Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen on busy nights? Look no further! Slow cookers are a busy person’s best friend, allowing you to throw all your ingredients into one pot and let it do the work while you’re out and about. And the best part? The results are always delicious and satisfying.
From hearty stews and soups to flavorful sauces and tender meats, slow cooker recipes have something for everyone. Whether you’re a meat-lover or a vegetarian, there’s a recipe on this list that’s sure to become a new favorite. So why not start by trying one of these 20 mouthwatering slow cooker recipes?
Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
A hearty and comforting stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening, made easy with the help of your slow cooker. This recipe combines tender beef with a medley of root vegetables in a rich and flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the beef, potatoes, carrot, parsnip, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Pour the mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this easy and comforting slow cooker recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Stir the chicken mixture and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with cooked pasta and garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili
A hearty and flavorful vegetarian chili that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal supervision, making it ideal for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to the slow cooker in the order listed.
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 or scallions (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Slow Cooker BBQ Sauce
Transform your pulled pork into a mouthwatering sandwich experience by slow cooking it to perfection and serving it on a soft bun with a tangy, sweet, and smoky BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup Slow Cooker BBQ Sauce (see below)
– 8 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles for topping (optional)
Slow Cooker BBQ Sauce:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to Low.
2. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
3. Place the pork in the slow cooker and pour in the Slow Cooker BBQ Sauce.
4. Cook for 8 hours or overnight (10-12 hours).
5. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
6. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast them.
7. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the pulled pork on the buns and topping with coleslaw or pickles (if desired).
Cooking Time: 8-12 hours
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this mouthwatering slow cooker recipe, perfect for busy households.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, honey, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Pour in chicken broth and mix again.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove from slow cooker and serve hot.
Tips:
– For a sticky glaze, remove chicken from slow cooker during last hour of cooking and brush with pan juices.
– Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice for a satisfying meal.
Slow Cooker Lentil and Sausage Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup made easy with the help of your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine lentils, onion, garlic, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, sausage, chicken broth, 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 chopped fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Get ready for a flavor explosion with these tender meatballs coated in a tangy sweet and sour sauce, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands or a spoon to shape into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place in the slow cooker.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and garlic powder.
5. Pour the sweet and sour mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
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 and Dumplings
A comforting classic that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe is easy to prepare and lets your slow cooker do the work.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Gradually add in milk and stir until a thick batter forms.
4. Pour dumpling mixture over chicken in the slow cooker.
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)
Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine
Experience the rich flavors of Morocco with this slow-cooked lamb tagine, perfect for a comforting and aromatic meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb pieces, then transfer them to the slow cooker.
2. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and turmeric to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the cooked vegetable mixture, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and honey to the slow cooker.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Teriyaki Salmon with Vegetables
This recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make meal that combines the rich taste of teriyaki sauce with the tender texture of salmon, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the salmon fillets to the slow cooker, making sure they’re coated with the sauce.
3. Top each fillet with an onion slice and a bell pepper slice.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Teriyaki Salmon with Vegetables!
Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup
This hearty soup is a classic Italian wedding tradition, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. With its rich flavors and tender vegetables, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 1/2 cup frozen green beans
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, broth, tomatoes, onion, garlic, pasta, and green beans.
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Potatoes Recipe
Summary: These creamy, cheesy potatoes are a perfect side dish for any occasion. Simply toss your favorite potatoes with some garlic, parmesan cheese, and herbs, then let your slow cooker do the rest!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the potato cubes, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, 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. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Note: You can adjust the cooking time based on your slow cooker’s performance and the size of your potatoes.
Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of tender tortellini, vegetables, and rich cream in this easy slow cooker recipe. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large slow cooker, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, tortellini, basil, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
5. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-9 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the convenience of slow cooking with the flavors of a traditional stir-fry, all in one easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the sliced beef, broccoli, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, and olive oil. Pour the mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and savory slow cooker ham, perfect for a stress-free celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless ham
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Place the ham in a slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour the glaze over the ham, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Ratatouille with Fresh Herbs
Slow Cooker Ratatouille with Fresh Herbs: A flavorful and aromatic French-inspired vegetable stew that’s perfect for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium eggplants, diced
– 2 medium bell peppers, diced
– 2 cups of fresh tomatoes, cored and chopped (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, basil, and oregano leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine onion, garlic, eggplants, bell peppers, tomatoes, and olive oil.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Slow Cooker Spicy Sausage and Bean Casserole
This hearty slow cooker casserole combines the flavors of spicy sausage, tender beans, and creamy sauce for a comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy sausage (such as Andouille or Italian-style), sliced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine sausage, onion, garlic, black beans, kidney beans, chicken broth, tomato sauce, and cumin.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs
A bright and citrusy twist on classic chicken thighs, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker and coat with the lemon mixture.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup
This recipe yields a rich and comforting slow cooker soup that’s perfect for chilly days or as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine the squash, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream or half-and-half.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake
A rich and decadent dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make! This slow cooker recipe yields a moist and gooey chocolate lava cake that’s perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to cook up a storm with these 20 delicious slow cooker recipes perfect for busy nights! From hearty stews and chilies to creamy soups and savory meats, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Impress your family and friends with Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables, Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo, or Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Slow Cooker BBQ Sauce. Or, try one of the many vegetarian options like Slow Cooker Lentil and Sausage Soup or Slow Cooker Ratatouille with Fresh Herbs. With these easy and convenient recipes, you’ll never have to sacrifice flavor for speed again.
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