Are you looking for a delicious and easy way to get dinner on the table without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further! Italian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and hearty portions, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a meal that’s both satisfying and stress-free. That’s why we’ve compiled our favorite 20 Hearty Italian Crockpot Recipes to help you do just that.
From classic comfort foods like lasagna and meatball subs to creamy soups and stews, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household. And the best part? They’re all made easy by the slow cooker, which means you can toss everything in and forget about it until dinner time. Whether you’re a busy professional or a busy parent, these Italian-inspired dishes are sure to be a hit with everyone.
In this article, we’ll take a look at our top 20 Hearty Italian Crockpot Recipes for Busy Weeknights, including dishes like Crockpot Italian Beef Sandwiches, Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta, and Crockpot Tuscan White Bean Soup. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting or light and fresh, we’ve got you covered.
Crockpot Italian Beef Sandwiches
Elevate your sandwich game with this slow-cooked, flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a crowd or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef brisket or top round
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 Italian-style sandwich rolls
– Provolone or mozzarella cheese, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the beef with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
2. In a Crockpot, combine the olive oil, garlic, and beef. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth to the Crockpot. Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
4. Shred the beef with two forks and stir in any accumulated juices.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing the shredded beef on the rolls, topping with cheese (if using), and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines the flavors of chicken parmesan with the convenience of a slow cooker. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to make and serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the chicken breasts, marinara sauce, and olive oil. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and toss with the chicken and sauce mixture.
5. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Crockpot Tuscan White Bean Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines tender cannellini beans, aromatic vegetables, and savory chicken broth in a slow-cooked delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to the Crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree some or all of the soup to your desired consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper, if needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Italian Sausage and Peppers
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside. Leave drippings in the skillet.
4. Add onion and garlic to skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add bell peppers to skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
7. Return sausage to skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
8. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
This Italian-inspired soup is a perfect comfort food for a chilly day. With its rich flavors and tender vegetables, it’s a meal that will warm your heart and fill your belly.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Lasagna with Ground Turkey
Perfect for a busy day, this slow-cooked lasagna is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. The ground turkey adds a leaner twist to the classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 6 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the Crockpot and add the crushed tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Assemble the lasagna by spreading a layer of ricotta cheese on the bottom of a serving dish, followed by a layer of turkey mixture and noodles. Repeat for two more layers, finishing with a layer of turkey mixture on top.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Italian Meatball Subs in the Slow Cooker
Italian Meatball Subs in the Slow Cooker
A hearty, flavorful twist on classic subs, these Italian-inspired meatballs are cooked to perfection in your slow cooker and served on crusty sub rolls.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 8-10 sub rolls
– Provolone or mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and garlic. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
2. Roll mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on the slow cooker insert.
3. Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Preheat oven to broil. Assemble subs by placing a few meatballs on each sub roll and topping with shredded cheese (if using). Place under broiler until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Savory chicken, creamy alfredo sauce, and aromatic garlic come together in a comforting slow cooker dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the butter, heavy cream, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the chicken to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, add the fettuccine pasta to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Crockpot Italian Wedding Soup
Classic Italian Wedding Soup Recipe for the Crockpot!
This hearty soup is a staple of Italian cuisine, featuring tender meatballs, vegetables, and small pasta rings in a rich chicken broth. Let your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy a warm and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup small pasta rings (such as acini di pepe or ditalini)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the meatballs: Preheat oven to 400°F. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Form into small balls and bake for 15-20 minutes.
2. Cook the soup: Place chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, oregano, and browned meatballs in the crockpot. Add the cooked pasta rings.
3. Simmer and serve: Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours
Easy Slow Cooker Ratatouille
Transform the flavors of Provence into a hearty and comforting dish with this easy slow cooker ratatouille recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 2 large zucchinis, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup of olive oil for serving
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, bell peppers, zucchinis, and canned tomatoes to the slow cooker.
2. Sprinkle the thyme over the vegetables and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Spaghetti Bolognese
Experience the comfort of a slow-cooked spaghetti bolognese with this easy and satisfying recipe. Let your Crockpot do the work while you’re busy with other things, and come home to a delicious and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the Crockpot with the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Serve with the bolognese sauce and top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Mushroom Risotto
A creamy and flavorful risotto cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 4 cups vegetable broth, divided
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add the mixed mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
4. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Add the white wine and stir to combine.
5. Cook on Low for 6 hours or High for 3 hours.
6. Stir in the tomato paste and 2 cups of broth. Cook for an additional 30 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore
This classic cacciatore recipe gets a modern makeover with the convenience of a crockpot. Tender chicken and rich vegetables come together in a savory sauce that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in the crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano. Pour over the chicken mixture.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Italian Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the classic flavors of Italy with the ease of a slow cooker, resulting in tender peppers filled with savory goodness. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in the slow cooker.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up meat with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Stir in cooked rice, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture and top with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Pesto Tortellini Soup
This recipe combines the flavors of creamy pesto with tender tortellini and vegetables, all slow-cooked to perfection in a crockpot. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless chicken breast
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 bag frozen tortellini (cheese-filled)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, pesto sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the crockpot.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
3. Add frozen tortellini to the crockpot.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sausage and Tortellini Stew
A hearty, comforting stew perfect for a chilly evening. This slow cooker recipe combines savory sausage with cheese-filled tortellini and vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (16 oz) cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, tortellini, oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this Crockpot Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a crowd-pleaser. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can come home to a warm and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the Crockpot, combine olive oil, onion, and garlic. Cook on low for 6 hours.
2. Add chopped tomatoes, broth, and basil. Stir well.
3. Cook for an additional 30 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high
Slow Cooker Italian Herb Pork Roast
Elevate your dinner routine with this tender and flavorful pork roast, infused with the aromas of Italy.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork roast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low setting.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork roast in the slow cooker and pour in chicken broth.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Crockpot Gnocchi with Spinach and Ricotta
Elevate your pasta game with this comforting and flavorful recipe that combines tender gnocchi, wilted spinach, and a rich ricotta sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gnocchi (about 12 oz)
– 2 cups frozen chopped spinach, thawed
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a separate pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a Crockpot, combine the cooked gnocchi, wilted spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Slow Cooker Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This slow cooker version adds an extra layer of convenience, allowing you to prepare the dish in advance and let it cook while you’re busy with other things.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing the slow cooker
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated eggplant slices in the slow cooker, overlapping them slightly as needed.
5. Pour the crushed tomatoes over the eggplant slices.
6. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to enjoy delicious Italian cuisine without the hassle! This collection of 20 hearty crockpot recipes is perfect for busy weeknights. From classic favorites like lasagna and chicken parmesan, to innovative twists on traditional dishes, these slow-cooked meals are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try Crockpot Italian Beef Sandwiches, Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta, or Crockpot Tuscan White Bean Soup for a taste of Italy in every bite.