10 Easy Crock Pot Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Looking to simplify your cooking routine? These easy crock pot recipes will save you time in the kitchen while still delivering cozy, delicious meals. Each recipe is paired with an eye-catching image that showcases the tasty dish you’ll be enjoying. Dive in and discover your next go-to meal!

Honey Garlic BBQ Ribs

Honey Garlic BBQ Ribs are a delightful dish that’s both sweet and savory. This recipe transforms tender pork ribs into a mouthwatering meal with minimal effort. The combination of honey and garlic creates a sticky, flavorful glaze that coats the ribs perfectly, making them a hit for family dinners or gatherings.

Using a crock pot makes this recipe incredibly simple. Just season the ribs, pour over the honey garlic sauce, and let the slow cooker do its magic. You’ll end up with fall-off-the-bone ribs that are bursting with flavor and sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork ribs
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs: Season the pork ribs with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and ground ginger.
3. Add to Crock Pot: Place the ribs in the crock pot and pour the honey garlic sauce over them, making sure they are well coated.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the ribs are tender.
5. Serve: Once cooked, remove the ribs and brush with additional sauce if desired before serving.

Coconut Curry Chicken

Coconut Curry Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy coconut curry sauce. The flavors of coconut milk, spices, and fresh vegetables create a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for those busy days, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it, while the slow cooker does all the work for you.

This dish is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your choice of vegetables or add some heat with chili peppers. Serve it over rice or with naan bread, and you’ve got a meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (like carrots and peas)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, season the chicken thighs with curry powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Combine Ingredients: Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Add the coconut milk, chicken broth, bell pepper, onion, garlic, ginger, and mixed vegetables.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Shred the Chicken: About 30 minutes before serving, shred the chicken with two forks and stir it back into the sauce.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice or with naan.

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. This easy crock pot recipe combines tender chicken pieces with hearty wild rice and a blend of vegetables, creating a deliciously creamy texture that’s both satisfying and filling. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious with minimal effort.

The flavors meld beautifully as it cooks, giving you a dish that’s rich and flavorful without a lot of fuss. This recipe not only delights the taste buds but also fills the kitchen with a wonderful aroma that will make everyone eager to dig in.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: In the crock pot, place the chicken breasts and add the diced onion, carrots, and celery on top.
2. Add the Rice: Sprinkle the rinsed wild rice over the vegetables.
3. Add Liquid and Seasoning: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir gently to combine. Season with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
5. Shred the Chicken: Near the end of cooking, shred the chicken with two forks and stir it back into the pot.
6. Serve: Once everything is well combined, serve the creamy chicken and wild rice warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Vegetarian Chili with Cornbread

Vegetarian chili is a delightful dish that brings together a colorful array of beans, vegetables, and spices to create a hearty meal. It’s packed with flavor and nutrients while being easy to prepare, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or game day snack. The best part? You can let it simmer in a crock pot while you go about your day!

This chili is wonderfully versatile and can accommodate your favorite veggies. Topped with creamy avocado and served alongside warm cornbread, it’s a satisfying combination that pleases both vegetarians and meat lovers alike. So, if you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of goodness, give this recipe a try!

Ingredients

• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can corn, drained
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 avocado, sliced (for topping)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: In your crock pot, combine the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
2. Season: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are coated in spices.
3. Add Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and stir to combine everything evenly.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve: Once cooked, ladle the chili into bowls. Top with sliced avocado and fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy with warm cornbread on the side!

Savory Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff is a delightful dish that combines tender chunks of beef with a creamy mushroom sauce, creating a savory experience that’s hard to resist. This recipe is not only flavorful but also simple to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a cozy dinner for guests.

The rich sauce pairs beautifully with pasta or rice, offering a comforting and satisfying dish that everyone will love. Plus, using a crock pot means less hassle and more time to relax while the flavors meld together!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• 8 ounces egg noodles

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat: In the crock pot, combine the beef, onion, garlic, and mushrooms.
2. Add the Liquids: Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine, then season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is tender.
4. Finish the Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the sour cream and let it warm through.
5. Cook the Noodles: Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Serve: Spoon the beef stroganoff over the noodles and garnish with chopped parsley before enjoying!

