Are you tired of scrambling to come up with a quick and delicious dinner idea for your family on busy weeknights? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 hearty crockpot recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From comforting classics like creamy chicken and mushroom stews to international-inspired dishes like teriyaki chicken thighs and Indian-style vegetable curries, there’s something for everyone.
These slow-cooked meals are perfect for busy families on-the-go, as they require minimal prep time and can be left to simmer away while you’re out and about. Plus, the result is always a tender, flavorful dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and new, we’ve got you covered with these 20 tried-and-true crockpot recipes.
Creamy Crockpot Chicken and Mushrooms
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe is a staple of crockpot cooking, with tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and a rich creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. In a crockpot, combine the chicken, mushrooms, garlic, cream cheese, and chicken broth. Mix until the chicken is coated.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Red Wine
A hearty and flavorful stew that simmers all day to tenderize the beef and meld the flavors together.
Ingredients:
• 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the beef cubes, onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes to a slow cooker.
2. Pour in the red wine and beef broth.
3. Sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook on Low for 8-10 hours or High for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the stew to thicken.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Crockpot Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chop game with this simple and delicious recipe that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory flavor of garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these tender and juicy chops are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless pork chops
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the Crockpot, whisk together honey, garlic, olive oil, and thyme.
2. Add the pork chops to the Crockpot and season with salt and pepper.
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)
Easy Crockpot Mac and Cheese
Easy Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe
A classic comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is a staple for a reason – it’s creamy, cheesy, and satisfyingly rich.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded 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 the crockpot, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
3. Add the cooked macaroni to the crockpot and stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Spicy Crockpot Chili with Beans
A hearty and flavorful chili that’s perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a crockpot and add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
Transform your slow cooker into a tenderizing machine with this easy recipe that yields fall-apart pulled pork smothered in tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the pork in a slow cooker. Add sliced onions on top.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in BBQ sauce to coat the pork.
5. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup
This Crockpot recipe yields a comforting and flavorful soup perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal. With tender chicken, soft tortillas, and a hint of spice, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 tortilla chips (your favorite brand)
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Place chicken breasts in the Crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together diced tomatoes with green chilies, red kidney beans, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, add tortilla chips to the Crockpot.
6. Serve hot, topped with your favorite toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Herb-Roasted Crockpot Potatoes
A flavorful twist on traditional roasted potatoes, this recipe uses a crockpot to infuse tender potatoes with the essence of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat crockpot to low (6 hours) or high (3-4 hours).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Place potato mixture in the crockpot and cook according to desired cooking time.
4. Check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife; potatoes should be tender when pierced.
Cooking Time: 3-6 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty and easy-to-make slow cooker recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage links
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the sliced bell peppers and onions in the slow cooker.
2. Add the Italian sausage links on top of the vegetables.
3. Sprinkle the minced garlic over the sausage.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the 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, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Beef and Broccoli
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender beef and crisp broccoli come together in this easy-to-make Crockpot recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (chuck or round), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the sliced beef, broccoli, onion, beef broth, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the Crockpot.
2. Stir gently to combine.
3. Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours.
4. Remove the beef from the pot and place it on a plate. Strain the cooking liquid and discard the solids.
5. Serve the beef with the strained cooking liquid spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Lazy Crockpot Lasagna
Simplify your life with this easy, hands-off lasagna recipe that’s perfect for busy days. Just layer ingredients in the crockpot and let it cook while you’re away.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup lasagna noodles
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a pan with the chopped onion and minced garlic.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. In the crockpot, layer half of the lasagna noodles, followed by half of the meat sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
4. Repeat the layers: noodles, meat sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and cover the crockpot.
6. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low), 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Transform a weeknight dinner into a rich and satisfying meal with this easy slow cooker recipe. Tender chicken, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta come together in a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or bow tie)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, chicken broth, heavy cream, butter, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add cooked pasta to the slow cooker and stir gently to combine with the sauce.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
A sweet and savory twist on traditional chicken thighs, this Crockpot recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken thighs in the Crockpot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken thighs.
4. Sprinkle with black pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Crockpot Vegetable Curry
Transform a variety of colorful vegetables into a flavorful and nutritious curry with minimal effort! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen green beans
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients, except coconut milk, to the crockpot.
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in coconut milk and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in. This slow cooker garlic butter chicken is tender, flavorful, and packed with aromatic goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Place the chicken in the slow cooker.
3. Mix together the garlic and butter until smooth.
4. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the chicken.
5. Add the chicken broth to the slow cooker.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Minestrone Soup
This comforting Italian-inspired soup is a perfect blend of vegetables, beans, and pasta cooked 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 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to your Crockpot in the order listed.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Sweet and Sour Crockpot Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the tanginess of sweet and sour sauce with the comfort of slow-cooked meatballs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the crockpot to Low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place in the crockpot.
4. Pour in diced tomatoes and sweet and sour sauce. Stir to combine.
5. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots
Transform ordinary carrots into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this easy slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine the sliced carrots, maple syrup, butter, apple cider vinegar, and cinnamon.
2. Season with salt to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Check the carrots after the minimum cooking time. If they’re tender but not quite glazed, continue cooking in 30-minute increments until desired glaze forms.
Cooking Time:
– Low: 6-8 hours
– High: 3-4 hours
Crockpot Cheesy Potato Casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of creamy cheese, tender potatoes, and savory seasonings, all cooked to perfection in the crockpot. It’s an easy and satisfying side dish or main course for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Place the potato slices in the crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheese, milk, cream of mushroom soup, and thyme. Pour the mixture over the potatoes.
3. Dot the top with butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Transform a weeknight dinner into a luxurious meal with this simple and flavorful recipe. Succulent shrimp are infused with the brightness of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the richness of butter in a slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine shrimp, garlic, lemon juice, butter, and thyme.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours
Summary
Get ready to revolutionize your busy weeknights with these 20 delicious and hearty crockpot recipes! From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and beef stew, to international flavors like teriyaki chicken and vegetable curry, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy tender and flavorful dishes like pulled pork and lasagna, or try new twists on old favorites like creamy chicken and mushrooms. With these easy-to-make recipes, you’ll have more time to focus on what matters most – spending quality time with family and friends.
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