Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Look no further! Crock pots are a busy person’s best friend, allowing you to throw all your ingredients in and let it cook while you’re away. And with these 20 delicious meat crock pot recipes, you’ll never have to worry about a bland or boring meal again.
From classic beef stews to sweet and tangy ham dishes, we’ve got you covered. Our recipes range from comforting and familiar to bold and adventurous, so you’re sure to find something that suits your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping Sunday roast, our slow cooker meals are the perfect solution.
In this article, we’ll take you through 20 mouth-watering meat crock pot recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From tender pulled pork to flavorful beef bourguignon, get ready to elevate your mealtime game and make cooking a breeze.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
This comforting stew is perfect for a cold winter’s day, packed with tender beef and a variety of root vegetables cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine beef, onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and sweet potato.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme. Pour over the vegetables and beef.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Crock Pot Pulled Pork with Homemade BBQ Sauce
This classic comfort food recipe is a staple for any gathering or family dinner. With tender pulled pork and a tangy homemade BBQ sauce, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
3. Place the pork in the Crock Pot with the BBQ sauce and chicken broth.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Easy Italian Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
This classic recipe combines tender meatballs with a rich and tangy marinara sauce, perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as an appetizer. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and gently roll them around to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with marinara sauce and your favorite pasta, sandwich, or as an appetizer.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Savory Garlic Herb Pot Roast
A hearty pot roast infused with the rich flavors of garlic and herbs, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef pot roast (chuck or round)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the pot roast with salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pot roast until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Transfer the pot roast to a preheated oven and cook for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
5. Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Spicy Korean Beef Tacos with Slaw
Experience the bold flavors of Korea in a twist on traditional tacos! This recipe combines marinated beef, spicy kimchi slaw, and crispy taco shells for a flavor-packed meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (flank steak or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 8-10 taco shells
– Kimchi slaw ingredients: 1/2 cup kimchi, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tsp honey, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chili flakes, brown sugar, garlic, and green onions. Add sliced beef and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook beef strips for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, prepare kimchi slaw by mixing all ingredients together in a bowl.
4. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by placing grilled beef onto shells, topping with kimchi slaw and serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Tender Braised Lamb Shanks with Red Wine
Tender Braised Lamb Shanks with Red Wine
Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked lamb, fall-apart tender and infused with a deep red wine sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
- 4 lamb shanks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Season lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
- Brown the lamb shanks in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
- Add olive oil to pot; sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer.
- Return lamb shanks to pot, cover with lid, and transfer to oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
Cooking Time:
2-1/2 hours (plus browning time)
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs with Carrots
This recipe combines the rich flavors of honey and garlic with the tender juiciness of chicken thighs, perfectly paired with roasted carrots. A simple yet impressive dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large bowl and brush the honey-garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange chicken thighs. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a separate baking sheet and roast alongside chicken for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Beef Chili
This hearty chili recipe combines the rich flavors of beef, chipotle peppers, and smoky spices to create a bold and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Crock Pot Beef and Barley Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of slow-cooked beef and barley soup. This classic recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Add the beef, barley, beef broth, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to a 6-quart crock pot.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, remove the lid to allow the soup to thicken slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Creamy Mushroom Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops game with this rich and creamy mushroom sauce that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops, boneless and thick-cut
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add pork chops; cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until browned. Transfer to a baking dish.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and mushrooms; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour mushroom sauce over pork chops in the baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until pork is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Pineapple Ham
This sweet and tangy pineapple ham recipe is a twist on the classic glazed ham, featuring a sticky mixture of brown sugar, pineapple juice, and spices that will have your guests asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scored in a diamond pattern if desired.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the crevices of the scoring.
5. Cover the ham with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 1/2 hours
Herbed Turkey Breast with Lemon Gravy
Herbed Turkey Breast with Lemon Gravy Recipe
A flavorful twist on a classic dish, this recipe combines the savory taste of turkey breast with the brightness of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven for 45-50 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. While the turkey is cooking, combine lemon juice, garlic, and chicken broth in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Remove the turkey from the oven and brush with the lemon gravy.
7. Return the turkey to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
BBQ Beef Brisket with Caramelized Onions
Savor the rich flavors of tender beef brisket smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce and topped with sweet, caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) beef brisket
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the brisket with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket for 2-3 minutes per side, then set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
5. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and 1 tablespoon water. Brush the mixture evenly over the brisket.
6. Return the brisket to the Dutch oven, topping with the caramelized onions.
7. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 2-3 hours or until tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Mediterranean Lamb and Chickpea Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the richness of lamb with the creaminess of chickpeas, all infused with the aromas of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Brown lamb in batches until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium, add onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add chickpeas, crushed tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return lamb to pot, cover, and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and cook for 30-40 minutes or until lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple Dijon Glazed Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this simple yet impressive recipe, featuring maple syrup’s natural sweetness and Dijon mustard’s tangy zip.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and arrange the drumsticks in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef Bourguignon with Pearl Onions
Experience the rich flavors of French cuisine with this hearty beef stew, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of caramelized pearl onions. This iconic dish is a staple of French cooking, and our simplified recipe makes it easy to recreate at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs or chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pearl onions, peeled and caramelized (see note)
– 1 cup red wine
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown the beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add onions, garlic, and caramelized pearl onions; cook until onions are golden.
4. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme.
5. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Asian-Style Ginger Soy Short Ribs
Savor the bold flavors of this Asian-inspired dish as tender short ribs are slow-cooked in a rich soy-based sauce infused with the warmth of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup soy sauce
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 star anise pod
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the oil over medium-high. Sear the short ribs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the ribs from the pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the grated ginger, sliced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and star anise pod to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the short ribs to the pot, cover with a lid or foil, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
This hearty recipe is perfect for a chilly evening, with juicy sausage and tender peppers cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Serve over rice or with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker.
2. Add the Italian sausage to the slow cooker.
3. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and sprinkle with dried oregano.
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 if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Moroccan Spiced Beef with Apricots
This Moroccan-inspired dish combines the tender flavor of beef with the sweetness of apricots, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic spice blend. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add cumin, paprika, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add apricots, onion, garlic, and broth to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef to the skillet and stir to coat with spice mixture.
6. Transfer skillet to oven and braise for 2-3 hours or until beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Buffalo Chicken Dip with Celery Sticks
This creamy, spicy dip is perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers. Serve it with crunchy celery sticks for a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 ounce) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1/2 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Celery sticks for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese and ranch dressing. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, hot sauce, and cooked chicken.
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 warm and bubbly.
6. Serve with celery sticks for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready for delicious and easy meals on busy weeknights! This article features 20 mouth-watering crock pot recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From classic comfort foods like slow-cooked beef stew and creamy mushroom pork chops to international flavors like Korean beef tacos and Moroccan spiced beef, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for tender lamb shanks or sweet and tangy pineapple ham, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So go ahead, throw everything into your crock pot, and let the magic happen!
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