Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinner routine? Look no further! With these delicious 3 qt. crock pot recipes, you’ll be able to serve up a tasty and satisfying meal with minimal effort. From classic comfort foods like beef stew and pulled pork sandwiches, to international-inspired dishes like Mexican quinoa and black beans, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 20 mouth-watering recipes.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, these crock pot recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have time to spend hours in the kitchen. Simply add your ingredients, set it and forget it, and come home to a ready-to-eat meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious 3 qt. crock pot recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From soups to stews, pasta dishes to sandwiches, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So grab your crock pot and let’s get started!
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Slow Cooker Beef Stew: A Hearty and Comforting Meal
This slow cooker beef stew recipe is a perfect solution for a busy day, as it requires minimal effort but yields a deliciously flavorful result. With tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and rich broth, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine beef, onion, garlic, potatoes, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. 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 Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
This classic comfort dish combines sautéed chicken and mushrooms with a rich and creamy sauce, served over al dente pasta. A perfect weeknight dinner that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet, stirring to combine with the sauce.
7. Combine cooked pasta and chicken-mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Lentil Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of fiber-rich lentils, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices, making it a nutritious and delicious meal for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little water until tender.
2. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Sweet and savory, this honey garlic chicken thighs recipe is a delicious and easy dinner option that’s sure to please the whole family. With a sticky glaze and crispy skin, these chicken thighs are perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, and ginger.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the honey glaze all over them.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready to fall in love with these mouthwatering pulled pork sandwiches! This recipe is a classic Southern comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or a slow cooker. Cook for 8-10 hours or until tender.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in barbecue sauce.
6. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast them lightly.
7. Spoon the pulled pork onto the buns and top with coleslaw (if using).
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Cheesy Potato and Sausage Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the richness of sausage with the earthy sweetness of potatoes, all wrapped up in a golden-brown cheesy crust. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 lb cooked sausage (such as chorizo or Italian sausage), crumbled
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage and onion over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add garlic, sweet potatoes, and paprika; stir to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the tortillas in the bottom.
5. Top with the sausage mixture, then sprinkle with cheese and milk.
6. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mexican Quinoa and Black Beans
This flavorful and nutritious recipe combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the rich flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a spicy Mexican-inspired dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add cumin and chili powder; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in black beans and cooked quinoa. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Meatballs
Get ready to elevate your tailgating or backyard gathering with these mouthwatering BBQ meatballs that are sure to be a hit! With their tender texture and rich flavor, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve warm with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Warm up with this flavorful and filling soup that combines the richness of chicken, the crunch of tortillas, and the comfort of Mexican spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Shredded cheese, for serving (optional)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper in a little oil until tender.
2. Add chicken, broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Add diced tomatoes and tortilla strips. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until tortillas are soft and soup has thickened slightly.
4. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Potatoes
Transform ordinary potatoes into a deliciously flavorful side dish with this simple recipe that combines the richness of garlic and butter.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, minced garlic, and softened butter.
3. Toss until the potatoes are evenly coated with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the potato slices in a single layer.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines tender beef with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook beef strips in a wok or large skillet over high heat for 3-4 minutes, until browned.
2. Remove beef from the pan and set aside.
3. Add vegetable oil, garlic, broccoli, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan.
4. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until broccoli is tender-crisp.
5. Return beef to the pan and stir-fry for another minute, combining with the vegetables.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
A classic party favorite that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser! This creamy dip combines the flavors of spinach, artichokes, and Parmesan cheese for a deliciously addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
6. Serve hot with tortilla chips, crackers, or pita bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks
Get ready to enjoy a flavorful twist on traditional chicken drumsticks with this easy-to-make Teriyaki Chicken Drumstick recipe. With its sweet and savory sauce, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove drumsticks from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with vegetable oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi Recipe: A Bright and Flavorsome Seafood Delight
This recipe is a classic take on the Italian-American favorite, with a twist of citrusy freshness. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove the shrimp from the skillet; set aside.
6. Pour in lemon juice and white wine (if using). Scrape the bottom of the pan to release browned bits.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Kielbasa Bites
Sweet and Spicy Kielbasa Bites: A Twist on a Classic!
These bite-sized snacks combine the classic Polish sausage with a sweet and spicy kick, perfect for game day gatherings or parties.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb kielbasa sausage
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cut the kielbasa into 1-inch pieces.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
4. Toss the kielbasa pieces with the sweet and spicy mixture until coated.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the kielbasa bites in a single layer.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the sausage is lightly browned and caramelized.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Warm up with a creamy and comforting bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup! This recipe is a twist on the classic baked potato, packed with cheese, bacon, and scallions.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked potatoes (about 2-3 large potatoes), mashed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until tender.
2. Stir in mashed potatoes, chicken broth, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Alfredo with Penne
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a comforting and flavorful treat that’s sure to please. With tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, this recipe is a must-try for any pasta lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and add garlic. Cook for 1 minute, then stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
4. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked penne pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day off right with this deliciously comforting bowl of apple cinnamon oatmeal. This recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of apples, and the heartiness of oats for a perfect breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 apple, diced (about 1/2 cup)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, cinnamon, honey or sugar, and vanilla extract. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the diced apple and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
4. Remove from heat and stir in a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 7-8 minutes
Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines tender turkey with nutty wild rice and a blend of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed wild rice (such as brown, white, and red)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the turkey in a little oil until browned.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
3. Stir in garlic, thyme, and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chicken broth, wild rice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pepperoncini Beef Sandwiches
Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines tender beef, crispy pepperoncini peppers, and creamy aioli. This flavorful fusion will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced beef (such as top round or ribeye)
– 4-6 pepperoncini peppers, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Aioli or mayonnaise for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the beef slices.
4. Grill the beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the grilled beef, pepperoncini peppers, and a dollop of aioli or mayonnaise onto each bun.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to simplify your meal prep with these mouth-watering 3-quart crock pot recipes! From hearty stews and soups to creamy pasta dishes and savory meatballs, there’s something for everyone. Try Slow Cooker Beef Stew or Vegetable Lentil Soup on a chilly night, or whip up Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta for a comforting weeknight dinner. And don’t forget the sweet treats like Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal and Loaded Baked Potato Soup. With these 20 recipes, you’ll be cooking with ease and enjoying delicious meals in no time!
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