Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen during the week, only to come home to a family that’s still hungry? If so, it’s time to get familiar with your slow cooker! These amazing appliances can cook up a storm while you’re away, leaving you with a delicious meal ready to devour as soon as you walk in the door. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering slow cooker recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods like beef stew and mac and cheese, to international-inspired dishes like Thai peanut chicken and Italian meatballs, there’s something on this list for everyone.
From hearty stews and soups to tender meats and flavorful sides, our slow cooker recipes are designed to make your life easier – and tastier! So go ahead, give one (or two, or three…) a try tonight. Your family will thank you!
Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
A comforting slow cooker stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines tender beef, root vegetables, and rich flavors to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck roast
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chopped onion, minced garlic, beef chuck roast, carrots, potatoes, and parsnip.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Pour the mixture over the vegetables and beef.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo
This recipe combines the comfort of chicken alfredo with the ease of slow cooking, resulting in a rich and creamy dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
Instructions:
1. Place chicken, cream of mushroom soup, heavy cream, parsley, garlic powder, and paprika in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions.
4. Stir cooked pasta into the slow cooker with peas and carrots.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Elevate your sandwich game with this tender and flavorful pulled pork recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
2. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the pork.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the pork and onions.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and serve on hamburger buns.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili
This hearty vegetarian chili recipe is a perfect meal solution for a busy day. Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and let it do the work while you’re away.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups diced tomatoes
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Add all the ingredients to your slow cooker.
2. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this effortless slow cooker recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
• 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken thighs.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and paprika.
3. Pour the honey-garlic mixture over the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Remove from slow cooker and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
This classic comfort food gets a slow cooker makeover, resulting in a creamy, cheesy macaroni dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party.
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
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Add cooked macaroni to the slow cooker. Stir until coated with cheese sauce.
4. Dot the top of the mac and cheese with butter.
5. Cook on Low for 2-3 hours or High for 1 hour.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (Low) or 1 hour (High)
Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken
Savor the bold flavors of Thailand with this easy and delicious slow cooker recipe. This dish combines juicy chicken, creamy peanut sauce, and aromatic spices for a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp Thai red curry paste
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, ginger, curry paste, and cumin.
2. Add chicken breasts to the slow cooker; coat with the peanut sauce.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a busy day. This slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare and yields tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine beef, broccoli, onion, garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), 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 over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Italian Meatballs
Experience the flavors of Italy with this hearty and delicious slow cooker meatball recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25).
4. Place sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker.
5. Add garlic on top of the onion.
6. Place the meatballs on top of the garlic.
7. Pour crushed tomatoes over the meatballs.
8. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful slow cooker soup that combines tender chicken, savory tortillas, and rich vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 packet (0.25 oz) taco seasoning
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken, onion, garlic, bell peppers, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and taco seasoning to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add the tortilla pieces and chicken broth to the slow cooker.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with your desired toppings (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs
Get ready to fall off the bone with these tender and flavorful slow cooker BBQ ribs!
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs (optional but recommended).
4. Place ribs in the slow cooker and sprinkle with the spice mixture.
5. Pour in BBQ sauce and beer (if using).
6. Cover and cook for 8-10 hours or until tender and easily pulled apart.
7. Serve with additional BBQ sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Slow Cooker Lentil Curry
Warm up with a hearty and aromatic slow cooker lentil curry that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, onion, garlic, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in vegetable broth and stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Stir in coconut milk before serving.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pot Roast with Gravy
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal, this slow cooker pot roast with gravy recipe is a hearty and flavorful option that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef pot roast
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Season the pot roast with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme.
3. Place the pot roast in the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, mix the flour with a little water to make a paste, then stir it into the juices in the slow cooker.
5. Serve hot, spooning some of the rich gravy over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a busy day. This recipe fills bell peppers with a savory mixture of rice, beans, and cheese, then lets the slow cooker do its magic.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to Low.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in the slow cooker.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked rice, black beans, cheese, olive oil, onion, and garlic.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Teriyaki Salmon
Transform your salmon into a flavorful and tender dish with this easy slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, and grated ginger.
2. Place salmon fillets in the slow cooker, making sure they are not touching each other.
3. Cook on Low for 6 hours or High for 3 hours.
4. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 6 hours (Low) or 3 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of minestrone soup, simmered to perfection in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni)
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, vegetable broth, pasta shapes, and dried basil 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, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole
A delicious and comforting sweet potato casserole that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal or a potluck gathering. This slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare and yields a flavorful, creamy dish with a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine sweet potatoes, cream of chicken soup, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
4. If using cheese, sprinkle on top and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
Elevate your comfort food game with this easy and flavorful slow cooker recipe that combines juicy sausage, crunchy peppers, and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet or hot Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika for added smokiness
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine sausage, bell peppers, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in chicken broth and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Looking for quick and easy dinner solutions? Look no further! This article presents 18 delicious slow cooker recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods like beef stew and mac and cheese to international flavors like Thai peanut chicken and teriyaki salmon, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make – simply throw all the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. Get ready to enjoy stress-free meals that are both flavorful and convenient!
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