10 Easy Crockpot Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Cooking doesn't have to be a chore, especially when you've got a trusty crockpot by your side! These 10 easy crockpot recipes make mealtime a breeze, allowing you to whip up delicious dishes with minimal effort. Perfect for busy days or lazy weekends, just set it and forget it while your meal simmers to perfection!

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

These creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a perfect side dish for any meal. They are rich, buttery, and packed with flavor, thanks to the addition of roasted garlic. This recipe is super simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and your trusty crockpot.

Imagine fluffy potatoes blended with cream and a hint of garlic, elevating your dinner to a whole new level. Whether it's a holiday dinner or a casual weeknight meal, this dish will surely impress. Plus, using a crockpot means you can set it and forget it!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Place the cubed potatoes and minced garlic in the crockpot. Add enough water to cover the potatoes.
2. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
3. Drain the water, then add the butter and cream to the potatoes.
4. Mash the potatoes until smooth, adding salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Tuscan Chicken with Spinach

Tuscan Chicken with Spinach is a comforting and flavorful dish that's sure to please any crowd. With juicy chicken breasts simmered in a rich tomato sauce, complemented by tender spinach and hearty pasta, this recipe delivers a taste of Italy right from your crockpot. It’s easy to make, requiring minimal prep time, and allows you to enjoy a delicious meal with very little hassle.

This recipe is not just about convenience; it’s about combining wholesome ingredients for a satisfying meal. The flavors meld beautifully as the chicken cooks low and slow, absorbing the essence of sun-dried tomatoes and garlic. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this Tuscan delight will quickly become a family favorite!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup small pasta (like shells or elbows)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Layer the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour the diced tomatoes and chopped sun-dried tomatoes over the chicken.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, add the pasta and spinach to the crockpot, stirring gently to combine.
5. Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve warm.

Spicy Lentil Soup

Spicy lentil soup is a warming dish that's perfect for chilly days. Packed with flavors from spices and vegetables, it brings a delightful heat while remaining comforting and nutritious. This recipe is simple to make and can be prepared in a crockpot, allowing you to set it and forget it while it simmers away.

The combination of lentils, tomatoes, and spices creates a robust flavor profile that is both satisfying and healthy. This soup is not only filling but also rich in protein and fiber, making it a great choice for a hearty meal. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or toppings!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients except for cilantro in the crockpot.
2. Stir well to mix everything together.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Hearty Chicken and Rice Casserole

This Hearty Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of flavors in a warm, satisfying bake. It's perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, requiring minimal prep while delivering a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.

The rich and savory taste is enhanced by a blend of spices, making each bite delightful. Plus, it’s simple to make—all you need to do is combine the ingredients in your crockpot and let it work its magic!

Ingredients

• 2 cups uncooked rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: In your crockpot, combine the rice, chicken broth, diced chicken, carrots, peas, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Drizzle olive oil on top.
2. Mix Well: Stir all the ingredients until well combined. Make sure the rice is submerged in the broth.
3. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
4. Finish: If using cheese, sprinkle it on top during the last 15 minutes of cooking and let it melt.
5. Serve: Once finished, fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Barbecue Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Barbecue pulled pork sandwiches are a delightful combination of tender, flavorful meat and savory sauce, all piled high on a soft bun. The rich, smoky taste is perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness, making it a favorite for casual get-togethers or family dinners. Plus, using a crockpot makes this recipe incredibly simple, allowing you to set it and forget it while the flavors meld together.

This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering. Serve it alongside some crunchy coleslaw for an extra layer of taste and texture. Your friends and family will be coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 3-4 pounds pork shoulder
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon liquid smoke (optional)
• 8 hamburger buns
• Coleslaw (for topping)

Instructions

1. Prep the Pork: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and place it in the crockpot. Add sliced onions and sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the top.
2. Add Sauce: Pour the barbecue sauce over the pork, ensuring it’s well coated. If using, add the liquid smoke for an extra smokiness.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours, until the pork is tender and easy to shred.
4. Shred the Meat: Once cooked, remove the pork from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded meat to the pot, mixing it with the sauce.
5. Assemble: Spoon the pulled pork onto hamburger buns and top with coleslaw. Serve and enjoy!

Vegetarian Chili with Black Beans

This vegetarian chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for any day of the week. It's packed with black beans, vegetables, and spices, making it not only delicious but also nutritious. Plus, it’s super easy to make in your crockpot—just toss everything in and let it simmer!

The combination of beans and veggies creates a satisfying texture, while the spices add a nice kick. It's a great option for a cozy meal and can be enjoyed on its own or with toppings like avocado or cheese.

Ingredients

• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes (28 oz)
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1-2 cups vegetable broth (adjust for desired thickness)

Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients: In a crockpot, combine black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, corn, bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
2. Add Spices: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix everything together.
3. Add Broth: Pour in vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!

Savory Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and heartiness to any meal. Tender beef, savory mushrooms, and creamy sauce come together beautifully, creating a comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. It's simple to make, especially in a crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly while you go about your day.

This recipe is perfect for busy evenings. With just a few ingredients, you can have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort. Serve it over egg noodles or mashed potatoes for a satisfying feast that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Egg noodles, for serving

Instructions

1. In a crockpot, add the beef stew meat, onion, mushrooms, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender.
3. In a small bowl, mix the flour with sour cream until smooth. Stir this mixture into the crockpot about 30 minutes before serving to create a creamy sauce.
4. Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Serve the beef stroganoff over the egg noodles and enjoy!

Sweet and Sour Pork

Sweet and sour pork is a classic dish that brings a delightful balance of flavors to the table. The tender pork, combined with vibrant vegetables and a tangy sauce, creates a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and exciting. It's simple to make, especially when using a crockpot, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.

This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, as it pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep work, you can easily whip up a scrumptious dinner that pleases everyone.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork tenderloin, cubed
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup sweet and sour sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the cubed pork with salt and pepper. Place in the crockpot.
2. Add Vegetables: Layer the pineapple, bell peppers, and onion over the pork.
3. Mix Sauces: In a bowl, combine sweet and sour sauce with soy sauce. Pour over the pork and vegetables.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender.
5. Thicken Sauce (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water and stir into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve: Enjoy over rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Classic Beef Stew

Classic beef stew is a cozy dish packed with hearty flavors and tender chunks of beef. It's perfect for chilly evenings and brings a sense of comfort that warms you from the inside out. The mix of savory beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a deliciously rich broth that’s simply irresistible.

This recipe is straightforward and great for busy days. Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work while you relax. You'll love coming home to the smell of a warm, homemade meal waiting for you!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cup frozen peas

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides, then transfer them to the crockpot.
2. Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic to the crockpot with the beef.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables.
4. Add the bay leaves. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender.
5. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas.
6. Remove bay leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious classic beef stew!

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Start your day with a warm bowl of apple cinnamon oatmeal! This delightful dish combines the sweet and tart flavors of apples with the comforting taste of cinnamon, making it a cozy breakfast option. Simple to prepare, it requires minimal ingredients and lets your slow cooker do all the hard work while you enjoy your morning routine.

The combination of hearty oats and fresh apples results in a satisfying and nutritious meal. Perfect for busy mornings, you can set it up the night before, and wake up to a ready-to-eat breakfast that feels like a treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 4 cups water or milk
• 2 apples, diced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker, stirring well to mix.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the oats are tender.
3. Once cooked, stir the oatmeal and serve warm, topped with additional apple slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

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