Break Out the Crock Pot: These Slow Cooker Recipes Work All Year Long
If you haven't broken out your slow cooker in a while, then now's the time! That steady workhorse, the Crock Pot, with its simple settings ("high, low, warm") and heavy ceramic interior is a valuable part of any kitchen setup all year long.
In summer, the slow cooker keeps you from heating up the whole house while dinner cooks away.
In winter, the slow cooker serves up a heaping ladleful of all your favorite winter stews and soups—the warming, stick-to-your-ribs food that makes winter so great.
In the fall, the slow cooker helps you fashion a Thanksgiving feast to remember, so you don't have to worry about having enough room on the stove.
And in the spring, when you're racing around between graduations, gatherings, or after school activities, the slow cooker is there when you get home with dinner already made.
To help you see just how useful your slow cooker can be, we've assembled one hundred of our best and most favorite slow cooker recipes from our site and around the web. They're long on flavor, not too complicated, and they'll make the whole family smile come dinnertime. How's that for great?
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
It's hard to beat a slow cooker beef recipe.
Set your alarm about half an hour early, and you'll be coming home to a warm and satisfying meal that will be sure to have everyone at the table licking their plates.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Beef Stew.
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
Ten minutes of work, and a little bit of waiting, and you have a dish that'll happily feed many. What makes this extra easy is that the macaroni cooks right in the sauce. So you don't have to boil it ahead of time! (Want to make it even better? Add the secret flavoring packet in this genius recipe.)
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese.
Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
This cold-weather classic can cook while you're out, enjoying the day!
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup.
Love chicken soup? Here are 20+ more of our favorite chicken soup recipes to warm you, body and soul.
Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings
Perhaps the only thing more warming and delicious than chicken soup on a cold day is chicken and dumplings. (Find our stove top version right here.)
Get the recipe for Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings.
Slow Cooker Potato Soup
Want a slow cooker dinner that won't slow you down? This hearty, filling, vegetarian slow cooker recipe is packed with flavor!
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Potato Soup.
Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Want something hearty, filling, and full of flavor, but don't have time for our stovetop beef stroganoff? You can make a just-as-delicious version in your slow cooker!
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff.
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork with Cabbage Slaw
One of the best reasons to buy a slow cooker if you don't have one is this recipe.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork with Cabbage Slaw.
Slow Cooker Corned Beef
You don't have to wait until March to enjoy this famously tender and flavorful dinner!
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Corned Beef Recipe.
Slow Cooker Pot Roast with Carrots and Onion
A tough cut of meat (such as chuck) turns meltingly tender when cooked in a slow cooker. Set this up in the morning and you'll come home to a meal that is ready and waiting.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Pot Roast.
Slow Cooker Ribs
Looking for restaurant-quality ribs at home? Your slow cooker will get the rib meat super tender and flaky.
Then all you have to do is slather it in your favorite barbecue sauce, and cook it for just a few minutes, either over a hot grill or under your oven's broiler.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Ribs.
RELATED: 70+ easy BBQ side dishes to go with those tasty ribs
Slow Cooker Spinach-and-Parmesan Meatballs
These easy slow cooker meatballs are browned in the oven and then slow cooked in marinara until they're absolutely tender and perfect.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Spinach-and-Parmesan Meatballs.
Gingery Slow Cooker Chicken with Cabbage Slaw
Supremely tender thighs cooked in a combo of apricot jam, ketchup, soy sauce, and ginger, pair perfectly with a crunchy slaw.
Get the recipe for Gingery Slow Cooker Chicken with Cabbage Slaw.
Chili with Grains and Beans
Packed with wheat berries, hearty beans, and kicky poblano peppers, this vegetarian slow cooker chili is so flavorful you may not notice it's missing the meat. Let it burble away in the pot all day until you're ready to eat.
Get the recipe for Chili with Grains and Beans.
RELATED: Chili on the mind? Here are 20 more inspiring chili recipes to feed a hungry crowd.
Slow Cooker Meatballs
Making this Italian favorite just got even easier! To make mini meatball sliders, top toasted dinner rolls with slow cooker meatballs, provolone, and sliced sweet-hot banana peppers.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Meatballs.
