25+ Delicious Valentine’s Day Slow Cooker Stew Recipes for a Cozy Dinner

Valentine’s Day is all about celebrating love, and what better way to set the mood for an evening with your special someone than with a hearty, warm bowl of stew?

Slow cookers are perfect for this occasion, allowing you to spend more time with your partner and less time in the kitchen.

With the right combination of flavors and ingredients, a stew can become an unforgettable centerpiece for your romantic dinner.

Whether you’re looking for something hearty and meat-based, comforting and vegetarian, or something with a hint of seafood, there’s a slow cooker stew recipe here to suit your taste.

This collection of 25+ Valentine’s Day slow cooker stew recipes features options that are as diverse as they are delicious.

From rich and creamy chowders to hearty lamb tagines and spicy vegetable stews, each recipe has been carefully crafted to bring joy and flavor to your romantic celebration.

25+ Delicious Valentine’s Day Slow Cooker Stew Recipes for a Cozy Dinner

Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to indulge in a romantic meal that warms the heart as much as it satisfies the taste buds.

With these 25+ slow cooker stew recipes, you’re set to create a cozy and intimate dinner experience that will make your evening special.

Whether you’re sharing a bowl of hearty beef stew or enjoying the light flavors of a seafood chowder, these recipes are designed to be as heartwarming as they are flavorful.

Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together, ensuring that each bite is rich and delicious.

So, let your slow cooker do the work, and focus on enjoying the company of the person you love.

Romantic Red Wine Beef Stew

This rich and hearty stew is perfect for Valentine’s Day, blending tender chunks of beef with a luscious red wine sauce. The slow cooker brings out deep, savory flavors, making it an ideal dish for a romantic dinner at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon recommended)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef until browned on all sides. Transfer to the slow cooker.
2. In the same skillet, sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add tomato paste and cook for another minute. Transfer to the slow cooker.
3. Deglaze the skillet with red wine, scraping up any browned bits, then pour the wine into the slow cooker.
4. Add beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir gently.
5. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender.
6. If desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the sauce.
7. Remove bay leaves, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.

This stew creates an elegant yet comforting meal, pairing beautifully with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes. Its deep red wine notes and velvety texture make it the ultimate cozy dinner for a special night.

Heartwarming Chicken and Sweet Potato Stew

This slow-cooked chicken stew combines sweet potatoes and a hint of cinnamon for a Valentine’s Day dish full of warmth and sweetness. It’s light yet satisfying, perfect for a romantic dinner that doesn’t weigh you down.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
• 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of half a lemon

Instructions:

1. Place chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker and season with salt, pepper, cinnamon, paprika, and turmeric.
2. Layer sweet potatoes, onion, and garlic on top of the chicken.
3. Pour chicken broth and coconut milk over the ingredients, ensuring everything is covered.
4. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the sweet potatoes are soft.
5. During the last 20 minutes, stir in baby spinach and lemon juice.
6. Gently shred the chicken with two forks before serving if desired.

This stew exudes comfort and charm with its creamy coconut base and the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes. It’s a dish that radiates warmth, making it a thoughtful way to share your love.

Decadent Lamb and Apricot Stew

This slow cooker lamb stew blends the richness of tender lamb with the subtle sweetness of dried apricots, creating a luxurious and unique Valentine’s Day dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup dried apricots
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken or beef broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb pieces until browned on all sides and transfer to the slow cooker.
2. In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until soft and aromatic, about 3 minutes. Add cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, and cook for another minute. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
3. Add apricots, crushed tomatoes, broth, honey, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the lamb is tender and the flavors meld.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

This stew is a feast for the senses with its aromatic spices and delightful sweetness. It’s a sophisticated yet hearty meal that turns your Valentine’s dinner into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Velvety Creamy Mushroom and Herb Stew

This luxurious slow cooker mushroom stew is bursting with earthy flavors and creamy goodness. It’s a comforting dish for Valentine’s Day, perfect for vegetarians or anyone who loves the rich taste of mushrooms paired with fresh herbs.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb mixed mushrooms (cremini, button, shiitake), sliced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. Place mushrooms, onion, and garlic into the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, whisk together vegetable broth, white wine (if using), thyme, parsley, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Pour over the vegetables.
3. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
4. In the last 30 minutes, stir in the heavy cream and sprinkle the flour evenly, whisking to avoid lumps. Let it thicken slightly as it cooks.
5. Serve warm with fresh herbs and crusty bread or a side of rice.

