Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience? Do you wish you had more time to cook up a storm, but your schedule just won’t allow it? Look no further! With these 20 mouth-watering 4-hour crock pot recipes, you can have a delicious meal ready and waiting for you at the end of the day, without sacrificing an ounce of flavor.
From classic comfort foods like creamy mac and cheese to international-inspired dishes like teriyaki chicken thighs, there’s something on this list for everyone. And with cooking times ranging from 4 hours to just a few minutes before serving, you can rest assured that your meal will be ready when you need it to be. So go ahead, toss those ingredients in the crock pot, and get ready to enjoy a stress-free dinner that’s sure to please!
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Elevate your mealtime with this sweet and savory chicken recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together honey, garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the mixture and coat evenly.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Low: 6-8 hours
– High: 3-4 hours
Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
A comforting and creamy twist on the classic macaroni and cheese dish, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons 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 separate bowl, whisk together the milk, flour, and butter until smooth.
3. Add the cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the milk mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Place the cooked macaroni in the crock pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the top.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the macaroni is coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
4-Hour Beef Stew with Vegetables
Enjoy a hearty and comforting beef stew cooked to perfection with tender vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Brown the beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch.
4. Remove the browned beef from the pot and set aside.
5. Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the garlic, carrots, potatoes, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
7. Return the browned beef to the pot and bring to a boil.
8. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
9. Braise for 4 hours or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4 hours
Easy Crock Pot Pulled Pork
Transform your pork shoulder into tender, juicy pulled pork with minimal effort using this simple recipe. Perfect for busy days or gatherings with friends and family!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 hour cooking time
Instructions:
1. Place the pork shoulder in a 6-quart crock pot.
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Pour the mixture over the pork shoulder.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
Serve:
Shredded pulled pork is perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a topping for your favorite sides. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
This recipe is perfect for a busy day or a crowd-pleasing meal. Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and let it do the work while you’re away.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 packet (0.25 oz) taco seasoning
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortillas, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, taco seasoning, and chicken broth in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir to combine with the sauce.
4. Serve the chicken mixture in tortillas with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Herb-Roasted Potatoes in the Crock Pot
Elevate your potato game with this effortless and flavorful recipe that combines the comfort of roasted potatoes with the convenience of a crock pot. Perfect for busy days or gatherings, these tender and aromatic spuds are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the cubed potatoes, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic to a 6-quart crock pot.
2. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
4-Hour BBQ Ribs
Get ready for a tender and juicy BBQ rib experience with this simple recipe that yields incredible results. With just a few hours of prep time, you’ll be enjoying fall-off-the-bone tender ribs without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks pork ribs (about 4 lbs)
– 1 cup BBQ rub
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Remove membrane from the back of ribs.
3. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ rub, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Apply the dry rub evenly to both racks of ribs.
5. Place ribs on a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 2 hours.
7. While ribs are baking, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl.
8. After 2 hours, brush the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over both racks of ribs.
9. Return ribs to oven and bake for an additional 1 hour.
10. Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Crock Pot Creamy Tomato Soup
Warm up with this comforting and creamy tomato soup recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and canned diced tomatoes to a Crock Pot.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and stir well.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, add the heavy cream and dried basil. Stir until combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Elevate your meal with this simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine mushroom slices, garlic, butter, 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.
4. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
4-Hour Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Japan with this simple recipe for tender and juicy chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large baking dish or zip-top plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil or seal the bag. Refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
5. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking. If using a baking dish, remove the foil. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight) + 15-20 minutes baking time
Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers
A hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering, this Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers recipe is easy to make and packed with delicious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage links
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the sausage links in the Crock Pot.
2. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion on top of the sausage.
3. Sprinkle the minced garlic over the vegetables.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, red wine vinegar, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Add a burst of citrusy goodness to your meal routine with this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe. Tender shrimp infused with the brightness of lemon and pungency of garlic – it’s a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine shrimp, garlic, lemon juice, chicken broth, olive oil, parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
3. Stir in any accumulated juices before serving.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
4-Hour Chili con Carne
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that simmers all day, perfect for a cold winter evening. This classic dish is packed with tender beef, rich tomatoes, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 4 hours, or until the flavors have melded together and the meat is tender.
5. Add the kidney beans during the last hour of cooking.
Cooking Time: 4 hours
Crock Pot Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dip perfect for parties or gatherings? This Crock Pot Spinach and Artichoke Dip is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, cheese, parsley, and garlic to a 6-quart Crock Pot.
2. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
3. Stir the dip occasionally until it’s smooth and creamy.
4. Serve warm with tortilla chips, pita bread, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots
Transform ordinary carrots into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this easy slow cooker recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these maple glazed carrots are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together maple syrup, honey, olive oil, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the sliced carrots to the mixture and stir until they’re well coated.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
4-Hour Italian Meatballs
This recipe offers a unique twist on traditional meatballs by cooking them for an extended period, resulting in tender and flavorful bites. Perfect for serving at your next gathering or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each ball.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 4 hours or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 4 hours
Crock Pot Cheesy Broccoli Rice
This comforting dish is a perfect blend of creamy cheese, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice, all cooked to perfection in your Crock Pot. Serve it as a side or add some protein for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup frozen broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the Crock Pot, combine rice, chicken broth, and olive oil. Stir well.
2. Add broccoli florets on top of the rice mixture.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the broccoli.
4. Cook on Low for 4-5 hours or High for 2-3 hours.
5. Remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (Low) or 2-3 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Pineapple BBQ Chicken
Slow Cooker Pineapple BBQ Chicken Recipe
Summary: Sweet and tangy pineapple pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of barbecue sauce, resulting in a deliciously tender and juicy chicken dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken breasts, pineapple juice, brown sugar, BBQ sauce, honey, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in an additional 1 tbsp of BBQ sauce to glaze the chicken.
4. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, vegetables, or salad.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
4-Hour Creamy Tortellini Soup
Warm up with this comforting and creamy tortellini soup recipe, perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch. This easy-to-make soup is filled with tender pasta, rich flavors, and a hint of creaminess.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 12 oz. tortellini (cheese-filled)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and add to the soup pot.
5. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Wings
Transform your snack game with these mouthwatering Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Wings! With a flavorful blend of garlic, parmesan cheese, and tender chicken, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Crock Pot to low heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken wings and toss until coated.
3. Transfer the wings to the preheated Crock Pot. Sprinkle parmesan cheese and oregano evenly over the top.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove the wings from the Crock Pot and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Discover the convenience of slow cooking with these delicious and easy-to-make 4-hour crock pot recipes. Perfect for busy weeknights, these mouth-watering dishes include Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken, Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese, and many more. From classic comfort foods like Beef Stew and Pulled Pork to international-inspired flavors like Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple BBQ Chicken, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 20 recipes.
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