25+ Delicious Crockpot Family Dinner Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Finding the time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal for your family can be a challenge, especially with the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Fortunately, there’s a simple solution to make family dinners easier and stress-free: the slow cooker.

With its “set it and forget it” functionality, the crockpot has become a beloved kitchen tool for busy families who want to enjoy flavorful meals without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re craving comfort food, something hearty, or a light and healthy dish, a crockpot can do it all.

In this article, we’ve rounded up 25+ of the best crockpot family dinner recipes that will make your life easier while delighting your family with delicious, home-cooked meals.

From savory meats to hearty vegetarian dishes, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to create meals that require minimal prep and maximum flavor.

Let’s dive into the ultimate collection of crockpot recipes that will make family dinners a breeze!

25+ Delicious Crockpot Family Dinner Recipes for Busy Weeknights

With the busy pace of family life, dinner should be the one thing you don’t have to worry about.

Thanks to the versatility of the crockpot, you can enjoy flavorful, home-cooked meals without the stress of spending hours in the kitchen.

The 25+ recipes we’ve shared will inspire you to get creative with your slow cooker, whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, hosting a family gathering, or simply looking to make dinner a little more convenient.

From tender meats to hearty soups and even vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone in this collection.

So, grab your slow cooker, put in your ingredients, and let the crockpot do all the hard work.

Whether you’re serving up a comforting stew, a delicious pasta dish, or a spicy curry, these family dinner recipes will not only save you time but also bring your loved ones together around the dinner table.

Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetable Stew

This hearty and comforting stew is packed with tender chicken, seasonal vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. It’s the perfect meal for a busy family, as it’s a set-it-and-forget-it dish. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with a flavorful and nutritious meal at the end of the day. It’s versatile, too—you can switch up the vegetables based on what you have in your pantry or what’s in season.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 medium potatoes, diced
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup green beans (fresh or frozen)

Instructions:

  1. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, chopped celery, onion, and garlic on top of the chicken.
  3. Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients, and sprinkle the dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper over everything.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
  5. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir it back into the stew.
  6. Add the frozen peas and green beans. Stir, cover, and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are heated through.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

This slow-cooked chicken and vegetable stew is a crowd-pleaser that will warm your family up on chilly evenings. With minimal prep and an effortless cooking process, this recipe allows you to spend more time with your loved ones. The combination of tender chicken and vegetables in a savory broth makes it incredibly satisfying. Whether served with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad, this dish is bound to become a regular in your weekly meal rotation.

Crockpot Beef Stroganoff

Beef stroganoff is a family favorite that combines rich beef, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, all cooked to perfection in the slow cooker. This dish takes minimal preparation but delivers big flavor. It’s a great option for busy days when you need a comforting meal with little effort.

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs beef stew meat or sirloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 oz egg noodles or your choice of pasta

Instructions:

  1. In the slow cooker, add the beef stew meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, and beef broth.
  2. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and fully cooked.
  4. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions.
  5. Stir in the sour cream and, if desired, a tablespoon of flour to thicken the sauce.
  6. Once the noodles are cooked, drain and mix them into the beef stroganoff sauce, or serve the beef mixture over the noodles.
  7. Adjust seasoning to taste, and serve hot.

Beef stroganoff made in the crockpot is a great way to enjoy this creamy, comforting dish without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the rich sauce is perfectly complemented by the soft noodles. This recipe is ideal for families who love cozy, indulgent meals, especially on hectic days when time is limited. The sour cream adds a luscious, creamy finish, turning this dish into an absolute winner for dinner.

Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork

This slow-cooked pulled pork recipe is a winner for any family meal, offering tender, juicy pork with a smoky, tangy BBQ flavor. It’s a simple recipe that requires little prep work and delivers a hearty, satisfying meal. Pulled pork is versatile enough to serve in sandwiches, tacos, or with your favorite side dishes, making it a great option for any occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 3-4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite brand)
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Buns for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin.
  2. Add the chopped onion around the pork, then pour the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, and brown sugar over the top.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds.
  4. Once the pork is done, use two forks to shred the meat directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with the sauce.
  5. Serve the pulled pork on buns for sandwiches, or pair it with coleslaw, baked beans, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

This BBQ pulled pork is perfect for busy days when you want a low-maintenance meal that delivers big flavor. The slow cooking process allows the pork to soak in all the tangy BBQ sauce, making each bite tender and full of smoky goodness. Whether you’re making sandwiches for a family dinner or preparing a platter for a casual gathering, this recipe will surely impress. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors pairs beautifully with the rich, succulent pork, making it a meal everyone will love.

