60 Easy Slow Cooker Recipes Perfect for Weeknights and Weekends

Slow cookers are the kitchen’s quiet over-achievers, turning a handful of ingredients into meals that taste like you spent the whole day tending the stove. The magic lies in gentle heat and patient simmering, which coax out deep flavors while you handle life’s other demands. Whether you’re craving comfort food, planning game-day snacks, or looking for a simple dessert, the sixty recipes below have you covered. Grab your favorite crock and let it do the heavy lifting.

1. Classic Beef Pot Roast

Season a chuck roast with salt, pepper, and dried thyme, then brown it briefly before nestling it over a bed of root vegetables. Low heat for eight hours melts connective tissue, leaving fork-tender beef and a naturally thickened sauce. Skim a touch of fat, swirl in a knob of butter, and dinner is ready. Serve with crusty bread to capture every drop of gravy.

2. Smoky Pulled Pork Shoulder

Rub a bone-in pork shoulder with smoked paprika, brown sugar, and cumin, then cook on low for ten hours. The meat falls apart effortlessly and picks up a subtle smokiness from the spices. Stir in a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness. Pile the pork onto buns with crunchy slaw for an easy crowd-pleaser.

3. Chicken Tikka Masala

Marinate chicken chunks in yogurt, garlic, and garam masala, then transfer them to the slow cooker with crushed tomatoes and onions. A few hours later, swirl in coconut milk for velvety richness. The gentle simmer mimics tandoor-style tenderness without special equipment. Spoon over rice and garnish with cilantro for an effortless Indian-inspired supper.

4. White Bean Chicken Chili

Combine boneless chicken breasts, canned white beans, green chilies, and chicken broth in the crock. Slow cooking lets the beans thicken the broth naturally while the chicken turns silky. Shred the meat, add a squeeze of lime, and stir in a little cream for a mellow finish. Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with cheese for comfort in a cup.

5. Vegetarian Lentil Soup

Lentils, carrots, celery, and tomatoes simmer together with vegetable stock and bay leaves. The legumes soften into a stew-like texture that feels far richer than its humble ingredients suggest. A final splash of red wine vinegar brightens every spoonful. Serve with a hunk of crusty sourdough for a meat-free meal that satisfies.

6. Cuban-Style Ropa Vieja

Flank steak braises in tomato sauce, bell peppers, and sazon seasoning until it shreds into silky strands. Green olives lend briny contrast, while a touch of cumin provides warmth. The flavors deepen over eight hours without any stovetop fuss. Spoon over rice and add a side of sweet plantains to complete the Caribbean vibe.

7. Sweet & Tangy BBQ Meatballs

Combine frozen beef meatballs, your favorite barbecue sauce, and a splash of grape jelly right in the crock. The long simmer melds smoky, sweet, and tangy notes into a sticky coating. Keep the cooker on warm during parties so guests can help themselves. They disappear faster than you’d expect.

8. Italian Sausage & Peppers

Browned sausages rest atop onions, peppers, crushed tomatoes, and oregano. Slow cooking infuses each link with vegetal sweetness while the peppers turn buttery soft. Serve on hoagie rolls with melted provolone or over polenta for a fuss-free dinner. Leftovers taste even better the next day.

9. Tuscan White Bean Stew

Cannellini beans, rosemary, garlic, and diced tomatoes mingle for hours, creating a silky broth without cream. Stir in chopped kale during the last thirty minutes so it wilts but keeps its color. A drizzle of good olive oil and Parmesan shavings finish the bowl. It’s rustic Italian comfort with almost no effort.

10. Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Canned San Marzano tomatoes, onions, and vegetable stock simmer until flavors meld. Blend with an immersion blender right in the crock, then add a splash of cream and fresh basil ribbons. The result is velvety and bright. Pair with grilled cheese for the ultimate nostalgic lunch.

11. Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Whisk honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger, then pour over bone-in chicken thighs. Slow cooking renders the meat juicy while the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze. Finish under the broiler for caramelized edges if desired. Serve with steamed rice and broccoli for a balanced plate.

12. Minestrone with Pasta

Dump-and-go canned tomatoes, mixed beans, zucchini, and carrots into the slow cooker with vegetable broth. Short pasta shapes go in during the last thirty minutes so they don’t overcook. The broth becomes vibrant and vegetable-forward without constant stirring. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan ties it all together.

