The slow cooker is a beloved kitchen appliance that offers the convenience of preparing meals with minimal effort. Whether you are a busy parent, a working professional, or someone who simply enjoys the art of cooking, the slow cooker can be a game-changer. By allowing you to set it and forget it, slow cookers can enable you to explore a variety of recipes that yield delicious and comforting meals.
In this article, we will share 50 must-try recipes, categorized for easy navigation. Each recipe will include a brief description, key ingredients, and basic instructions. Let’s dive in!
Hearty Soups and Stews
1. Classic Beef Stew
This timeless dish features tender beef chunks, potatoes, carrots, and a rich broth, making it a perfect comfort food.
- Ingredients: 2 lbs beef stew meat, 4 carrots, 4 potatoes, 1 onion, 4 cups beef broth, 2 tbsp tomato paste, salt & pepper.
- Instructions: Brown beef in a skillet, then transfer to the slow cooker. Add vegetables, broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 8 hours.
2. Chicken Noodle Soup
This nourishing soup is a household favorite, perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
- Ingredients: 1 rotisserie chicken, 4 cups chicken broth, 3 carrots, 3 celery stalks, 2 cups egg noodles, herbs (thyme, parsley).
- Instructions: Combine all ingredients except noodles in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours. Add noodles in the last 30 minutes.
3. Tomato Basil Soup
Rich and velvety tomato soup that’s made better with fresh basil and a swirl of cream.
- Ingredients: 4 cans diced tomatoes, 1 onion, 2 cloves garlic, 2 cups vegetable broth, fresh basil, cream.
- Instructions: Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours. Blend until smooth and serve with cream.
4. Lentil Vegetable Soup
Healthy and filling, this vegetarian soup is loaded with fiber and nutrients.
- Ingredients: 2 cups green lentils, 2 carrots, 2 celery sticks, 1 onion, 4 cups vegetable broth, spices.
- Instructions: Add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours until lentils are tender.
5. Coconut Curry Lentil Soup
A flavorful combination of lentils, coconut milk, and spices make this soup a delightful vegan option.
- Ingredients: 1 cup red lentils, 1 can coconut milk, 1 onion, 2 carrots, curry powder, vegetable broth.
- Instructions: Sauté onions and carrots, then add rest of the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours.
Savory Meat Dishes
6. Pulled Pork
This slow-cooked barbecue dish is perfect for sandwiches or served alongside coleslaw.
- Ingredients: 4 lbs pork shoulder, 1 onion, 2 cups barbecue sauce, spices.
- Instructions: Place pork and onion in the slow cooker, cover with barbecue sauce. Cook on low for 8 hours and shred before serving.
7. Honey Garlic Chicken
This dish features tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce.
- Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken thighs, 1 cup honey, 1/2 cup soy sauce, garlic.
- Instructions: Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours.
8. Beef Stroganoff
A classic beef dish served over noodles or rice. Creamy and rich, it’s sure to please.
- Ingredients: 2 lbs beef strips, 1 onion, mushrooms, 1 cup beef broth, sour cream.
- Instructions: Brown beef and onions, then add to the slow cooker with broth and mushrooms. Cook on low for 6 hours, then stir in sour cream before serving.
9. Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Spiced chicken cooked with apricots and almonds for a unique flavor profile.
- Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, 1 onion, 1 cup dried apricots, spices, almonds.
- Instructions: Combine everything in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours and serve with couscous.
10. Teriyaki Beef
Succulent beef strips marinated and cooked to perfection in teriyaki sauce.
- Ingredients: 2 lbs beef, 1 cup teriyaki sauce, 1 bell pepper, green onions.
- Instructions: Mix beef and teriyaki sauce in the slow cooker. Add bell peppers and cook on low for 5 hours.
Chicken Dishes
11. Lemon Garlic Chicken
This light and zesty chicken dish is perfect for a warm day.
- Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, lemon juice, garlic, herbs.
- Instructions: Place chicken in slow cooker, add lemon juice and garlic. Cook on low for 6-7 hours.
12. Ranch Chicken
A simple dish with the flavors of ranch dressing making it a family favorite.
- Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, ranch seasoning packet, cream cheese.
- Instructions: Add chicken and ranch seasoning to the slow cooker, then top with cream cheese. Cook on low for 6 hours.
13. Chicken Fajitas
Bold flavors come together in this spicy chicken dish that’s perfect for tacos.
- Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken, 1 bell pepper, 1 onion, fajita seasoning.
- Instructions: Combine everything in slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours, and serve in tortillas.
14. BBQ Chicken
Sweet and tangy BBQ sauce coats this tender chicken, perfect for sandwiches or as a main dish.
- Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, 1 cup BBQ sauce.
- Instructions: Add chicken and BBQ sauce to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours.
15. Stuffed Pepper Soup
A hearty soup that incorporates all the flavors of stuffed peppers in a warming bowl.
- Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 1 onion, 2 bell peppers, diced tomatoes, rice.
- Instructions: Sauté beef and onion, then add to slow cooker with other ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Vegetarian Options
16. Vegetarian Chili
This hearty chili is packed with beans, tomatoes, and spices, making it perfect for a cozy night in.
- Ingredients: 2 cans black beans, 2 cans diced tomatoes, bell peppers, chili powder.
- Instructions: Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours.
17. Ratatouille
This classic French dish highlights seasonal vegetables in a beautiful medley.
- Ingredients: Eggplant, zucchini, bell pepper, tomatoes, herbs.
- Instructions: Layer vegetables in the slow cooker, adding herbs and seasoning. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
18. Quinoa and Black Bean Bowl
A protein-packed dish featuring nutty quinoa and hearty black beans.
- Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, 2 cans black beans, corn, tomatoes, spices.
- Instructions: Add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours.
19. Vegetable Curry
Loaded with assorted vegetables, this curry is flavorful and comforting.
- Ingredients: Potatoes, carrots, peas, canned coconut milk, curry paste.
- Instructions: Combine ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
20. Stuffed Acorn Squash
Roasted squash filled with a savory stuffing mixture for a delightful vegetarian feast.
- Ingredients: Acorn squash, quinoa, cranberries, nuts.
- Instructions: Roast acorn halves, then fill with stuffing. Place back in slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours.
Comforting Sides
21. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Get perfectly creamy mashed potatoes without the effort on the stovetop.
- Ingredients: 4 lbs potatoes, 1 cup cream, butter, salt.
- Instructions: Peel and chop potatoes, place in slow cooker with cream and butter. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Mash before serving.
22. Garlic Parmesan Risotto
Rich and creamy risotto made easy in the slow cooker with minimal stirring.
- Ingredients: Arborio rice, chicken broth, parmesan cheese, garlic.
- Instructions: Combine ingredients in slow cooker. Cook on low for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally.
23. Maple Glazed Carrots
Sweet and tender carrots that make the perfect side for any meal.
- Ingredients: 2 lbs carrots, 1/2 cup maple syrup, butter.
- Instructions: Combine all ingredients in slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 hours.
24. Cheesy Broccoli
This simple side dish features fresh broccoli smothered in cheese sauce.
- Ingredients: 3 cups broccoli florets, cheese, cream.
- Instructions: Add broccoli to slow cooker, top with cheese and cream. Cook on low for 2-3 hours.
25. Baked Beans
Sweet and smoky beans cook slowly, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
- Ingredients: 2 cans navy beans, brown sugar, bacon, onion.
- Instructions: Combine ingredients in slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Delicious Desserts
26. Chocolate Lava Cake
Rich and gooey chocolate cake that spills out delicious melted chocolate when served.
- Ingredients: Cake mix, eggs, water, chocolate pudding.
- Instructions: Mix ingredients and pour into the slow cooker. Cook on high for 2 hours.
27. Apple Crisp
A warm and cozy dessert featuring tender apples and a crunchy topping.
- Ingredients: 6 apples, brown sugar, oats, cinnamon.
- Instructions: Slice apples and mix with sugar and cinnamon. Top with oat mixture. Cook on low for 4 hours.
28. Rice Pudding
This creamy dessert is comforting and simple to prepare.
- Ingredients: 1 cup rice, 4 cups milk, sugar, cinnamon.
- Instructions: Combine all ingredients in slow cooker. Cook on low for 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
29. Cheesecake
Decadent and creamy, slow cooker cheesecake is a must-try for dessert lovers.
- Ingredients: Cream cheese, sugar, eggs, graham cracker crust.
- Instructions: Prepare crust, mix filling, and pour over. Cook on low for 4 hours.
30. Peach Cobbler
A delightful mix of sweet peaches and cake that forms a crispy topping.
