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The Ultimate Collection of Easy Slow Cooker Recipes

ByJennifer Posted on

Whether you’re looking to simplify your weeknights or keep your weekends stress-free, these easy slow cooker recipes will do the trick! This roundup of dump-and-go options makes meal prep simple, giving you more time around the table and less time in the kitchen.

Hearty Mexican chicken with vegetables in a slow cooker, ready to serve.

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What makes a slow cooker recipe easy?

The slow cooker already has a reputation for being one of the easiest kitchen appliances, but some recipes make it that much simpler to get a hot, home-cooked meal ready to serve at the end of the day. Here are some key indicators to look for when you’re simplifying your slow cooker meal prep!

Minimal Prep Time

Prep time matters a lot, especially when trying to save time by using the slow cooker in the first place! The easiest recipes skip browning, sautéing, or soaking, unless a recipe calls for leftover cooked meat or beans.

Simple Ingredients

Easy slow cooker recipes should keep the ingredient list to items that are easy to find and available year-round. You might even have the option to swap fresh vegetables for frozen, or use a canned item for simplicity. Many slow cooker recipes use pantry staples, which is handy for quick meal prep!

Family-Friendly Flavors

Another indicator of an easy slow cooker recipe is that it’s something the whole family can enjoy. Whether it’s a mild-to-medium spice level or options for flavor and dietary modifications, look for recipes that include options for everyone.

Set It And Forget It Cooking

The purpose of the slow cooker is to let the appliance do the work for you. An easy recipe won’t require you to hang around the kitchen and monitor cooking, unless it’s a final step or two at the end. Look for a true dump-and-go option where you can add everything at once and come back when it’s ready.

Some exceptions can include adding dairy, delicate vegetables, pasta, or rice in the last few minutes of cooking, or before serving.

overhead view of black slow cooker containing soup with sliced jalapeno peppers on top, surrounded by bowls of tortilla strips, diced jalapeno, avocado, and 2 whole jalapeno

Easy Slow Cooker Recipes

Save this compilation for those times you have limited time or energy to think ahead, prep ingredients, or devote more time in the kitchen. These are the choices I’d pick if I were trying to assemble dinner in the slow cooker before leaving for work, or to have meals ready to eat between shuffling kids to extracurriculars.

Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Recipes

Easy Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Bring a taste of Tuscany to your table, right from your slow cooker! Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken is an easy recipe with gourmet flavor. Fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce will leave you scraping your bowl – buon appetito!

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon jarred minced garlic
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning blend
  • 1 cup chicken stock
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch or tapioca flour
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • Optional ¼ cup chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Get the full recipe and instructions
overhead plated Tuscan chicken on bed of mashed potatoes in white bowl, with bowls of mashed potatoes and Parmesan cheese in background
Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken
Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken is the answer to your last-minute “what’s for dinner” woes! Using basics that you likely have on hand, this healthy dinner can be made in the slow cooker with just a few extra ingredients. Serve over rice or with a side of steamed veggies for a satisfying meal at home!

