23+ Easy Crockpot Recipes That Everyone Needs In Their Dinner Rotation

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As a busy mom, finding the time to prepare a healthy, home-cooked meal can be a challenge.

Whether you’re juggling work, school activities, or household chores, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen.

That’s where crockpot recipes come to the rescue! With the magic of slow cooking, you can prepare meals that are delicious, nutritious, and ready when you are.

In this blog post, we’re sharing easy crockpot recipes that will make your weeknight dinners a breeze.

Aspect	Details	Additional Information	Example Crockpot Recipe

Definition

A slow-cooked dish made using a Crockpot or slow cooker.

Ideal for preparing meals with minimal effort.

Beef Stew, Chicken Tacos

Origin

Originated in the 1970s, when slow cookers gained popularity in American households.

Was designed to make cooking easier for busy families.

Crockpot recipes quickly became a kitchen staple.

Main Components

A base (like broth or sauce), protein (meat, tofu), vegetables, and seasonings.

Slow cooking brings out rich flavors and tender textures.

Beef, carrots, potatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs.

Cooking Time

Typically ranges from 4 to 8 hours on low or 2 to 4 hours on high.

Cooking times vary depending on recipe and ingredients.

8 hours for a stew on low; 4 hours for chicken on high.

Popular Variations

– Soups & stews – Pulled meats – Casseroles – Vegetarian dishes.

Crockpot recipes can be modified for different dietary needs, like vegan or gluten-free.

Pulled pork sandwiches, vegetable chili, chicken curry.

Serving Tips

Serve with fresh bread, over rice, or with side salads for a complete meal.

Garnish with herbs, cheese, or a drizzle of sauce for added flavor.

Serve beef stew with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Benefits

– Minimal prep time – Tenderizes meats – Set it and forget it cooking.

Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week.

Great for large families or meal prepping for the week.

Popular Ingredients

– Chicken – Beef – Pork – Vegetables (potatoes, carrots, onions).

Use frozen or fresh ingredients depending on the recipe.

Boneless chicken thighs, potatoes, onions, garlic.

Cooking Techniques

Slow simmering at low heat to enhance flavors.

Crockpots distribute heat evenly, preventing burning and overcooking.

Stir ingredients halfway through for even cooking.

Serving Style

Usually served in bowls or on plates depending on the dish.

Crockpot recipes can be served family-style or individually portioned.

Serve pulled pork on buns or ladle stew into bowls.

These recipes highlight the convenience and versatility of Crockpot cooking, allowing for easy preparation and delicious results.

Dr. Pepper Slow Cooker Pork Chops Recipe

This recipe combines pork chops with Dr. Pepper, resulting in tender meat infused with a sweet, tangy flavor. The slow cooking process ensures the pork chops remain juicy and flavorful.

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Coated in a flavorful BBQ rub and sauce, these chicken drumsticks are cooked to perfection in the slow cooker, offering a convenient and delicious meal.

Slow Cooker Ritz Chicken

This dish features chicken breasts coated in crushed Ritz crackers, slow-cooked to create a crispy exterior and tender interior, making it a family favorite.

French Dip Sandwiches

Slow-cooked beef roast in a savory broth results in tender meat perfect for French dip sandwiches, served with au jus for dipping.

Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup

A creamy and comforting soup made by slow-cooking butternut squash with aromatic herbs and spices, ideal for a hearty meal.

Balsamic Herb Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin Recipe

Pork tenderloin marinated in balsamic vinegar and herbs, then slow-cooked to achieve a flavorful and juicy roast.

BBQ Pulled Chicken in the Crockpot

Chicken breasts slow-cooked in BBQ sauce until tender, then shredded for sandwiches, tacos, or salads.

Dump & Go Chili in the Slow Cooker

A hearty chili made by dumping all ingredients into the slow cooker, allowing it to cook slowly and develop rich flavors.

Cottage Cheese Crockpot Wild Rice Chicken Soup

A creamy soup combining chicken, wild rice, and cottage cheese, slow-cooked to perfection for a comforting meal.