This creamy mushroom stew is a velvety indulgence that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s the perfect way to share a moment of warmth and joy on Valentine’s Day.

Savory Italian Sausage and Lentil Stew

This hearty and flavorful stew combines savory Italian sausage with tender lentils, creating a rustic dish ideal for a cozy Valentine’s night in. The slow cooker infuses the stew with bold Italian herbs and spices, making it irresistibly comforting.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Freshly grated Parmesan for serving

Instructions:

1. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces. Transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add lentils, carrots, onion, garlic, broth, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir well.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the lentils are tender.
4. Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan, and serve with warm bread.

The combination of sausage and lentils creates a rich, satisfying dish with robust Italian flavors. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate love with a hearty meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Sweet and Spicy Moroccan Chickpea Stew

This exotic chickpea stew is a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Packed with warm Moroccan spices, sweet dates, and hearty chickpeas, it’s a vibrant and aromatic choice for a Valentine’s Day dinner.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup chopped dates
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add chickpeas, sweet potato, onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, broth, dates, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Mix well.
2. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the sweet potato is tender and the flavors have melded.
3. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

This stew’s sweet and spicy flavor profile is truly unique, offering an exciting twist to your Valentine’s meal. The warmth of Moroccan spices will create a memorable dining experience full of love and flair.

Hearty Slow Cooker Beef and Barley Stew

This comforting stew combines tender beef, nutty barley, and a medley of vegetables for a wholesome Valentine’s Day meal. The slow cooker brings out rich, savory flavors, creating a dish that feels like a warm embrace.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Season beef with salt and pepper. In a skillet, brown the beef over medium-high heat, then transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add barley, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
3. Stir in beef broth, crushed tomatoes, thyme, smoked paprika, and bay leaves.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.
5. Remove bay leaves, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

This beef and barley stew offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed yet elegant Valentine’s evening. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of red wine and a cozy atmosphere.

Slow Cooker Coconut Curry Vegetable Stew

This vibrant and creamy coconut curry stew is loaded with colorful vegetables and aromatic spices. It’s a Valentine’s Day dish that’s both nutritious and indulgent, with a hint of exotic flair.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 cup chickpeas, cooked or canned (drained and rinsed)
• 1 medium bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of half a lime
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add sweet potato, cauliflower, chickpeas, bell pepper, onion, garlic, and ginger to the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, vegetable broth, red curry paste, turmeric, coriander, salt, and pepper. Pour over the vegetables.
3. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in lime juice before serving and garnish with fresh cilantro.

This coconut curry stew is a vibrant and flavorful dish that feels like a tropical getaway in a bowl. It’s perfect for celebrating love with a unique and satisfying meal.

Rustic Pork and Apple Stew

This sweet and savory slow cooker stew combines tender pork with tart apples, creating a dish full of warmth and rustic charm. It’s an elegant yet cozy choice for a Valentine’s Day dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs pork shoulder, cut into cubes
• 2 medium tart apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled and sliced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup apple cider
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions:

1. Season pork with salt and pepper. Sear in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, then transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add apples, carrots, and onion to the slow cooker.
3. Stir in chicken broth, apple cider, Dijon mustard, sage, and cinnamon. Mix well.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender.
5. If desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes to thicken the sauce.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

This pork and apple stew is a delightful balance of savory and sweet, making it a unique and heartwarming addition to your Valentine’s Day menu. Serve it with mashed potatoes or crusty bread for a complete meal filled with love.

Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala Stew

This hearty and sophisticated stew brings the classic flavors of chicken Marsala into a comforting slow cooker dish. With tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich Marsala wine sauce, this stew is perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup Marsala wine
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet, brown the chicken over medium-high heat, then transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
3. In a bowl, whisk together Marsala wine, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Pour over the chicken and vegetables.
4. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. For a thicker stew, stir in the flour mixed with a small amount of water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with rice or mashed potatoes.

This chicken Marsala stew is rich, savory, and perfect for a special dinner. The wine sauce enhances the flavors and makes it an elegant, romantic meal for two.

Slow Cooker Spicy Sweet Potato and Black Bean Stew

This vegan-friendly stew is a flavorful mix of sweet and spicy, perfect for those who love a little heat. The combination of sweet potatoes and black beans creates a filling and satisfying dish for a cozy Valentine’s Day meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for serving

Instructions:

1. Add sweet potatoes, black beans, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
2. Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the sweet potatoes are tender and the flavors are well blended.
4. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

This sweet potato and black bean stew is a deliciously spicy and satisfying dish that’s full of hearty flavors. Perfect for a healthy yet indulgent Valentine’s Day dinner, it pairs well with a side of cornbread or crusty bread.

Slow Cooker Lamb and Apricot Tagine

Inspired by the flavors of Moroccan cuisine, this lamb and apricot tagine is a unique and flavorful stew that’s sure to impress on Valentine’s Day. The tender lamb and sweet apricots create a warm and aromatic dish with complex flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into cubes
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Season the lamb with salt and pepper. In a skillet, brown the lamb over medium-high heat, then transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add onion, garlic, and apricots to the slow cooker.
3. In a bowl, mix together the chicken broth, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, turmeric, ginger, and honey. Pour over the lamb and apricots.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the lamb is tender and the flavors have melded.
5. Serve with steamed couscous or warm flatbread, and garnish with toasted almonds and fresh cilantro.

This lamb and apricot tagine is perfect for a romantic evening, bringing the warmth and richness of Moroccan spices to your table. It’s a beautiful, exotic twist on your traditional slow cooker stew.

Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken Stew

This tomato basil chicken stew is a delightful and fresh twist on a classic tomato soup. Perfect for a cozy Valentine’s Day dinner, this dish is rich in flavor, easy to prepare, and ideal for serving with a side of crusty bread.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, brown the chicken pieces over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, garlic, onion, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the slow cooker. Stir well.
3. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the flavors are well incorporated.
4. Stir in the heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

This tomato basil chicken stew is rich and creamy with a bright burst of freshness from the basil, making it an ideal dish to share on Valentine’s Day. Serve it with garlic bread or a fresh baguette to dip into the flavorful broth.

Slow Cooker White Bean and Kale Stew

This nutritious and hearty stew combines white beans and kale in a rich, savory broth infused with Italian herbs and spices. It’s perfect for a healthy yet indulgent Valentine’s Day meal that’s full of flavor and heart.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed (such as cannellini or great northern beans)
• 3 cups fresh kale, chopped
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Add the white beans, kale, carrot, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in the thyme, rosemary, red pepper flakes (if using), and smoked paprika.
3. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are melded.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a wedge of lemon for squeezing.

This white bean and kale stew is nourishing, vibrant, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for a Valentine’s Day meal that celebrates healthy eating without sacrificing taste.

Slow Cooker Shrimp and Corn Chowder

This shrimp and corn chowder is a creamy and comforting stew that is full of sweet shrimp, corn, and a hint of smoky flavor. It’s ideal for those looking for a seafood twist on their Valentine’s Day dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups frozen or fresh corn kernels
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken or seafood broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add potatoes, corn, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken or seafood broth and stir in smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and flavors are well combined.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and shrimp during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Cook until the shrimp turns pink and is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives.

This shrimp and corn chowder brings a touch of luxury to your Valentine’s Day meal with its creamy texture and rich, sweet flavors. Pair it with a side salad and some crusty bread for a complete and romantic dinner.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!