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30 Mouth-Watering Slow Cooker Recipes You Need to Try Now

13 Mins read

Slow cookers have been a kitchen staple for decades, providing a convenient and easy way to cook meals with minimal effort. These appliances have become increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more people look for ways to save time and simplify their cooking routines. In this article, we’ll explore what makes slow cookers so great and provide a list of 30 recipes that are perfect for slow cooking.

Slow cookers gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, when busy families were looking for a way to cook meals without having to spend hours in the kitchen. These appliances allow you to simply add your ingredients, set the temperature, and let the cooker do the work for you. This not only saves time but also results in delicious, flavorful meals that are perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

When it comes to slow cooker recipes, there are countless options to choose from. Here are 30 of our favorite recipes, along with reasons why they’re perfect for slow cooking:

1. Minestrone Soup

Minestrone soup is a hearty and healthy Italian soup that typically contains vegetables like carrots, celery, and tomatoes, along with beans, pasta, and sometimes meat.

Minestrone Soup

Slow cooking the soup allows all the flavors to blend together and creates a rich and satisfying broth. The long cooking time also allows the vegetables and beans to become tender and soft, making it the perfect meal for a cold day or a healthy dinner option.

2. Beef Stew

Beef stew is a classic slow cooker dish that consists of tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and onions, all simmered in a rich, savory broth. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a comforting and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner on a cold night.

Beef Stew

Slow cooking beef stew allows the meat to become tender and fall apart, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The low and slow cooking process also allows the flavors of the vegetables to develop and blend with the beef and broth. Additionally, the slow cooker allows for hands-off cooking, making it a convenient meal for busy weeknights.

3. Pulled Pork

Pulled pork is a Southern barbecue classic that is made by slow cooking a pork shoulder until it becomes tender and easily shreddable. The pork is seasoned with a dry rub or a wet marinade before cooking, resulting in a flavorful and juicy meat that can be served on its own or in a sandwich.

Pulled Pork

Slow cooking the pork allows it to become tender and juicy as the low heat breaks down the connective tissue and fat. The result is a succulent meat that is perfect for shredding and can be used in a variety of dishes. Additionally, slow cooking allows for a long cooking time, allowing the flavors of the dry rub or marinade to penetrate the meat, resulting in a deeply flavored dish.

4. Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food that is perfect for cold and flu season. It consists of tender chunks of chicken, carrots, celery, onions, and egg noodles simmered in a flavorful broth. Slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and juicy while the vegetables release their flavors into the broth.

Chicken Noodle Soup

Slow cooking chicken noodle soup allows the flavors to meld together and develop, resulting in a rich and flavorful broth. Additionally, the low and slow cooking method ensures that the chicken is cooked through and tender, and the vegetables are perfectly cooked. This is a great meal to make ahead of time and store in the fridge or freezer for a quick and easy meal later.

5. Brunswick Stew

Brunswick stew is a hearty and savory Southern dish that is typically made with a combination of meats, such as chicken, pork, and beef, along with vegetables like corn, lima beans, and tomatoes. It is seasoned with a blend of spices and slow-cooked to perfection.

Brunswick Stew

The long cooking time allows all the flavors to meld together and creates a thick and satisfying stew. It is perfect for a chilly day or a comforting meal.

6. Pot Roast

Pot roast is a classic slow cooker dish that consists of a beef roast, carrots, onions, and potatoes, all simmered together in a rich and flavorful broth. Slow cooking allows the meat to become tender and juicy while the vegetables release their flavors into the broth.

Pot Roast

Slow cooking pot roast allows the meat to become tender and flavorful as the low heat breaks down the connective tissue and fat. The result is a succulent meat that is perfect for slicing and serving with the vegetables and broth. Additionally, the slow cooking process allows for hands-off cooking, making it a convenient meal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

7. Osso Buco

Osso buco is a traditional Italian dish that consists of braised veal shanks slow-cooked with vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery in a savory broth.

