Easy Crock Pot Spicy Cajun Boiled Peanuts That Bring Bold Southern Flavors to Your Snack Time

If you're craving a snack that’s packed with flavor and a touch of heat, these Crock Pot Spicy Cajun Boiled Peanuts are a must-try! Boiled peanuts are a beloved Southern treat, and when combined with Cajun seasoning and a splash of hot sauce, they become an irresistible snack. Perfect for game day, parties, or a casual afternoon treat, these peanuts simmer for hours, absorbing all the spicy goodness and creating a soft, savory bite. Easy to make in a slow cooker, you can set them and forget them while they cook up the perfect snack.

Scroll down for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Easy Crock Pot Spicy Cajun Boiled Peanuts

Boiled peanuts are a Southern tradition, and they often evoke memories of summer road trips, farmers' markets, or beach vacations. Adding Cajun seasoning takes the traditional boiled peanuts up a notch by infusing them with bold, spicy flavors. The slow cooker does all the hard work here, simmering the peanuts to a tender texture while you go about your day. This recipe brings together the rustic charm of peanuts and the irresistible kick of Cajun spices for a snack that’s packed with personality and flair.

Why Easy Crock Pot Spicy Cajun Boiled Peanuts Will Become Your New Favorite Snack

This recipe is more than just easy; it’s a crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone coming back for more. Raw peanuts simmered in Cajun seasoning and hot sauce until tender create a perfectly seasoned bite every time. Plus, because they’re made in a slow cooker, you can prep and forget them until they’re done! Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, having friends over for a football game, or just need something to munch on, these boiled peanuts are the perfect addition.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

• Calories: 200 kcal
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 7g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fiber: 3g

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Easy Crock Pot Spicy Cajun Boiled Peanuts are the perfect snack for any occasion. Serve them in large bowls at a party or keep them in the fridge for an easy grab-and-go snack. You can pair them with ice-cold lemonade or sweet tea to balance the spicy heat. They also make a great companion to BBQ fare like ribs, pulled pork, or grilled chicken. For a more casual vibe, serve them alongside cold beer during a game night.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover peanuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can reheat them in the microwave or eat them cold, straight from the fridge. To reheat, place the peanuts in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. These boiled peanuts also freeze well—just place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw in the fridge and reheat.

Fun Fact: The History of Boiled Peanuts

Boiled peanuts have a long history in the American South, where they’ve been a staple snack for centuries. Peanuts themselves were brought to America by enslaved Africans and quickly became a popular crop, particularly in Southern states. The process of boiling peanuts started as a way to preserve the crop, especially during hot summer months. Today, boiled peanuts are enjoyed at festivals, fairs, and roadside stands across the South, and each region has its unique twist—like this Cajun version that adds a bit of Louisiana flair to the mix!

Cooking Tips

Make Them Spicier: If you’re a heat-lover, don’t be shy with the hot sauce! You can easily adjust the level of spice by adding more hot sauce or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pot.

Perfect Texture: Boiled peanuts should be tender but not mushy. Check the peanuts after about 5 hours of cooking to ensure they have the right texture. If they’re still too firm, continue cooking and check every 30 minutes until they’re just right.

Flavor Boost: For an extra punch of Cajun flavor, add a few extra teaspoons of Cajun seasoning or a pinch of smoked paprika for that perfect Southern kick.

Optional Variations

Milder Version: If you’re serving a crowd that prefers a milder snack, reduce the amount of hot sauce and Cajun seasoning to keep the peanuts flavorful but not too spicy.

Garlic Lovers: Add a few cloves of minced garlic to the pot for a subtle garlic flavor that complements the peanuts perfectly.

Sweet & Spicy: For a fun twist, try adding a tablespoon of brown sugar to the pot for a balance of sweet and spicy flavors. The sugar will help mellow out the heat and create a unique flavor profile.

Easy Crock Pot Spicy Cajun Boiled Peanuts Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb raw peanuts in the shell (not roasted)
• 1/4 cup coarse sea salt
• 2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning (I used Tony Chachere’s–see recipe notes below)
• 1-2 Tbsp hot sauce (or more to adjust to taste; see recipe notes below)
• About 6-8 cups of water

Instructions:

1. Rinse and sort the peanuts, discarding any debris or severely cracked shells. Transfer peanuts into the slow cooker.
2. Add salt, Cajun seasoning, and hot sauce.
3. Pour water over the peanuts. Set the lid in place.
4. Cook on the high setting for about 5-7 hours, stirring occasionally, until peanuts are tender. If needed, add more water during cooking.
5. Serve warm or cold and enjoy this spicy Southern snack!

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These Easy Crock Pot Spicy Cajun Boiled Peanuts are the perfect addition to any gathering, whether you're tailgating, picnicking, or just craving a flavorful snack. With the heat of Cajun spices and the rich texture of boiled peanuts, they’re a guaranteed hit!