Crock pot cube steak and gravy

Tender cube steaks slow-cooked in a savory gravy, served over mashed potatoes or rice for a classic comfort dish.

Slow cooker chicken and stuffing with green beans

A one-pot meal featuring chicken, stuffing, and green beans, all slow-cooked together for a convenient and flavorful dinner.

Crockpot Potato Soup

A creamy potato soup made by slow-cooking potatoes with onions, garlic, and broth, then blending until smooth.

Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup

A hearty soup combining ham, potatoes, and vegetables, slow-cooked to create a comforting meal.

Slow Cooker Pot Roast

A classic pot roast slow-cooked with vegetables and herbs, resulting in tender meat and flavorful broth.

Why Crockpot Recipes are a Game-Changer for Moms

Before diving into the recipes, let’s talk about why crockpot meals are such a hit among busy moms:

1. Hands-Free Cooking: With a crockpot, you can simply set it and forget it. Add your ingredients in the morning, and by the time dinner rolls around, your meal is perfectly cooked and ready to serve.
2. Healthy Meals: Crockpot recipes allow you to control the ingredients and avoid unhealthy additives or preservatives. You can make wholesome, balanced meals for your family without the hassle.
3. Budget-Friendly: Crockpot meals are often made with affordable ingredients, making them an excellent option for families on a budget.
4. Minimal Cleanup: One-pot meals mean fewer dishes to wash, leaving you with more time to relax after a long day.

Best Crockpot Recipes For Moms

Now that we’ve covered the benefits, let’s get into the recipes!

1. Crockpot Chicken and Rice

This simple recipe is perfect for a busy evening.

Tender chicken breast, flavorful rice, and a creamy sauce all cook together in the crockpot. Add your favorite veggies for extra nutrition, and you’ll have a one-pot meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
2. Add rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and seasonings.
3. Stir to combine, then cook on low for 4-5 hours.
4. Shred the chicken with a fork and stir everything together before serving.

2. Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Warm, comforting, and packed with veggies, this beef stew recipe is perfect for chilly nights.

The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop, making it even better the next day.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb stew beef, cubed
• 4 large potatoes, diced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to the crockpot.
2. Stir well and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until beef and vegetables are tender.
3. Serve with crusty bread for a hearty meal.

3. Crockpot Chili

Chili is a classic family favorite, and the slow cooker makes it even easier to prepare.

This recipe is full of protein-rich beans, ground beef, and a spicy kick that will warm you up on the coldest days.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 can tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown ground beef and onion in a skillet before transferring to the crockpot.
2. Add beans, tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings.
3. Cook on low for 6-7 hours. Serve with shredded cheese and sour cream.

4. Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork

This shredded pulled pork is perfect for sandwiches or tacos.

Simply set it and forget it, and you’ll have tender, flavorful pork ready for any meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork shoulder
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the pork shoulder in the crockpot and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and onions.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours, then shred the pork with a fork. Serve with buns or tortillas.

5. Crockpot Mac and Cheese

Who doesn’t love creamy mac and cheese?

This crockpot version is rich, cheesy, and perfect for kids (and adults!) who love comfort food.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1 can evaporated milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions, then drain.
2. Add cooked macaroni, cheese, milk, butter, mustard powder, and seasonings to the crockpot.
3. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.

6. Crockpot Chicken Tacos

These shredded chicken tacos are so easy to make and full of flavor.

Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick dinner solution.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup salsa
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Place chicken breasts in the crockpot and sprinkle with taco seasoning.
2. Add salsa and chicken broth, then cook on low for 6-7 hours.
3. Shred the chicken and serve with tortillas, lettuce, cheese, and your favorite toppings.

7. Crockpot Vegetable Soup

Packed with healthy vegetables, this soup is perfect for picky eaters or anyone looking to add more greens to their diet.

