1. Classic Beef Stew
This timeless dish is perfect for chilly evenings. The slow cooker allows the beef to become tender while the flavors meld beautifully.
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 carrots, chopped
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, set to low for 8 hours, and enjoy a hearty meal when you get home!
2. Chicken Tacos
Transform your weeknight dinners with these flavorful chicken tacos. The slow cooker does all the work while you prepare the toppings!
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- Tortillas for serving
- Optional toppings: avocado, cheese, sour cream, cilantro
Place chicken, taco seasoning, and salsa in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Shred the chicken and serve in tortillas with your favorite toppings.
3. Vegetarian Chili
This hearty vegetarian chili is packed with protein and flavor. It’s perfect for a filling meal that everyone will love.
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Add all ingredients to the slow cooker and stir well. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Serve with cornbread or over rice!
4. Honey Garlic Chicken
This dish combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a hit with the whole family. Serve it over rice for a complete meal.
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
Mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in the slow cooker. Add chicken thighs and coat well. Cook on low for 6-7 hours. Serve with steamed veggies!
5. Creamy Tomato Soup
There’s nothing like a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup, especially when paired with a grilled cheese sandwich!
- 2 cans diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine tomatoes, onion, and vegetable broth in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours. Blend until smooth, stir in cream, and season to taste.
6. BBQ Pulled Pork
This pulled pork is perfect for sandwiches, sliders, or even over rice. It’s incredibly easy and always a crowd-pleaser.
- 3 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 onion, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and season with salt and pepper. Top with sliced onion and BBQ sauce. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, then shred and serve!
7. Beef and Broccoli
This takeout favorite can be made at home with ease. It’s perfect over rice or noodles for a filling dinner.
- 1.5 lbs flank steak, sliced thin
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Combine beef, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours. Add broccoli in the last 30 minutes of cooking, and serve over rice!
8. Lentil Soup
This nutritious lentil soup is filling and packed with vitamins. It’s a great way to warm up during the cooler months.
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Place all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Blend if desired for a creamier texture!
9. Italian Meatballs
These meatballs are perfect for spaghetti night! They’re flavorful and can also be served on subs for a quick meal.
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 jar marinara sauce
Mix beef, breadcrumbs, cheese, and egg, and form into meatballs. Place in the slow cooker, cover with marinara sauce, and cook on low for 6 hours.
10. Chicken and Rice
This one-pot meal is simple yet satisfying. It’s a great way to feed the family without much effort!
- 2 lbs chicken breasts
- 2 cups long-grain rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Layer rice on the bottom of the slow cooker, then add chicken, broth, soup, and onion. Cook on low for 6-7 hours. Fluff rice before serving!
11. Stuffed Bell Peppers
These stuffed bell peppers are colorful and packed with flavor. They make for a healthy and delicious meal!
- 4 bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Mix turkey, rice, tomatoes, and seasoning. Stuff the mixture into the bell peppers and place in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
12. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
This creamy dish is rich and comforting, perfect for pairing with pasta or mashed potatoes.
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Add chicken, cream, Parmesan, and garlic to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours. Serve with your favorite side!
13. Beef Stroganoff
This classic dish is creamy and satisfying, perfect for a comforting dinner option.
- 2 lbs beef stew meat
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
Combine beef, onion, mushrooms, and broth in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours. Stir in sour cream before serving over egg noodles.
14. Balsamic Chicken
This dish is tangy and sweet, and the slow cooker ensures the chicken stays juicy and flavorful.
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Place chicken in the slow cooker and pour the balsamic mixture over it. Cook on low for 6-7 hours and serve with veggies or salad.
15. Potato and Sausage Casserole
This hearty casserole is perfect for breakfast or dinner, combining all your favorite flavors in one dish.
- 1 lb sausage, sliced
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup cheese, shredded
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup milk
Layer potatoes, sausage, onion, and cheese in the slow cooker. Pour milk over the top. Cook on low for 6-7 hours.
16. Thai Coconut Curry
This dish is packed with flavor and a great way to introduce your family to new tastes!
- 1 lb chicken, cubed
- 1 can coconut milk
- 2 tbsp red curry paste
- 2 cups mixed vegetables
Combine chicken, coconut milk, and curry paste in the slow cooker. Add vegetables and cook on low for 6 hours. Serve over rice!
17. Quinoa and Black Bean Chili
This protein-packed chili is nutritious and filling, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 can black beans, rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Serve with avocado or sour cream!
18. Sweet Potato and Chickpea Curry
This vegan dish is full of flavor and nutrients, perfect for a wholesome meal!
- 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can coconut milk
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 onion, chopped
Add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours. Serve with rice or naan!
19. Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells
These stuffed shells are a cheesy delight and perfect for a comforting dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Mix ricotta and spinach, stuff shells, and place in the slow cooker with marinara sauce. Top with mozzarella and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
20. Chocolate Lava Cake
Finish off your meal with this indulgent dessert that’s easy to make in your slow cooker. It’s a sweet way to end your busy weeknight!
- 1 cup flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Mix flour, sugar, cocoa, and baking powder in a bowl. Stir in milk and melted butter. Pour into slow cooker and top with chocolate chips. Cook on low for 2-3 hours and serve warm with ice cream!
Conclusion
These 20 family favorite slow cooker meals offer a variety of flavors and cuisines, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can prepare these delicious dishes ahead of time, giving you more quality moments with your family during busy weeknights. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let your slow cooker do the magic!