14 Easy 5-Ingredient Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Updated by Louise Cutler on April 6, 2025

Now, who said delicious vegetarian meals have to be complicated or time-consuming? If you’re juggling a busy schedule but still crave hearty, home-cooked dinners, you’re in the right place. Our roundup of 18 easy 5-ingredient vegetarian slow cooker recipes is your ticket to stress-free weeknight meals. From cozy comfort foods to fresh seasonal favorites, these dishes promise maximum flavor with minimal effort. Let’s dive in and simplify your dinner routine!

Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili

Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili

Elevate your meal prep game with this hearty slow cooker vegetarian chili—packed with protein, fiber, and a kick of spice that’ll have you coming back for seconds.

Servings

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

180

minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Transfer the onion and garlic to the slow cooker. Add red bell pepper and jalapeño.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika until vegetables are evenly coated.
  4. Add black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.
  6. 30 minutes before serving, stir in frozen corn and season with salt to taste.
  7. Tip: For a thicker chili, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  8. Tip: Garnish with avocado, cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
  9. Tip: This chili freezes well—store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Serve this chili steaming hot, with a side of crusty bread or over a baked potato for a comforting meal. The smoky spices and tender beans create a rich, satisfying dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

Creamy Slow Cooker Lentil Soup

Creamy Slow Cooker Lentil Soup

Dive into the ultimate comfort food with this creamy slow cooker lentil soup—packed with flavor, effortless to make, and ready to warm your soul.

Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

365

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried green lentils (rinsed and drained)
  • 1 medium onion, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)
  • 2 celery stalks, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften.
  2. Add minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  3. Transfer the vegetable mixture to the slow cooker. Add rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until lentils are tender.
  5. Remove the bay leaf. Stir in heavy cream. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamy texture, leaving some lentils whole for texture.
  6. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot.

Whip up this soup for a velvety, rich bowl that’s both hearty and comforting. Top with a drizzle of cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch of elegance.

Slow Cooker Black Bean Stew

Slow Cooker Black Bean Stew

Every bite of this stew is a hug in a bowl—hearty, flavor-packed, and stupid-easy to make. Let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you binge your favorite show.

Servings

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

245

minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 cups dried black beans (soaked overnight for creamier texture)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
  • 1 large onion, diced (yellow or white for sweetness)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced (more if you’re a garlic fiend)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced (adds a sweet crunch)
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin (toast for 30 seconds to wake up the flavors)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (for that deep, smoky vibe)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium to control saltiness)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted for extra oomph)
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground is best)
  • 1 lime, juiced (brightens everything up)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional but highly recommended)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until soft.
  2. Stir in cumin and smoked paprika. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Tip: Toasting spices unlocks their full flavor potential.
  3. Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker. Add soaked black beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours. Tip: No peeking! Lifting the lid slows cooking.
  5. Once done, stir in lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Tip: Acid at the end brightens flavors.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy with crusty bread or over rice.

Rich, creamy beans melt into a smoky, slightly tangy broth—comfort food at its finest. Try topping with avocado or a dollop of sour cream for extra indulgence.

Vegetarian Slow Cooker Minestrone

Vegetarian Slow Cooker Minestrone

Bold flavors meet effortless cooking in this Vegetarian Slow Cooker Minestrone. Dump, set, forget—then devour a bowl of cozy perfection.

Servings

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

245

minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 (28-oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 (15-oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15-oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving, optional)
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Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute, until fragrant.
  3. Transfer the vegetable mixture to the slow cooker.
  4. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, kidney beans, white beans, pasta, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
  6. 30 minutes before serving, stir in the spinach. Cover and continue cooking until wilted.
  7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Outstanding in flavor and texture, this minestrone is hearty yet light. Serve with crusty bread for dipping or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick.

Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Curry

Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Curry

Let’s ditch the takeout menus—this Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Curry is your new weeknight hero. Loaded with creamy sweet potatoes and bold spices, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it dream.

