Are you tired of sacrificing flavor and nutrition for the sake of a busy schedule? Look no further! With these 20 delish crock pot recipes, you can have a mouth-watering meal on your table without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re in the mood for comforting classics like Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese or Spicy Black Bean Soup, or something new and exciting like Teriyaki Pineapple Meatballs or Sweet and Tangy BBQ Ribs, we’ve got you covered.
From easy weeknight dinners to special occasion-worthy meals, these slow cooker recipes are perfect for anyone looking to save time without sacrificing taste. And the best part? They’re all ridiculously easy to make! So go ahead, dig in, and get ready to experience the joy of cooking with minimal effort.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
This recipe is a sweet and savory twist on traditional chicken dishes, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy fall-apart tender chicken smothered in a rich honey garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the chicken, honey, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and steamed vegetables if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic with a twist, this creamy crock pot mac and cheese recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. With minimal effort required, you’ll be enjoying a warm, cheesy dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a crock pot, combine milk, heavy cream, butter, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted.
3. Add the cooked macaroni to the crock pot and stir until well coated with the creamy mixture.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Beef and Broccoli Slow Cooker Delight
A hearty and flavorful slow cooker recipe that combines tender beef and crisp broccoli with a savory sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef sirloin or stew meat
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the beef, broccoli, onion, and garlic to a slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger. Pour the mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Pulled Pork BBQ Sandwiches
Get ready for a flavorful and tender pulled pork BBQ sandwich that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or a heavy-duty foil pan with a lid.
5. Roast the pork for 6-8 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
7. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
8. Add BBQ sauce to taste and mix well.
9. Assemble sandwiches by placing the pulled pork onto hamburger buns.
10. Top with coleslaw, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Savory Crock Pot Pot Roast
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a busy day. This slow-cooked pot roast is tender, flavorful, and falls-apart-easy!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 pound beef pot roast
– 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 the crock pot, layer the sliced onion at the bottom. Place the pot roast on top of the onion.
3. Sprinkle the minced garlic over the pot roast.
4. Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), and tomato paste. Add thyme to taste.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove the pot roast from the crock pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Spicy Black Bean Soup
Spicy Black Bean Soup Recipe
A flavorful and spicy soup perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a nutritious lunch option. This recipe combines the richness of black beans with a kick of heat from diced jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the red bell pepper and jalapeños; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin, then add the black beans, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, cheesy dip that’s perfect for parties and gatherings. This Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Dip is a flavorful twist on traditional queso, packed with shredded chicken and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cooked chicken breast
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1 can (10 oz) of enchilada sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, chicken, cilantro, onion, jalapeño, paprika, and cumin. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese on top of the dip.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and stir in enchilada sauce.
7. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until melted.
Cooking Time: 22-27 minutes
Lazy Day Crock Pot Chili
A hearty and comforting chili recipe that’s perfect for a lazy day when you want something easy to make, yet still deliciously satisfying. This recipe is a classic, with tender ground beef, rich tomato flavor, and just the right amount of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to a crock pot and add the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir in the water and cover the crock pot.
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)
Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with these creamy, flavorful Garlic Parmesan Potatoes that are perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss until potatoes are evenly coated.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the potato mixture and toss again to coat.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange potato slices in a single layer.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the potatoes.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Glazed Carrots
Add a touch of elegance to your meals with these tender and flavorful maple glazed carrots. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, these sweet and sticky carrots are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Pineapple Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this unique Teriyaki Pineapple twist! This sweet and savory fusion combines the classic flavors of teriyaki sauce, juicy pineapple, and tender meatballs for a truly unforgettable taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, egg, soy sauce, honey, and pineapple juice. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, mix together teriyaki sauce and pineapple juice in a small bowl.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with the teriyaki-pineapple glaze. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Cozy up with a warm and comforting bowl of slow cooker beef stew, packed with tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and rich flavors. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a busy day or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine beef, onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, 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, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Herb-Infused Lemon Chicken
Brighten up your meal with this flavorful Herb-Infused Lemon Chicken recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This dish combines the zest of citrus with the earthiness of herbs and tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the herb-lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Tortellini Spinach Soup
This comforting soup is a twist on classic creamy spinach soup, adding the tender bite of cheese-filled tortellini. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup cooked tortellini
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
4. Add spinach and cooked tortellini. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until soup has heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Tangy BBQ Ribs
Get ready to fall in love with these mouthwatering Sweet and Tangy BBQ Ribs! A perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, these ribs are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (4-5 pounds)
– 1/4 cup sweet and tangy BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-low heat (275°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove membrane from the back of ribs, then place them on the grill bone-side down.
4. Brush the sweet and tangy glaze all over the ribs, making sure to cover evenly.
5. Close grill lid and cook for 2 hours or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of a classic baked potato with the convenience of a one-dish meal. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions, diced bell peppers, or crumbled bacon for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, cooked ground beef mixture, and shredded cheese.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and dot with butter.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo
This creamy and comforting slow cooker recipe is a twist on the classic Italian dish. With minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready for your family or friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz fettuccine noodles
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, basil, and garlic powder.
2. Place the chicken in a slow cooker and add the heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and fettuccine noodles.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Stir in some additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegetable Lentil Curry
A comforting and nutritious curry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines the humble lentil with an array of colorful vegetables, all simmered in a rich and aromatic tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, carrot, and bell pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Peach Cobbler Dump Cake
This effortless dessert combines the warmth of a cobbler with the ease of a dump cake. Fresh peaches, sweet biscuits, and a hint of cinnamon come together to create a scrumptious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of peaches in heavy syrup (14 oz)
– 1 package of yellow cake mix
– 1/2 cup of melted butter
– 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 cup of chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Open the can of peaches and pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the peaches.
4. Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix.
5. Sprinkle cinnamon, salt, and chopped pecans (if using) on top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the cake is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chocolate Lava Cake for Two
Experience the thrill of a gooey chocolate center in this indulgent treat, perfect for sharing (or not!) with someone special. This recipe yields two individual cakes, each packed with intense dark chocolate flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), broken into small pieces
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1 large egg yolk
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar.
3. Add the egg yolk, dark chocolate pieces, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Pour the batter into two 6-ounce ramekins or small cups.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool in the ramekins for 1 minute.
7. Run a knife around each cake to loosen, then invert onto plates.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal prep game with these 20 delicious crock pot recipes perfect for busy weeknights! From classic comfort foods like slow cooker mac and cheese and creamy tortellini soup, to international twists like teriyaki pineapple meatballs and vegetable lentil curry, there’s something for everyone. Plus, quick and easy options like pulled pork BBQ sandwiches and lazy day chili make mealtime a breeze. Whether you’re in the mood for savory or sweet, these flavorful recipes will keep your taste buds happy all week long.
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