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • dash hot sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon water
Get the full recipe and instructions
lemon chicken and rice on a blue plate
Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken
Slow cooker ranch chicken is a timeless recipe with flavorful chicken and vegetables that even the kids are sure to love. This one-pot dinner is satisfying, healthy, and makes amazing leftovers.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons butter to brown chicken (optional)
  • 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast
  • 2 tablespoons homemade ranch seasoning
  • 1 pound red baby potatoes
  • 1 pound carrots peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 1 ½ cup chicken stock
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
Get the full recipe and instructions
white oval serving dish layered with whole baby potatoes, cooked carrots, and topped with chicken breasts
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
If you need a family dinner recipe that will leave everyone scraping their plates clean, introduce your loved ones to Slow Cooker Butter Chicken. A standout recipe that stems from hearty Indian cuisine, this variation will leave you amazed with both the flavors and the simplicity of cooking.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 sweet yellow onion diced
  • 3 teaspoons jarred minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon red curry paste
  • 2 teaspoons curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 14.5 oz can coconut milk
  • 6 oz can tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream for later
  • 2 cups Basmati Rice
Get the full recipe and instructions
Slow Cooker Italian Chicken
You would never guess that this gourmet-style, flavorful dish is effortlessly made in the slow cooker! With just 5 simple ingredients, bold and classic slow cooker Italian chicken is ready to serve with any of your favorite sides.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 teaspoons homemade Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 cup diced sun-dried tomatoes
  • 1 red bell pepper seeds removed and diced
  • 1 cup tomato basil pasta sauce
Get the full recipe and instructions
shallow pink bowl with pasta and topped with Italian chicken breasts and cheese
Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken
This is a recipe you will definitely want to save for easy reference. It takes less time to prepare than ordering takeout or making a sandwich, and you can serve it in so many different ways. Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken uses 7 ingredients and delivers the most delicious combination of seasoned and shredded chicken!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 14.5 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 15 oz can black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen sweet corn
  • 4 oz can diced green chiles
  • 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
Get the full recipe and instructions
Hearty Mexican chicken with vegetables in a slow cooker, ready to serve.
Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken
Just 4 ingredients and 5 minutes of prep and you'll have plenty of spicy and delicious buffalo chicken ready to use on any of your favorite dishes! Perfect for meal prep or for simple family dinners!

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch whisked with 1 tablespoon water
Get the full recipe and instructions
shredded buffalo chicken in purple poke-a-dot slow cooker

For even more recipes for an easy chicken dinner, browse 21 Quick and Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Recipes here!

Easy Slow Cooker Beef Recipes

Slow Cooker Shredded Beef
Shredded beef in the slow cooker will be your go-to meal when you have only a few minutes to prep and a handful of ingredients. Cook the savory beef in the slow cooker throughout the day and shred it to serve in so many different ways!

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless chuck roast
  • 1 small sweet onion peeled and chopped
  • 1 tablespoon jarred minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon herb and garlic seasoning
  • 1/4 cup red wine
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
Get the full recipe and instructions
two white plates with mashed potatoes an shredded beef
Easy Slow Cooker Italian Beef
Easy Slow Cooker Italian Beef is fall-apart tender and flavorful with sliced peppers, onions, and tasty au jus for serving. Layer the juicy shredded beef on a toasted roll for a traditional Italian beef sandwich and add giardiniera or your favorite toppings. It’s effortless and a crowd-pleasing choice made simple in the slow cooker!

Ingredients

  • 3-4 lb beef chuck roast
  • 1 tablespoon homemade Italian seasoning or store-bought
  • 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
  • ½ cup sliced pepperoncini with juice
  • ½ cup sliced banana peppers with juice
  • 1 small onion thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • Salt to taste
Get the full recipe and instructions
dinner plate with Italian beef sub with cheese, with cutting board holding another sub, slow cooker and bowl of banana peppers in background
Slow Cooker Corned Beef
Enjoy corned beef in the slow cooker without traditional brining or salt-curing! The slow cooker tenderizes the beef brisket with a delicious combination of seasonings. It’s an effortless, one-pot meal with potatoes, carrots, and cabbage – assemble in minutes and sit back until dinnertime!

Ingredients

  • 3- pound brisket flat
  • 1 tablespoon dried ground mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 small onion roughly chopped
  • 4 carrots peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
  • 6 oz red baby potatoes
  • ½ head cabbage core removed and cut into 4-6 wedges
Get the full recipe and instructions
Top view of Slow Cooker Corned Beef on counter
Old Fashioned Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles
Old Fashioned Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles meets your comfort-food cravings effortlessly! With fall-apart-tender beef, rich, savory gravy, and thick egg noodles, this hearty slow cooker recipe checks all the boxes for a warm, satisfying family meal everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

  • 2- pound chuck roast
  • 1 tablespoon herb and garlic seasoning
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch whisked with an equal amount of water
  • 16 oz Reames noodles
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
Get the full recipe and instructions
beef and noodles in a round slow cooker
Slow Cooker Beef Tips (With Gravy!)
There’s no better use of the slow cooker than to make tender beef tips with savory gravy. With the option to simmer all day, the beef cooks perfectly as the gravy infuses flavor. Everyone will enjoy this home-cooked classic served over potatoes, rice, or noodles!