Servings

2

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

185

minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups)
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil (or any neutral oil)
  • 1 onion, diced (yellow or white for sweetness)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced (fresh is best)
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated (peel first)
  • 2 tbsp red curry paste (adjust to heat preference)
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
  • 1 cup vegetable broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed for zing)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat coconut oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Tip: Don’t let garlic burn—it turns bitter.
  3. Stir in curry paste; cook for 2 minutes to deepen flavors.
  4. Transfer mixture to slow cooker. Add sweet potatoes, coconut milk, and broth. Stir to combine.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. Tip: Slow cooking melds flavors best.
  6. Once sweet potatoes are tender, stir in lime juice and salt. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Garnish with cilantro before serving. Tip: For extra crunch, top with roasted peanuts.

You’ll love the velvety texture and the sweet-spicy balance of this curry. Serve it over jasmine rice or with naan for scooping up every last bit.

Slow Cooker Mushroom Stroganoff

Slow Cooker Mushroom Stroganoff

Kick off your weeknight dinner with this creamy, dreamy Slow Cooker Mushroom Stroganoff. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal that packs a punch of umami and comfort.

Servings

2

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

145

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button for best flavor)
  • 1 large onion, diced (yellow or white for sweetness)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best)
  • 2 tbsp butter (or olive oil for a lighter version)
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (to thicken the sauce)
  • 1 cup vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup sour cream (full fat for creaminess)
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (adds a tangy depth)
  • 8 oz egg noodles (or any pasta you love)
  • Salt and pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until they release their juices and brown slightly, about 8 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture. Stir well to coat and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
  4. Transfer the mushroom mixture to your slow cooker. Add vegetable broth, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours. The sauce should thicken slightly.
  6. About 15 minutes before serving, cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  7. Stir sour cream into the slow cooker until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Serve the stroganoff over cooked egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Get ready to dive into a bowl of this stroganoff where the mushrooms are meaty, the sauce is luxuriously creamy, and the noodles are perfectly tender. Try topping it with a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra flavor kick.

Slow Cooker Quinoa and Vegetable Stew

Slow Cooker Quinoa and Vegetable Stew

Overwhelm your taste buds with this hearty, nutrient-packed stew that practically cooks itself. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy night in, it’s a game-changer for busy foodies.

Servings

3

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

183

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa (rinsed well to remove bitterness)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (or water for a lighter taste)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
  • 1 medium onion, diced (yellow or white for sweetness)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (more if you love garlic)
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • 2 carrots, sliced (about 1 cup)
  • 1 zucchini, diced (leave skin on for nutrients)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices for extra flavor)
  • 1 tsp cumin (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (for a subtle smokiness)
  • Salt and pepper to taste (start with 1/2 tsp salt)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (packed, stems removed)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
  2. Transfer the onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add quinoa, vegetable broth, bell pepper, carrots, zucchini, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, until quinoa is fluffy and vegetables are tender.
  4. Stir in spinach until wilted, about 5 minutes before serving.
  5. Garnish with cilantro if desired. Serve hot.

Unbelievably creamy yet light, this stew’s texture is a delightful contrast to the bold, smoky flavors. Try topping with avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra layer of richness.

Slow Cooker Coconut Chickpea Curry

Slow Cooker Coconut Chickpea Curry

Packed with flavor and effortlessly easy, this curry is your next weeknight hero. Just dump, set, and forget—your slow cooker does all the work.

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Servings

3

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

245

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (save the aquafaba for vegan baking!)
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk (full-fat for creamier texture)
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil (or any neutral oil)
  • 1 tbsp curry powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp turmeric (for that golden hue)
  • 1 small onion, diced (yellow or white for sweetness)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best)
  • 1 cup vegetable broth (low-sodium to control saltiness)
  • Salt to taste (start with 1/2 tsp)

Instructions

  1. Turn your slow cooker to the low setting and add the coconut oil to melt.
  2. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring to coat in the oil. Let sit for 5 minutes to soften.
  3. Add the curry powder and turmeric, stirring for 30 seconds to toast the spices—this unlocks their flavor.
  4. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, stirring to combine all the ingredients smoothly.
  5. Add the chickpeas and salt, giving everything a good stir to ensure the chickpeas are submerged.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours. No peeking—this keeps the heat consistent.
  7. After cooking, give the curry a taste and adjust salt or spices if needed.

