Are you tired of sacrificing taste for budget-friendliness when it comes to mealtime? Look no further! Slow cookers are a game-changer in the kitchen, allowing you to prepare a variety of mouthwatering meals with minimal effort and cost. In this article, we’ll dive into 20 delicious cheap slow cooker recipes that are perfect for busy households on a budget.
From hearty stews and soups to comforting casseroles and sandwiches, these recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen. And the best part? They’re all easy on the wallet! Whether you’re a college student looking for a quick and affordable meal solution or a family on a tight budget, these slow cooker recipes have got you covered.
So why wait? Let’s get started with our first recipe…
Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Recipe
Easily prepare a delicious and comforting meal with this simple slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and thyme.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time:
– Low: 6-8 hours
– High: 3-4 hours
Note: You can also cook the chicken separately before adding it to the slow cooker if you prefer.
Beef and Potato Stew
A comforting and flavorful stew perfect for a chilly evening or a weeknight dinner. This classic recipe combines tender beef, potatoes, and vegetables in a rich broth that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck or stew meat
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, beef broth, water, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
5. Add the cubed potatoes and continue to simmer for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until they’re tender.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Vegetable Lentil Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of this flavorful vegetable lentil soup, packed with nutrients and easy to make!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready to sink your teeth into tender, juicy pulled pork sandwiches with a rich, tangy flavor profile.
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 your slow cooker to low heat.
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 it’s evenly coated.
4. Place the pork in the slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
5. After 8 hours, remove the pork from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
6. In a separate bowl, mix the shredded pork with barbecue sauce until well combined.
7. Split the hamburger buns in half and spoon the pulled pork mixture onto each bun.
8. Top with coleslaw, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker) + assembly time
Black Bean Chili
This vegetarian chili recipe is a flavorful and filling meal perfect for a chilly evening. With its rich blend of spices, tender black beans, and sweet tomatoes, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook onion, garlic, and red bell pepper over medium-high heat until tender.
2. Add black beans, vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Potato Casserole
A comforting side dish perfect for family gatherings or weeknight meals, this Cheesy Potato Casserole is a crowd-pleaser. With its rich and creamy sauce, crispy topping, and tender potatoes, it’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 3 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, flour, and paprika. Pour the mixture over the potato mixture and stir until combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with grated cheese.
5. Dot the top with melted butter.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese Recipe
Transform your favorite comfort food into a hands-off, slow-cooked masterpiece with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the cooked macaroni to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: Low – 3-4 hours, High – 1-2 hours
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy macaroni dish straight from the slow cooker!
Chicken Tortilla Soup
This recipe makes a deliciously comforting pot of soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you need a pick-me-up. With tender chicken, crunchy tortilla strips, and flavorful vegetables, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Shredded cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onions, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and tortilla strips. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Barley Stew
A classic comfort food dish, this beef and barley stew is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. With its rich flavor profile and tender chunks of beef, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, beef broth, barley, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Vegetable and Chickpea Curry
This flavorful curry recipe is a perfect blend of protein-rich chickpeas, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices. It’s a great option for a quick and nutritious meal that can be served with rice, naan, or roti.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium bell pepper, diced
– 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add bell pepper and carrot; cook for 5 minutes or until tender.
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using).
5. Add chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
6. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve over rice or with naan/roti.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce
Add a rich and flavorful twist to your pasta dishes with this effortless slow cooker spaghetti sauce recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker, along with marinara sauce, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve over cooked spaghetti noodles and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Corned Beef and Cabbage
Classic Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe
A traditional St. Patrick’s Day dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound corned beef brisket, flat cut
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon mustard powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Rinse the corned beef under cold running water, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the spice mixture all over the corned beef, making sure to cover evenly.
5. Place the corned beef in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with a tight-fitting lid.
6. Add the chopped cabbage to the pot, leaving some space between the meat and the cabbage.
7. Pour in the water and bring to a boil over high heat.
8. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 3-4 hours or until the corned beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Cheesy Broccoli Rice
This comforting side dish is a perfect blend of tender broccoli, flavorful rice, and melted cheese. It’s an easy and satisfying accompaniment to your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine remaining 1 tablespoon butter, milk, and grated cheese. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and smooth.
4. Combine cooked rice, broccoli mixture, and cheesy sauce in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Rice cooking time: about 15-20 minutes
– Broccoli and cheese preparation: about 5-7 minutes
– Total cooking time: approximately 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Dumplings
This classic recipe is a staple of comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or when you need a pick-me-up. With tender chicken and fluffy dumplings, this dish is sure to warm your heart and belly.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups biscuit or dumpling mix
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken, broth, carrots, celery, onion, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Prepare the dumplings by following the package instructions.
4. Add the dumplings to the pot and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lentil and Sausage Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect comfort food dish for a chilly evening, packed with tender lentils, flavorful sausage, and aromatic vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 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
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of black beans, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the sweet potato and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the black beans, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Ratatouille
Ratatouille, a classic Provençal dish, is reimagined for the slow cooker. This flavorful stew is perfect for a cozy dinner or a busy day when you want to come home to a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, bell peppers, zucchinis, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and thyme to the slow cooker.
2. 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 chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff Recipe
A classic Russian-inspired dish that combines tender beef strips with sautéed mushrooms, creamy sauce, and steaming egg noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add mushrooms. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Sprinkle flour over mushroom mixture; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually stir in beef broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook until sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Return beef to pan and stir to coat with sauce. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Serve beef mixture over cooked noodles and garnish with parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Beef Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of homemade vegetable beef soup, packed with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cups mixed vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of BBQ chicken with this effortless slow cooker recipe. Perfect for a crowd or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4-6 hours of unattended cooking time
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken breasts.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Shred the chicken with two forks and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Summary
Get delicious meals on a budget with these 20 mouth-watering slow cooker recipes! From classic comfort foods like pulled pork sandwiches and cheesy mac and cheese, to international flavors like vegetable lentil soup and beef and mushroom stroganoff, there’s something for everyone. These affordable and easy-to-make dishes are perfect for busy households or special occasions. With a focus on wholesome ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying flavorful meals in no time. Try one (or twenty!) of these tasty recipes today and stretch your budget without sacrificing taste!