When it comes to cooking on busy weeknights, there’s nothing quite like having a reliable slow cooker recipe up your sleeve. Not only do they allow for hands-off cooking, but they also tend to result in richly flavored and tender dishes that are perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. And what’s even better is when those recipes just happen to be vegetarian! With the abundance of delicious plant-based ingredients available, it’s never been easier to create hearty and satisfying meals without sacrificing flavor.
In this article, we’re excited to share 20 of our favorite vegetarian slow cooker recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods like chili and lasagna, to international-inspired dishes like tikka masala and Moroccan tagine, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned veggie cook or just looking to try some new ideas, these slow-cooker recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of chili with the convenience of a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy days. With a blend of sautéed vegetables, canned tomatoes, and aromatic spices, this vegetarian chili is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, combine diced tomatoes, black beans, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the tomato-bean mixture to the slow cooker with the sautéed vegetables.
4. Pour in water and stir to combine.
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)
Creamy Slow Cooker Lentil Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy lentil soup, perfect for a cozy night in. This slow cooker recipe is easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, onion, garlic, carrot, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme to a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
3. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Vegetarian Slow Cooker Minestrone
This comforting, slow-cooked minestrone soup is a perfect blend of vegetables, beans, and pasta, all simmered together to perfection. This easy recipe makes for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s ready whenever you need it.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers)
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cannellini beans, onion, garlic, mixed vegetables, pasta, vegetable broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Curry
This recipe is perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening, as the comforting flavors of butternut squash and curry meld together in a rich and creamy sauce. With minimal prep work and hands-off cooking time, you’ll have a nutritious and satisfying meal ready to go.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. Peel and dice the butternut squash into 1-inch pieces.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked onion mixture to your slow cooker along with the butternut squash, coconut milk, and vegetable broth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegetarian Slow Cooker Lasagna
A twist on the classic Italian dish, this vegetarian slow cooker lasagna is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a busy day. Layers of pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese mingle together in a rich and flavorful slow-cooked casserole.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a slow cooker, combine marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, spinach, onion, and garlic. Mix well.
3. Arrange 4-5 cooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce mixture.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce on top.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup
This slow cooker black bean soup is a flavorful and comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a deliciously rich and nutritious soup that’s packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
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, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegetarian Slow Cooker Ratatouille
Savor the flavors of Provence with this easy and aromatic vegetarian slow cooker ratatouille recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine eggplant, bell peppers, tomatoes, onion, garlic, thyme, and bay leaf.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
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)
Slow Cooker Mushroom Stroganoff
A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This slow cooker recipe simmers tender mushrooms and beef in a rich, creamy sauce, served over egg noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef strips in a skillet over medium-high heat; set aside.
2. In the same skillet, cook the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
4. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker; add beef broth, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve over egg noodles, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegetarian Slow Cooker Tikka Masala
Experience the rich flavors of India with this comforting vegetarian slow cooker recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this creamy tikka masala is made without chicken or beef.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup vegetarian tikka masala sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and tikka masala sauce.
2. Add vegetable broth, heavy cream, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew
This Slow Cooker Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew is a comforting and nutritious meal perfect for a chilly evening. With the sweetness of sweet potatoes and the creaminess of chickpeas, it’s a flavorful and filling option for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
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, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegetarian Slow Cooker Quinoa Chili
This hearty and comforting quinoa chili is a perfect meal solution for a busy day. Packed with nutritious ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a slow cooker, combine black beans, kidney beans, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, chili powder, and cumin.
3. Add cooked quinoa and water or broth to the slow cooker.
4. Season with salt and 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)
Slow Cooker Lentil and Spinach Dal
This comforting slow cooker dal recipe is a hearty and flavorful blend of red lentils, spinach, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a nutritious packed lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the lentils, water or broth, onion, garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in spinach leaves and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegetarian Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers
Transform bell peppers into a flavorful and nutritious meal with this easy slow cooker recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, these stuffed peppers are packed with fiber-rich quinoa, savory black beans, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. Cut the tops off bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in the slow cooker.
3. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, black beans, onion, garlic, corn kernels, and cumin.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Cover slow cooker and cook for 6-8 hours or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal supervision, making it ideal for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, broth, and basil to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in the heavy cream.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegetarian Slow Cooker Moroccan Tagine
This slow-cooked stew, inspired by traditional Moroccan cuisine, is a flavorful and aromatic vegetarian delight. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a potluck gathering, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Add garlic, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, broth, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Stir well.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, add chickpeas and mushrooms to the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Three-Bean Vegetarian Stew
A hearty and comforting vegetarian stew perfect for a chilly day or a busy evening. This slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare, packed with protein-rich beans, and loaded with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and cumin.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro (optional).
Vegetarian Slow Cooker Coconut Curry Lentils
A flavorful and aromatic slow cooker recipe that combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the creamy richness of coconut curry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Stir to combine, then cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in coconut cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan White Bean Soup
This comforting soup combines the creamy richness of parmesan cheese with the earthy flavor of white beans, all infused with aromatic garlic and simmered to perfection in a slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the cannellini beans, garlic, onion, chicken broth, parmesan cheese, and thyme 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 additional parmesan cheese (optional) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Vegetarian Slow Cooker Wild Rice Casserole
This hearty, comforting casserole is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, packed with nutritious wild rice, tender vegetables, and savory seasonings. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked wild rice
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, and green beans)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Combine wild rice, mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper in a slow cooker.
2. Add vegetable broth and stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Slow Cooker Spicy Black Bean and Corn Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili perfect for a chilly evening or game day gathering. This slow cooker recipe combines the convenience of tender black beans with the sweetness of corn and a kick of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 can corn, drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Summary
Busy weeknights don’t have to mean sacrificing flavor for convenience. These 20 hearty vegetarian slow cooker recipes offer a perfect solution, with dishes ranging from classic soups and stews to global-inspired curries and casseroles. From creamy lentil soup to flavorful butternut squash curry, there’s something for everyone in this collection of easy-to-make, mouthwatering meals that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