Bold flavors meld together in this creamy, hearty curry. Serve over fluffy rice or with naan for scooping up every last bit.

Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Absolutely no one has time to slave over the stove, yet everyone craves that creamy, garlicky pasta. This Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Pasta is your golden ticket to flavor town with minimal effort.

Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

135

minutes

Ingredients

  • 8 oz fettuccine pasta (break in half for easier slow cooker fit)
  • 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium for better control)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (for richness, half-and-half works too)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated melts smoother)
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter (or any neutral oil)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced (more if you’re a garlic lover)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground preferred)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)

Instructions

  1. Break the fettuccine in half and place it in the slow cooker.
  2. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 2 hours, stirring once halfway through to prevent sticking.
  4. After 2 hours, check the pasta for doneness. It should be al dente. If needed, cook for an additional 15-30 minutes.
  5. Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
  6. Let the pasta sit for 5 minutes off the heat to thicken the sauce before serving.

Outrageously creamy with a punch of garlic, this pasta is a dream. Serve it with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a side of crusty bread to soak up all that saucy goodness.

Slow Cooker Vegetable Lasagna

Slow Cooker Vegetable Lasagna

Bold flavors and zero fuss—this slow cooker veggie lasagna is your weeknight hero. Layer it, forget it, then devour it.

Servings

6

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

240

minutes

Ingredients

  • 9 lasagna noodles (no-boil kind saves time)
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese (whole milk for creaminess)
  • 1 egg (helps bind the ricotta)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella (reserve 1/2 cup for topping)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (the real deal, please)
  • 3 cups marinara sauce (jarred is fine, but jazz it up with herbs)
  • 2 cups spinach (fresh, roughly chopped)
  • 1 zucchini (thinly sliced, about 1/8-inch thick)
  • 1 yellow squash (thinly sliced, about 1/8-inch thick)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp dried basil (or 1 tbsp fresh)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground if possible)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, 1 1/2 cups mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  2. Lightly grease the slow cooker with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Spread 1/2 cup marinara sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker.
  4. Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce, breaking them to fit if necessary.
  5. Spread half the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then half the spinach, zucchini, and yellow squash.
  6. Repeat layers: sauce, noodles, remaining ricotta mixture, and vegetables.
  7. Top with the last 3 noodles, remaining sauce, and reserved 1/2 cup mozzarella.
  8. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours. Avoid peeking to keep the heat in.
  9. Let it sit for 15 minutes before serving to set perfectly.

Perfectly layered with a gooey cheese pull, this lasagna is a veggie-packed twist on the classic. Serve with a crisp salad or garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal.

Slow Cooker Mexican Stuffed Peppers

Slow Cooker Mexican Stuffed Peppers

Never settle for bland weeknight dinners when you can stuff, simmer, and savor these vibrant Slow Cooker Mexican Stuffed Peppers. They’re a fiery, cheesy, set-it-and-forget-it dream.

Servings

3

portions
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

150

minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 large bell peppers, any color (halved and seeded)
  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown, your choice)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade blend)
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend (plus extra for topping)
  • 1/2 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot—pick your pace)
  • 1/4 cup water (to help steam the peppers)

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  2. Stir in the cooked rice, black beans, corn, taco seasoning, and salsa. Cook for 2 minutes to blend flavors.
  3. Stuff each pepper half with the beef mixture, packing it in tightly. Place them in the slow cooker.
  4. Pour water around the peppers to create steam. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours.
  5. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each pepper during the last 10 minutes of cooking to melt.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with extra salsa, sour cream, or fresh cilantro if desired.
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These peppers emerge tender-crisp, cradling a savory, spicy filling that’s unapologetically bold. Try them over a bed of greens for a deconstructed salad twist.

