Looking to shed a few pounds without sacrificing flavor or convenience? Look no further! Slow cookers are a perfect solution for busy individuals who want to eat healthy and delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering low-calorie slow cooker recipes that will help you reach your weight loss goals.
From hearty soups and stews to flavorful chicken and beef dishes, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make! Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s ready to devour.
Whether you’re a busy professional or a stay-at-home parent, these low-calorie slow cooker recipes are perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. So what are you waiting for? Dive in and discover your new favorite meals!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetable Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare, packed with nutritious ingredients, and ready when you need it.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks of celery, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and thyme. Pour over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Low Calorie Turkey Chili
This hearty turkey chili recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and nutrients, packed with lean protein and fiber-rich beans. With only 220 calories per serving, you can enjoy this comforting dish without worrying about the calorie count.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey breast
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup low-fat chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings
Slow Cooker Lentil Stew
This comforting stew is perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful and nutritious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the lentils, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, 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 fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Skinny Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This hearty slow cooker recipe is a twist on traditional beef stew, with a focus on lean protein and fewer calories. Perfect for a cozy night in or a weeknight dinner solution.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean beef (90% lean), cut into 2-inch cubes
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine beef, onion, garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add diced tomatoes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Vegetable and Quinoa Slow Cooker Casserole
This hearty casserole is a perfect blend of nutritious vegetables, flavorful quinoa, and savory seasonings, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions)
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a slow cooker, combine mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked quinoa to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of the casserole and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken
Add a burst of citrus flavor to your meal with this simple and delicious slow cooker recipe. Tender chicken breasts are infused with the brightness of lemon and the richness of garlic, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the lemon mixture over the top.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Low Calorie Slow Cooker Ratatouille
This recipe is a twist on the classic French dish, featuring a flavorful and healthy slow-cooked ratatouille that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This version uses low-calorie ingredients to reduce the overall calorie count without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 2 medium zucchinis, chopped
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, garlic, bell peppers, and zucchinis to a slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the vegetables in the slow cooker.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the mixture.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup perfect for a chilly day, this slow cooker black bean soup is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
2. Stir in the black beans, vegetable broth, diced red bell pepper, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Healthy Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional tacos. With tender chicken, fresh veggies, and aromatic spices, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 whole wheat tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Place chicken, tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, garlic, cumin, and chili powder in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Shred the cooked chicken with two forks.
4. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by placing shredded chicken onto tortillas, followed by your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Mushroom and Barley Risotto
Cozy up with a warm and comforting bowl of creamy risotto, infused with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and barley. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for a stress-free dinner that’s ready when you are.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked barley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the Arborio rice, mushrooms, chicken broth, white wine (if using), olive oil, onion, and garlic to a slow cooker.
2. Stir in the cooked barley.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Low Calorie Slow Cooker Minestrone
This Low Calorie Slow Cooker Minestrone recipe is a healthier twist on the classic Italian soup, packed with vegetables, beans, and whole grains. Perfect for a quick and nutritious lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (6 oz) sliced mushrooms
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the canned tomatoes, cooked kidney beans, pasta, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, bell pepper, and mushrooms.
2. Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the top.
4. 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 Spicy Cauliflower Curry
Warm up with this flavorful and aromatic slow cooker curry that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This spicy cauliflower curry is packed with nutrients, protein-rich chickpeas, and the perfect blend of Indian spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine cauliflower, chickpeas, onion, garlic, curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
2. Pour in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Skinny Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
A deliciously tender pulled pork dish made with minimal fat and maximum flavor, perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup low-sodium BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the chicken broth, honey, and BBQ sauce.
3. Add the seasoned pork shoulder to the slow cooker and cover.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and serve on a bun or with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with a delicious and comforting Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup!
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley or sage), for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. Peel the butternut squash and remove seeds. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
3. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Place squash cubes, cooked onion mixture, broth, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
7. Use an immersion blender to puree soup until smooth. (Alternatively, transfer soup to a blender and blend in batches.)
8. If desired, stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Low Calorie Slow Cooker Chicken Fajitas
Savor the flavors of sizzling chicken fajitas without the guilt! This slow cooker recipe is a game-changer for health-conscious cooks, packed with tender chicken, crunchy peppers, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup sliced red onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup low-fat plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Fajita-sized whole wheat tortillas, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, bell peppers, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in Greek yogurt and olive oil.
4. Serve hot with tortillas, topped with your favorite fajita fixin’s.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken
A classic Greek-inspired dish with a bright and tangy twist, this slow cooker recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Tender chicken breasts are infused with the bold flavors of lemon, garlic, and oregano, all in one easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the yogurt-lemon mixture over the top.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Healthy Slow Cooker Vegetable Lasagna
This recipe transforms traditional lasagna into a nutrient-rich, slow-cooked delight that’s perfect for a cozy evening or a busy day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey breast
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers)
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large skillet, cook turkey breast, onion, and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add marinara sauce, frozen vegetables, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well.
4. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a slow cooker, layer ingredients in the following order: turkey mixture, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and lasagna noodles. Repeat for 3-4 layers.
6. Cover slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup
This slow cooker soup recipe is a twist on traditional cabbage rolls, but instead of rolling up individual cabbage leaves with filling, this soup combines all the flavors in one delicious pot. Perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped cabbage, ground beef, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper to a slow cooker.
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 parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Low Calorie Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
This recipe is a twist on the classic beef and broccoli combination, with the added convenience of cooking in a slow cooker. The result is tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a flavorful sauce that’s low in calories but big on taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean beef (such as sirloin or round), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup reduced-sodium beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine beef, broccoli, onion, garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika.
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 if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Spinach and Artichoke Dip (Light Version)
This lightened-up spin on the classic spinach and artichoke dip is a healthier twist that’s perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering. With fewer calories and less fat, you can enjoy this creamy delight without guilt.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup low-fat cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup reduced-fat mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until heated through.
4. Serve warm with tortilla chips, pita bread, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Summary
Looking to shed some pounds without sacrificing flavor? Look no further! This collection of 20 delicious low-calorie slow cooker recipes is perfect for weight loss. From hearty soups and stews to flavorful international dishes, these recipes use lean proteins, plenty of veggies, and healthy grains to create mouthwatering meals with minimal calories. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting chicken noodle soup or a spicy cauliflower curry, there’s something for everyone in this roundup of tasty and nutritious slow cooker recipes.
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