Slow Cooker Turkey Chili

This turkey chili is a lighter, healthier take on the classic comfort food but just as hearty and flavorful. Packed with lean turkey, beans, and a blend of spices, it’s a filling and nutritious meal that’s perfect for busy family dinners. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing the flavors to meld together while you focus on other tasks. This recipe can be customized to your heat preference and served with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or cilantro.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup frozen corn (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Brown the ground turkey in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  2. Transfer the browned turkey to the slow cooker, and add the chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker, and stir everything together to combine.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have blended.
  5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen corn if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Serve hot with your choice of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.

This turkey chili is a perfect family dinner that brings comfort and warmth without the heaviness of traditional beef chili. The slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare, and the leftovers taste even better the next day. It’s a nutritious and satisfying meal, and the addition of beans and vegetables helps to boost the fiber and nutrient content. Whether you serve it with cornbread or over rice, this turkey chili is sure to become a family favorite.

Crockpot Creamy Chicken Alfredo

A rich, creamy pasta dish that’s made effortlessly in the slow cooker, this creamy chicken Alfredo is perfect for busy nights when you want something indulgent but with minimal effort. The chicken is tender, the sauce is smooth and velvety, and the pasta is perfectly coated in cheesy goodness. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to please the entire family.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 package (16 oz) fettuccine pasta, uncooked
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, and season with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and minced garlic.
  3. Pour the mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  4. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  5. Shred the chicken with two forks directly in the slow cooker, and stir the creamy sauce until smooth and well combined.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker, tossing to coat the noodles in the sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

This creamy chicken Alfredo is an indulgent dish that takes all the stress out of a complex recipe. The slow cooker ensures the chicken remains juicy and tender, and the sauce is silky smooth. The addition of cream cheese and Parmesan creates a velvety sauce that pairs perfectly with the fettuccine. It’s a delicious dinner that the whole family will enjoy, and it’s simple enough to make on busy weeknights. Leftovers are great for lunch the next day, and it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy any craving for comfort food.

Crockpot Beef and Vegetable Soup

This nourishing beef and vegetable soup is the perfect meal to serve when you need something healthy, hearty, and filling. It’s loaded with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth, making it a wholesome choice for a family dinner. The beauty of this soup is that you can easily adjust the vegetables and seasonings based on your preferences, making it a versatile option for all seasons.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb stew beef (chuck roast or round), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup green beans (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Place the stew beef into the slow cooker, along with the chopped carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and garlic.
  2. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, peas, green beans, thyme, basil, and bay leaf.
  3. Stir everything together to combine, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are fully cooked.
  5. Remove the bay leaf before serving, and taste for seasoning adjustments.
  6. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

This beef and vegetable soup is a wholesome, one-pot meal that’s perfect for cooler weather. It’s a great way to get in a variety of vegetables while still enjoying the rich, savory flavor of tender beef. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite a comforting experience. Whether served on its own or paired with a simple side dish, this soup is a nutritious, filling dinner option that will leave your family satisfied. Plus, it’s an easy recipe to scale up for larger groups or to make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

This sweet and savory honey garlic chicken is a family favorite that requires minimal effort but delivers incredible flavor. The slow cooker makes the chicken super tender, while the honey and garlic create a deliciously sticky, savory sauce that coats every bite. It’s perfect for serving over rice or paired with roasted vegetables, and it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional for thickening)
  • Cooked rice for serving (optional)
  • Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, rice vinegar, ground ginger, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  3. Pour the sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure they’re well coated.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  5. If you’d like to thicken the sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until thickened.
  6. Shred the chicken in the slow cooker with two forks, stirring it into the sauce.
  7. Serve the honey garlic chicken over cooked rice, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.

This honey garlic chicken is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors. The slow cooker makes it so easy to prepare, and the result is a deliciously tender chicken that’s infused with all the rich flavors of the sauce. Whether you serve it with rice or steamed vegetables, this dish will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to serve on a weekend. The honey sauce is perfectly sticky and flavorful, ensuring that each bite is as delicious as the last.

Crockpot Sausage and Peppers

This simple and flavorful dish combines Italian sausage with colorful bell peppers and onions, all cooked in a savory tomato sauce. It’s a quick dinner solution that’s easy to prepare and perfect for serving with crusty bread, pasta, or on a hoagie roll for a classic sausage sandwich. The slow cooker brings out the natural sweetness in the peppers and onions, making this dish a true comfort food.

