As the workweek winds down, the last thing you want to think about is what’s for dinner. But with a busy schedule and limited time, cooking up something delicious can seem like a daunting task. That’s where slow cookers come in – these versatile appliances make it possible to prepare a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal effort.
In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering slow cooker recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods like chicken and rice casserole to flavorful international dishes like lentil and sausage soup, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or something more complex, our collection of recipes is sure to inspire your next slow cooker adventure.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect solution for a busy day when you need a delicious, easy-to-prepare meal. With minimal effort, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish filled with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, rice, mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth in a slow cooker.
2. Add thyme, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
3. Dot the top with butter.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Cheesy Slow Cooker Potato Soup
Warm up with this comforting Cheesy Slow Cooker Potato Soup that’s perfect for a cozy evening or a crowd-pleasing potluck. With its rich, creamy flavor and velvety texture, you’ll be hooked from the very first spoonful!
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add potatoes, onion, garlic, chicken broth, milk, and 1/8 cup of the cheddar cheese to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on Low for 6-7 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in remaining cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-7 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Beef and Vegetable Stew
This comforting slow cooker stew is a perfect solution for a busy day, as it simmers away to tender perfection while you’re out and about. With the rich flavors of beef, vegetables, and aromatics, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a pan over medium-high heat; set aside.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrots, potatoes, and peas to the slow cooker.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the browned beef, diced tomatoes, and thyme.
4. Pour the beef mixture over the vegetables in the slow cooker.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Lentil and Sausage Soup
This comforting soup combines the earthy flavor of lentils with the savory taste of sausage, all slow-cooked to perfection. Perfect for a chilly day or a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, sausage, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme to a slow cooker.
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 chopped fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili
Warm up with this hearty, flavorful chili that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This slow cooker recipe is packed with nutritious vegetables and protein-rich black beans, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 1 red potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir well before serving.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches: A deliciously tender and flavorful twist on classic pulled pork sandwiches, cooked to perfection in your slow cooker!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Place the pork in your slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. After 8 hours, check the pork’s tenderness by inserting a fork or knife. If it shreds easily, it’s ready!
4. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in barbecue sauce (if using).
5. Split hamburger buns and spoon shredded pork onto each bun.
6. Serve immediately with coleslaw or pickles for added flavor and crunch.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Black Bean and Corn Tacos
A flavorful and nutritious Mexican-inspired dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 6-8 tacos shells
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, salsa
Instructions:
1. Add the black beans, corn kernels, onion, and garlic to a slow cooker.
2. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the top and add the diced tomatoes.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the black bean mixture into the shells, then adding your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Cozy up with a warm and comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup, made easy with your slow cooker!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 celery stalk, sliced
– 1 cup of uncooked egg noodles
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken, chicken broth, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to your slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add the egg noodles and thyme.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Enjoy your delicious and comforting slow cooker chicken noodle soup!
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic gets a convenient twist with this slow cooker macaroni and cheese recipe. Let the magic happen while you’re busy with other tasks, and come home to a warm, creamy dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, combine butter, flour, and milk. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
5. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers
This hearty slow cooker recipe is a flavorful and comforting meal perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you need something easy to come home to. With tender Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage links
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Place sausage links in the slow cooker.
2. Add sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic on top of the sausage.
3. Pour in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Sweet and savory, this slow cooker recipe yields tender and juicy chicken thighs smothered in a rich honey garlic sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker, making sure they are coated with the honey mixture.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
This classic Italian-inspired soup is a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for a chilly day. With its rich flavors and tender vegetables, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (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, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
This mouthwatering slow cooker recipe yields tender and flavorful teriyaki chicken with a sweet and savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Shred the chicken with two forks and serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time:
- Low: 6-8 hours
- High: 3-4 hours
Slow Cooker BBQ Baked Beans
Slow Cooker BBQ Baked Beans: A classic summer side dish that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or backyard barbecues. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying sweet and smoky beans in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the soaked beans, onion, garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Sprinkle with cilantro, if desired.
5. Serve hot alongside your favorite BBQ favorites!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Vegetable Curry
This slow cooker vegetable curry recipe is a perfect solution for a busy day when you want to come home to a warm, comforting meal. With a blend of aromatic spices and a variety of colorful vegetables, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and green beans)
– 2 teaspoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (15 oz) coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
2. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker. Add the bell pepper, diced tomatoes, mixed vegetables, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Stir in the coconut milk before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Mushrooms
Elevate your mealtime with this rich and flavorful slow cooker recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Tender chicken and earthy mushrooms simmer in a creamy sauce, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, mushrooms, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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) or 3-4 hours (HIGH)
Slow Cooker Beef and Barley Soup
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting slow cooker soup that combines tender beef, creamy barley, and rich vegetables. This easy recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the beef, beef broth, barley, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and thyme in a slow cooker.
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 chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious chili recipe that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of black beans. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Add the onion and garlic to the slow cooker.
2. Top with sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, and cumin.
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 cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Transform classic chicken alfredo into a comforting slow cooker meal with this easy recipe. Perfect for a busy day, this dish cooks while you’re away and serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine or linguine)
– 2 cups slow cooker alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In the slow cooker, combine chicken breasts, alfredo sauce, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
3. Add cooked pasta to the slow cooker and stir gently to combine.
4. Top with mozzarella cheese and parsley.
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 Sausage and Cabbage Stew
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a chilly day. This easy-to-make recipe combines the comfort of sausage and cabbage in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine sausage, onion, garlic, and cabbage.
2. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and caraway seeds. 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 fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Discover 20 delicious and affordable slow cooker recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods like Chicken Noodle Soup and Mac and Cheese to international flavors like Teriyaki Chicken and Vegetable Curry, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Try making Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches, Cheesy Potato Soup, or Lentil and Sausage Soup – all with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
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