Add more salt or spice if needed, then let them sit in the brine for extra flavor.
Step Five: Scoop into bowls with a little cooking liquid and enjoy while warm—or refrigerate and reheat later.
Easy Cajun Boiled Peanuts in Crockpot Recipe Tips
- Use Raw or Green Peanuts: Roasted peanuts won’t soften properly, so make sure you’re starting with raw.
- Season Boldly: The shells block some flavor, so the cooking liquid should taste a little salty and spicy.
- Keep Peanuts Submerged: They float at first, so stir occasionally during the first hour.
- Be Patient: Boiled peanuts take time—don’t rush it. They’re ready when the inside is soft and creamy, not crunchy.
- Let Them Sit in the Brine: After cooking, leave them in the seasoned liquid for deeper flavor.
- Adjust Heat Level: Add extra crushed red pepper if you like serious spice, or scale it back for milder batches.
Storing Instructions
Let the Cajun boiled peanuts cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container with some of the cooking liquid to keep them moist. Store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days, reheating as needed for a warm snack.
Easy Cajun Boiled Peanuts in Crockpot Recipe Tips
Can I use roasted peanuts instead of raw? No, roasted peanuts won’t soften properly. Use raw or green peanuts for the best texture.
How long do I cook them in the crockpot? Cook on HIGH for 8–10 hours or LOW for 12–18 hours, until the peanuts are tender and creamy inside.
Can I make them spicier or milder? Yes! Adjust crushed red pepper or Cajun seasoning to your preferred heat level.
How do I store leftover boiled peanuts? Let them cool, keep them in an airtight container with some cooking liquid, and refrigerate up to 7 days.
Can I freeze boiled peanuts? Yes, freeze cooled peanuts in a freezer-safe container with some cooking liquid for up to 3 months.
Can I cook them on the stovetop instead of a crockpot? Absolutely! Boil raw peanuts in a large pot of water with seasonings for 3–5 hours until tender, stirring occasionally.
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Easy Cajun Boiled Peanuts in Crockpot
Description
Ingredients
- 3 cups Raw Peanuts, green or raw in shells, rinsed thoroughly
- 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning, spicy flavor
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper, optional for extra heat
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 6 cups Water,
Instructions
- Place 3 cups Raw Peanuts in a colander and rinse well under cold water to remove dirt and debris.
- Transfer the cleaned peanuts to your slow cooker.
- Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning 1 1/2 teaspoons Salt 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper, and 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder. Stir to combine.
- Pour 6 cups Water to fully submerge the peanuts. Stir to ensure even coverage.
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 8–10 hours or LOW for 12–18 hours, until peanuts are soft and tender inside.
- Test a peanut for tenderness and seasoning. Add more salt or spice if needed. Let them sit in the brine for extra flavor.
- Scoop into bowls with some cooking liquid and enjoy while warm.
Equipment
- Crockpot, or Slow Cooker
- Measuring Cup
Nutrition
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Cyndy
I made these and they turned out great, except I did not use nearly as much oil as was called for. For 1/2 cup of peanuts, I just used 1/2 tsp oil and stirred the peanuts around till they were all glistening. I used a stainless steel bowl, and dumped the peanuts out onto a paper towel-lined plate when they were done to soak up excess oil. They were oiled enough and tasted wonderful.
Other recipes called for three sprays of oil, so I went in that direction. But I liked the cooking method here–two times at different temperatures. Thanks!
JOJO
My husband brings raw peanuts in 5 lb bags in from Farmers Cooperative in our area. I never can get them quite right in the oven to roast them or as he says “parch” them. I tried this recipe in my air fryer, and it was the BEST peanuts he had ever had! Thanks for posting the recipe.