Osso Buco

The long cooking time allows the meat to become tender and fall off the bone, while the flavors of the vegetables and broth meld together to create a rich and satisfying dish. It is typically served over risotto or mashed potatoes and is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner.

8. Oxtail Stew

Oxtail stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that consists of oxtail, carrots, onions, and a variety of spices, all simmered together until the meat is tender and falls off the bone. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together and develop into a rich and complex dish.

Oxtail Stew

Slow cooking oxtail stew allows the flavors to meld together and develop into a rich and complex dish. Additionally, the low and slow cooking process allows the oxtail to become tender and fall off the bone, resulting in a succulent and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner on a cold night.

9. Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that consists of lentils, carrots, celery, onions, and a variety of spices, all simmered together until the flavors meld together. Slow cooking allows the lentils to become tender and the flavors to develop into a rich and flavorful soup.

Lentil Soup

Slow cooking lentil soup allows the flavors to meld together and develop into a rich and flavorful soup. Additionally, the low and slow cooking process allows the lentils to become tender and creamy, creating a satisfying and nutritious meal. This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for a quick and easy meal later.

10. Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken cacciatore is an Italian dish that consists of chicken cooked in a tomato-based sauce with bell peppers, onions, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices. Slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and juicy while the flavors meld together to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

Chicken Cacciatore

Slow cooking chicken cacciatore allows the chicken to become tender and juicy while the flavors meld together to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Additionally, the low and slow cooking process allows the vegetables to release their flavors into the sauce, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish. This dish can be served with pasta or bread for a complete meal.

11. Pork Carnitas

Pork carnitas is a traditional Mexican dish that consists of tender, juicy pork that has been slow-cooked with spices and citrus juices until it falls apart. It is typically served in tacos or burritos and topped with fresh cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime.

Pork Carnitas

The slow cooking process allows the meat to become incredibly tender and flavorful, while the juices and spices create a rich and savory broth. It is perfect for a fiesta-themed party or a delicious and easy weeknight meal.

12. Beef Stroganoff

Beef stroganoff is a Russian dish that consists of beef cooked in a creamy mushroom sauce and served over egg noodles or rice. Slow cooking allows the beef to become tender and juicy while the flavors meld together to create a rich and creamy sauce.

Beef Stroganoff

Slow cooking beef stroganoff allows the beef to become tender and juicy while the flavors meld together to create a rich and creamy sauce. Additionally, the low and slow cooking process allows the mushrooms to release their flavors into the sauce, resulting in a savory and satisfying dish. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner on a cold night.

13. Jambalaya

Jambalaya is a Louisiana dish that consists of rice cooked with sausage, chicken, shrimp, and a variety of vegetables in a spicy tomato-based sauce. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together and develop into a delicious and satisfying meal.

Jambalaya

Slow cooking jambalaya allows the flavors to meld together and develop into a delicious and satisfying meal. Additionally, the low and slow cooking process allows the meats to become tender and juicy while the vegetables release their flavors into the sauce. This dish is perfect for a crowd and can be served with cornbread or a salad.

14. Split Pea Soup

Split pea soup is a hearty and nutritious soup that consists of split peas, ham hocks, carrots, celery, onions, and a variety of herbs and spices, all simmered together until the flavors meld together. Slow cooking allows the split peas to become tender and the flavors to develop into a rich and satisfying soup.

Split Pea Soup

Slow cooking split pea soup allows the flavors to meld together and develop into a rich and satisfying soup. Additionally, the low and slow cooking process allows the ham hocks to release their flavors into the soup, resulting in a savory and comforting dish. This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for a quick and easy meal later.

15. Red Beans and Rice

Red beans and rice is a classic Cajun dish that consists of red kidney beans cooked with onions, peppers, and spices, served over a bed of rice. The dish is traditionally made with ham hocks or smoked sausage for added flavor.

