Slow cooker fans know that when it comes to dinner, it's all about working smarter, not harder. In celebration of that philosophy, we've compiled 5 incredible slow cooker recipes that are a breeze to put together. Don't worry about that picky eater -- these dishes are guaranteed successes. Make sure to make extra, because everyone will want second helpings.
We've also taken things a step further. Most "easy" recipes call for packets of seasonings or canned soups. For those who love slow cooking but want to reduce their use of pre-packaged mixes, we've included alternatives to make these recipes 100% from scratch. Don't worry. The alternatives are easy too!
1. Chicken Parmesan and Pasta
This is a great recipe for busy households, hungry hordes, and lovers of comforting, restorative Italian-style food. You can prep this in the morning in just a few minutes, which means the only thing you have to do when you get home is cook the pasta. Use chicken thighs if that's what you have, or ready cubed chicken pieces to save even more time at the end of the day.
Get the recipe and full instructions
here.
2. Chicken Burrito Bowl
This recipe from Number 2 Pencil is so tasty, you'll forget how easy it is. The best part of this hearty dish is that it is deceptively healthy. Made with instant brown rice, it's packed with "whole grain" goodness and is a great option for those who are on a gluten-free diet. And if you need another reason to love this recipe, it's made with no pre-packaged seasonings, so you can dig in guilt-free.
Get the recipe and full instructions
here.
3. Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
This classic recipe from
Eazy Peazy Mealz can be modified for ground beef or chicken. Like most stroganoff recipes, it calls for canned cream of mushroom soup, but for just a few more minutes of prep work, this recipe can be 100% from scratch. Center Cut Cook offers this
recipe as a substitute. It takes minutes to make and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make up a big batch and divide it for future recipes.
Get the recipe and full instructions
here.
4. Slow Cooker Chicken Taquitos
Kids love eating with their hands, but slow cooker meals are rarely finger foods. This chicken taquitos recipe by
Brook Mclay is an easy way to get a delicious dinner that's fun for the whole family to eat. Once the filling is made in the slow cooker, it only takes another 10 minutes in the oven for perfectly scrumptious taquitos - probably less time than it takes to get everyone seated around the table with their hands washed.
Get the recipe and full instructions
here.
5. Chicken and Stuffing
Does anything say "comfort food" better than chicken and stuffing? This is a great recipe for those days when you don't want to worry about any more prep for finishing once the slow cooker is done. Cook all the veggies in with the slow cooker and before you know it, dinner and all the fixings are ready. The stuffing can be modified however you like, and for extra ambitious days, you can make your own "stuffing mix" try this recipe by
No Ordinary Homestead.
Get the recipe and full instructions
here.
Let us know what you think of these recipes. And don't forget to
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