13. Chipotle Beef Barbacoa

Chuck roast meets chipotle peppers in adobo, cumin, and oregano for smoky depth. After eight hours on low, the beef pulls apart effortlessly and soaks up the spicy sauce. Use it in tacos, bowls, or quesadillas. A squeeze of lime brightens each bite.

14. Coconut Curry Chickpeas

Chickpeas simmer in coconut milk with red curry paste, diced tomatoes, and sweet potatoes. Slow heat marries spice and creaminess while the potatoes soften. A handful of spinach stirred in at the end adds color. Serve over rice for an easy vegan dinner.

15. Thai Green Curry Vegetables

Green curry paste, coconut milk, and vegetable stock form a fragrant base. Add sturdy vegetables early and quick-cooking ones later for perfect texture. A splash of lime juice and torn basil leaves lift the flavors. Ladle over rice for a colorful meat-free dinner.

16. Maple Dijon Ham

A spiral-cut ham warms gently in a bath of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a hint of cloves. The glaze seeps between slices, keeping the meat moist and flavorful. All you need to do is baste once or twice. Perfect for holidays or weekend meal prep.

17. Stuffed Pepper Soup

Ground beef, diced bell peppers, tomatoes, and uncooked rice simmer together, capturing the essence of classic stuffed peppers without the assembly. The rice cooks in the broth, thickening it naturally. A sprinkle of mozzarella on top melts into a comforting layer. Serve with crusty garlic bread.

18. Jambalaya with Shrimp

Andouille sausage, chicken, and aromatic vegetables stew in spiced tomato broth. Rice gets stirred in toward the end to absorb bold flavors without becoming mushy. Finally, shrimp poach gently in the hot mixture, staying plump and tender. It’s Louisiana flavor with minimal hands-on time.

19. Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Steel-cut oats, chopped apples, and cinnamon cook overnight in milk and water, greeting you with warm aromas in the morning. The oats turn creamy yet retain pleasant chew. Stir in a splash of vanilla and top with nuts for crunch. Breakfast practically makes itself.

20. Korean Beef Bulgogi

Soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and pear purée create a classic bulgogi marinade that bathes thin-sliced beef. Slow cooking infuses every piece with sweet-savory flavor while keeping it tender. Reduce the sauce briefly for a glossy finish. Serve with kimchi and rice for a takeout-style meal at home.

21. Spinach & Artichoke Dip

Cream cheese, sour cream, chopped artichoke hearts, and spinach melt into a rich dip right in the slow cooker. A mix of mozzarella and Parmesan lends stretchy appeal. Keep it on the warm setting so guests can scoop at leisure. It pairs nicely with bread cubes or veggies.

22. Moroccan Chickpea Tagine

Chickpeas braise with tomatoes, dried apricots, cumin, and cinnamon for sweet-savory depth. The spice profile mellows during the long cook, creating a fragrant sauce. Toasted almonds add crunch just before serving. Ladle over couscous for a plant-based feast.

23. Buffalo Chicken Dip

Shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, and hot sauce mingle until smooth and zesty. Slow heat ensures easy blending without scorching. Keep it warm for hours of snacking. A sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles adds classic tang.

24. Ratatouille Provençale

Layer eggplant, zucchini, peppers, tomatoes, and herbs in the slow cooker, adding a splash of olive oil. Gentle heat lets each vegetable soften while keeping shape. The flavors meld into a Mediterranean medley. Serve warm or at room temperature with crusty bread.

25. Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Diced potatoes, onions, and chicken broth simmer until the potatoes break down. Blend partially for a thick-yet-chunky texture, then stir in sour cream and shredded cheddar. Crisp bacon and fresh chives make it taste like the best part of a steakhouse meal. Warm, filling, and budget-friendly.

26. Sesame Ginger Pork Tenderloin

A simple marinade of soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, and a touch of honey soaks into lean pork tenderloin. Slow cooking keeps the meat juicy without drying it out. Reduce the cooking liquid for a syrupy glaze. Slice and serve over rice noodles for an easy weeknight entrée.

27. Butter Chicken

Boneless chicken cooks in a spiced tomato sauce enriched with butter and cream. The low heat keeps the sauce silky and the chicken tender. A quick blend of cashews thickens it naturally. Scoop with naan for a rich yet approachable dinner.

28. Braised Short Ribs

Meaty short ribs sear for color, then bathe in red wine, beef broth, and aromatics. Long, slow cooking melts collagen into gelatin, creating luxurious texture. Skim fat and reduce sauces for a restaurant-quality finish. Pair with creamy mash or polenta.