Red Beans and Rice

Slow cooking the beans allows them to become incredibly tender and creamy, while the spices and seasonings blend together to create a rich and satisfying flavor. It is perfect for a Mardi Gras celebration or a comforting meal on a chilly night.

16. Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and dumplings is a classic Southern comfort food that consists of tender chicken and fluffy dumplings simmered in a rich and creamy broth. Slow cooking the chicken allows it to become tender and fall off the bone, while the dumplings absorb all the flavors of the broth.

Chicken and Dumplings

The low and slow cooking process also helps to thicken the broth, creating a rich and creamy consistency. It is the ultimate comfort food and perfect for a cozy night in.

17. Chili

Chili is a classic American dish that consists of ground beef, beans, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices, all simmered together until the flavors meld together. Slow cooking allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to develop into a rich and spicy chili.

Chili

Slow cooking chili allows the flavors to meld together and develop into a rich and spicy chili. Additionally, the low and slow cooking process allows the beef to become tender and juicy while the beans release their flavors into the dish. This dish can be served with cornbread or crackers for a satisfying and comforting meal.

18. Sausage and Lentil Stew

Sausage and lentil stew is a hearty and healthy dish that combines the savory flavors of sausage with the protein-packed goodness of lentils. The stew is typically made with Italian sausage, brown lentils, onions, carrots, and celery, and seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices.

Sausage and Lentil Stew

Slow cooking the stew allows the flavors to meld together and creates a thick and satisfying texture. The long cooking time also allows the lentils to become tender and creamy, making it a perfect dish for a cozy night in.

19. Bolognese Sauce

Bolognese sauce is a classic Italian sauce that consists of ground meat, tomatoes, onions, carrots, celery, and a variety of herbs and spices. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender and juicy, resulting in a delicious and satisfying sauce.

Bolognese Sauce

Slow cooking Bolognese sauce allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender and juicy, resulting in a delicious and satisfying sauce. Additionally, the low and slow cooking process allows the vegetables to release their flavors into the sauce, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish. This sauce is perfect for serving over pasta or as a topping for pizza.

20. Corned Beef and Cabbage

Corned beef and cabbage is a classic Irish dish that consists of corned beef, cabbage, carrots, and potatoes slow-cooked in a savory broth until the flavors meld together. Slow cooking allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to develop into a comforting and satisfying meal.

Corned Beef and Cabbage

Slow cooking corned beef and cabbage allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to develop into a comforting and satisfying meal. Additionally, the low and slow cooking process allows the vegetables to release their flavors into the broth, resulting in a rich and savory dish. This dish is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you’re in the mood for a hearty and comforting meal.

21. Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Sweet and sour meatballs are a classic party appetizer that is also perfect for a family dinner. The dish consists of tender meatballs cooked in a sweet and tangy sauce made with brown sugar, vinegar, and ketchup.

Sweet and Sour Meatballs

The slow cooking process allows the meatballs to become incredibly tender and flavorful, while the sauce thickens and creates a rich and delicious glaze. It is perfect for a potluck or a family gathering.

22. Corn Chowder

Corn chowder is a creamy soup that consists of corn, potatoes, bacon, and cream. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender and flavorful, resulting in a comforting and satisfying soup.

Corn Chowder

Slow cooking corn chowder allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender and flavorful, resulting in a comforting and satisfying soup. Additionally, the low and slow cooking process allows the bacon to infuse the soup with its rich and savory flavor. This chowder is perfect for a cold winter day or any time you’re in the mood for a comforting and creamy soup.

23. Beef Bourguignon

Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish that consists of beef stewed in red wine with onions, carrots, and mushrooms. Slow cooking allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld together into a rich and flavorful dish.

Beef Bourguignon

Slow cooking Beef Bourguignon allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld together into a rich and flavorful dish. Additionally, the low and slow cooking process allows the red wine to infuse the dish with its rich and complex flavor. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.