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds stew meat or other beef tips
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1 cup diced yellow onion
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon herb and garlic seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt add more or less depending on salt content of herb and garlic seasoning
  • 1 1/2 cups beef broth
Get the full recipe and instructions
mashed potatoes topped with beed tips and garnished
Easy Slow Cooker Taco Meat Recipe
Taco meat – it’s not just for tacos! Try this easy slow cooker taco meat recipe for a flavorful base that can be served with just about anything! From family taco night to nachos to a salad topping, everyone is sure to enjoy this delicious ground beef seasoned with my made-from-scratch homemade blend.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef 93 % lean
  • 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes drained
  • 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
Get the full recipe and instructions
3 beef tacos garnished with cheese, parsley, and sour cream served on a blue plate
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Salisbury steak meatballs are a simple twist on a comfort-food favorite! With precooked meatballs, the assembly only takes minutes. Just add everything to the slow cooker and come back at dinnertime for savory meatballs and lick-your-spoon delicious gravy!

Ingredients

  • 16 oz frozen meatballs beef or turkey
  • 8 oz sliced mushrooms
  • ½ cup chopped yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 2 teaspoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
  • 1 ½ cups beef broth
Get the full recipe and instructions
Meatballs served on mashed potatoes

For more slow cooker ground beef ideas, check out 21 Best Ground Beef Slow Cooker Recipes!

Easy Slow Cooker Pork Recipes

Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
If you love my #1 post, The Best Slow Cooker Pulled Pork, then you'll love this BBQ pulled pork version too! With simple seasoning, this recipe takes only minutes to prepare and cooks all day for fall apart tender, juicy pork oozing with tangy sweet sauce.

Ingredients

Get the full recipe and instructions
bbq pulled pork on bun topped with coleslaw on gray plate
Slow Cooker Pork Tacos
Sometimes the simplest recipes can be the most satisfying! Slow Cooker Pork Tacos require only 3 ingredients for the filling and this recipe includes a twist on the usual dollop of sour cream. In about 10 minutes of effort, you can cook a large batch of savory shredded pork to serve for several meals!

Ingredients

For Pork:

  • 2 pounds pork shoulder roast
  • 1 tablespoon homemade taco seasoning or use one store-bought packet of taco seasoning
  • 8 ounces beer (vegetable broth can be substituted)

For Sour Cream:

  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 teaspoons adobo sauce from can of chipotle peppers (or less depending on your preferred spice level)
Get the full recipe and instructions
three tacos shells with shredded pork, adobo sour cream and sliced jalapeños on blue plate with coral charger
Slow Cooker Pork Loin
Pork loin doesn’t always get the credit it deserves around the dinner table. This simple, yet tender and juicy slow cooker pork loin recipe will become a repeat addition to your family favorites!

Ingredients

  • 2- pound boneless pork loin
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 6 slices pre-cooked bacon
  • ½ yellow onion sliced
  • 1 ½ cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup apricot preserves
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Get the full recipe and instructions
platter with cooked and sliced pork loin topped with bacon
Easy Slow Cooker Pork Roast
Easy Slow Cooker Pork Roast combines chili-lime flavors with effortless prep for a truly satisfying meal! Serve the pork tenderloin sliced or shredded with your favorite tacos, rice bowls, or other sides. It’s so juicy and flavorful!

Ingredients

  • 2 pound pork tenderloin
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 2 teaspoon cumin
  • 2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • juice from 1 lime
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
Get the full recipe and instructions
sliced Easy Slow Cooker Pork Roast on plate
The Best Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
How to make the best slow cooker pulled pork! The perfect homemade spice blend makes it great for sandwiches, tacos and more!!

Ingredients

  • 4 pound pork shoulder
  • 2 tablespoons paprika (try smoked paprika for more of that smoked flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 3/4 cup water
Get the full recipe and instructions
pulled pork sandwich on a plate
Slow Cooker Garlic Ginger Pork
When you think of pork shoulder in the slow cooker, you probably think of pulled pork. But did you know you can make even more delicious meals like this Garlic Ginger Pork as well?

