Are you tired of coming home to a kitchen full of dirty dishes and a stomach growling with hunger after a long day? Do you struggle to find time to cook a healthy, delicious meal for your family? Look no further! The slow cooker is here to save the day. With its ability to simmer away while you’re at work or running errands, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights.
In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering slow cooker recipes that are sure to become staples in your household. From hearty stews and soups to creamy pasta dishes and indulgent desserts, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab a cup of coffee, get cozy, and let us guide you through the world of slow cooking.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
Warm up on a chilly day with this hearty slow cooker beef stew, packed with tender chunks of beef and a medley of root vegetables. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and parsnip to the slow cooker.
3. Pour in the browned beef, beef broth, and thyme.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Mushrooms
This comforting recipe is a perfect solution for a busy day when you need a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare. With minimal effort, you’ll get a rich and creamy chicken dish packed with tender mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, mushrooms, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in chicken broth and add thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in 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 Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Elevate your mealtime with this sweet and savory recipe that’s perfect for a busy day.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, whisk together the honey, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
3. Add the olive oil and stir to combine.
4. Place the pork chops in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove the pork chops from the slow cooker and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili with Beans
Cozy up with this hearty, plant-based chili that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing meal. This slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
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
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker in the order listed.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Slow Cooker Pulled BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Slow Cooker Pulled BBQ Chicken Sandwiches Recipe
Get ready for tender, juicy chicken sandwiches smothered in sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir in any remaining juices from the slow cooker.
4. Split hamburger buns in half and top each half with a generous amount of pulled chicken.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy! (Optional: Add coleslaw on top for an extra burst of flavor.)
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup
Warm up with this comforting and creamy slow cooker soup that’s packed with tender tortellini, vegetables, and rich flavors. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker with the tortellini, chicken broth, heavy cream, and basil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Cooking Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Potatoes
This recipe is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite main courses, and it’s incredibly easy to make. Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker in the morning, and come home to perfectly cooked, flavorful potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Add the potatoes, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper to your slow cooker.
2. Stir until the potatoes are well coated with the garlic butter mixture.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Check the potatoes for tenderness after 6 hours; if they’re not tender, continue cooking in 30-minute increments until done.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Glazed Ham
Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Glazed Ham Recipe
Transform your ordinary ham into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this easy slow cooker recipe. A perfect combination of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and spices creates a rich glaze that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg until smooth.
3. Place the ham in the slow cooker and brush the glaze all over it.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
A hearty and flavorful slow cooker recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 bunch broccoli, cut into florets
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine the beef stew meat, broccoli, onion, and garlic.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, and black pepper. 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 to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken
This recipe is a flavorful and comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. With tender chicken, rich cream sauce, and the aroma of garlic and herbs, you’ll be craving this dish all week long.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken in a slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, basil, oregano, garlic 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. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day off right with this comforting slow cooker oatmeal recipe, infused with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon. Perfect for a chilly morning or a quick breakfast solution.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apple (any variety)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on Low for 4-5 hours or High for 2-3 hours.
3. Stir gently before serving, if desired.
Tips: For an extra creamy oatmeal, add a splash of milk or cream during the last hour of cooking. Top with your favorite toppings, such as chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or a drizzle of honey.
Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
Succulent chicken thighs smothered in a rich teriyaki sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken thighs in a slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and ginger.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken.
4. If desired, add red pepper flakes for some heat.
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 Lentil and Sausage Soup
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting slow cooker soup that combines the rich flavors of sausage, lentils, and vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a busy day when you need a delicious meal without much fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Stir in the cooked sausage, diced tomatoes, lentils, chicken broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours (depending on slow cooker setting)
Slow Cooker Spicy Black Bean Soup
This Slow Cooker Spicy Black Bean Soup is a flavorful and filling meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious and nutritious soup ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup water
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the black beans, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add the bean mixture to the slow cooker with the vegetable broth and water.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
Savor the rich flavors of lemon, garlic, and butter as they meld together to create a moist and delicious salmon dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to Low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, lemon juice, and thyme until well combined.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the slow cooker.
4. Pour the lemon-garlic-butter mixture evenly over the salmon.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on Low for 2-3 hours or High for 1-2 hours, or until the salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (Low) or 1-2 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes
Transform your potatoes into a creamy, cheesy, and savory masterpiece with this easy slow cooker recipe!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the potato slices, crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, ranch dressing, and olive oil.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. When done, stir gently to combine and serve hot.
Note: You can adjust the amount of cheese and bacon to your liking!
Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine
Experience the rich flavors of Morocco with this slow-cooked lamb tagine, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the lamb in a skillet over medium-high heat, about 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Add the onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Add the browned lamb, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Pineapple Glazed Meatballs
Transform your meatball game with this sweet and savory recipe that’s perfect for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to come home to perfectly glazed meatballs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands or wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25). Place in slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in olive oil and pineapple juice mixture to create a glaze.
6. Serve hot with toothpicks or skewers.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup
This recipe is perfect for a chilly fall or winter day, and it’s incredibly easy to make. Simply toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work while you’re busy with other tasks.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh herbs, such as parsley or sage, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the cubed squash, olive oil, onion, garlic, and broth to your slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer it to a blender in batches and blend, then return it to the slow cooker.
4. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and decadent slow cooker chocolate lava cake recipe. Perfect for a crowd or a special treat.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
2. Add chopped chocolate, softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
3. Pour mixture into a 6-quart slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until cake is set and edges are slightly puffed.
5. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.
6. Serve warm with whipped cream, ice cream, or chocolate sauce.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to cook up a storm with these 20 mouth-watering slow cooker recipes perfect for busy weeknights! From hearty stews and soups to tender meats and delicious desserts, there’s something for everyone. Try making Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables, Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Mushrooms, or Slow Cooker Pulled BBQ Chicken Sandwiches. Or, go vegetarian with the Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili with Beans. And don’t forget to save room for desserts like Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal and Slow Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake. Your taste buds will thank you!