Cowboy Brisket
Every country home needs something simmering in the kitchen, so fire up this versatile big-batch slow cooker recipe for your next taco night.
Get the recipe for Cowboy Brisket.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
This hearty slow cooker soup is a Mexican-inspired favorite, made easy.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Herbed Chicken with Beets and Brussels
Need a family-friendly, healthy, and hands-off dinner? Look no further than this easy-yet-impressive meal that's sure to please your whole flock.
Get the recipe for Herbed Chicken with Beets and Brussels.
Spiced Sweet Potato and Peanut Puree
Heat up your evening with this rich and spicy soup.
Get the recipe for Spiced Sweet Potato and Peanut Puree.
Chicken and Quinoa Minestrone
You'll love this healthy slow cooker update on classic chicken and rice soup.
Get the recipe for Chicken and Quinoa Minestrone.
Black Bean and Chile Soup
This easy, dump-and-go soup is filled with beans, veggies, and even includes a homemade tomato and tomatillo salsa for serving.
Get the recipe for Black Bean and Chile Soup.
Slow Cooker Roast Beef Sandwiches
Your slow cooker does all the work for these tender roast beef sandwiches. Add a tablespoon of horseradish or wasabi to the mayo for a little extra kick.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Roast Beef Sandwiches.
Red-Eye Brisket Stew
This hearty classic gets a zesty kick from coffee, Dijon mustard, and pickled red onions.
Get the recipe for Red-Eye Brisket Stew.
Slow Cooker Red Wine Beef Stew
Because red wine makes everything better—including this hearty slow cooker beef stew.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Red Wine Beef Stew.
Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Turn this excellent pasta dish into an even better soup with chicken stock.
Get the recipe for Sausage and Tortellini Soup.
Smoky Slow Cooker Beef Tacos
Move over, ground beef: These shredded steak tacos might just be your new favorite. Just throw the meat in the slow cooker and let it do all the work for you.
Get the recipe for Smoky Slow Cooker Beef Tacos.
Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Cabbage Slaw
Sandwich tangy slaw and sweet slow cooker pork together for a delicious and kid-friendly meal.
Get the recipe for Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Cabbage Slaw.
Indian-Spiced Chicken and Cauliflower
This healthy slow cooker dish will bring the spice to your usual chicken and veggies.
Get the recipe for Indian-Spiced Chicken and Cauliflower.
Slow Cooker Pork Ragu
We'll never say no to pasta. This homemade take on a classic Italian comfort food is best served over fettuccine, rigatoni, or pappardelle.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Pork Ragu.
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Make this classic chicken dish right in your slow cooker. If you have leftovers, you can even turn the dish into delicious lettuce wraps.
Get the recipe for Sweet and Sour Chicken.
Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash
A hefty dose of paprika gives this beefy stew oodles and oodles of flavor. It's a hearty way to end a day!
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash from A Farmgirl's Dabbles.
Slow Cooker Coconut Curry Beef
This flavor-filled dinner is sure to become a part of your regular rotation!
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Coconut Curry Beef from A Farmgirl's Dabbles.
Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Want to make dinner a little more fun? Make meatballs! These little guys are easy to make and great over rice, or with a vegetable side.
Get the recipe for Sweet and Sour Meatballs from Dinner at the Zoon.
Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup
This recipe has it all. It's healthy. It's easy. It's inexpensive. And it's a great way to use up leftover ham—or whatever other protein you have on hand!
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup from Dinner at the Zoo.
Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas
Make Mexican food night easy with these no-bake enchiladas!
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas from Gimme Delicious.
Slow Cooker Queso Chicken Dip
This and some warm tortilla chips and you've got either a great snack—or the beginnings of snack dinner!
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Queso Chicken Dip from Gimme Delicious.
Taco Soup
Green chilis and some smart toppings turn a basic chili into a bowl of deliciousness!
Get the the recipe for Taco Soup at Mel's Kitchen.
Fluffy Crock Pot Baked Potatoes
Didn't know your slow cooker could make baked potatoes, did you?
Get the recipe for Fluffy Crock Pot Baked Potatoes from Noshing with the Nolands.
Mississippi Pot Roast
If you haven't yet tried this phenomenal way of making pot roast, now's the time.