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 carrots sliced thick
  • 4 oz snap peas
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce tamari for gluten-free
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 teaspoons dried powdered ginger
  • 2 teaspoons jarred minced garlic
  • 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons tapioca flour
Get the full recipe and instructions
ginger pork on a blue plate with a fork

Easy Slow Cooker Soups, Stews, and Chilis

Classic Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This Classic Slow Cooker Beef Stew stands apart from the rest with its simplicity and incredible flavor. Made with tender stew meat, rustic potatoes, onions, and carrots combined in a rich, savory broth, it’s home cooking at its finest! Prep the stew in just a few minutes and enjoy a hearty bowl of soup, and leftovers that are just as delicious.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds beef tips
  • 1/4 cup sweet onion peeled and diced
  • 4 oz carrots peeled and cut into large chunks (or use baby carrots)
  • 16 oz potatoes cut into large bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons small tapioca pearls
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons herb and garlic seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cup beef broth
Get the full recipe and instructions
bowl of beef stew on wooden cutting board with silver spoon, raw carrots, raw potato
Easy White Chicken Chili Slow Cooker Recipe
For those who love soups and stews, Easy White Chicken Chili in the slow cooker should be at the top of your recipe list. A hearty combination of shredded chicken, white beans, and the tangy zest of salsa verde in a creamy mix will bring you back for seconds…and thirds!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 ½ cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup salsa verde
  • 15 oz canned navy beans drained and rinsed
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 4 oz whipped cream cheese
Get the full recipe and instructions
blue bowl filled with shredded chicken in white chicken chili topped with sliced limes
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Chili
Satisfy your cravings for chili but use pulled pork for variation! Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Chili is full of classic flavor and can be assembled in the slow cooker in minutes. Try a twist on chili for a hearty meal that works for any time or season.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder roast
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 jalapeno peppers diced, ribs and seeds removed
  • 15 ounces pinto beans drained and rinsed
  • 30 ounces diced tomatoes
  • 8 ounces tomato sauce
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
  • 8 ounces Mexican beer chicken broth can be substituted
Get the full recipe and instructions
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Chili served on plate
Slow Cooker Green Chicken Enchilada Soup
Slow Cooker Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is an effortless recipe that comes together in just a few steps! The green enchilada sauce base delivers bold flavor, while the blended white beans and broth create a smooth, naturally creamy texture. Try this soup with classic enchilada flavors for a family-friendly meal, customizable with toppings!

Ingredients

  • 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 15 oz can white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
  • 1 15 oz can green enchilada sauce
  • 1 small yellow onion diced
  • 1 jalapeño seeded and finely diced
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional toppings: sour cream shredded cheese, cilantro, avocado, tortilla chips
Get the full recipe and instructions
overhead view of white bowl of soup with sliced jalapeno, surrounded by bowl of tortilla strips, black spoons and black slow cooker in background
Slow Cooker Chicken and Corn Chowder
There’s just no comparison to a thick and creamy homemade chowder. With shredded chicken, sweet corn, and a creamy base, slow cooker corn chowder is the perfect cozy soup that will bring everyone back for seconds. Try this simple and satisfying recipe in your slow cooker and top it off with crumbly bacon and fresh chives.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 16 oz frozen sweet corn kernels
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour regular or gluten-free
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 4 sliced cooked bacon optional
  • fresh chives optional
Get the full recipe and instructions
metal bowl filled with chicken corn chowder topped with chives and bacon
Slow Cooker Steak Chili With Beans
Want to try a twist on traditional chili? Slow Cooker Steak Chili With Beans combines tender chunks of beef with black beans, tomatoes, and just the right amount of bold spice. It's a filling, heartier option with minimal prep and maximum flavor!

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds beef stew meat
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ancho chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 15 ounces crushed tomatoes
  • 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes
  • 15 ounces black beans drained and rinsed
  • 8 ounces tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 jalapeño peppers seeded and diced
Get the full recipe and instructions
overhead view of two bowls of chili with black slow cooker in background, surrounded by sliced bread and peppers on side

For more one-pot options to make your meals simpler, check out 35+ Slow Cooker Soup Recipes.

