As a busy mom, you know how hard it can be to balance your family’s needs with your own. But what if I told you there was a way to cook up delicious meals without breaking a sweat? Enter: the slow cooker! This magical kitchen appliance allows you to throw all the ingredients in and let the magic happen while you’re busy taking care of other things.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, slow cooker recipes are the perfect solution. And with our list of 20 effortless slow cooker recipes, you’ll be spoiled for choice! From classic comfort foods to international twists and sweet treats, we’ve got something for everyone. So grab your favorite ingredients and get ready to slow cook your way to culinary success!
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
This recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the savory flavor of garlic and tender chicken, making it a perfect dish for a busy day. With just a few minutes of prep work in the morning, you’ll come home to a deliciously aromatic meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. In a slow cooker, whisk together honey and garlic until well combined.
3. Add the chicken to the slow cooker and pour in the honey-garlic mixture.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
Transform your macaroni into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece with this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a slow cooker, combine cooked macaroni, milk, heavy cream, butter, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and paprika.
3. Stir well to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional grated cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This hearty slow cooker beef stew recipe is a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any day of the week. With tender chunks of beef, fresh vegetables, and rich broth, it’s a satisfying and easy-to-make dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped onion at the bottom of a slow cooker.
2. Add the minced garlic on top of the onion.
3. Arrange the beef stew meat, potatoes, and carrot in layers.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and thyme.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Elevate your sandwich game with tender, fall-apart pulled pork cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. This easy recipe yields juicy, flavorful meat that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or serving as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns, for serving
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Place the pork in a slow cooker and add barbecue sauce and brown sugar. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
3. Shred the pork with two forks and return it to the slow cooker.
4. Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, and mustard.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos Recipe
This recipe is a flavorful and easy twist on traditional tacos, perfect for a busy day. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep work, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready when you need it.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet (0.25 oz) taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
- 8-10 corn tortillas
- Salsa, shredded cheese, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, taco seasoning, onion, and bell pepper on top of the chicken.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
About an hour before serving, warm tortillas according to package instructions. Assemble tacos by shredding the cooked chicken and placing it onto a tortilla with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time:
6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup
Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup Recipe
Warm up with this comforting and healthy slow cooker vegetable soup recipe that’s perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner. This easy-to-make soup is packed with a variety of vegetables, beans, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and thyme to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and vegetable broth.
3. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker Pot Roast
This classic comfort food recipe is a staple of home cooking, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this slow-cooked pot roast is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 pound beef pot roast
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pot roast with salt and pepper.
2. In the slow cooker, layer the sliced onion and minced garlic.
3. Place the pot roast on top of the onions and garlic.
4. Pour in the beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time:
– Low: 8-10 hours
– High: 4-6 hours
Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs
Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs Recipe
Get ready for tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs without the hassle of constant monitoring! This slow cooker recipe is perfect for a stress-free, delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (this will help them cook evenly).
4. Place the ribs in the slow cooker, bone-side down. Sprinkle the dry rub mixture evenly over the ribs.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce and apple cider vinegar. Pour the mixture over the ribs.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours. Check the ribs after 6 hours; if they’re not tender enough, continue to cook in 30-minute increments until desired tenderness.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw and baked beans.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
This classic comfort food recipe is a perfect solution for a chilly day or when you’re short on time but still want to serve a hearty meal. Let your slow cooker do the work as chicken, vegetables, and dumplings simmer together in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 8-10 dumpling mix (e.g., Bisquick or homemade)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped carrots, celery, and garlic in the slow cooker.
2. Add the chicken breasts on top.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and milk. Pour over the chicken.
4. Sprinkle thyme and dumpling mix evenly over the surface.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chili
Warm up with this comforting slow cooker chili recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day. This classic dish is easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a staple in many households.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a pan over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
2. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell peppers to the slow cooker.
3. Stir in browned ground beef, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add canned tomatoes, red kidney beans, and beef broth; stir well.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips!
Slow Cooker Lasagna
Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe
Looking for a comforting and easy-to-make meal? This slow cooker lasagna recipe is the perfect solution! With layers of pasta, meat sauce, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions.
2. In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in marinara sauce; bring to a simmer.
5. In a slow cooker, create layers of lasagna noodles, meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
7. 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 Teriyaki Chicken
Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken: A delicious and effortless meal perfect for a busy day! This recipe combines the classic flavors of teriyaki sauce with tender chicken, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Garnish with green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Minestrone
A classic Italian-inspired soup that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch, this slow cooker minestrone is easy to make and packed with nutritious vegetables and beans.
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
– 2 celery stalks, 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 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.
Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
This slow cooker recipe is a twist on the classic Russian dish, featuring tender beef and a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to prepare and cooks while you’re away.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz sour cream
– 1 cup cooked egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Place the sliced onion, minced garlic, and beef strips in the slow cooker.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the sour cream.
5. Serve the beef mixture over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo
Simplify your dinner routine with this comforting Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo recipe. This creamy pasta dish is a crowd-pleaser, requiring minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cooked fettuccine noodles
– 1 can (14 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and heavy cream until smooth. Pour over chicken.
3. Add cooked fettuccine noodles, parsley, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir gently.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove chicken from slow cooker and shred into bite-sized pieces. Return to the slow cooker and stir in Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
Savor the flavors of a classic comfort dish with this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering. This hearty meal combines juicy sausage, tender peppers, and savory spices in a rich and flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add sausage, peppers, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano to a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper, then cover the cooker.
3. Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4-5 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional).
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Slow Cooker Lentil Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious slow cooker lentil soup recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on Low for 8-10 hours or High for 4-6 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (Low) or 4-6 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Pineapple Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday gathering with this sweet and savory slow cooker ham recipe, featuring a tangy pineapple glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, ground cloves, and black pepper.
3. Place the ham in the slow cooker, scoring the fat layer in a diamond pattern.
4. Pour the pineapple glaze over the ham, making sure it’s fully coated.
5. Top with chopped fresh pineapple.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Mushroom Risotto
Slow Cooker Mushroom Risotto Recipe
Experience the creamy comfort of risotto without the constant stirring with this slow cooker recipe. This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Stir in Arborio rice, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Transfer mixture to slow cooker. Add wine (if using), broth, butter, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day off right with a delicious and comforting bowl of oatmeal, infused with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick and easy breakfast that’s also healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 1/4 cup diced apple (such as Granny Smith)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Add the oats, water or milk, apple, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt to a slow cooker.
2. Stir until well combined.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Serve hot, topped with your favorite toppings such as chopped nuts, dried fruit, or a drizzle of honey.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Summary
Discover the magic of slow cooker recipes with these 20 effortless and delicious meals perfect for busy moms. From classic comfort food like Creamy Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese and Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings, to international flavors like Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken and Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? Simply toss all the ingredients into the slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a ready-to-eat meal. No fuss, no muss!