It’s hearty, satisfying, and full of nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 3 carrots, chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 cup green beans
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to the crockpot.
2. Stir to combine and cook on low for 6-7 hours.
3. Serve hot with a side of whole grain bread.

8. Crockpot Chicken Alfredo

A creamy and indulgent dish, this chicken alfredo is so easy to prepare, and the slow cooker does all the hard work for you.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 jar Alfredo sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 package fettuccine noodles

Instructions:

1. Place chicken breasts in the crockpot and cover with Alfredo sauce and chicken broth.
2. Cook on low for 4-5 hours, then shred the chicken.
3. Cook the fettuccine noodles separately and mix with the chicken and sauce before serving.

9. Crockpot Baked Potatoes

Crockpot baked potatoes are the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it side dish.

Perfectly fluffy and soft, these potatoes are great for any meal.

Ingredients:

• 6 large russet potatoes
• Olive oil
• Salt

Instructions:

1. Rub each potato with olive oil and salt.
2. Place the potatoes in the crockpot and cook on low for 7-8 hours.
3. Serve with sour cream, cheese, and chives.

10. Crockpot Breakfast Casserole

Start your day off right with a hearty breakfast casserole.

Full of eggs, sausage, and cheese, this recipe is perfect for busy mornings or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb breakfast sausage
• 6 eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 4 cups cubed bread

Instructions:

1. Brown the sausage and drain any excess fat.
2. Whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Layer the bread, sausage, and cheese in the crockpot, then pour the egg mixture over the top.
4. Cook on low for 4-5 hours.

What are the best crockpot recipes

Juggling family, work, and everything in between, you’ve likely experienced the magic of a crockpot.

These kitchen wonders let you toss in ingredients, set it, and forget it until mealtime. But with so many recipes out there, how do you know which ones are worth trying? Here’s a roundup of the best crockpot recipes that are perfect for busy moms who crave delicious, hearty meals with minimal effort.

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Slow Cooker Beef Stew

A classic comfort food, beef stew is a hit with the whole family. Tender chunks of beef, carrots, potatoes, and onions simmer in a rich, savory broth. This dish pairs well with crusty bread or over a bed of rice. Bonus: it’s freezer-friendly, so make extra and save some for a rainy day.

Pro Tip: For added depth of flavor, sear the beef in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot.

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Crockpot Chicken Tacos

Taco nights just got easier! Place chicken breasts, taco seasoning, and a jar of salsa in your crockpot and let it cook. Shred the chicken and serve in taco shells with your favorite toppings like lettuce, cheese, and guacamole.

Why Moms Love It: This recipe doubles as a meal prep favorite. Use the shredded chicken in quesadillas, salads, or burritos throughout the week.

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Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

Yes, you can make creamy, dreamy mac and cheese in a crockpot! This recipe uses elbow macaroni, milk, cheese, and a touch of butter. Perfect as a side dish or a kid-approved dinner.

Quick Tip: Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and avoid clumps.

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Vegetarian Lentil Soup

For moms looking for a healthy and budget-friendly option, lentil soup is a winner. Combine lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, carrots, and spices in your crockpot for a nourishing meal. Serve with a slice of hearty whole-grain bread.

Health Bonus: Lentils are high in protein and fiber, keeping you and your family full longer.

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Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, especially for family gatherings or game nights. Toss a pork shoulder, BBQ sauce, onions, and a few spices into the crockpot. Once cooked, shred the pork and serve it on buns with coleslaw.

Mom’s Hack: Use leftovers for pulled pork nachos or sliders the next day.

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Slow Cooker Chili

Chili is one of the best crockpot recipes because it’s customizable. Whether you prefer a beef, turkey, or vegetarian version, the crockpot ensures all the flavors meld together beautifully. Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of green onions.

Freezer-Friendly: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick dinner option.

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Crockpot Apple Crisp

Desserts in a crockpot? Absolutely! This apple crisp is a warm and cozy treat made with fresh apples, cinnamon, oats, and brown sugar. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert that feels like a hug.

