Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen after a long day at work? Do you wish you had more time to relax and enjoy your evening instead of slaving away over a hot stove? Look no further! With these 18 flavorful delish crock pot recipes, you can have a delicious meal ready to go without lifting a finger. From hearty stews and soups to savory casseroles and international-inspired dishes, our collection has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of slow cooking, where tender meats and vegetables simmer away in flavorful broths, waiting to be devoured. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick and easy dinner solution or a foodie seeking new and exciting recipes to try, our crock pot collection has got you covered.
So grab your crock pot and let’s get started! In the following pages, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering recipes that are perfect for weeknights. From classic comfort foods to international twists, there’s something for everyone in this delicious lineup.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Red Wine
Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Red Wine: A hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe is easy to prepare and simmers all day, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine the chopped onion and minced garlic.
2. Add the beef stew meat on top of the onion mixture.
3. Pour in the red wine, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir to combine, then cover the slow cooker.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Creamy Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this rich and satisfying Creamy Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo recipe. This comforting dish is perfect for a busy family or a quick lunch at work.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place chicken breasts in the crock pot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, and onion powder. Pour mixture over the chicken.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, add fettuccine pasta to the crock pot. Stir well.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Spicy Pulled Pork Tacos
Spicy Pulled Pork Tacos Recipe
Get ready to spice up your taco game with this mouth-watering pulled pork recipe! With a kick of heat and a tangy slaw, these tacos are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Spicy slaw (recipe below)
– Lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker with apple cider vinegar, water, and 1/4 cup of the reserved slaw liquid (if using). Cover and cook for 8-10 hours or until tender.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and season with salt to taste.
6. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning pulled pork onto a tortilla, topping with spicy slaw, and garnishing with lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream.
Spicy Slaw:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Vegetarian Lentil and Sweet Potato Chili
This comforting vegetarian chili recipe combines the warmth of lentils with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add sweet potato, lentils, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes in the Crock Pot
Elevate your mashed potato game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines garlic, herbs, and tender potatoes cooked to perfection in a crock pot.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add cubed potatoes, garlic, chicken broth, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper to the crock pot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, mash the potatoes with a fork or potato masher until desired consistency is reached.
4. Stir in grated cheddar cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low, 3-4 hours on high
BBQ Bourbon Chicken Sliders
Elevate your game-day gatherings with these mouthwatering BBQ Bourbon Chicken Sliders! Tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and a hint of bourbon come together to create a flavor profile that will leave your guests wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (or substitute with apple cider vinegar)
– 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, BBQ sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in the marinade and let sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sliders by placing grilled chicken on hamburger buns.
6. Serve with coleslaw or pickles if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken
Get ready for a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s perfect for a busy day! This Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken recipe is a simple and delicious meal that combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the ease of a slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp Thai red curry paste
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and curry paste until smooth.
2. Add chicken to the slow cooker and toss to coat with the sauce.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle chopped peanuts (if using) on top of the chicken.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This casserole combines the goodness of broccoli, rice, and cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and broccoli in butter until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, mix cooked rice with cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine rice mixture with broccoli mixture and stir well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crock Pot Honey Garlic Glazed Carrots
Transform ordinary carrots into a sweet and sticky delight with this simple Crock Pot recipe. The honey garlic glaze infuses the carrots with a deep, caramel-like flavor that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby carrots
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the carrots and place them in the Crock Pot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, garlic, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Pour the glaze over the carrots, making sure they’re evenly coated.
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)
Smoky Bacon and Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines the smokiness of bacon with the comfort of creamy beans, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon; set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
6. Stir in the cooked bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Salmon
Moist and flavorful salmon fillets infused with the brightness of lemon and pungency of garlic, all with minimal effort in your slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line the slow cooker with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the slow cooker. Pour the lemon-garlic mixture over the fish.
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, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this unique fusion of sweet pineapple and savory teriyaki sauce. These juicy bites are perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Pineapple wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought).
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with pineapple wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Crock Pot Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
Elevate your comfort food game with this easy and satisfying recipe that combines the classic duo of macaroni and cheese with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In the Crock Pot, combine cooked macaroni, cheddar and mozzarella cheese, flour, butter, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Herbed Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
Warm up with this savory and aromatic soup, perfect for a cozy evening meal. This recipe combines the flavors of turkey, wild rice, and fresh herbs to create a delicious and comforting bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed wild rice blend
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the turkey, wild rice, chicken broth, parsley, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal
Start your day off right with this creamy and aromatic slow cooker oatmeal recipe, infused with the comforting flavors of pumpkin spice. Perfect for chilly mornings or as a soothing snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or dried cranberries for topping
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine oats, pumpkin puree, milk, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
2. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
3. Stir well before serving. Top with chopped nuts or dried cranberries, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours (low) or 1-3 hours (high)
Enjoy your warm and comforting slow cooker pumpkin spice oatmeal!
Zesty Salsa Verde Chicken Enchiladas
Add a tangy twist to classic enchiladas with this recipe featuring chicken, creamy salsa verde, and crispy tortillas. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup salsa verde
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook chicken breasts until done, then shred into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large skillet, heat salsa verde over medium-high heat. Add shredded chicken and stir to combine.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble enchiladas by dipping tortillas in salsa verde mixture, then rolling up with filling inside. Place seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crock Pot Cinnamon Apple Butter
Transform fresh apples into a sweet and tangy spread perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling. This easy Crock Pot recipe yields a deliciously fragrant and flavorful apple butter.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup apple cider or juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine chopped apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in the Crock Pot.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Stir in apple cider or juice, if using, during the last hour of cooking.
4. Use a fork to mash the apples until they’re smooth and creamy.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Mushroom and Spinach Risotto
Elevate your slow cooker game with this creamy, comforting risotto dish packed with earthy mushrooms and nutritious spinach. Perfect for a cozy night in or a stress-free lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add chopped onion, olive oil, mushrooms, garlic, and thyme to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
3. Stir in Arborio rice and warmed broth. Cook for an additional 30 minutes.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and spinach. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 18 flavorful crock pot recipes! From hearty stews and soups to creamy casseroles and sweet treats, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in slow-cooked beef stew with red wine, creamy chicken alfredo, or spicy pulled pork tacos. Vegetarians will love the lentil and sweet potato chili, while meat-lovers will devour the BBQ bourbon chicken sliders. Plus, don’t miss the cheesy broccoli and rice casserole, honey garlic glazed carrots, and more! Perfect for busy weeknights, these recipes are easy to make and full of flavor.
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