Get the recipe for Mississippi Pot Roast from Grandbaby Cakes.
Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Let the crockpot make your mashed taters while you work on the rest of the meal!
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes from Grandbaby Cakes.
Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken
Skip the takeout—this is tastier, easier, and cheaper!
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken from The Girl Who Ate Everything.
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Craving Indian-style butter chicken? The slow cooker makes it easy.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken from The Girl Who Ate Everything.
Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan
Yep, you can make chicken parm in the slow cooker! Give this classic a whirl, and let it cook while you're busy doing other things.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan from The Girl Who Ate Everything.
Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Parmesan Soup
Slow cookers are practically made for soup. We recommend this one with a nice, toasty grilled cheese sandwich.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Parmesan Soup from The Girl Who Ate Everything.
Slow Cooker Corn Dip
Is corn dip delicious? Absolutely. Is this recipe good? Undoubtedly. Have we been known to just eat a big bowl of it with chips and call it dinner?
...maybe.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Corn Dip from Spicy Southern Kitchen.
Crispy Skin Slow Cooker Jerk Chicken
Put some spice in your weeknight dinners with this slow cooker jerk chicken that keeps the skin crispy.
Get the recipe for Crispy Skin Slow Cooker Jerk Chicken at Cooking and Beer.
Slow Cooker Bourbon & Orange BBQ Ribs
Grilled ribs may look beautiful, but the slow cooker makes them fall-off-the-bone delicious without drying them out. And this bourbon sauce is incredible!
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Bourbon & Orange BBQ Ribs at Beautiful Eats & Things.
Slow Cooker Chicken With Garlic and Herb Gravy
Flavorful slow cooker chicken and herb gravy? Yes pls! Don't forget to add a giant scoop of mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Chicken With Garlic and Herb Gravy at Dinner at the Zoo.
Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas and Pork Chops
Though they're especially lucky to eat for the New Year, black eyed peas are delicious any time of the year. Paired simply with some boneless pork chops, this easy slow cooker recipe is pure comfort.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas and Pork Chops at Simply LaKita.
Slow Cooker Thai Chicken Curry
Slow cooker style Thai chicken! Let the flavors of this dish simmer all day long and you'll return home to a bold and flavorful tastes that you'll love.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Thai Chicken Curry at Cooking Classy.
Italian-Style Meatballs
One of the best parts about these slow cooker meatballs is that they're so versatile. Feel free to serve them over a bed of spaghetti, vegetables, or as an appetizer.
Get the recipe for Italian-Style Meatballs at Dinner at the Zoo.
BBQ Chicken
This next level slow cooker barbecue chicken makes one "melt in your mouth" meal. You really can't go wrong with a dish that's slathered with plenty of barbecue sauce.
Get the recipe for BBQ Chicken at The Recipe Critic.
Slow Cooker Carnitas
We've got your new favorite taco Tuesday recipe! These slow cooker pork carnitas are dump-and-go deliciousness that will feed a crowd.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Carnitas at Well Plated.
Salsa Chicken
Believe it or not, this unbelievably easy and super-cheesy dish requires just three ingredients. It's the simplest slow cooker supper you'll be making on repeat.
Get the recipe for Salsa Chicken at Jo Cooks.
Slow Cooker Lasagna
Every bite of this beefy slow cooker lasagna is delectable, thanks to three types of cheese. The entire meal is mouthwateringly delicious.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Lasagna at Natasha's Kitchen.
Quinoa Enchilada Casserole
Finish off this easy slow cooker casserole with sliced avocados and diced tomatoes. The garnishes add a touch of fresh flavor.
Get the recipe for Quinoa Enchilada Casserole at Damn Delicious.
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Talk about making a fancy dinner easy! This comforting and hearty slow cooker Beef Bourguignon is just as flavorful and delicious as the classic.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon at Joyful Healthy Eats.
Chicken Marsala
A mushroom and garlic sauce makes this slow cooker chicken recipe extra irresistible. You'll be licking your plate clean.
Get the recipe for Chicken Marsala at Creme de la Crumb.
Thai Butternut Squash Curry
This is one flavorful and healthy slow cooker meal. This sweet and spicy dish is good and good for you!
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Thai Butternut Squash Curry at Half Baked Harvest.
Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
We're all about these sweet potatoes and the chicken cooking in the slow cooker at the same time. Sign us up!
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Sweet Potatoes at SkinnyTaste.
Mississippi Pot Roast
I've you've never had Mississippi Pot Roast, you're in for a surprise! This tender slow cooker chuck roast is flavored with Ranch seasonings, au jus, and pepperoncini peppers.
Get the recipe for Mississippi Pot Roast at Chelsea's Messy Apron.
Chicken Alfredo Sandwiches
This ultra creamy, incredibly cheesy slow cooker chicken recipe tastes just as good whether you use a store-bought or homemade Alfredo sauce.
Get the recipe for Chicken Alfredo Sandwiches at The Cookie Rookie.
Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini
Like any scrumptious comfort classic, this tortellini is packed with cheesy goodness. The sauce cooks in the slow cooker and the tortellini is tossed it closer to dinner time.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini at Damn Delicious.
Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice
You've made red beans and rice, but have you ever made it in the slow cooker? Saucy beans and sausage are served over rice for a delicious and Cajun-inspired dinner.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice at The Recipe Runner.
Crock Pot Chicken Cacciatore
Try this slow cooker version of an Italian favorite. It's a dump-and-go recipe, making it perfect for busy weekdays!
Get the recipe for Crock Pot Chicken Cacciatore at Julie's Eats and Treats.
Mango Salsa Chicken with Coconut Rice
This blogger calls her sweet and savory slow cooker Mexican meal "a perfect weeknight dinner."
Get the recipe for Mango Salsa Chicken with Coconut Rice at Cooking Classy.
Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
This slow cooker version of everyone's favorite Chinese food dish is a yummy balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken at Dinner at the Zoo.
Chicken and Mushroom Stroganoff
Slow cooker stroganoff? This sounds right up our alley. Serve this stroganoff over noodles for the ultimate comfort food.
Get the recipe for Chicken and Mushroom Stroganoff at The Recipe Critic.
Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup
This family friendly slow cooker soup is great because you can cook it on the stovetop, in your slow cooker, or even in your Instant Pot!
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup at The Chunky Chef.
Slow Cooker Jambalaya
Bring Louisiana to your own kitchen with this slow cooker version of a classic. Every bite of this slow cooker jambalaya is loaded with chicken, shrimp, and andouille sausage.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Jambalaya at Creme de la Crumb.
Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes
Not having to heat up the kitchen makes these Sloppy Joe's a great option for summer dinners in addition to colder times of the year. Plus the sauce is super easy to stir together and it all cooks in the slow cooker.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes at I Wash You Dry.
Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili
Looking for a fabulous vegatarian slow cooker chili? Try out this slow cooker recipe that's big on flavor and just about as easy as it gets.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili at Dishing Out Health.
Teriyaki Pulled Pork
This saucy pulled pork is obviously tasty right out of the slow cooker, but it also reheats well for leftovers. As this blogger notes about her recipe, "It gets even better with time."
Get the recipe for Teriyaki Pulled Pork at Spicy Southern Kitchen.
Slow Cooker Creamy Wild Rice Soup with Butter Roasted Mushrooms
Slow cooker soup is good for your soul! Mushrooms get roasted with thyme sprigs and lemon zest in this creamy, filling dish.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Creamy Wild Rice Soup with Butter Roasted Mushrooms at Half Baked Harvest.
Slow Cooker Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken
Pan sear your chicken breasts before you put them in your slow cooker for a crispy coating.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken at The Recipe Critic.
Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili
Love buffalo wings? You'll love this chili! It's easy to customize how much flavor you want and you can include whatever toppings you like!
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili at How Sweet Eats.
Chicken Parmesan Pasta
We'll never say no to pasta, especially when it all comes together in the slow cooker. The best part of this easy Italian dish? You can freeze whatever you don't finish.
Get the recipe for Chicken Parmesan Pasta at Damn Delicious.
Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili
With turkey and pumpkin, this just might be the most perfect slow cooker chili for cool autumn nights. Another bonus is that you can make it in either the slow cooker or an instant pot.
Get the recipe for Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili at Skinny Taste.
French Dip Sandwiches
If you love a good French Dip Sandwich, this recipe is for you. The meat cooks in the slower cooker, which makes it super flavorful and tender.
