Are you tired of coming home from a long day to a kitchen full of dirty dishes and a family that’s starving? Do you wish you had more time to cook up a delicious meal, but just can’t seem to fit it into your busy schedule?
Enter the trusty slow cooker! With its ability to simmer away while you’re at work or running errands, the slow cooker is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. And with these 20 delicious recipes, you’ll never have to sacrifice flavor for convenience again.
From hearty stews and soups to tender meats and creamy sides, there’s something on this list for everyone. So why not give one (or two, or three…) a try tonight? Your taste buds – and your family – will thank you!
Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
This comforting slow cooker stew is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day, packed with tender beef, flavorful root vegetables, and aromatic spices. Let the magic of your slow cooker do the work for you!
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
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat; transfer to slow cooker.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, parsnip, broth, wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme to slow cooker.
3. Season with salt and pepper; cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Mushrooms
Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked chicken and mushrooms in a creamy sauce, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, mushrooms, onion, and garlic in a slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, and thyme. Pour over the chicken mixture.
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)
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin: A sweet and savory twist on traditional pork tenderloin, this recipe is perfect for a stress-free dinner that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
2. Place the pork tenderloin in the slow cooker and brush the honey glaze all over it.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the pork and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in chicken broth to create a rich and flavorful sauce.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili with Beans
This hearty, comforting chili is a perfect solution for a busy day. With the slow cooker doing all the work, you can come home to a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine beans, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, chili powder, and cumin.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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 chopped fresh cilantro, scallions, or a dollop of sour cream (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a lazy Sunday or a busy weeknight dinner. This recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
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. Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Shred the chicken with two forks.
6. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast.
7. Assemble sandwiches by placing shredded chicken on the bun, followed by coleslaw if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of a slow cooker, making it perfect for a cozy evening meal. With tender tortellini, rich cream, and savory vegetables, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender.
2. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Add the tortellini, chicken broth, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Herb Potatoes
Transform plain potatoes into a mouthwatering side dish with this easy recipe that combines the flavors of garlic, butter, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the potatoes, garlic, butter, olive oil, rosemary, 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. Remove from heat and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
A sweet and savory twist on traditional chicken thighs, this slow cooker recipe is perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a delicious meal. With minimal effort and no added preservatives, these teriyaki chicken thighs are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken thighs in a slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken thighs.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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 Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the tenderizing power of slow cooking with the vibrant flavors of a classic stir-fry, resulting in a delicious and easy meal that’s perfect for any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine beef, broccoli, onion, and garlic.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Pour 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.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of cream with the sweetness of tomatoes and basil. Perfect for a cozy night in, this slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare and serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes, broth, and heavy cream. Stir well.
4. Season with dried basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this impressive slow cooker glazed ham, infused with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Place the ham in the slow cooker and brush the glaze all over the surface of the ham.
4. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours, or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this tangy and aromatic slow cooker recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and tender shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine butter, garlic, lemon juice, chicken broth, and parsley.
2. Add the shrimp and 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 fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Spicy Black Bean Soup
Warm up with this flavorful and spicy slow cooker soup, perfect for a chilly day. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a rich, aromatic pot of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– 1 can diced green chilies
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or sour cream for topping
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to the 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, topped with optional jalapeños or sour cream.
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers
This hearty recipe is a perfect blend of flavors, featuring tender Italian sausage and sweet peppers cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s ready when you need it.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine sausage, peppers, onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth.
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 chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal
Start your day off right with a delicious and comforting bowl of slow cooker oatmeal infused with the sweet flavors of cinnamon and apple.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or milk
– 1/4 cup diced fresh apple (such as Granny Smith)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Add the oats, water or milk, diced apple, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt to your slow cooker.
2. Stir until well combined.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. When done, fluff with a fork to separate the oats.
5. Serve hot, topped with additional diced apple and a drizzle of honey if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine
This rich and aromatic slow cooker recipe is inspired by the traditional North African dish, tagine. With its blend of spices, tender lamb, and sweet dates, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 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 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped dates, pitted
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown lamb in batches, then transfer to slow cooker.
2. Add onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Cook until onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, parsley, and dates. Pour mixture over lamb in slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this comforting, creamy recipe that combines the richness of cheese, smokiness of bacon, and tanginess of ranch seasoning. Perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– 1 tsp ranch seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, layer the sliced potatoes.
2. Top with bacon pieces, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
3. Mix half-and-half or heavy cream and ranch seasoning in a bowl, then pour over the potato mixture.
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 Pineapple Glazed Meatballs
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of these tender meatballs smothered in a tangy pineapple glaze, all made easy with your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (8 oz) can pineapple rings in juice, drained
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them in the slow cooker.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Pour over the meatballs.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Creamy Mushroom Risotto
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, slow-cooked risotto packed with earthy mushroom flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
4. Stir in Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly until absorbed before adding the next batch.
6. After 3 hours of slow cooking, stir in Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Slow Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake
Treat your family and friends to a rich and gooey chocolate dessert without heating up the kitchen! This slow cooker recipe yields 6-8 individual lava cakes that are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low (6-8 hours) or high (3-4 hours).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and sugar.
3. Add milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Fold in chocolate chips.
5. Pour batter into 6-8 ramekins or small cups.
6. Place the ramekins in the slow cooker, leaving a little space between each cake.
7. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to cook up a storm with these 20 delicious slow cooker recipes perfect for busy weeknights! From hearty stews and soups to flavorful meats and veggies, there’s something for everyone. Try Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables, Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Mushrooms, or Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin. Or go veggie-friendly with options like Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili with Beans or Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal. Whatever your taste buds desire, these slow cooker recipes have got you covered!