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Easy Slow Cooker Pasta Recipes

Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Make this Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Pasta recipe for a restaurant-worthy meal with little to no prep. No longer do you have to splurge on this classic dish for takeout! Make this incredibly simple version at home for a new family favorite.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken breasts boneless, skinless
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon herb & garlic seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 16 ounces noodles
  • Chopped parsley for garnish
Get the full recipe and instructions
The most decadent, amazing and delicious meal to ever come out of your slow cooker! This Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Pasta continues to get rave reviews!
Slow Cooker Enchilada Pasta
No complaints about the dinner menu tonight! Slow Cooker Enchilada Pasta is a hearty, cheesy dish that will surely bring everyone back for seconds. Enjoy a vegetarian meal with a flavorful combination of black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce.

Ingredients

  • 15 oz can black beans drained and rinsed
  • 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels
  • 12 oz enchilada sauce
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 2 cups dry orzo pasta
Get the full recipe and instructions
bowl of enchilada pasta next to fresh tomatoes
Slow Cooker Butternut Squash and Chickpea Pasta
This is like all the cozy happy feelings of fall wrapped up into a warm and creamy bowl of delicious pasta! I love using my slow cooker to help me make delicious pasta dishes and this Chickpea and Butternut Squash version is no exception! 

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dry chickpeas
  • 3 cups cubed butternut squash 1 small squash or about 10-12 oz pre-cubed
  • 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dried sage
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 12 oz pasta noodles I used Ditalini
  • Asiago cheese optional for serving
  • Fresh basil optional for serving
Get the full recipe and instructions
Slow Cooker Chickpea and Butternut Squash Pasta
Lazy Day Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna
Add Lazy Day Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna to the menu for those nights you already know you need a break in the kitchen! This easy slow cooker dinner is cheesy, delicious, and a guaranteed comfort food for the whole family. It also makes a thoughtful meal to share with a friend, or a delightful leftover lunch the next day.

Ingredients

  • 6 cups homemade spaghetti sauce with meat OR Use 2 24 oz jars of marinara sauce for quick or vegetarian version
  • 1 20–25 oz package frozen cheese ravioli (no need to thaw)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese optional, for extra creaminess
  • Fresh basil for serving
Get the full recipe and instructions
overhead view of two plates of cooked ravioli lasagna with a fork and garlic bread, with black slow cooker in the background
Make Ahead: Slow Cooker Beefy Layered Pasta Bake
Only 6 ingredients and 15 minutes of prep time needed for this family favorite recipe that's prepped ahead and ready in your slow cooker when you get home! Who wouldn't love this Slow Cooker Pasta Bake?!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound pasta (I used Pipe Rigate)
  • 26 ounces jar spaghetti sauce
  • 1 cup jarred alfredo sauce
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 3 oz fresh spinach (or sub frozen)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or Italian blend)
Get the full recipe and instructions
serving of pasta bake with penne pasta and cheese on plate

Try even more pasta ideas in your slow cooker with my 25 Best Slow Cooker Pasta Recipes here!

Easy Slow Cooker Casseroles

Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Casserole
Satisfying your comfort food cravings is about to get a lot easier! Using this Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Casserole recipe, you can make a tasty, home-cooked classic with just a few ingredients and minimal prep. Instead of typical chicken casseroles made with canned soups, a simple combination results in a healthier option that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup onion diced
  • 1 tsp herb & garlic seasoning
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 12 oz spaghetti noodles
  • 1 cup crushed potato chips
  • 4 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Get the full recipe and instructions
Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Casserole served on a blue dish garnished with parsley and a golden spoon to the side
Slow Cooker Taco Casserole
Slow Cooker Taco Casserole is the easiest, all-in-one dish that you can assemble in minutes, with no precooking required. It’s ready in just a few hours and packed with melted cheese, veggies, and tortilla chips for a simple, comfort-food casserole!