Ingredients:

  • 4-5 Italian sausage links (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 3 bell peppers (any color), sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
  • Crusty bread or hoagie rolls for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Place the Italian sausage links in the bottom of the slow cooker. If they’re too long, you can cut them in half to fit.
  2. Add the sliced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic on top of the sausage.
  3. Pour the diced tomatoes (with juice) and tomato paste over the sausage and vegetables.
  4. Sprinkle the dried oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper over the ingredients.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the sausage is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
  6. If desired, slice the sausages before serving, or serve them whole with the peppers and onions.
  7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving, and serve with crusty bread or hoagie rolls for a delicious sandwich option.

This crockpot sausage and peppers recipe is the epitome of simple yet flavorful comfort food. The slow cooking process allows the sausages to infuse the peppers and onions with savory goodness while keeping them juicy and tender. Whether served in a sandwich or on the side of pasta or mashed potatoes, this dish is versatile and satisfying. It’s a perfect family meal that can be prepared in advance and will please everyone at the table. If you’re craving something hearty with minimal effort, this is a great go-to dinner.

Crockpot Vegetable Curry

This fragrant and hearty vegetable curry is a vegetarian-friendly meal that’s full of vibrant flavors and packed with nutrients. The slow cooker allows the vegetables to absorb all the spices and coconut milk, resulting in a rich, creamy curry that’s perfect for serving with basmati rice or naan. It’s an easy and satisfying dish for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger
  • 1 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, chopped
  • 1 cup cauliflower florets
  • 1 cup green beans, chopped
  • 1 cup spinach (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
  • Basmati rice or naan for serving

Instructions:

  1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the slow cooker.
  2. Sprinkle the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and cinnamon over the vegetables, and stir to coat.
  3. Pour in the coconut milk, diced tomatoes (with juice), and vegetable broth.
  4. Add the cubed sweet potato, carrots, zucchini, cauliflower, and green beans to the slow cooker.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, and stir to combine.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the curry is flavorful.
  7. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the spinach if using, and cook until wilted.
  8. Serve the curry over basmati rice or with naan bread, and garnish with fresh cilantro.

This vegetable curry is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings for something warm, flavorful, and comforting. The combination of spices creates a rich, aromatic sauce that’s perfect for soaking up with rice or bread. The slow cooker makes it an easy meal to prepare, and the vegetables become incredibly tender and infused with all the delicious curry flavors. This dish is a great way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your week, and it’s also a wonderful option for anyone looking for a lighter yet filling dinner. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking for something different, this curry will be a hit with the whole family.

Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

This Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is an easy and flavorful meal that combines the sweetness of teriyaki sauce with the savory richness of tender chicken. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, creating a melt-in-your-mouth dish that’s perfect over steamed rice or alongside sautéed vegetables. This recipe is ideal for a busy family dinner and offers an authentic Asian-inspired flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce (low-sodium)
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional for thickening)
  • 2 tbsp cold water (for slurry)
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
  • Green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Cooked rice for serving

Instructions:

  1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.
  3. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure they are evenly coated.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
  5. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce about 20 minutes before serving, and cook on high until thickened.
  6. Shred the chicken in the slow cooker using two forks, stirring it into the sauce.
  7. Serve the teriyaki chicken over rice, and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

This Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is a perfect weeknight meal that’s sweet, savory, and utterly satisfying. The slow cooker ensures that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful, while the sauce is a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. Whether served over rice or in a wrap, this dish can easily be adapted to fit different tastes. If you’re craving a taste of something Asian-inspired but don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen, this simple recipe is just what you need. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prep!

Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

A classic take-out favorite, this Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is incredibly easy to prepare at home. The tender beef and crisp-tender broccoli are coated in a deliciously rich, slightly sweet sauce, all made effortlessly in the slow cooker. Perfect served over rice, this meal offers the comforting flavors of Chinese beef and broccoli without the hassle of ordering in.

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce (low-sodium)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/4 cup oyster sauce
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional for thickening)
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 4 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • Cooked rice for serving

Instructions:

  1. Place the sliced beef in the slow cooker.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, oyster sauce, cornstarch (if using), and beef broth.
  3. Pour the sauce over the beef in the slow cooker and stir to combine.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
  5. About 30 minutes before serving, steam the broccoli florets until they are bright green and tender, or you can add the raw broccoli directly to the slow cooker during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
  6. Drizzle the sesame oil over the cooked beef and broccoli mixture, and stir gently to coat.
  7. Serve over rice, and enjoy the flavors of this take-out-inspired dish in the comfort of your own home.

This Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is a fantastic, lighter version of a Chinese restaurant classic. The beef becomes incredibly tender as it slow-cooks in the flavorful sauce, while the broccoli retains its bright color and fresh flavor. Paired with steamed rice, this meal is an easy and affordable way to enjoy take-out-style food at home. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but flavorful enough to impress guests or family members alike.

Crockpot Baked Ziti

This Crockpot Baked Ziti is an effortless twist on the classic baked pasta dish. Layers of pasta, savory marinara sauce, and melty cheese come together in the slow cooker for a delicious, cheesy dinner that’s ready when you are. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a hearty meal for your family, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ziti pasta (or penne)
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. If using ground beef or sausage, brown the meat in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  2. In the slow cooker, combine the cooked meat (if using), marinara sauce, tomato sauce, chopped onion, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  3. Add the uncooked ziti pasta into the sauce mixture, and stir so the pasta is coated.
  4. Layer the ricotta cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the pasta.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the pasta is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
  6. Once the ziti is fully cooked, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan over the top. Cover and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This Crockpot Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food made easy in the slow cooker. The pasta soaks up all the savory sauce while cooking, creating a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly cheesy. With minimal prep and no need for oven baking, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a large batch for a family gathering. The combination of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan creates a creamy, gooey texture that’s hard to resist. Whether served with a simple green salad or garlic bread, this baked ziti will quickly become a favorite go-to dinner.

Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

This Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork is tender, flavorful, and perfect for serving on sandwiches, in tacos, or with a side of coleslaw. The slow cooking process allows the pork to become melt-in-your-mouth tender while absorbing all the smoky, tangy flavors of the barbecue sauce. It’s an easy, hands-off recipe that’s ideal for feeding a crowd or making leftovers for the week.

Ingredients:

  • 3-4 lb pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Buns or tortillas for serving
  • Coleslaw for topping (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker, and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  2. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic around the pork.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Pour the mixture over the pork, making sure it’s well coated.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
  5. Once the pork is done, shred it in the slow cooker using two forks, mixing it into the sauce.
  6. Serve the pulled pork on buns or tortillas, and top with coleslaw for a delicious crunch.

This Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork is a great dish for parties, family gatherings, or weeknight meals. The pork becomes incredibly tender as it slow cooks in the flavorful barbecue sauce, making it easy to shred. It’s versatile and can be served in various ways, from sandwiches to tacos. Whether you make it for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup

This Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup is a warm, comforting dish with a delightful mix of tender chicken, flavorful broth, and plenty of spices. The slow cooker brings out all the flavors, and it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings like tortilla chips, avocado, or shredded cheese. This soup is perfect for chilly nights and is simple enough to prepare in the morning for a hassle-free dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Tortilla chips, shredded cheese, avocado, and cilantro for topping

Instructions:

  1. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  3. Season with salt and pepper, then cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  4. About 30 minutes before serving, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks, then stir the soup to incorporate the chicken into the broth.
  5. Add the lime juice and taste the soup for seasoning adjustments.
  6. Serve the soup hot with tortilla chips, shredded cheese, sliced avocado, and fresh cilantro.

This Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delicious, comforting dish that’s bursting with flavors. The slow cooking process makes the chicken incredibly tender, and the broth is rich with a perfect balance of spices. It’s a versatile recipe that allows you to add or remove ingredients based on what you have on hand. The addition of crispy tortilla chips and creamy avocado on top makes each bite even better, giving this soup a satisfying texture and taste. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this soup is sure to be a hit.

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

This Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff is a comforting, creamy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The beef becomes tender and juicy as it cooks in a savory gravy made with mushrooms, onions, and sour cream. It’s a rich, hearty meal that pairs perfectly with egg noodles or mashed potatoes and requires minimal effort.

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs beef stew meat or flank steak, cut into cubes
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
  • Egg noodles or mashed potatoes for serving
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Place the beef stew meat or flank steak cubes in the slow cooker.
  2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the sauce is rich.
  4. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of flour with a little cold water to make a slurry. Stir it into the sauce about 30 minutes before serving.
  5. Stir in the sour cream right before serving to give the sauce a creamy texture.
  6. Serve the beef stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or mashed potatoes, and garnish with fresh parsley.

This Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff is a creamy, comforting meal that’s perfect for when you need something hearty and flavorful without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. The beef becomes so tender as it cooks in the slow cooker, and the sauce is rich and velvety. It’s a great dish for a cozy family dinner or a weekend gathering. Paired with egg noodles or mashed potatoes, this meal is filling and satisfying, and the best part is that it’s so easy to prepare. If you love creamy, savory dishes, this one is a must-try.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!