29. Salsa Verde Chicken

Dump chicken thighs, jarred salsa verde, and cumin into the slow cooker—nothing else needed. After six hours, shred the meat and fold it back into the tangy sauce. It’s versatile for tacos, burritos, or grain bowls. Top with radishes and avocado for freshness.

30. Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Chicken, rice, celery, and broth simmer until tender. Whisked eggs and fresh lemon juice temper into the soup, yielding a creamy texture without dairy. Dill and black pepper brighten each spoonful. It’s light yet comforting, ideal for chilly evenings.

31. Mushroom Stroganoff

Cremini and portobello mushrooms cook down with onions, garlic, and vegetable broth. Just before serving, stir in a dollop of sour cream and Dijon. The sauce clings to wide egg noodles for a vegetarian twist on a classic. Earthy, creamy, and deeply satisfying.

32. Carnitas Tacos

Pork shoulder slow cooks with orange juice, garlic, and oregano until fall-apart tender. Shred, spread on a sheet pan, and broil briefly for crispy edges. The citrusy, savory meat stuffs into tacos like a street-food favorite. Finish with diced onion and cilantro.

33. Pumpkin Pie Steel-Cut Oats

Steel-cut oats, pumpkin purée, pumpkin spice, and maple syrup simmer overnight in almond milk. You’ll wake up to creamy oats scented like fall desserts. Stir, adjust sweetness, and you’re good to go. It reheats well for several days of breakfast.

34. Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

Chunky potatoes simmer in broth until tender, then mash right in the cooker with butter, cream, roasted garlic, and Parmesan. The residual heat keeps them warm for serving. No last-minute stovetop juggling required. Garnish with extra cheese for good measure.

35. French Onion Soup

Slow cooking caramelizes onions without constant babysitting, transforming them into sweet, mahogany strands. Beef broth and a splash of sherry deepen the flavor. Ladle into oven-safe bowls, top with baguette and Gruyère, and broil until bubbly. It’s bistro satisfaction in your own kitchen.

36. Cranberry Orange Meatballs

Frozen meatballs simmer in a sauce of cranberry sauce, orange juice, and a hint of chili sauce. The fruit adds bright sweetness while balancing savory notes. They’re effortless for potlucks or appetizer spreads. Keep warm in the crock for self-service.

37. Spicy Peanut Chicken

Chicken thighs stew in coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, and sriracha for a rich, spicy sauce. Slow heat melds flavors into a satay-style coating. Shred the meat and add a squeeze of lime for zing. Great over noodles or lettuce wraps.

38. Black Bean & Corn Enchilada Filling

Canned black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and enchilada sauce simmer into a thick filling. Cumin and oregano lend Mexican flair without extra work. Roll into tortillas, top with cheese, and bake for quick enchiladas. Leftovers double as nacho topping.

39. Beef & Guinness Stew

Beef cubes, stout beer, onions, and root vegetables cook slowly until the meat is meltingly tender. The Guinness reduces into a malty, savory gravy. A spoonful of mustard at the end sharpens the flavors. It’s hearty fare perfect for chilly nights.

40. Lemon Herb Whole Chicken

Stuff a whole chicken with lemon halves and fresh rosemary, then season generously. Cooking low and slow yields juicy meat and an herby jus. Broil briefly for crisp skin if desired. Use leftovers for salads and sandwiches.

41. Chocolate Lava Cake

A batter of chocolate, butter, eggs, and sugar pours into ramekins set in the slow cooker with a little water. The gentle steam bakes the edges while keeping centers gooey. Serve warm with ice cream for a fuss-free indulgence. Perfect for date night.

42. Rustic Navy Bean Soup with Ham

Soaked navy beans cook with a ham hock, onions, and bay leaves until creamy. Shred the ham into the soup and season with pepper. The result is smoky, rich, and surprisingly economical. A dash of hot sauce perks up each serving.

43. Teriyaki Meatballs

Beef meatballs simmer in a sauce of soy, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger until coated in a sticky glaze. Cornstarch thickens the liquid right in the pot. They’re kid-friendly and freezer-friendly. Serve with rice and steamed edamame.

44. Cajun Red Beans & Rice

Small red beans simmer with smoked sausage, onion, celery, and Cajun spices all afternoon. The beans turn creamy, and the sausage flavors the pot. Mash a few beans against the side for extra thickness if desired. Spoon over rice for a New Orleans staple.

