When it comes to meal planning, many of us struggle to find the time and energy to cook a healthy and delicious meal every night. That’s why slow cooker recipes are a busy person’s best friend! With just a little bit of prep work in the morning, you can come home to a warm, comforting meal that’s ready to be devoured.
In this article, we’ll share 20 hearty crockpot recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods like beef stew and mac and cheese, to international flavors like Moroccan lamb tagine, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So whether you’re a working professional or a stay-at-home parent, these slow cooker recipes will help you feed your family with ease.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
A hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly day or a busy weeknight dinner, this slow cooker beef stew is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine beef cubes, onion, garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Add carrots and potatoes on top of the beef mixture.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Low: 8-10 hours
– High: 4-6 hours
Crockpot Chicken Tacos
This recipe yields a flavorful and tender chicken dish that’s perfect for tacos, salads, or wraps. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Place chicken breasts in the Crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together diced tomatoes with green chilies and taco seasoning. Pour over the chicken.
3. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño to the Crockpot.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Shred the cooked chicken with two forks.
6. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded chicken onto a tortilla and adding desired toppings.
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready to fall in love with the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork, perfectly pulled and piled high on a soft bun.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 hamburger buns
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to Low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by the pork shoulder.
5. Cook for 8-10 hours or overnight (best results).
6. When the pork is tender and falls apart easily, remove it from the slow cooker and shred with two forks.
7. Stir in barbecue sauce until well combined.
8. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast lightly.
9. Spoon the pulled pork mixture onto the buns and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese
A comforting twist on a classic favorite, this Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing potluck. With minimal effort required, you’ll be enjoying a rich and creamy macaroni dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: breadcrumbs and additional grated cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a crockpot, combine milk, heavy cream, butter, 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add cooked macaroni to the crockpot and stir until coated with the creamy sauce.
4. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
5. Serve hot, topped with additional grated cheese and breadcrumbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this sweet and savory slow cooker recipe. Tender chicken breasts are infused with the richness of honey, garlic, and herbs, making for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together honey, garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker and toss to coat with the honey-garlic mixture.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegetable Lentil Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of vegetables and lentils, simmered to perfection in a flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add lentils, broth, tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Crockpot Chili con Carne
Savor the rich flavors of this classic chili recipe, made easy with your trusty Crockpot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a pan over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, and paprika to the Crockpot.
3. Stir in the cooked ground beef, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and crushed tomatoes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Chili con Carne!
BBQ Ribs in the Slow Cooker
Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs Recipe
Transform tender ribs into fall-off-the-bone tender, smoky goodness with this easy slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef or pork ribs
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a slow cooker, combine ribs, garlic, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush with BBQ sauce.
Cooking Time:
- Low: 8-10 hours
- High: 4-6 hours
Pot Roast with Vegetables
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in, this pot roast recipe is a staple of many households. With tender beef and a variety of colorful vegetables, it’s a meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef chuck roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the roast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 2 minutes per side.
4. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes to the pot. Pour in beef broth.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, slow-cooked take on the classic Italian dish. This recipe is perfect for a busy day when you need a warm, satisfying meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups cooked Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add the cooked fettuccine pasta, Alfredo sauce, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the frozen peas and carrots during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for a reason – the combination of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce is a crowd-pleaser. With just 15 minutes of cooking time, you can have this flavorful stir-fry on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, broccoli, and garlic. Cook until broccoli is tender-crisp, about 4 minutes.
4. Return beef to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional 1 minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Crockpot Minestrone Soup
A hearty and comforting Italian-inspired soup made with vegetables, beans, and pasta, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, vegetable broth, water, olive oil, and dried basil to the Crockpot.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, add the pasta shapes to the soup and stir well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
Succulent chicken thighs smothered in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush with the teriyaki mixture.
4. Drizzle vegetable oil over the top of each thigh.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Lasagna
Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe
Enjoy a hearty, comforting dish with minimal effort using your slow cooker! This recipe is perfect for a busy day when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
4. In a slow cooker, combine the cooked lasagna noodles, browned ground beef mixture, ricotta cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Pineapple Glazed Ham
A classic holiday dish with a twist, this pineapple glazed ham is perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a small saucepan, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, mustard, cloves, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Place the ham in a roasting pan, fat side up.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover it evenly.
5. Cover the ham with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Crockpot Beef Bourguignon
This classic French dish is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This Crockpot recipe simplifies the traditional method, requiring minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, then transfer it to the Crockpot.
2. Add the onion, garlic, mushrooms, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the Crockpot.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe
A deliciously tender and flavorful turkey breast, perfect for a stress-free Sunday dinner or a weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, and rosemary.
2. In a slow cooker, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the turkey breast until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the turkey to the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Cheesy Potato Casserole
A comforting and satisfying side dish that combines the flavors of potatoes, cheese, and cream. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and grated cheddar cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together heavy cream and melted butter. Pour over the potato mixture and toss to coat.
4. Transfer the potato mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Moroccan Lamb Tagine
Moroccan Lamb Tagine Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of Morocco with this classic lamb tagine recipe, slow-cooked to perfection in a clay pot.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1 cup prunes, pitted and chopped
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups lamb broth or beef broth, warmed
Instructions:
- In a large clay tagine pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the lamb from the pot.
- Reduce heat to medium and add the onion. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic, apricots, prunes, cinnamon, ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Pour in the warmed broth and return the lamb to the pot.
- Cover the tagine and simmer over low heat for 2-3 hours or until the lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Slow Cooker Apple Butter
Transform fresh apples into a deliciously smooth and tangy butter with this easy slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and salt to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice as needed.
5. Transfer the apple butter to airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
