Are you a fitness enthusiast looking for delicious and nutritious meals that can fuel your active lifestyle? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering high protein crock pot recipes that are perfect for anyone on-the-go. From hearty stews and curries to flavorful stir-fries and soups, these recipes are sure to satisfy your taste buds while also providing a boost of protein to help you power through your workout routine.
Whether you’re a meat-lover or a veggie enthusiast, we’ve got a recipe for everyone. Our collection includes dishes featuring lean proteins like chicken, turkey, and beef, as well as plant-based options like lentils, tofu, and chickpeas. So why not get started in the kitchen and let your slow cooker do the work? In our next section, we’ll be highlighting some of the most popular high protein crock pot recipes that are sure to become a staple in your fitness diet.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Quinoa Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of protein-packed chicken, nutty quinoa, and tender vegetables, all simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. It’s a great meal solution for a busy day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add chicken, quinoa, water or broth, onion, garlic, bell pepper, and cumin to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Beef and Black Bean Chili
This recipe is a perfect blend of tender beef, flavorful black beans, and rich spices, all slow-cooked to perfection in your trusty crock pot. It’s a comforting meal that’s easy to make and serves up great for a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to your crock pot in the order listed.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and crushed tortilla chips.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
High Protein Lentil and Turkey Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of lean protein, fiber-rich lentils, and savory turkey, making it an excellent meal option for fitness enthusiasts or anyone looking to boost their protein intake.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, and paprika (if using). Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Greek Yogurt Chicken Curry
Experience the rich flavors of India with this comforting slow cooker curry recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This creamy and aromatic dish is made possible by the magic of Greek yogurt, which adds a tangy twist to the classic chicken curry.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add diced tomatoes and stir to combine.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Stir in Greek yogurt and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Crock Pot Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Quickly cook a flavorful and healthy stir-fry using your Crock Pot! This recipe is perfect for a busy day when you need a nutritious meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
• 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add tofu, soy sauce, olive oil, onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the Crock Pot.
2. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add mixed vegetables and ginger to the Crock Pot.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Protein-Packed Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs
Elevate your meal prep game with these nutritious turkey meatballs that pack a protein punch! With minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious and healthy snack or meal ready to go.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, oats, Parmesan cheese, egg, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into 12-15 meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches each.
4. Place the meatballs in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Chickpea and Spinach Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of protein-rich chickpeas, nutritious spinach, and aromatic spices, all slow-cooked to perfection in your crock pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to your crock pot.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Salmon and Sweet Potato Chowder
Warm Up with Hearty Slow Cooker Salmon and Sweet Potato Chowder!
This comforting chowder is a perfect blend of tender salmon, creamy sweet potatoes, and savory vegetables. Perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salmon fillet
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the salmon fillet at the bottom of a slow cooker.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper on top of the salmon.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the cubed sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and thyme. Pour the mixture over the vegetables in 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.
Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
High Protein Crock Pot Beef Stew
A hearty and nutritious slow-cooked stew perfect for a post-workout meal or a comforting family dinner. This recipe is packed with protein-rich beef, beans, and vegetables to fuel your body.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef cubes (90% lean)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a crock pot, combine beef, black beans, onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes.
2. Pour in beef broth and add thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy white beans, and rich flavors, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. It’s an ideal meal for a busy day when you want a warm, satisfying dinner with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, white beans, onion, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If using cheese, sprinkle on top and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Quinoa and Black Bean Enchiladas
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the rich taste of black beans, all wrapped up in tender tortillas and smothered in a savory enchilada sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch, this Crock Pot recipe is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the Crock Pot, combine quinoa, black beans, onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
2. Place a tortilla on top of the mixture, followed by a spoonful of enchilada sauce and some shredded cheese (if using).
3. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of enchilada sauce on top.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, scallions, or diced tomatoes.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker High Protein Eggplant Parmesan
This hearty recipe is a twist on traditional eggplant parmesan, packed with protein-rich ingredients to keep you full and satisfied. With minimal effort, you’ll have a nutritious and delicious meal ready for the family.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a bowl, mix together cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, onion, garlic, and oregano.
3. Arrange eggplant slices in the slow cooker. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the eggplant.
4. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Cook for 4-5 hours or overnight (8-10 hours).
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Crock Pot Chicken and Lentil Curry
Cozy up with this flavorful and nutritious Crock Pot Chicken and Lentil Curry recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. This aromatic curry is packed with tender chicken, soft lentils, and a blend of warming spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped onions at the bottom of a Crock Pot.
2. Add the chicken, lentils, garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Slow Cooker Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
This recipe is a twist on traditional stuffed peppers, featuring lean turkey and nutritious quinoa for a flavorful and filling meal. Perfect for a busy day, this slow cooker recipe allows you to prep in the morning and enjoy a delicious dinner in the evening.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, cooked quinoa, onion, garlic, and cumin. Mix well.
3. Cut the tops off bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in the slow cooker.
4. Fill each pepper with the turkey-quinoa mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
5. Cover slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
High Protein Crock Pot Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta
This recipe is a nutritious and delicious twist on traditional pasta dishes, packed with protein-rich shrimp and broccoli to keep you satisfied. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, this meal is perfect for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup whole wheat penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup reduced-fat cream cheese
Instructions:
1. Add shrimp, broccoli, pasta, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the crock pot.
2. Pour in chicken broth and stir until pasta is well coated.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Stir in cream cheese until melted and combined with pasta mixture.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours
Servings: 4-6
Slow Cooker Beef and Barley Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender beef, nutty barley, and aromatic vegetables, all slow-cooked to perfection. Serve with crusty bread for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 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, barley, beef broth, and thyme to the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours (low) or 2-6 hours (high)
Crock Pot High Protein Vegetarian Chili
This recipe is a game-changer for vegetarians looking to boost their protein intake while still enjoying a delicious, comforting bowl of chili. With a medley of beans, lentils, and quinoa, this dish is packed with plant-based protein to keep you full and satisfied.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a 6-quart Crock Pot.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
3. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Slow Cooker Chicken and Chickpea Tagine
This slow-cooked North African-inspired dish combines the tender flavors of chicken and chickpeas with aromatic spices, all in one convenient pot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, chickpeas, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
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 parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot High Protein Sausage and Kale Soup
This Crock Pot recipe combines the savory flavor of high-protein sausage with the nutritious power of kale, making it a perfect meal for a busy day. With only 10 minutes of prep time, this soup is easy to prepare and packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb high-protein sausage (such as chicken or turkey), sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add sausage, onions, garlic, kale, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme to the Crock Pot.
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 fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker High Protein Pork and Bean Casserole
This hearty casserole is a perfect blend of protein-packed pork, fiber-rich beans, and comforting slow-cooked goodness. It’s an ideal meal for a busy day when you need a nutritious and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine pork, black beans, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. Stir in rolled oats during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Summary
Get ready to fuel your fitness goals with these delicious high protein crock pot recipes! From hearty stews to flavorful curries, these slow-cooked dishes are perfect for busy athletes. With a range of options from chicken and quinoa to lentils and tofu, there’s something for every taste bud. Plus, each recipe is packed with protein to help you build and maintain muscle. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a post-workout snack, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while supporting your fitness journey.
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