24. French Onion Soup

French onion soup is a classic soup that consists of onions, beef broth, and cheese. Slow cooking allows the onions to become caramelized and tender, resulting in a rich and flavorful soup.

French Onion Soup

Slow cooking French onion soup allows the onions to become caramelized and tender, resulting in a rich and flavorful soup. Additionally, the low and slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together into a comforting and satisfying dish. This soup is perfect for a cold winter day or any time you’re in the mood for a classic and comforting soup.

25. Tomato Soup

Tomato soup is a classic comfort food that is perfect for a chilly day or a cozy night in. The soup is typically made with fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a blend of herbs and spices.

Tomato Soup

Slow cooking the soup allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and creamy texture. The long cooking time also allows the tomatoes to become tender and sweet, making it a perfect meal to warm you up on a cold day.

26. Ratatouille

Ratatouille is a classic French dish that consists of vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and bell peppers, slow-cooked in a savory tomato sauce. Slow cooking allows the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld together into a delicious and satisfying dish.

Ratatouille

Slow cooking Ratatouille allows the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld together into a delicious and satisfying dish. Additionally, the low and slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop into a rich and savory sauce. This dish is perfect for a vegetarian main course or a side dish for any meal.

27. Apple Butter

Apple butter is a spread made from apples that have been slow-cooked until they are tender and caramelized. Slow cooking allows the apples to break down and release their natural sweetness, resulting in a delicious and flavorful spread.

Apple Butter

Slow cooking apple butter allows the apples to break down and release their natural sweetness, resulting in a delicious and flavorful spread. Additionally, the low and slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop into a rich and complex spread. This spread is perfect for topping toast or biscuits.

28. Coq au Vin

Coq au Vin is a classic French dish that consists of chicken cooked in red wine with bacon, mushrooms, and onions. Slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and the flavors to meld together into a rich and satisfying dish.

Coq au Vin

Slow cooking Coq au Vin allows the chicken to become tender and the flavors to meld together into a rich and satisfying dish. Additionally, the low and slow cooking process allows the red wine to infuse the dish with its rich and complex flavor. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.

29. Vegetable Curry

Vegetable curry is a flavorful and healthy dish that is perfect for a vegetarian or vegan meal. The curry typically includes a variety of vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, potatoes, and onions, along with a blend of Indian spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric.

Vegetable Curry

Slow cooking the curry allows the flavors to blend together and creates a thick and satisfying texture. The long cooking time also allows the vegetables to become tender and flavorful, making it a perfect dish to serve with rice or naan bread.

30. Goulash

Goulash is a traditional Hungarian stew that consists of beef, onions, paprika, and other spices. It is typically served with potatoes or noodles.

Goulash

Slow cooking the beef allows it to become tender and juicy, while the long cooking time allows all the flavors to meld together and create a rich and hearty stew. It is perfect for a cold winter day or a cozy family dinner.

Slow cookers are a versatile and convenient appliance for any home cook. With the ability to prepare meals in advance and cook them slowly over time, they allow for a more hands-off approach to cooking while still producing delicious and flavorful meals. From stews and soups to meats and vegetables, the possibilities for slow cooker recipes are endless. Overall, slow cookers are perfect for cooking tough cuts of meat, stews, soups, and dishes that require a long cooking time to develop flavor. They are also great for meal prep and making healthy and delicious meals with minimal effort. So why not try out one of the 30 recipes we’ve listed above and see for yourself the benefits of slow cooking?

However, there are some things that cannot be cooked in a slow cooker, like delicate seafood or vegetables that require a short cooking time. It’s important to also note that while slow cooking can be healthy, it’s important to watch the amount of salt and fat in the dishes you prepare. Chefs also use slow cookers for their convenience and ability to cook large quantities of food. Ultimately, whether you choose to slow cook or fast cook depends on your personal preferences and the dishes you want to prepare.

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