Get the recipe for French Dip Sandwiches at Chelsea's Messy Apron.
Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken and Orzo
If you're looking for an easy weeknight dinner, look no further than this simple slow cooker chicken and rice combo.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken and Orzo at Le Creme de La Crumb.
Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Want to convince your family to eat more soup? Put gnocchi in it. You can never go wrong with a slow cooker chicken recipe.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup at Pinch of Yum.
Spaghetti Squash and Turkey Meatballs
Spaghetti squash can be a great substitute for pasta if you're trying to add some more veggies to your diet.
Get the recipe for Spaghetti Squash and Turkey Meatballs at Half Baked Harvest.
Beef Stroganoff
This easy slow cooker version of beef stroganoff promises rich and savory flavors.
Get the recipe for Beef Stroganoff at Creme de la Crumb.
Moroccan Chickpea and Turkey Stew
If you want a cozy night in, whip up this delicious Moroccan stew. (You can even use what's left over for lunch for the rest of the week.)
Get the recipe for Moroccan Chickpea and Turkey Stew at Skinny Taste.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
This slow cooker version of Chicken Tikka Masala is packed with flavor and is super easy to make with simple ingredients like tomato sauce, coconut milk, spices and chicken.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala at Tastes Better From Scratch.
Vegan Sweet Potato Curry
This slow cooker vegan curry features red lentils, chickpeas, sweet potatoes, and a flavorful blend of spices.
Get the recipe for Vegan Sweet Potato Curry at Salt and Lavender.
Tater Tot Casserole
With tots loaded with cheese and ground beef, this recipe will surely make your whole family happy.
Get the recipe for Tater Tot Casserole at Damn Delicious.
Slow Cooker Shredded Beef White Enchiladas
These slow cooker enchiladas start with a chuck roast in the slow cooker and end with an easy homemade white enchilada sauce and plenty of melty cheese.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Shredded Beef White Enchiladas at How Sweet Eats.
Honey Buffalo Meatballs
Made with Frank's Original Hot Sauce, honey, brown sugar, and apricot preserves, these slow cooker meatballs make for a tasty appetizer or main dinner dish.
Get the recipe for Honey Buffalo Meatballs at The Recipe Critic.
Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken
Don't resort to take-out menus just yet! This slow cooker version of cashew chicken is full of tangy flavor.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken at The Recipe Critic.
Slow Cooker Skinny Veggie Lasagna
This slow cooker vegetarian lasagna simplifies the usual prep time because you don't have to cook the noodles in advance.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Skinny Veggie Lasagna at Pinch of Yum.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Parmesan makes everything taste better and this chicken-and-potatoes meal is no exception.
Get the recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes at Damn Delicious.
Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Beef
While typically cooked on the stovetop, this slow cooker version of Korean beef is just as flavorful. Serve over rice with a side of veggies for a delicious meal!
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Beef at Oh Sweet Basil.
Slow Cooker Creamed Corn
Preparing a complicated meal, but want to add an easy-to-mix side? Throw this five-ingredient side together in a slow cooker, then let it bake while you're busy preparing the rest of dinner.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Creamed Corn at Damn Delicious.
Slow Cooker Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
This easy-to-make slow cooker cream cheese chicken is best served rolled up in tortillas, baked to crispy perfection.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos at Le Creme De La Crumb.
Slow Cooker Beef Ragu with Pappardelle
This comforting pasta dish features slow cooked steak and a garlicky tomato sauce along with pasta and plenty of parmesan cheese.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Beef Ragu with Pappardelle at Pinch of Yum.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Set up your slow cooker in the morning and have a flavorful and delicious dinner waiting for you when you get home! This Honey Garlic Chicken is super flavorful and a perfect weeknight meal.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken at The Chunky Chef.
Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
If you love lasagna but you're looking for something extra warm and cozy for a chilly night, we've got what you need: lasagna soup! The soup simmers in a slow cooker and all you have to do is add the noodles 30 minutes before the cook time is up.
Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup at Natasha's Kitchen.
Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes
A perfect side dish, these easy-to-make potatoes require only five ingredients.
Get the recipe for Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes at Damn Delicious.
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