Are you tired of the same old slow cooker recipes? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 creative and deliciously unique crock pot recipes that will take your meal prep to the next level. From international-inspired dishes like Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken and Crock Pot Moroccan Lamb Stew, to sweet treats like Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal and Slow Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake, there’s something for everyone on this list.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these recipes, sharing cooking times, ingredient lists, and step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for easy weeknight meals or a foodie seeking new inspiration, these crock pot recipes are sure to please. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and let the slow cooker do the work for you!
Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this effortless slow cooker recipe. Rich peanut butter, creamy coconut milk, and spicy chili flakes combine to create a mouthwatering sauce that tenderly cooks chicken breasts.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, ginger, and chili flakes.
2. Add the chicken breasts; season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Moroccan Lamb Stew
This hearty stew is a flavorful blend of tender lamb, aromatic spices, and exotic flavors, perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. The slow-cooked lamb falls apart easily, and the rich sauce is infused with the warmth of cinnamon, ginger, and cumin.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless lamb shoulder
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried apricots
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Season the lamb with cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and pepper.
2. Add onions, garlic, apricots, parsley, and lamb to the crock pot.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
4. Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Ribs
Savor the combination of tender pork ribs smothered in a tangy pineapple teriyaki sauce, perfect for a quick and impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup pineapple chunks
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add pork ribs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Remove ribs from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Bake ribs for 25-30 minutes, or until slightly caramelized.
6. Serve with additional pineapple chunks and a drizzle of the reserved teriyaki sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-45 minutes
Spicy Korean Beef Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of Korea in a taco twist! This recipe combines tender beef, spicy Gochujang, and crunchy kimchi slaw for a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (such as flank steak or skirt steak), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup kimchi slaw (store-bought or homemade)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced green onions, cilantro, and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the beef for 3-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by slicing the grilled beef into thin strips and serving with kimchi slaw, green onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Risotto
A creamy and comforting twist on traditional risotto, this slow cooker recipe is perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening. With the natural sweetness of butternut squash and the richness of Arborio rice, you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. Peel and cube the butternut squash. Add to the slow cooker with the olive oil, onion, and garlic.
3. In a separate pot, bring the vegetable broth to a simmer.
4. Add the Arborio rice to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the squash mixture.
5. Add 1 cup of warmed broth to the rice and stir until absorbed.
6. Repeat step 5, adding the remaining broth in 3/4-cup increments, stirring after each addition.
7. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
8. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Greek Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory flavors of Greece with the convenience of a Crock Pot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat Crock Pot to Low.
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in the Crock Pot.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, feta cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Maple Bourbon Pulled Pork
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional pulled pork, this recipe combines the richness of bourbon with the warmth of maple syrup for a flavor that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with the sliced onion and minced garlic.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
6. Cook for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before shredding and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken
This recipe is a twist on the classic Indian dish, Butter Chicken, made easy by using a slow cooker. The result is tender chicken in a rich and creamy tomato sauce with a hint of buttery flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp garam masala
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, onions, garlic, cumin, garam masala, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together diced tomatoes and heavy cream.
3. Add the tomato mixture to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Stir in butter until melted and creamy sauce forms.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl
Crock Pot Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl Recipe
Discover the perfect blend of flavors with this hearty Crock Pot quinoa bowl recipe, packed with the essence of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa and place it in the Crock Pot.
2. Add water or broth, diced tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
5. Fluff quinoa with a fork and serve hot. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (LOW) or 3-4 hours (HIGH)
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Mediterranean quinoa bowl!
Sweet and Sour Meatballs
This sweet and sour meatball recipe combines the tanginess of citrus with the richness of tomato sauce, making it a perfect appetizer or main course. With its unique flavor profile, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, bell pepper, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat the sweet and sour sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
6. Remove the meatballs from the oven and add them to the saucepan with the sweet and sour sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to coat the meatballs evenly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Cajun Shrimp Boil
This hearty slow cooker recipe combines succulent shrimp with spicy sausage, vegetables, and aromatic spices for a flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 medium red potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Add the shrimp, sausage, potatoes, onion, celery, and garlic to a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in the chicken broth.
4. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
5. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Crock Pot Honey Garlic Glazed Carrots
Sweet and savory, these Crock Pot Honey Garlic Glazed Carrots are a delicious side dish perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs baby carrots
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Add the carrots to the Crock Pot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the glaze over the carrots in the Crock Pot.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal
Start your day with a delicious and comforting bowl of pumpkin spice oatmeal, infused with the warm aromas of fall. This recipe is perfect for a chilly morning or a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 1 tablespoon canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Optional: raisins, walnuts, or other toppings of your choice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oatmeal is creamy and tender.
4. Stir in the brown sugar until dissolved.
5. Serve hot, topped with your desired toppings (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow Cooker Buffalo Cauliflower
Get ready for a game-changing twist on traditional buffalo wings – this slow cooker recipe transforms cauliflower into a spicy, cheesy delight that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce (or your favorite buffalo wing sauce)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine cauliflower florets, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and butter.
2. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender and coated in the buffalo sauce.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the cauliflower and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. If using blue cheese, sprinkle it on top of the cauliflower during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or crumbled crackers if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Crock Pot Lemon Herb Salmon
This Crock Pot Lemon Herb Salmon recipe is a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With minimal prep time and effortless cooking, you’ll enjoy a deliciously moist salmon fillet infused with the brightness of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. In the Crock Pot, combine lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and a pinch of salt.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the Crock Pot, making sure they’re covered with the lemon mixture.
4. Cook on Low for 3-4 hours or High for 1-2 hours.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (Low) or 1-2 hours (High)
Spiced Apple Cider Beef Stew
Warm up on a chilly day with this hearty and aromatic stew that combines tender beef, sweet apples, and spices in a rich broth. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a comforting lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, brown the beef in batches over medium-high heat. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Add apple cider, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Return beef to pot, then add carrots and potatoes. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Cover pot and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Slow Cooker Coconut Curry Lentils
Transform your lunch or dinner with this aromatic and nutritious Slow Cooker Coconut Curry Lentils recipe. Red lentils are cooked in a flavorful coconut curry sauce, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red lentils
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, coconut milk, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Rinse and add red lentils to the slow cooker.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Crock Pot Mango Chicken Tacos
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional tacos with this deliciously sweet and savory recipe! This Crock Pot Mango Chicken Tacos dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup mango chutney
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken in the Crock Pot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the diced tomatoes, mango chutney, cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir in the chopped cilantro.
6. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
7. Assemble tacos by placing the chicken mixture onto a tortilla, then add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines the deep flavors of chipotle peppers with tender black beans, smoky spices, and a hint of cumin for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked black beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the black beans, vegetable broth, chipotle pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake
Treat your taste buds to a warm, gooey, and indulgent chocolate experience with this slow cooker recipe. Perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Pour in the chocolate chips and mix until well incorporated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 2-3 hours or HIGH for 1-2 hours.
6. Serve warm, topped with your favorite whipped cream or ice cream.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (LOW) or 1-2 hours (HIGH)
Summary
Get ready to revolutionize your slow cooker game with these 20 unique and delicious recipes! From Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken to Maple Bourbon Pulled Pork, and from Spicy Korean Beef Tacos to Slow Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for international flavors or comforting classics, this collection of creative crock pot recipes is sure to inspire your next meal.
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