Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these mouth-watering, nutritious, and incredibly easy crock pot recipes! With just a few simple ingredients and some careful planning, you can whip up a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty slow-cooked meal for the weekend, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 scrumptious and healthy crock pot recipes.
From classic comfort foods to international flavors and innovative twists on old favorites, these slow cooker recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And the best part? They’re all ridiculously easy to make, requiring minimal effort and attention from you while the magic happens in your trusty crock pot.
In this article, we’ll take a tour of our favorite 20 delicious and healthy crock pot recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen. From classic chicken dishes to innovative vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab a pen, get ready to drool, and let’s dive into the world of easy, healthy, and utterly scrumptious slow cooker recipes!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Quinoa Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect meal solution for busy days. With quinoa’s nutty flavor, tender chicken, and rich broth, this slow cooker recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add chicken, quinoa, water or broth, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and canned tomatoes to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Crock Pot Lentil and Vegetable Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and nutrients, all made easy with your trusty Crock Pot. With minimal prep time and cooking effort, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious meal ready to go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, broth, onion, garlic, carrots, bell pepper, and diced tomatoes to the Crock Pot.
2. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Healthy Crock Pot Turkey Chili
A hearty and nutritious chili recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. This recipe uses lean ground turkey, fiber-rich beans, and aromatic spices to create a deliciously healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Add the ground turkey, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the crock pot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the chicken broth and stir well.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
This classic comfort food recipe is a staple for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a tender and flavorful beef and broccoli dish ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the sliced beef, broccoli, onion, and garlic in a slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, and olive oil. Pour the mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers
Transform bell peppers into a flavorful and nutritious meal with this easy-to-make Crock Pot recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (vegetarian option: omit or substitute with soy cheese)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in the Crock Pot.
2. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, black beans, diced tomatoes, cheese (if using), onion, garlic, and cumin.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this slow cooker recipe, perfect for a busy day or a stress-free dinner party.
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
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, honey, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips:
– Serve with your favorite sides, such as rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables.
– Adjust the amount of garlic to your liking.
– This recipe is perfect for meal prep or a weeknight dinner.
Healthy Crock Pot Minestrone Soup
Warm up with this nutritious and flavorful crock pot minestrone soup, packed with vegetables, beans, and whole grains for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to the crock pot in the order listed.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Easy Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup
A hearty, comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This easy recipe requires minimal effort and yields a deliciously flavorful result.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Stir in the black beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and cumin.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Salmon
Moist and flavorful salmon cooked to perfection with a bright and zesty lemon garlic sauce. This easy Crock Pot recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Line the Crock Pot with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray.
2. Place the salmon fillets in a single layer on the bottom of the Crock Pot.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the sauce over the salmon fillets.
5. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (LOW) or 3-4 hours (HIGH)
Slow Cooker Sweet Potato and Chickpea Curry
Slow Cooker Sweet Potato and Chickpea Curry Recipe
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious curry that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creamy texture of chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14.5 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add sweet potatoes, chickpeas, onion, garlic, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together coconut milk and 1/4 cup water. Pour into the slow cooker.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Enjoy your delicious and easy Slow Cooker Sweet Potato and Chickpea Curry!
Healthy Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, packed with protein-rich chicken, fiber-filled vegetables, and whole grain tortillas. With minimal effort, you’ll have a comforting and nutritious meal ready in just a few hours.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) corn, drained
– 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, zucchini, bell peppers)
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 whole wheat tortillas, cut into strips
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a crock pot, combine chicken, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, mixed vegetables, and chicken broth.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic on top of the mixture.
3. Place tortilla strips on top of the soup.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with optional jalapenos or hot sauce.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Slow Cooker Quinoa and Vegetable Stew
A hearty and nutritious slow cooker stew that’s perfect for a busy day. This recipe combines quinoa with a variety of vegetables, aromatic spices, and savory broth to create a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a slow cooker, combine olive oil, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Add cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir well.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Mushroom and Spinach Risotto
Transform your Crock Pot into a risotto maker with this easy, creamy recipe that combines the earthiness of mushrooms and spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the Crock Pot, combine rice, broth, oil, onion, and mushrooms. Stir to combine.
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add spinach leaves and stir well.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional spinach if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Turkey and White Bean Chili
This comforting recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey, white beans, and spices to create a deliciously easy meal. Perfect for a chilly day or a busy weeknight, this slow cooker chili is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a skillet, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and spices to the slow cooker.
3. Add the cooked turkey, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Healthy Crock Pot Greek Chicken
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional chicken recipes, packed with the classic Mediterranean flavors of Greece. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious and healthy meal ready to go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the crock pot, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, oregano, and lemon zest.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the mixture and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle feta cheese (if using) over the top of the chicken.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup
Easy Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy butternut squash soup, cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the cubed squash, butter, onion, and garlic to your slow cooker.
2. Pour in the broth and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and nutmeg.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Coconut Curry Lentils
A flavorful and nutritious vegan dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the exotic flavors of coconut curry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the lentils, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, coconut milk, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper to a 6-quart Crock Pot.
2. Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Slow Cooker Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin
Slow Cooker Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin: A sweet and tangy glaze elevates the tender flavor of pork tenderloin, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard.
2. In a slow cooker, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, brown sugar, and olive oil.
3. Add the pork tenderloin to the slow cooker, spooning some of the glaze over the top.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Healthy Crock Pot Vegetable Lasagna
Elevate your lasagna game with this delicious and nutritious recipe that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a stress-free weekend meal. This veggie-packed crock pot lasagna is a healthier twist on the classic Italian dish, packed with sautéed vegetables, lean protein, and gooey cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms)
– 1 can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 6-8 lasagna noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey until browned; add chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until softened.
3. Add mixed vegetables, crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Assemble the crock pot lasagna by layering cooked noodles, turkey mixture, and cheese mixture in that order.
6. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Brown Rice
This comforting dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, requiring minimal effort from you! Simply place all the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken, brown rice, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and thyme to your 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 and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of delicious, easy, and healthy crock pot recipes! This collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes will satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body. From classic comfort foods like chicken and quinoa stew to international flavors like coconut curry lentils, there’s something for everyone. With simple ingredients and minimal effort required, these nutritious meals are perfect for busy households or those looking to meal prep. Dive in and discover the joy of slow cooking with these wholesome recipes!