Slow cooker meals are the ultimate solution for effortless weeknight dinners. Load up your slow cooker in the morning and come home to a hot, homemade meal. Here are 10 of our favorite slow cooker recipes to get you through the week:
Nothing is more comforting than coming home to the smell of beef stew simmering in the slow cooker. This classic beef stew is made with chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots and a rich broth. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
For cheese lovers, a slow cooker mac and cheese is a dream come true. This creamy mac and cheese is made with cheddar, Gouda and Parmesan cheeses for a decadent dish that’s perfect for potlucks and family dinners.
On chilly nights, a slow cooker chili is just what you need. This beef and bean chili is mildly spicy, filled with ground beef, beans and chili spices. Top it with scallions, cheese, avocado and cornbread.
For breakfast, a slow cooker overnight oatmeal is a great make-ahead option. Steel cut oats, milk, honey and spices are combined and cook overnight for a creamy hot cereal that’s ready when you wake up. Top it with fresh or dried fruit, nuts and maple syrup.
When you’re craving pulled pork, a slow cooker is the easiest way to make it. This recipe uses a flavorful dry rub to season the pork shoulder before it’s cooked for 8-10 hours until the meat is fall-apart tender. Serve the pulled pork on buns, tacos or nachos.
Nothing says comfort like chicken noodle soup. Egg noodles, carrots, celery and chicken are simmered in a rich broth for a soothing soup that’s perfect when you’re feeling under the weather.
For Mexican night, try a slow cooker beef burrito bowls. Flank steak, black beans, corn, salsa and spices are combined for a hearty meal. Serve the mixture over rice and top it with avocado, cheese, cilantro and lime wedges.
Mississippi pot roast is a classic slow cooker recipe. Chuck roast is cooked with pepperoncini peppers for a kick of heat and ranch dressing mix for lots of flavor. The roast becomes so tender it can be shredded for sandwiches.
For a sweet treat, slow cooker banana bread pudding is amazing. Day old bread, milk, eggs and spices are combined and cooked until the custard is set. Mash bananas and stir them into the pudding for a delicious dessert.
When you’re craving soup and grilled cheese, tomato soup from the slow cooker pairs perfectly. Crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth and basil are simmered for a rustic soup that’s ideal for dunking grilled cheese sandwiches.