When it comes to managing blood sugar levels, meal planning and cooking can be a challenge. But with the right tools and recipes, healthy eating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor. Enter the slow cooker – a versatile kitchen appliance that can help make mealtime easier and more nutritious. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious diabetic-friendly slow cooker recipes that are perfect for anyone looking to balance their diet while still enjoying hearty, satisfying meals.
From classic comfort foods like chili and stew to international-inspired dishes like Moroccan chickpea stew and zucchini lasagna, these recipes showcase the versatility of slow cooking. And with a focus on whole, unprocessed ingredients and minimal added sugars, you can trust that each recipe is not only delicious but also good for your health.
Whether you’re managing diabetes or simply looking to eat healthier, these 20 diabetic-friendly slow cooker recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Slow Cooker Turkey Chili
Slow Cooker Turkey Chili Recipe
A hearty and comforting turkey chili recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker. Add the cooked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Diabetic-Friendly Beef Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this diabetic-friendly recipe is carefully crafted to meet the needs of those managing their blood sugar levels. This slow-cooked beef stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and fiber-rich vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean beef cubes (90% lean or higher)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, low-sodium
– 1 cup beef broth, low-sodium
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt-free seasoning blend to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the beef cubes over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, and thyme.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then cover and transfer to preheated oven.
6. Cook for 2-3 hours or until beef is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Low-Carb Slow Cooker Chicken Curry
A flavorful and nutritious slow cooker recipe that’s perfect for a busy day. This curry is low in carbs, rich in protein, and packed with aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium-sized onions, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, onions, garlic, ginger, coconut milk, chicken broth, curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Lentil Soup
A comforting and nutritious soup perfect for a chilly day, this slow cooker lentil soup is easy to prepare and packed with protein-rich lentils, aromatic spices, and tender vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and canned tomatoes to the slow cooker.
2. Stir in thyme and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Sugar-Free BBQ Pulled Chicken
Looking for a delicious and healthy twist on traditional BBQ pulled chicken? This sugar-free recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy the flavors of BBQ without the added sugars.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup sugar-free BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sugar-free BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large baking dish and brush the BBQ mixture evenly over both breasts.
4. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours or until chicken is tender and easily shredded.
5. Remove from oven and use two forks to pull apart chicken into shreds.
6. Serve hot on a bun, topped with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Slow Cooker Vegetable Ratatouille
This hearty slow cooker recipe brings together the flavors of the Mediterranean with a medley of colorful vegetables, simmered to perfection in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 medium bell peppers, sliced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced zucchinis, and bell peppers to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and dried oregano. Pour over the vegetables in the slow cooker.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Healthy Slow Cooker Chicken and Quinoa
Nourish your body with this simple and delicious recipe that combines the flavors of chicken, quinoa, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine quinoa, chicken broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken on top of the quinoa mixture.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Diabetic Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
This recipe is a perfect combination of tender beef and crunchy broccoli, cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. With only 5g of carbs per serving, it’s an excellent choice for diabetics looking for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean beef (90% lean), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine beef strips, broccoli, onion, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup
This comforting soup is a twist on traditional cabbage rolls, where tender cabbage and ground beef are slow-cooked with aromatic spices and vegetables. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head cabbage, shredded
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
2. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. In the slow cooker, combine cooked beef mixture, shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Low-Sugar Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day off right with a delicious and healthy breakfast that’s perfect for the whole family. This slow cooker recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of apples, and the comfort of oatmeal in a low-sugar treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Gala)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine oats, apples, water, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. If desired, add honey or maple syrup to taste during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
4. Serve warm, topped with additional cinnamon or your favorite toppings (such as nuts or fruit).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low, 3-4 hours on high
Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken
Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken Recipe
Transform your dinner into a mouthwatering experience with this simple and flavorful slow cooker recipe, perfect for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Place the chicken breasts on top of the herb mixture.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Diabetic-Friendly Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin
This recipe is perfect for diabetics looking for a delicious and healthy slow cooker meal option. With only 7g of carbs per serving, this pork tenderloin is not only flavorful but also low in sugar and refined carbohydrates.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup brown sugar-free sweetener (such as Swerve or Erythritol)
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Season the pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar-free sweetener and Dijon mustard.
3. Place the sweetener mixture on top of the pork tenderloin, spreading evenly to cover the entire surface.
4. Place the chicken broth in the bottom of a slow cooker.
5. Add the pork tenderloin to the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This slow cooker recipe is easy to make and packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the black beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Pour the bean mixture over the onions in the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Low-Carb Slow Cooker Zucchini Lasagna
Simplify your weeknight routine with this delicious and healthy slow cooker recipe that replaces traditional noodles with zucchini, reducing the carb count without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef or turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. In the slow cooker, layer the zucchini slices, meat mixture, marinara sauce, and cheese in that order.
4. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Salmon
Brighten up your dinner routine with this flavorful and moist slow-cooked salmon recipe infused with the zesty goodness of lemon and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and thyme.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the slow cooker, making sure they are not overlapping.
4. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Diabetic Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla-less Soup
A deliciously healthy twist on traditional chicken soup, this recipe is perfect for diabetics looking to manage their blood sugar levels while still enjoying a flavorful and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Spaghetti Squash with Marinara
Slow Cooker Spaghetti Squash with Marinara: A creative twist on traditional spaghetti, this recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of a slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized spaghetti squash (about 1 pound each)
– 1 jar of marinara sauce (28 oz)
– 1 pound ground beef or sausage, browned and drained
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Place the squash halves in the slow cooker, cut side up.
4. In a separate bowl, combine browned ground beef or sausage, diced onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread the meat mixture evenly over the spaghetti squash.
6. Pour marinara sauce over the top of the squash and meat.
7. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
8. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Healthy Slow Cooker Moroccan Chickpea Stew
This flavorful stew is a perfect blend of spices, herbs, and chickpeas that will warm your senses and nourish your body. With the slow cooker doing all the work, you’ll come home to a hearty and aromatic meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to the slow cooker in the order listed.
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, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast
This recipe yields a tender and flavorful turkey breast with the added bonus of minimal prep work. Simply season, cook, and enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place turkey breast in the slow cooker and brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the meat.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove from heat when cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Diabetic-Friendly Slow Cooker Ratatouille
This slow cooker ratatouille is a perfect solution for a busy day, requiring minimal effort and yielding a flavorful, diabetic-friendly meal. With a mix of sautéed vegetables and aromatic herbs, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked white beans (such as cannellini or navy)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and zucchinis. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
2. Transfer the vegetable mixture to a slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes, cooked beans, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Discover the delicious and healthy world of diabetic slow cooker recipes! This collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes caters to those living with diabetes, offering a range of sugar-free, low-carb, and nutrient-rich meals. From savory stews and hearty soups to sweet treats like oatmeal and apple cinnamon, there’s something for everyone. Recipes include Turkey Chili, Beef Stew, Chicken Curry, Lentil Soup, BBQ Pulled Chicken, and more. Perfect for busy lifestyles, these slow cooker recipes are easy to prepare and require minimal supervision, making mealtime a breeze while keeping your blood sugar levels in check.