Ingredients

  • 6 oz about half a bag tortilla chips gently crushed
  • 15 oz can black beans drained and rinsed
  • 14.5 oz can diced fire roasted tomatoes drained
  • 1 jalapeño seeded and diced
  • 1 red bell pepper seeded and diced
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 8 oz can enchilada sauce
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chopped cilantro or 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
  • 2 cups shredded cheese
Get the full recipe and instructions
taco casserole with wooden spoon in oval mini casserole slow cooker
Slow Cooker Hash Brown Casserole
Slow Cooker Hash Brown Casserole is a must-have for family gatherings and holiday meals. What better occasion for tasty sides that you simply can’t pass up? This recipe includes a flavorful, cheesy sauce without any canned extras and you can make it entirely in the slow cooker – easy as that!

Ingredients

  • 16 oz frozen hash browns
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 6 oz cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
Get the full recipe and instructions
Slow Cooker Hashbrown Casserole served and garnished next to the slow slow cooker with meal inside
3 Ingredient Slow Cooker Lasagna
Making lasagna in the slow cooker is a genius way to get a delicious meal on the table! This 3 Ingredient Slow Cooker Lasagna is so easy and tasty, it will blow your mind!!

Ingredients

  • 9 oz oven ready lasagna noodles
  • 48 oz tomato basil pasta sauce
  • 32 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese optional
Get the full recipe and instructions
slow cooker cheese lasagna slice on white plate
Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Here’s a dish with all the goodness of enchiladas but much less prep time required! Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a healthy option for a family-friendly meal with lots of added veggies.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups red enchilada sauce
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 15 oz can black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup diced zucchini 1 small zucchini
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels
  • 1/2 cup diced red pepper 1/2 red bell pepper
  • 1 jalapeno pepper diced and ribs and seeds removed
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 8 oz corn tortillas
  • 8 oz shredded cheese
Get the full recipe and instructions
Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole served

Find more casserole inspiration and discover 15 Easy Recipes for your Casserole Slow Cooker here!

Tips For Making The Recipes Even Easier

Prep Ingredients The Night Before

Anything you can do before the dinnertime rush will make your nights easier! If you’re assembling your meal in the morning, check the recipe for any steps you can complete ahead of time.

Try thawing frozen meat in the fridge overnight, chopping veggies like peppers or onions, or pre-measuring your seasonings. If your recipe calls for precooked meat, brown it and refrigerate, or debone poultry such as leftover rotisserie chicken.

Each small step can have a big payoff when you’re aiming for easy!

Use Slow Cooker Liners

Often, using slow cooker liners is a matter of personal preference, but they can help with cleanup on stickier ingredients or with recipes that tend to caramelize or crust over around the edges (such as BBQ sauces, sauces with sweeteners, or cheesy recipes). If you choose to use a liner, be sure to look for BPA-free material and the highest food-grade quality you can find. Always check the package directions to ensure proper time and temperature usage, too!

Freeze Ingredients Ahead Of Time

Not only is the freezer a great way to prep ahead for easy slow cooker recipes, but it’s also a convenient way to prevent food waste. Anytime you’re chopping freezer-safe veggies, browning ground meats, or shredding chicken or a roast, consider setting some aside for the freezer to use in your next slow cooker meal.

I recommend avoiding potatoes since they are best chopped fresh for the slow cooker (to avoid browning), but other veggies that freeze well are peppers, onions, carrots, celery, zucchini, or even chopped spinach. 

Double Recipes For Leftovers

As long as you’re making the effort once, why not make an extra portion or two to refrigerate or freeze for later? There’s nothing more reassuring than having wholesome, home-cooked meals ready to go when you need them! 

Be sure to use an appropriate slow cooker size for doubling, such as a 7-quart or larger. With many recipes, you can also prepare a double portion, but cook one and save the other in the freezer for a future slow cooker meal. This is a great way to build your freezer stock if you have the extra ingredients on hand.

bbq pork in a freezer bag

No matter what’s on your schedule, your slow cooker can play a big role in getting wholesome family meals on the table with minimal stress and prep time. Pick a few recipes to add to your “go-to” menu for those seasons and enjoy the delicious results!

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