- Ingredients: Canned peaches, cake mix, butter.
- Instructions: Pour peaches in slow cooker, sprinkle cake mix on top, and add butter. Cook on low for 4 hours.
Quick and Easy Breakfasts
31. Overnight Oats
Prepare these nutritious oats overnight to have a quick breakfast ready.
- Ingredients: Rolled oats, milk, yogurt, fruits.
- Instructions: Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours.
32. Breakfast Casserole
A hearty egg casserole packed with vegetables and cheese, perfect for feeding a crowd.
- Ingredients: Eggs, spinach, cheese, bread.
- Instructions: Whisk eggs and combine with other ingredients. Cook on low for 6 hours.
33. French Toast Casserole
This dish brings the classic flavor of French toast, served warm and drizzled with syrup.
- Ingredients: Bread, eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon.
- Instructions: Mix ingredients and place in slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 hours.
34. Frittata
A delicious and versatile dish that allows for endless customization with ingredients.
- Ingredients: Eggs, vegetables, cheese, proteins.
- Instructions: Whisk eggs, mix with other ingredients. Cook on low for 4 hours.
35. Banana Bread
This moist and flavorful banana bread is easy to make in your slow cooker.
- Ingredients: Overripe bananas, flour, sugar, baking soda.
- Instructions: Mix ingredients and pour into slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 hours.
Global Flavors
36. Thai Red Curry
Rich and aromatic, this dish combines coconut milk and aromatic spices for a delightful experience.
- Ingredients: Chicken, red curry paste, coconut milk, vegetables.
- Instructions: Place ingredients in slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
37. Indian Butter Chicken
This rich, creamy dish is a favorite in Indian cuisine that can be enjoyed with naan or rice.
- Ingredients: Chicken, butter, cream, spices.
- Instructions: Combine ingredients in slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours.
38. Spanish Paella
A vibrant and flavorful rice dish cooked with saffron and a mix of meats and seafood.
- Ingredients: Rice, saffron, chicken, shrimp, vegetables.
- Instructions: Layer ingredients in slow cooker. Cook on low for 5 hours.
39. Greek Lamb Stew
This herb-infused stew brings together tender lamb with a medley of fresh vegetables.
- Ingredients: Lamb, tomatoes, eggplant, herbs.
- Instructions: Place ingredients in slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
40. Japanese Ramen
A warm and hearty noodle soup that can be customized with a variety of toppings.
- Ingredients: Ramen noodles, broth, vegetables, proteins.
- Instructions: Combine broth and ingredients in slow cooker, cook on low for 4 hours. Add noodles in the last hour.
Conclusion
Slow cookers are an incredible tool that offer convenience without sacrificing flavor. The versatility of slow cookers allows you to explore a wide range of cuisine types and meal options, from comforting soups to hearty meats and decadent desserts. With these 50 must-try recipes, any home cook can feel empowered to embrace slow cooking in their kitchen. Perhaps you’ll discover a new family favorite or find that slow cooking frees up your time to enjoy life outside the kitchen.
As you experiment with different ingredients and flavors, remember that each recipe can be adapted to suit your personal tastes. Don’t hesitate to swap in seasonal vegetables, use low-sodium broths, or experiment with spices to create your own signature dishes. Happy cooking!
FAQs
1. How long can I leave food in a slow cooker?
Most dishes can be cooked on low for 6-8 hours without a problem. However, some recipes can be adapted for shorter times, typically requiring 3-5 hours on high. It’s best to follow individual recipes for specific times.
2. Can I use frozen meat in my slow cooker?
It’s generally not recommended to use frozen meat in a slow cooker because it may not reach a safe temperature quickly enough. Always thaw meat before adding it to the slow cooker for food safety.
3. What can I do if my dish is too watery?
If your dish is too watery, you can remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the moisture to evaporate. Alternatively, you can thicken the sauce by stirring in cornstarch mixed with a little cold water.
4. Can I cook rice or pasta in the slow cooker?
Yes, but it’s important to add them later in the cooking process to prevent them from becoming mushy. Add rice or pasta in the last 30-60 minutes of cooking, depending on the type.
5. How do I clean my slow cooker?
Most slow cooker pots are dishwasher safe, but always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions. A mix of warm water and soap works well for hand washing. Avoid using abrasive cleaners to protect the non-stick surface.
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