When it comes to weeknight meals, busy schedules can make cooking from scratch seem like a daunting task. But what if you could still enjoy delicious, authentic Italian flavors without sacrificing time or effort? Enter: the trusty crockpot! With its slow-cooked magic, you can simmer up a hearty, comforting meal while attending to your daily tasks. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering Italian crockpot recipes that are sure to become weeknight staples in no time.
From classic spaghetti Bolognese to creamy chicken Alfredo pasta, these recipes will transport your taste buds straight to the Tuscan countryside. With ingredients like rich tomato sauce, savory sausage, and tender chicken, you’ll be cooking up a storm without lifting a finger. So why not give one of these 20 delicious Italian crockpot recipes a try tonight?
Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese
This classic Italian dish gets a modern twist by using a slow cooker to tenderize the meat and meld the flavors together. Perfect for a busy day, this recipe is easy to prepare and serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a pan over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot to the pan and cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Serve with the bolognese sauce and top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan
This comforting recipe is a twist on the classic Italian dish, with tender chicken cooked to perfection in a creamy tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano.
2. Place the chicken in the crockpot.
3. Pour in the marinara sauce and add the olive oil.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Italian Beef Sandwiches
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple recipe that combines tender beef, melted mozzarella, and fresh basil on crusty sub rolls.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef roast (such as top round or rump), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 4 sub rolls
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef strips; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet; set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add onion and garlic to skillet. Cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add marinara sauce to skillet; stir to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing cooked beef on sub rolls, topping with marinara mixture and mozzarella cheese.
6. Place sandwiches on baking sheet; bake at 325°F for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of lasagna with the convenience of slow cooker cooking, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch. With layers of pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, this soup is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Transfer mixture to slow cooker; add marinara sauce, chicken broth, lasagna noodles, and mozzarella cheese.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese before serving.
6. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Tuscan Chicken
This hearty and flavorful dish combines tender chicken with rich Tuscan-inspired flavors, all made easy by the convenience of a crockpot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. In the crockpot, combine chicken, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, olive oil, garlic, and basil.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Italian Sausage and Peppers
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot, your choice)
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausages over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add sliced onions and minced garlic; cook until the onions are translucent.
4. Add sliced bell peppers and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until they start to soften.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and add diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sausages are cooked through and the peppers are tender.
7. Serve hot with crusty bread or over pasta.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup: A Hearty and Flavorful One-Pot Meal
This classic Italian-inspired soup is perfect for a chilly day, as it simmers to perfection in your slow cooker. With tender vegetables, beans, and pasta, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready when you need it.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to your slow cooker.
2. Stir to combine, then cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Zuppa Toscana
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup recipe that combines the classic Italian flavors of sausage, potatoes, and kale with the ease of a slow cooker. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
Instructions:
1. Add sausage, onion, potatoes, garlic, chicken broth, and basil to the crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
4. Add kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional kale if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli
Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli Recipe
This classic Italian dish is a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a busy day. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and filling pasta sauce with beans, tomatoes, and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (such as pappardelle or rigatoni)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, combine diced tomatoes, kidney beans, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, carrot, and oregano.
3. Add cooked pasta to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Italian Herb Pork Roast
Bring the flavors of Italy to your table with this delicious pork roast recipe, featuring a blend of aromatic herbs and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork loin roast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, and oregano.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the pork roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the pork roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 2-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Crockpot Eggplant Parmesan
Say goodbye to tedious breading and frying with this easy-to-make Crockpot eggplant parmesan recipe. By slow-cooking tender slices of eggplant in a rich tomato sauce, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded ricotta cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Crockpot to low.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and oregano.
3. Dip each eggplant slice in the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated eggplant slices in the Crockpot.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the eggplant, followed by shredded ricotta cheese.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and season with salt and pepper.
7. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch. This slow cooker recipe yields tender chicken, savory vegetables, and rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, onion, bell peppers, garlic, and mushrooms.
2. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Drizzle with olive oil.
4. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot over cooked pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (LOW) or 3-4 hours (HIGH)
Italian Style Meatballs in Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this beloved recipe that combines tender meatballs with a hearty tomato sauce, perfect for pasta, subs, or as an appetizer. This comforting dish is easy to prepare and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix meatball ingredients until just combined; do not overwork.
3. Form into balls (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs bake, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
6. Add crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), salt, and pepper; simmer for 10-15 minutes.
7. Add cooked meatballs to sauce and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Crockpot Risotto Milanese
This recipe transforms traditional risotto into a comforting, slow-cooked delight, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a rich, creamy dish infused with the classic flavors of saffron and Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried saffron threads
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the rice, chicken broth, olive oil, onion, garlic, and saffron to the Crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Gnocchi Soup
Cozy up with this comforting slow cooker soup that combines tender gnocchi, savory vegetables, and rich chicken broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, potatoes, etc.)
– 1 cup small gnocchi
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken, vegetables, and gnocchi to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the heavy cream and butter until melted.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Italian Sausage and Tortellini Stew
This comforting stew combines sweet Italian sausage with cheese-filled tortellini, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, tortellini, bell pepper, tomato paste, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until sausage is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crockpot Chicken Alfredo Pasta
This comforting recipe combines the flavors of chicken, pasta, and creamy Alfredo sauce, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. It’s an easy and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place chicken, pasta, and Alfredo sauce in the crockpot.
2. Add heavy cream and sprinkle with parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Stir to combine and serve hot. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Caprese Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering slow cooker recipe, featuring succulent chicken breasts filled with the classic flavors of Caprese salad.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Place each chicken breast in the slow cooker, then spoon the Caprese mixture on top of each breast.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and vegetables.
6. Cook for 4-5 hours or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Italian Vegetable Stew
This hearty and flavorful stew is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. With a medley of colorful vegetables, tender beans, and rich tomato sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cannellini beans, and basil. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let stew for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Crockpot Pesto Chicken and Potatoes
This recipe combines the flavors of pesto, chicken, and potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. With minimal effort, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready to serve in just a few hours.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts, sliced onion, and cubed potatoes in the crockpot.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the pesto sauce and garlic powder. Pour the mixture over the ingredients in the crockpot.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of Italy with these 20 delicious crockpot recipes perfect for busy weeknights! From classic spaghetti bolognese and chicken parmesan to Italian beef sandwiches and lasagna soup, there’s something for everyone. Try Tuscan chicken, sausage and peppers, or minestrone soup for a taste of la dolce vita. These easy-to-make recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household. Simply add ingredients to the crockpot and let it do the work while you’re busy with other things. Buon appetito!
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