Are you tired of slaving away over a hot stove every night, only to end up with a mediocre meal that doesn’t even satisfy your hunger? If so, it’s time to join the slow cooker revolution! With these 20 flavorful and delish crock pot recipes, you’ll be able to whip up a mouthwatering meal in no time – all while having more time for the things you love.
From classic comfort foods like creamy mac and cheese and pulled pork BBQ sandwiches, to international-inspired dishes like Thai peanut chicken curry and beef and broccoli stir-fry, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Each recipe requires minimal effort and attention, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you just don’t have the time or energy to cook up a storm.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
This sweet and savory chicken recipe is perfect for a busy day when you need a meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, your slow cooker will transform tender chicken breasts into a mouthwatering delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil.
2. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the honey-garlic mixture over them.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Get ready for a comforting, creamy, and ridiculously easy macaroni and cheese dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a crock pot, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and butter. Stir until smooth.
3. Add cooked macaroni, paprika, salt, and pepper to the crock pot. Stir gently to combine.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
A classic Russian dish with tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and a rich creamy sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook beef strips in boiling water for 3-4 minutes or until cooked through; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add mushrooms and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, onion, and cooked beef to the skillet; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Stir in beef broth, heavy cream, mustard, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot over cooked egg noodles (about 8 oz) and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pulled Pork BBQ Sandwiches
Experience the classic taste of slow-cooked pork smothered in tangy barbecue sauce and served on a soft bun. This recipe is perfect for a casual gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
5. After 8 hours, remove the pork from the heat and shred with two forks.
6. Stir in barbecue sauce until the pork is well coated.
7. Split hamburger buns in half and toast lightly.
8. Spoon shredded pork onto the buns and top with coleslaw (if using).
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Vegetable Lentil Stew
Warm up with a hearty and healthy Vegetable Lentil Stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices to create a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Black Bean Chili
This hearty chili recipe combines the rich flavors of black beans, diced tomatoes, and ground beef with a spicy kick from cumin and jalapeños. Perfect for a cozy night in or a tailgating party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked black beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Add the chopped jalapeño and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Potato and Ham Soup
This rich and satisfying soup combines the natural sweetness of potatoes with the savory flavor of ham, all wrapped up in a creamy cheese sauce. It’s the perfect remedy for a chilly day or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked ham
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add diced potatoes, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Add chopped ham and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Teriyaki Pineapple Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this sweet and savory Teriyaki Pineapple twist! Juicy beef meatballs are smothered in a tangy teriyaki sauce, topped with caramelized pineapple rings, and served over a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup pineapple rings (canned or fresh)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and green onions in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are cooking, mix teriyaki sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
6. In a separate pan, cook pineapple rings over medium heat until caramelized (about 5-7 minutes).
7. Combine cooked meatballs with teriyaki sauce and toss to coat.
8. Serve meatballs over cooked white rice and top with caramelized pineapple.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice
A classic comfort food dish that combines juicy chicken, flavorful garlic butter, and creamy rice. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. In a separate pot, combine rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. Add cooked chicken to the garlic butter mixture in the skillet. Toss until coated.
6. Serve hot with steaming plate of rice.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Experience the rich flavors of France’s iconic beef stew without sacrificing your day, thanks to this effortless slow cooker adaptation. This recipe yields a tender and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Burgundy or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef cubes in a skillet over medium-high heat; set aside.
2. In the slow cooker, combine browned beef, sliced onion, minced garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
This recipe brings together the flavors of Italy with a rich and creamy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta. It’s an easy and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Add cooked fettuccine pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
6. Slice chicken into strips and add to pasta mixture. Toss to coat. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Dijon Pork Tenderloin
Elevate your pork tenderloin game with this sweet and tangy recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and thyme.
3. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the glaze all over the pork, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
A comforting twist on a classic casserole, this loaded baked potato dish combines the flavors of mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and cheddar cheese. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine diced potatoes, butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until mashed potatoes form.
4. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and sour cream.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken Curry
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this creamy and aromatic curry recipe. Rich peanut sauce, succulent chicken, and a hint of spice will transport your taste buds to the streets of Bangkok.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp coconut cream
– 2 tbsp curry paste (Thai red or green)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh Thai basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook chicken until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in peanut butter, curry paste, fish sauce (if using), and coconut cream. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and cook until cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with Thai basil leaves and serve over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Fajitas
This recipe is a twist on traditional fajitas, where chicken and vegetables are cooked to perfection in the slow cooker. With minimal prep work and no need for constant monitoring, this dish is perfect for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 packet of fajita seasoning
– 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 6 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Place chicken, onion, bell peppers, and garlic in the slow cooker.
2. Sprinkle fajita seasoning over the top.
3. Add diced tomatoes with green chilies to the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Shred chicken with two forks and stir to combine with vegetables.
6. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
7. Assemble fajitas by placing shredded chicken mixture onto tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
French Onion Soup with Gruyère
Classic French Onion Soup with Gruyère
French Onion Soup is a quintessential French dish that’s both flavorful and rich. This recipe combines caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted Gruyère cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 4 slices of baguette, toasted
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
2. Add the beef broth, white wine (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Preheat oven broiler.
4. Ladle the soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with toasted baguette slices and grated Gruyère cheese.
5. Place the bowls under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic sliders with these tender and juicy BBQ pulled chicken bites, perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 8 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Shred the chicken with two forks and serve on hamburger buns with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
Brighten up your dinner routine with this flavorful and aromatic Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon recipe. Pan-seared to perfection, this dish is sure to impress with its burst of citrusy freshness.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, melted butter, and minced garlic.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Place the salmon in a baking dish and brush the lemon-garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! This Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a perfect weeknight dinner solution.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add broccoli and garlic to the same pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
5. Return beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Warm Up with Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal!
Start your day off right with a deliciously comforting bowl of oatmeal, infused with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a nourishing breakfast that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 1/2 apple, diced (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine oats, water or milk, diced apple, and butter.
2. Add cinnamon and salt; stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Serve warm, topped with your favorite toppings (e.g., nuts, brown sugar, or a drizzle of honey).
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours
Summary
Get ready to cook up a storm with these 20 delicious and easy-to-make crock pot recipes perfect for busy weeknights! From comforting mac and cheese to flavorful chicken fajitas, there’s something for everyone. Try Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken, Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese, or Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff for a hearty meal. Or, go veggie-friendly with Vegetable Lentil Stew or Spicy Black Bean Chili. Whatever your taste buds crave, these recipes will satisfy your hunger without breaking a sweat.