Kid-Friendly Activity: Let the kids help peel and slice the apples for a fun family cooking moment.

What is Best to Cook in a Slow Cooker?

Slow cookers are the ultimate kitchen appliance for busy moms, providing a hands-off cooking experience while delivering flavorful meals.

The best dishes to cook in a slow cooker include:

• Soups and Stews: Think hearty chicken noodle soup or a rich beef stew. Slow cooking allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Pulled Meats: Pork shoulder or beef brisket becomes tender and easy to shred, perfect for tacos, sandwiches, or sliders.
• Chili: A slow cooker brings out the depth of spices and beans, making chili a cold-weather favorite.
• Casseroles: Dishes like lasagna or cheesy potatoes are easy to layer and cook evenly in a slow cooker.
• Desserts: Yes, slow cookers can handle sweets like cobblers, bread pudding, or even cheesecake!
• Bone Broths: Cook bones and vegetables for hours to create nutrient-rich broths without constantly tending to the stove.

Moms love the versatility and ease of slow cookers for making wholesome, delicious meals with minimal effort.

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What is the Difference Between a Slow Cooker and a Crockpot?

Many people use the terms “slow cooker” and “Crockpot” interchangeably, but there are subtle differences:

1. Brand vs. Appliance: A Crockpot is a specific brand of slow cooker, much like Kleenex is to tissues.
2. Design Differences:
   • Crockpots usually have a ceramic or stoneware pot that sits inside a heating element, ensuring even cooking.
   • Some generic slow cookers have metal pots and heating elements only at the bottom, which may require stirring to prevent burning.
3. Settings and Features: Modern slow cookers—including Crockpots—often come with programmable timers, multiple heat settings, and even searing functions.

While all Crockpots are slow cookers, not all slow cookers are Crockpots. Both can simplify meal prep and deliver delicious results for your family.

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What Are Some of the Mistakes People Make Using a Slow Cooker?

Even experienced cooks can run into issues with their slow cooker. Avoid these common mistakes:

• Lifting the Lid Too Often: Each time you lift the lid, it releases heat and adds about 20-30 minutes to the cooking time.
• Overfilling the Cooker: Overloading your slow cooker can lead to uneven cooking or spills. Aim to fill it about two-thirds to three-quarters full.
• Using Too Much Liquid: Slow cookers don’t allow much evaporation, so reduce liquids compared to stovetop recipes.
• Skipping the Sear: Browning meats and sautéing aromatics before slow cooking enhances flavor and texture.
• Adding Dairy or Fresh Herbs Too Early: These ingredients can curdle or lose their potency when cooked too long. Add them in the last 30 minutes.
• Not Adjusting Cooking Times for High vs. Low Settings: High settings cook faster but may compromise tenderness, so low-and-slow is ideal for most dishes.

Avoiding these pitfalls will ensure your slow cooker meals turn out perfect every time.

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What is a Crockpot Used For?

A Crockpot is incredibly versatile, designed to make cooking more convenient and stress-free. Here are its most common uses:

• Slow Cooking: Create flavorful meals by cooking ingredients at a low temperature over several hours.
• Batch Cooking: Prepare large portions of soups, stews, or casseroles to freeze and enjoy later.
• Meal Prep: Set it and forget it while you tackle other tasks. Great for busy moms juggling family schedules.
• Cooking Tough Cuts of Meat: Low and slow cooking transforms inexpensive, tough cuts into tender, melt-in-your-mouth dishes.
• Entertaining: Keep dips, sauces, or drinks like mulled wine warm for parties.
• Breakfasts: Overnight oatmeal or egg casseroles can be ready by morning.

Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or hosting a gathering, the Crockpot is a reliable tool for making delicious, stress-free meals.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot recipes are a lifesaver for busy moms looking to get healthy, home-cooked meals on the table without a ton of effort. Whether you’re in the mood for comforting stews, spicy chili, or creamy pasta dishes, these recipes are perfect for any night of the week. So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, just throw everything into your crockpot and let it do the work!