Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for health when it comes to cooking for diabetes? With a little creativity and planning, you can enjoy delicious meals that not only taste great but also meet your dietary needs. Slow cookers are a busy person’s best friend, and with these 20 diabetic-friendly slow cooker recipes, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
From hearty stews and soups to flavorful curries and casseroles, we’ve gathered the most mouth-watering and nutritious options that cater specifically to diabetic diets. Whether you’re looking for low-carb, low-sugar, or simply healthy meals, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and keep your blood sugar levels in check.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of slow cooker recipes that are not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients and flavor. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, you’ll discover a range of options that will make mealtime a breeze. So why wait? Let’s get started and explore these 20 delicious diabetic slow cooker recipes for busy weeknights!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetable Stew
A hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This slow cooker stew is packed with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic spices, all simmered to perfection in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, corn, and green beans)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped onion at the bottom of a slow cooker.
2. Add the minced garlic on top of the onion.
3. Arrange the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes around the garlic.
4. Add the chicken breasts, mixed frozen vegetables, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.
5. Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Diabetic-Friendly Beef and Barley Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect comfort food for a chilly day, with tender beef, nutritious barley, and vegetables all simmered together in a flavorful broth. This recipe is specifically designed to be diabetic-friendly, using ingredients that are low in sugar and carbohydrates.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean beef stew meat
– 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup pearled barley
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt-free seasoning blend (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
2. Add the chicken broth, water, barley, onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Add thyme (if using) and season with salt-free seasoning blend (if desired). Simmer for an additional 30 minutes or until the barley is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Low-Carb Slow Cooker Turkey Chili
Get ready to warm up with this flavorful and nutritious slow cooker turkey chili recipe! This low-carb twist on a classic favorite is perfect for a quick and easy dinner that’s packed with protein and veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups mixed veggies (such as carrots, zucchini, and mushrooms)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until tender.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Healthy Slow Cooker Lentil and Spinach Curry
This hearty and nutritious curry is a perfect meal solution for a busy day. With the slow cooker doing all the work, you can come home to a delicious and healthy dinner that’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Add the lentils, onions, garlic, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric to a 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. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and olive oil.
5. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
This recipe is a flavorful and tender twist on traditional chicken thighs, with the brightness of lemon and the depth of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker and toss to coat with the lemon-garlic mixture.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Diabetic-Safe Pork Tenderloin with Apples
This recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the savory flavor of pork tenderloin, all while keeping carbohydrate counts low for a diabetic-friendly meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6 oz) pork tenderloin
– 2 medium apples, peeled and sliced
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the honey mixture evenly over the pork.
6. Arrange apple slices around the pork.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the apples.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
9. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Quinoa and Black Bean Stuffed Peppers
Slow Cooker Quinoa and Black Bean Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Summary: This recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, featuring quinoa and black beans cooked to perfection in a slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker on low.
2. In a medium bowl, combine quinoa and water or broth. Stir well.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until combined.
4. Add cooked black beans to the mixture; stir well.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
6. Place stuffed peppers in the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Low-Sugar Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken
Transform your slow cooker into a sweet and tangy BBQ haven with this easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for a stress-free meal. With only 1/4 cup of sugar, you can enjoy the rich flavors without feeling guilty.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup low-sugar BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 hours of slow cooking time
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, Greek yogurt, honey, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the BBQ mixture over them.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Fish Stew
A flavorful and aromatic stew that combines the freshness of fish with the warmth of Mediterranean spices, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine fish, onion, garlic, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, olive oil, paprika, and oregano.
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 chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Diabetic-Friendly Slow Cooker Ratatouille
A flavorful and healthy twist on the classic French vegetable stew, this diabetic-friendly slow cooker ratatouille is perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes, low-sodium
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Add sliced eggplant, zucchinis, and red bell pepper to the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, mix together diced tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and dried oregano. Pour over vegetables in the slow cooker.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Turkey and White Bean Chili
Warm up with this comforting slow cooker chili recipe that combines tender turkey, creamy white beans, and rich spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (15 oz) great Northern white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat; set aside.
2. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the skillet; cook until tender.
3. Combine cooked turkey, white beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a slow cooker.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Low-Carb Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
This classic Italian dish gets a low-carb twist with tender chicken and flavorful vegetables cooked to perfection in the slow cooker. With minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, onion, bell peppers, garlic, mushrooms, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Drizzle with olive oil.
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)
Slow Cooker Spicy Black-Eyed Peas and Greens
This recipe combines the flavors of spicy black-eyed peas with the earthiness of collard greens, all slow-cooked to perfection. It’s a hearty and comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 bunch collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Add the black-eyed peas, chicken broth, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. About an hour before serving, add the chopped collard greens to the slow cooker and stir well.
4. Serve hot, garnished with olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Diabetic-Safe Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
This recipe yields a delicious and healthy slow cooker beef stroganoff that’s perfect for diabetics, with 25g of protein and only 10g of carbs per serving. This comforting dish is a great option for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean beef strips (90% lean)
– 1 cup frozen mushrooms
– 1/2 cup low-fat cream
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces whole wheat egg noodles, cooked according to package instructions
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine beef, mushrooms, cream, tomato paste, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Serve over whole wheat egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Coconut Curry Chicken
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of coconut milk with the warm spices of Indian-inspired curry, all in the convenience of a slow cooker. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Add the coconut milk, chicken, and chopped cilantro to the slow cooker.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Low-Sugar Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Steel-Cut Oats
Kick-start your day with a hearty and healthy bowl of steel-cut oats infused with the sweetness of apples and warmth of cinnamon. This low-sugar recipe is perfect for those looking to reduce their sugar intake without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup steel-cut oats
– 2 cups water or low-fat milk
– 1/4 cup diced apple (any variety, cored)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine steel-cut oats, water or milk, diced apple, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. If desired, add honey or maple syrup during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
4. Serve warm, topped with your choice of nuts, seeds, or fresh fruit.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pork Roast
Transform your slow cooker into a savory haven with this mouthwatering pork roast recipe, infused with the pungency of garlic and freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork roast
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork roast, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Place the pork roast in the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Once cooked, remove the roast from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Diabetic-Friendly Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day, this slow cooker minestrone is a diabetic-friendly twist on the classic Italian dish. With its rich vegetable broth and nutritious ingredients, it’s a great option for those with diabetes looking to manage their blood sugar levels.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (4 oz) chopped mushrooms
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cannellini beans, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, mushrooms, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Moroccan Chickpea and Vegetable Tagine
Experience the warm flavors of Morocco with this hearty slow cooker recipe that combines chickpeas, vegetables, and aromatic spices. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Add the chickpeas, carrots, bell pepper, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper to a slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Pour over the vegetables in the slow cooker.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and crusty bread, if desired.
Low-Carb Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage
A classic comfort food dish gets a low-carb twist with this easy-to-make recipe. This slow cooker meal is perfect for a busy day, as it cooks all day while you’re away.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the sliced sausage, cabbage, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the chicken broth 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 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to simplify your busy weeknights with these 20 delicious diabetic slow cooker recipes! From classic comfort foods like beef and barley soup, to international flavors like Moroccan chickpea tagine, these mouth-watering dishes are perfect for those living with diabetes. With a focus on low-carb, low-sugar, and healthy ingredients, you can enjoy flavorful meals without compromising your dietary needs. Try slow cooker recipes like chicken and vegetable stew, turkey chili, lentil curry, and more. Perfect for busy households, these slow cooker meals require minimal effort but offer big rewards in terms of taste and nutrition.
