Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinner routine? Look no further! Crock pots are a busy person’s best friend, allowing you to throw all your ingredients in and let the magic happen while you’re off doing other things. And with these 20 flavorful and unique crock pot recipes, you’ll never have to settle for boring again.
From classic comfort foods like slow-cooked chicken and mashed potatoes, to international-inspired dishes like Korean BBQ beef tacos and Mediterranean stuffed peppers, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Most of these recipes require minimal prep work and can be cooked while you’re at work or running errands. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and let your crock pot do the rest!
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Slow Cooker Honey Sriracha Chicken
Elevate your mealtime with this sweet and spicy slow cooker recipe that combines the flavors of honey, sriracha, and chicken. Perfect for a busy day when you want a delicious meal without much effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the chicken, honey, and sriracha sauce.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Check the chicken’s tenderness; if not tender enough, continue cooking in 30-minute increments until done.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Moroccan Lamb Stew
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of Morocco with the convenience of a slow cooker. Tender lamb, aromatic spices, and sweet vegetables come together to create a delicious and exotic meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Add lamb, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper to the Crock Pot.
2. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine.
4. Cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (LOW) or 4-6 hours (HIGH)
Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Ribs
Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Ribs: A sweet and savory twist on traditional ribs!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs; season with salt and pepper.
4. Place ribs in a large baking dish and brush with the pineapple-teriyaki glaze.
5. Bake for 25 minutes per pound or until tender, flipping halfway through.
6. Increase oven temperature to broil (high). Brush ribs with remaining glaze and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (depending on rib size)
Buffalo Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
This creamy macaroni and cheese dish gets a bold kick from the addition of buffalo cauliflower, making it a unique and delicious twist on a comfort food classic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crispy bacon or chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Add buffalo sauce and season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Stir in cauliflower florets coated in buffalo sauce.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Korean BBQ Beef Tacos
Discover the bold flavors of Korea in a taco! This recipe combines the richness of Korean BBQ with the crunch and freshness of tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (such as flank steak or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced green onions, kimchi slaw (optional), cilantro, and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Gochujang, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil. Add the sliced beef and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
2. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Grill the beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by slicing the grilled beef into thin strips and placing it onto a warmed tortilla. Garnish with green onions, kimchi slaw (if using), cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers
Add a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your meal with these colorful stuffed peppers. A perfect combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup chopped kalamata olives
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, olives, feta cheese, parsley, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano.
4. Stuff each pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Coconut Curry Lentil Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of coconut milk with the earthiness of red lentils and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
2. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, coconut milk, vegetable broth, cumin, and curry powder. Stir well.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Maple Dijon Glazed Turkey Breast
Elevate your holiday gathering with this sweet and tangy glazed turkey breast recipe, perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Place the turkey breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the maple glaze all over the turkey breast, making sure it’s evenly coated.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the turkey, then sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili
This hearty chili recipe combines the rich flavors of chipotle peppers with tender black beans and a hint of smokiness, perfect for a cozy night in. With minimal prep time and a short cooking time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the black beans with 4 cups of water until tender.
2. In a separate pan, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until softened.
3. Add the chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan; stir for 1 minute.
4. Combine the cooked black beans, vegetable broth, and tomato mixture in the pot.
5. Simmer the chili for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Greek Yogurt Chicken Tikka Masala
Elevate your meal game with this creamy and flavorful twist on classic chicken tikka masala, featuring the tanginess of Greek yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons garam masala
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Remove chicken from marinade and bake on a lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic over medium heat until softened. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and baked chicken. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-50 minutes
Apple Cider Pulled Pork Sliders
This recipe combines the warmth of pulled pork with the crunch and sweetness of apple cider-glazed onions, all nestled within a soft bun. Perfect for a chilly fall gathering or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 8 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, then place it in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot.
4. Cover and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Meanwhile, caramelize the onions by cooking them in a skillet over medium-low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Assemble sliders by spooning pulled pork onto buns, topping with caramelized onions and coleslaw or pickles if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Thai Peanut Butter Chicken
This creamy and aromatic Thai-inspired dish combines the richness of peanut butter with the bold flavors of chicken, bell peppers, and spices. Serve over steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth.
3. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. In the same skillet, add sliced bell peppers and minced garlic. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the peanut butter sauce and cooked chicken. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro (if using) and serve over steamed jasmine rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Fig Pot Roast
Elevate your Sunday roast with the rich flavors of balsamic vinegar and sweet figs. This pot roast is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef pot roast (such as chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup fig jam
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the roast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the roast on all sides over medium-high heat. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
5. Add balsamic vinegar, fig jam, and red wine (if using) to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the roast to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Roast for 2-3 hours or until tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Overnight
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Overnight, infused with the flavors of fall.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: sweetener of your choice (honey, maple syrup, brown sugar)
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container, combine oats, water or milk, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Stir until the oats are well coated with the mixture.
3. Refrigerate overnight for at least 4 hours or up to 8 hours.
4. In the morning, give the oatmeal a quick stir and add your preferred sweetener if desired.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped nuts or dried cranberries if you like.
Cooking Time: None! Just let it sit overnight and enjoy in the morning.
Garlic Parmesan Mushroom Risotto
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish, this Garlic Parmesan Mushroom Risotto is a perfect side or main course for any occasion. The combination of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and parmesan cheese creates a rich and savory taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the Arborio rice and stir to combine with the mushroom mixture.
6. Add the warmed vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
7. Remove from heat once the rice is cooked and creamy, about 20-25 minutes.
8. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Onion French Dip Sandwiches
Caramelized Onion French Dip Sandwiches: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Classic Favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 crusty French bread baguette slices
– 1 pound beef au jus (or store-bought Au Jus)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized and golden brown.
2. Preheat the broiler.
3. Butter one side of each baguette slice.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading beef au jus on the unbuttered side of each baguette, followed by a few slices of caramelized onion, and finishing with a sprinkle of Gruyère cheese.
5. Place the sandwiches under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and drizzle with Worcestershire sauce.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes (including caramelization time)
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and flavorful pasta dish, featuring succulent shrimp coated in a tangy lemon-garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 4 tbsp)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium-low.
5. Pour lemon juice into the skillet and stir to combine with butter and garlic. Simmer for 1 minute.
6. Add reserved pasta water to the sauce if it becomes too thick.
7. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and lemon-garlic sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spiced Pear and Cranberry Crumble
This spiced pear and cranberry crumble is a perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors, topped with a crunchy oat mixture. It’s an ideal dessert for the fall season, serving as a delicious way to end your meal.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together pears, cranberries, granulated sugar, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar, and chopped walnuts (if using).
5. Add melted butter to the oat mixture and stir until crumbly.
6. Top the pear mixture with the oat mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this creative recipe that combines the flavors of jalapeños and cream cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these stuffed chicken breasts are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup diced jalapeños
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, cilantro, and diced jalapeños.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the jalapeño mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Rosemary Garlic White Bean Stew
A hearty and aromatic stew that combines the earthy flavor of white beans with the brightness of rosemary and the pungency of garlic. Perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can cannellini beans (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped rosemary and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the vegetable broth, cannellini beans, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the stew to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these 20 unique and flavorful crock pot recipes! From sweet and spicy honey sriracha chicken to savory and aromatic Moroccan lamb stew, there’s something for everyone. Try making mouthwatering pineapple teriyaki pork ribs or buffalo cauliflower mac and cheese. International flavors abound, including Korean BBQ beef tacos, Mediterranean stuffed peppers, and coconut curry lentil soup. Perfect for busy nights, these recipes are easy to make and packed with flavor. Get cooking and enjoy the convenience of slow-cooked meals!
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