Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen every night after a long day? Do you wish you had more time to relax and enjoy your family instead of slaving away at the stove? Look no further! With these 20 hearty all-day crock pot recipes, you can have a delicious meal on the table with minimal effort. From classic comfort foods like beef stew and chicken and dumplings to international flavors like lentil curry and Moroccan tagine, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
Whether you’re a busy professional or a parent trying to get dinner on the table after a long day of work and school, these slow cooker recipes are designed to be easy to prepare and require minimal attention throughout the day. Simply add your ingredients to the crock pot in the morning, turn it on, and come home to a ready-to-eat meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll share our top 20 slow cooker recipes for busy weeknights, including classic comfort foods, international flavors, and healthy vegetarian options. From tender beef stews and creamy mac and cheese to flavorful chicken dishes and hearty vegetable-based meals, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
Perfect for a chilly evening, this slow cooker stew is a comforting blend of tender beef and root vegetables that simmers to perfection. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, you’ll have a warm and satisfying meal ready when you need it.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or short ribs
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine beef, onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, parsnip, beef broth, red wine (if using), 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: 4-10 hours
Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings
Warm up with this comforting Crock Pot recipe that combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups dumpling mix (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Place the chopped onion and minced garlic at the bottom of a Crock Pot.
3. Add the seasoned chicken on top of the onion mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth.
5. Pour the flour mixture over the chicken in the Crock Pot.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
7. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the butter to melt.
8. Serve hot with your favorite dumplings (follow package instructions).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Pulled Pork BBQ Sandwiches
Get ready to sink your teeth into a mouthwatering sandwich filled with tender pulled pork, tangy barbecue sauce, and crispy bun. This classic recipe is perfect for a weekend dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in barbecue sauce until well coated.
6. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast them lightly.
7. Assemble the sandwiches by spooning the pulled pork onto the buns, followed by coleslaw if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Vegetarian Lentil and Spinach Curry
This hearty and flavorful curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices, tender lentils, and nutritious spinach. It’s a great option for a quick and easy vegetarian meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, bell pepper, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
3. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
6. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
A sweet and savory twist on classic chicken, this slow cooker recipe is perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a delicious meal. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, you’ll have tender and flavorful chicken thighs in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and pour the honey mixture over them.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
A comforting, creamy twist on the classic macaroni and cheese recipe, this crock pot version is perfect for busy days or gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the crock pot, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and flour. Stir until smooth.
3. Add cooked macaroni to the crock pot and stir to combine.
4. Add butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese!
Slow Cooker Turkey Chili with Beans
A hearty and comforting chili recipe that’s perfect for a chilly day. This slow cooker turkey chili is packed with flavor and can be customized to your taste with various toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer mixture to slow cooker; add chili powder, cumin, paprika, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and chicken broth.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Beef and Barley Soup
This classic soup recipe is a comforting blend of tender beef, nutty barley, and aromatic vegetables. Perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the barley, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the barley is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Crock Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers
A hearty and flavorful Crock Pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Add the sliced sausage, bell peppers, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, oregano, 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, stir in the chicken broth.
4. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Ham
Transform a classic ham into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this easy slow cooker recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously glazed ham in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Place the ham in a slow cooker and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the glaze over the ham, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, baste the ham with any remaining glaze.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Serve: Slice and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Vegetable and Chickpea Tagine
This hearty and aromatic North African-inspired stew is perfect for a cozy night in. With a blend of tender vegetables, creamy chickpeas, and rich spices, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, zucchini, potatoes)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in chickpeas, mixed vegetables, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Garnish with parsley or cilantro and serve over couscous or rice.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup
Cozy up with this flavorful and comforting Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe is easy to prepare, deliciously rich, and packed with tender chicken, soft tortillas, and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into quarters
– Chicken broth, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place chicken, diced tomatoes, black beans, onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, cumin, and chili powder in the Crock Pot.
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add tortilla quarters to the soup.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, with chicken broth (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Pot Roast with Gravy
Moist and flavorful pot roast cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, served with a rich and savory gravy. This comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef pot roast (chuck or rump)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Season the pot roast with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the sliced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme.
3. Place the pot roast in the slow cooker, fat side up.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, mix the flour with a little water to make a paste, then stir it into the cooking liquid.
6. Serve the pot roast with the rich and savory gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Pork Carnitas Tacos
Transform tender pork into rich, flavorful carnitas with this simple recipe. Serve it in a crispy taco shell with your favorite toppings for a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, salsa, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the lard or oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add pork chunks and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to low and add orange and lime juice, garlic, and oregano. Stir to combine.
5. Return pork to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Cover and braise for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Shred pork with two forks and serve in tacos with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Crock Pot Minestrone Soup
This Crock Pot Minestrone Soup recipe is a twist on the classic Italian soup, using a slow cooker to tenderize the vegetables and beans. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s perfect for a comforting meal any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to the Crock Pot.
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe that yields tender and flavorful shrimp smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine shrimp, butter, garlic, chicken broth, and white wine (if using). Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
2. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
3. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
A classic Russian dish that combines tender beef strips with sautéed mushrooms, simmered in a rich and creamy sauce. Serve over egg noodles for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer. Return beef strips to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in heavy cream and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crock Pot Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Transform plain meatballs into a tangy and savory treat with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the flavors of sweet and sour. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Crock Pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them in the Crock Pot.
4. Pour sweet and sour sauce and beef broth over the meatballs.
5. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
6. Serve hot with toothpicks or as a sub sandwich.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup
This recipe is a perfect blend of autumnal flavors, simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. The result is a creamy and comforting soup that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine squash, olive oil, onion, and garlic.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream (optional).
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Vegetable Beef and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and flavorful rice for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables to the skillet; cook until tender.
4. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add rice, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until cooked.
5. Combine cooked beef mixture, rice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
6. Pour cream of mushroom soup over the top and mix well.
7. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fuel up with these delicious and easy-to-make all-day crock pot recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods like slow cooker beef stew and creamy mac and cheese, to international flavors like vegetarian lentil curry and Moroccan vegetable tagine, there’s something for everyone. Plus, a variety of protein-packed options including chicken, beef, pork, and more. With these 20 hearty recipes, you’ll never have to sacrifice taste for convenience again.
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