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is your cozy companion for chilly days. This soup brings together the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, creating a delightful combination that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s a simple recipe that anyone can whip up, making it perfect for a quick dinner or a leisurely lunch.

With just a few ingredients, this dish is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. The creamy texture and vibrant color make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Serve it with some crusty bread for dipping, and you have a hearty meal that feels special without much fuss.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Start by heating the olive oil in your crock pot. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
2. Next, add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for about 6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. After the cooking time, blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil, and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes to warm through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Classic Pot Roast with Vegetables

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s simple to prepare, classic pot roast with vegetables is a go-to choice. This dish combines tender beef with hearty vegetables, creating a satisfying flavor profile that’s perfect for any day of the week.

The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich, savory sauce that enhances the natural taste of the meat and veggies. Plus, you can set it and forget it, making it an ideal option for busy families or anyone who wants a delicious meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 3-4 lbs chuck roast
• 4 medium carrots, chopped
• 3 medium potatoes, diced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: Season the chuck roast with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side.
2. Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot: Place the seared roast in the crock pot. Add chopped carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and garlic around the meat.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Pour the mixture over the meat and vegetables in the crock pot.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the roast is tender and falls apart easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Once cooked, shred the meat and serve it alongside the flavorful vegetables and sauce.

Spicy Lentil and Vegetable Stew

This Spicy Lentil and Vegetable Stew is a warm and hearty dish that delivers a comforting blend of flavors. Packed with protein-rich lentils and a variety of vibrant vegetables, it’s not only delicious but also nourishing. The addition of spices brings just the right amount of heat, making it a delightful option for chilly evenings.

Making this stew is a breeze! Simply toss all the ingredients into your crock pot, set it, and let it do the work while you go about your day. It’s a straightforward recipe that requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 diced bell pepper (any color)
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients: In your crock pot, add the rinsed lentils, diced onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrots, zucchini, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, olive oil, and spices.
2. Cook: Stir everything together, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the lentils are tender.
3. Season: Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or basil. Enjoy with crusty bread or over rice for a full meal!

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is a cozy and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly mornings. With the sweetness of apples and a warm hint of cinnamon, this recipe brings a delightful flavor to your breakfast table. Plus, it’s easy to make in your crock pot, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without much hassle.

This oatmeal is not just tasty but also nutritious. The combination of oats and apples provides fiber, and the cinnamon adds a touch of spice that complements the sweetness perfectly. You can personalize it with your favorite toppings, making it a versatile option for everyone in the family.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 4 cups water or milk
• 2 medium apples, chopped
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: In your crock pot, combine the rolled oats, water or milk, chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to mix all the ingredients.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the oats are tender and creamy.
3. Add Toppings: Before serving, stir in the chopped nuts and raisins if desired. Adjust sweetness by adding more brown sugar, if needed.
4. Serve: Dish out the oatmeal into bowls and enjoy warm, topped with additional apple slices or a drizzle of honey if you like.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

These sweet potato and black bean tacos are a simple and delicious way to enjoy a flavorful meal. With the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes and the hearty texture of black beans, they create a satisfying dish that’s both nutritious and easy to make.

The combination of spices and fresh toppings adds a vibrant kick, making these tacos a delightful option for lunch or dinner. Plus, cooking them in a crock pot means you can set it and forget it, allowing you more time to relax or prepare other dishes!

Ingredients

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortillas for serving
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Avocado slices, for topping
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mixture: In a crock pot, combine diced sweet potatoes, black beans, bell pepper, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix well.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
3. Assemble Tacos: Once cooked, use a fork to mash some of the sweet potatoes slightly for a creamy texture. Spoon the mixture into tortillas.
4. Add Toppings: Top with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and serve with lime wedges on the side.