Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience when it comes to dinner? Look no further! Crockpots are a busy person’s best friend, allowing you to throw all your ingredients in one pot and come home to a ready-to-eat meal. With the right recipes, you can create mouthwatering dishes that will please even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic comfort foods like pulled pork sandwiches and creamy mac and cheese, to international-inspired dishes like crockpot chicken tacos and teriyaki chicken, we’ve got 20 delicious recipes to help you cook up a storm. Whether you’re a seasoned slow cooker pro or just starting out, these easy-to-follow recipes will guide you through the process of creating a stress-free dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe
Cozy up with this hearty slow cooker beef stew recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you need a comforting meal. With tender chunks of beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the beef, onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, peas and carrots, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Crockpot Chicken Tacos
Simplify your taco Tuesday with this delicious and effortless recipe. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have tender, flavorful chicken ready to be piled high into tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1/4 cup water
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Place chicken breasts in the Crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together canned tomatoes, taco seasoning, and water. Pour mixture over chicken.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Shred chicken with two forks and stir to combine with sauce.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning chicken mixture onto tortillas, adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Easy Crockpot Chili
Warm up with this simple and delicious crockpot chili recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a pan over medium-high heat until fully cooked.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to your crockpot, followed by the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir well to combine, then cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready to sink your teeth into tender pulled pork sandwiches that are sure to please! This simple recipe yields delicious results with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles, for serving (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 pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork shoulder in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with a lid.
5. Pour 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce over the pork.
6. Cover the pot and bake for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in any remaining barbecue sauce.
8. Serve on hamburger buns with coleslaw or pickles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese
This comforting classic gets a creamy twist when cooked low and slow in the crockpot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 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 separate bowl, whisk together the milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cooked macaroni to the crockpot. Pour in the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the mac and cheese is creamy and heated through.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
This slow cooker recipe combines sweet honey with savory garlic to create a mouthwatering chicken dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, you’ll be enjoying tender and flavorful chicken in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together honey, garlic, olive oil, and thyme.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Vegetable Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup made easily in your crockpot! This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, and can be customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as corn, peas, and green beans)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, and chopped red bell pepper to the crockpot.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and mixed vegetables. Stir gently to combine.
3. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
BBQ Crockpot Ribs
Transform your ribs into tender, mouthwatering masterpieces with this easy crockpot recipe. Perfect for a crowd or a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef or pork ribs
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the ribs with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Place the ribs in a crockpot, leaving some space between each rack.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the ribs, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove the ribs from the crockpot and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Slow Cooker Pot Roast
A hearty, comforting pot roast cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for a busy day when you want a satisfying meal without much effort.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 pound beef pot roast (such as chuck or rump)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pot roast with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine sliced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and dried thyme.
3. Place the seasoned pot roast in the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the pot roast from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Crockpot Chicken Alfredo
Savor a rich and satisfying meal with this effortless recipe that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fettuccine pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this slow-cooked masterpiece is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Place chicken, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper in the Crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
4. Stir butter into the sauce until melted.
5. Add cooked pasta to the Crockpot and toss with the creamy chicken mixture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-7 hours (low) or 1-4 hours (high)
Spicy Crockpot Black Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors, with the spiciness from jalapenos and cumin adding depth to the rich black beans. It’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a chilly weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 jalapenos, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Add the onion, garlic, jalapenos, and red bell pepper to the crockpot.
2. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the black beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and water.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
This classic combination of tender beef and crisp broccoli is a staple for a reason – it’s easy, flavorful, and ready when you need it. This slow cooker recipe lets you come home to a satisfying dinner without much fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine beef, broccoli, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in beef broth and soy sauce.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
This comforting recipe combines juicy sausage with tender peppers, all slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the crockpot.
2. Place the sliced peppers on top of the onions.
3. Insert the sausage links into the crockpot, leaving a little space between each link.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes and sprinkle with 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 fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Crockpot Lasagna
Easy Crockpot Lasagna: A Twist on a Classic
Get ready to revolutionize your lasagna game with this easy and delicious crockpot recipe! This casserole-style dish is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent.
3. In the crockpot, combine the cooked ground beef mixture, marinara sauce, and lasagna noodles.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg.
5. Spoon the cheese mixture over the lasagna noodles in the crockpot.
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)
Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly day or when you need a pick-me-up. With tender chicken, soft noodles, and a flavorful broth, it’s a classic recipe that’s easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 cup noodles (egg noodles or rice noodles work well)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and add the noodles, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
Elevate your mealtime with this simple and flavorful crockpot teriyaki chicken recipe. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and moist dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
– Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic powder.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in sesame oil (if using).
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegetarian Crockpot Lentil Stew
Cozy up with this hearty and flavorful lentil stew, perfect for a cold winter’s day or any time you need a comforting meal.
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 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, carrots, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, thyme, and cumin to a large crockpot.
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)
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken
A rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a busy day, this slow cooker garlic butter chicken is tender, juicy, and packed with aromatic flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken breasts, garlic, butter, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the chicken is covered.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and serve with the rich garlic butter sauce.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Beef Stroganoff
This classic recipe is a twist on the traditional beef stroganoff, cooked to perfection in your crockpot. With tender beef, creamy sauce, and served over egg noodles, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place beef strips, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika in the crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve beef mixture over cooked egg noodles and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots
Transform plain carrots into a sweet and sticky delight with this easy slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine the sliced carrots, maple syrup, butter, and cinnamon.
2. Season with salt to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme (optional).
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of maple syrup to your desired level of sweetness.
– If using a high-powered slow cooker, reduce cooking time by half.
Summary
Looking for a quick and easy dinner solution? These 20 delicious crockpot recipes are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods like beef stew and mac and cheese, to international flavors like tacos and teriyaki chicken, there’s something for everyone. Plus, many of these recipes can be prepared in just minutes – simply add your ingredients to the slow cooker and let it do the work while you’re away. Whether you’re a busy parent or a working professional, these crockpot recipes are sure to become a staple in your household.
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