45. Southwestern Chicken Tortilla Soup

Chicken breasts, black beans, corn, and tomatoes simmer in spiced broth. Shred the chicken and add lime juice for freshness. Offer bowls of toppings—tortilla strips, avocado, and cheese—for a customizable meal. It’s light yet filling.

46. Orange Beef

Chuck roast slices cook with orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of chili flake. Slow heat turns the meat tender while reducing the sauce into a bright glaze. Finish with orange zest for punchy aroma. Ideal over jasmine rice.

47. BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich Filling

Canned young jackfruit simmers in barbecue sauce and spices, breaking down into a pulled-meat texture. A dash of liquid smoke adds depth. Pile onto buns with crunchy slaw for a plant-based alternative to pulled pork. Quick, fun, and fiber-rich.

48. Swedish Meatballs in Cream Sauce

Beef-pork meatballs cook in broth and spices, creating a flavorful base. Stir in sour cream and a touch of allspice for classic Scandinavian taste. The sauce thickens to coat every bite. Serve with noodles or mashed potatoes for cozy comfort.

49. Italian Beef Sandwiches

Chuck roast simmers with Italian seasoning, pepperoncini peppers, and beef broth until it shreds effortlessly. The peppers add tangy heat without overpowering. Spoon the juicy beef onto rolls and top with giardiniera for crunch. It’s a Chicago staple made easy.

50. Peach Cobbler

Canned or fresh peaches mix with brown sugar and cinnamon, then get blanketed by spoonfuls of simple biscuit batter. Slow cooking bakes the topping into tender dumplings that soak up fruit syrup. Serve warm with ice cream for a summertime classic year-round. Minimal effort, maximum comfort.

51. Barley & Vegetable Soup

Pearl barley, mixed vegetables, and herbs simmer until the grains are plump and chewy. The broth thickens naturally from the released starch. It’s hearty enough for dinner yet light on the wallet. Freeze leftovers for quick lunches.

52. Spiced Apple Butter

Quartered apples cook down with cinnamon, cloves, and a touch of molasses over ten hours. Puree until silky, then continue cooking with the lid ajar to thicken. The result spreads like velvet on toast or biscuits. It makes thoughtful homemade gifts, too.

53. Cuban Black Beans

Dried black beans simmer with onions, bell pepper, oregano, and bay leaves until tender. A splash of red wine vinegar at the end sharpens the earthy flavors. They’re perfect over rice or tucked into burritos. Affordable, nutritious, and freezer-friendly.

54. Salmon Chowder

Chunks of cooked salmon, diced potatoes, and corn simmer in a broth of fish stock, milk, and herbs. Add the salmon toward the end to keep it tender. A pat of butter and fresh dill finish the soup with classic northeast flavor. Serve with oyster crackers for crunch.

55. Curried Sweet Potato Soup

Sweet potatoes, onions, curry powder, and vegetable broth cook until soft. Purée for a silky texture, then stir in coconut milk for richness. The natural sweetness plays nicely with warm spice. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and deeply comforting.

56. Mediterranean Chickpea Shakshuka

Tomatoes, peppers, onions, and chickpeas stew into a thick sauce seasoned with cumin and paprika. Crack eggs on top during the last fifteen minutes and cover until just set. The yolks stay runny, ready for dipping warm pita. It’s a hands-off twist on a brunch favorite.

57. Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken

Boneless chicken thighs cook with pineapple chunks, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger. The fruit’s juices sweeten the sauce naturally. Thicken with cornstarch for a glossy coating. It’s sweet-savory comfort that kids love.

58. Moroccan Lamb Stew

Lamb shoulder cubes braise with tomatoes, chickpeas, apricots, and ras el hanout spices. Slow cooking tames the lamb’s richness while the fruit adds subtle sweetness. Toasted almonds provide crunch. Serve atop fluffy couscous for a fragrant dinner.

59. Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate

Milk, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, and caramel sauce melt together in the crock, creating a luxurious drink. A pinch of sea salt balances the sweetness. Keep it on warm during movie night for refills. Marshmallows or whipped cream make it extra special.

60. Herbed Turkey Breast

A bone-in turkey breast rests on onions and carrots, seasoned with sage, thyme, and garlic. Low heat keeps the meat moist while vegetables flavor the drippings. Blend the strained juices into a quick gravy. It’s perfect for smaller gatherings or weekly meal prep.