Slow Cooker Lentil Bolognese

Slow Cooker Lentil Bolognese

Kick your pasta night up a notch with this hearty, plant-based twist on a classic. It’s all the comfort, none of the guilt, and yes, it’s as easy as dump-and-go.

Servings

5

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

240

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried green lentils (rinsed, no soaking needed)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
  • 1 medium onion, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 2 carrots, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 2 celery stalks, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced (more if you love garlic)
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes (San Marzano for best flavor)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (low sodium, adjust salt to taste)
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste (adds depth)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh)
  • 1 tsp dried basil (or 1 tbsp fresh)
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste (start with 1/2 tsp salt)
  • 12 oz pasta of choice (whole wheat for extra fiber)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Nutritional yeast or vegan parm (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes, until softened.
  2. Add garlic, cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Tip: Don’t let garlic burn—it turns bitter.
  3. Transfer veggies to slow cooker. Add lentils, crushed tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. Tip: Lentils should be tender but not mushy.
  5. 30 minutes before serving, cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  6. Once lentils are done, taste and adjust seasoning. Tip: A splash of balsamic vinegar can brighten flavors.
  7. Serve Bolognese over pasta, garnished with parsley and nutritional yeast if using.

Amazingly rich and meaty without the meat, this Bolognese clings to pasta like a dream. Try it stuffed in roasted bell peppers for a gluten-free twist.

Slow Cooker Creamy Corn Chowder

Slow Cooker Creamy Corn Chowder

Make your weeknights effortless with this velvety Slow Cooker Creamy Corn Chowder—dump, set, forget, and devour.

Servings

3

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

210

minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 cups frozen corn kernels (no need to thaw)
  • 1 medium onion, diced (yellow or white for sweetness)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh for the best flavor)
  • 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium to control saltiness)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (for richness, half-and-half works too)
  • 2 tbsp butter (unsalted to manage the dish’s salt level)
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust after tasting)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground preferred)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for thickening, gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 tsp thyme (dried or fresh, double if fresh)

Instructions

  1. Layer the frozen corn, diced onion, and minced garlic in the slow cooker.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream over the vegetables.
  3. Dot the top with butter, then sprinkle salt, pepper, and thyme evenly.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, until onions are translucent.
  5. Whisk flour with 1/4 cup of the hot soup liquid in a small bowl until smooth to create a slurry.
  6. Stir the slurry back into the slow cooker to thicken the chowder.
  7. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes on HIGH, stirring once halfway through.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed before serving.

This chowder boasts a creamy texture with sweet corn bursts, balanced by a hint of thyme. Try topping with crispy bacon or sharp cheddar for a decadent twist.

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Stew

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Stew

Overwhelm your taste buds with this hearty Slow Cooker Mediterranean Stew—packed with bold flavors and effortless vibes. Just dump, set, and forget!

Servings

3

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

180

minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs (or substitute with chickpeas for a vegan twist)
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned works great for convenience)
  • 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives (slice them for easier eating)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (or any neutral oil)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best, but 1 tbsp jarred works in a pinch)
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano (crush between fingers to release oils)
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground preferred)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (vegetable broth for vegan option)
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons (about 1 cup)

Instructions

  1. Layer chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker.
  2. Add diced tomatoes, Kalamata olives, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper over the chicken.
  3. Pour chicken broth evenly over the ingredients to deglaze any bits stuck to the bottom.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. Tip: Resist the urge to open the lid; it lets heat escape.
  5. Add sliced zucchini in the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep them crisp-tender. Tip: This is also a good time to taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Shred the chicken lightly with two forks directly in the pot for a rustic texture. Tip: If using chickpeas, gently mash a few against the side of the pot to thicken the stew.

Lusciously tender chicken mingles with briny olives and sweet zucchini in a rich, herb-infused broth. Serve over couscous or with crusty bread to soak up every last drop.

Summary

Fantastic for those hectic evenings, our roundup of 18 Easy 5-Ingredient Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes is your ticket to delicious, stress-free meals. We hope these dishes bring simplicity and flavor to your weeknights. Don’t forget to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest to spread the veggie love!

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