Crock pots are a great way to prepare meals with minimal effort. They allow for slow cooking, which can enhance flavors and make tough cuts of meat tender. I have found that simple crock pot recipes can be lifesavers for busy days, giving me delicious meals with little preparation time.

With just a few ingredients and some time, I can create hearty soups, stews, and other dishes that please my family and friends. These recipes save me time in the kitchen and provide comfort food that warms the soul.

Table of Contents

1. Beef Stew

a bowl of beef stew with large chunks of beef, carrots, potatoes, and onions in a rich, dark broth. the stew is garnished with fresh parsley. a spoon rests inside the bowl. the bowl has a speckled pattern and sits on a dark wooden table. the image is shot from above

Beef stew is a hearty dish made with chunks of beef, vegetables, and broth. It cooks slowly to create a rich and savory flavor.

Making beef stew in a crock pot is simple. I can prepare it in just a few steps.

Cut 2 pounds of beef into bite-sized chunks.
Chop 3 carrots, 2 potatoes, and 1 onion.

Place the beef and vegetables in the crock pot.
Add 4 cups of beef broth, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper.

After that, I cover the pot. I set it to low and let it cook for 8 hours.

If I’m short on time, I can set it to high for 4 hours. The beef becomes tender, and the flavors mix well. It’s an easy meal that I enjoy making for my family.

2. Chicken Noodle Soup

a bowl of chicken noodle soup with shredded chicken, egg noodles, carrots, and celery in a clear broth. the soup is presented in a white bowl on a wooden tray with a spoon. fresh thyme sprigs are placed beside the bowl. the image is shot from above, showcasing the comforting dish

Chicken noodle soup is a comforting dish made with chicken, noodles, vegetables, and broth. It’s well-known for being both tasty and soothing.

I find this recipe easy to make, especially using a crock pot. It saves time and lets me handle other tasks while it cooks.

To prepare chicken noodle soup, I follow these simple steps:

Gather my ingredients: boneless chicken breast, egg noodles, carrots, celery, onions, and chicken broth.
In my crock pot, I add the chicken, chopped vegetables, and broth.

I season the mix with salt, pepper, and any herbs I like, such as thyme or parsley.
I cover the pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, I add the egg noodles to the pot.

Once it’s ready, I enjoy a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup. It’s satisfying and perfect for any day.

3. Pulled Pork

a brown bowl filled with white rice, topped with shredded meat and a red sauce. the meat is pulled and appears tender. the sauce is thick and glossy. the bowl sits on a light surface. the image is shot from a close angle, showcasing the simple and hearty meal

Pulled pork is a flavorful dish made from slow-cooked pork, usually shoulder or butt. The meat becomes tender and easy to shred, allowing it to soak up the juices and seasonings.

I find it incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, I can create a delicious meal.

Here are the steps I follow:

Ingredients: I use 3-4 pounds of pork shoulder, a cup of barbecue sauce, and spices like salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Prep: I season the pork with spices. Then, I place it in my crock pot.

Cook: I add barbecue sauce on top and cover it. I cook it on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
Shred: Once done, I remove the pork from the pot and shred it with two forks.
Serve: I mix the shredded pork with the juices and serve it on buns or over rice.

The result is a tasty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.

4. Vegetarian Chili

A steaming bowl of chili, filled with a rich, tomato-based broth, a medley of beans, and a hint of smoky spice. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a vibrant touch of color and flavor

Vegetarian chili is a hearty dish made without meat. It usually features beans, vegetables, and spices. This meal is perfect for anyone seeking a fulfilling, plant-based option.

I find vegetarian chili easy to prepare. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 6-8 hours to cook in a slow cooker. This makes it great for busy days.

To make vegetarian chili, I follow these steps:

Chop one onion, two bell peppers, and two cloves of garlic.
Add these vegetables to the crock pot with one can of diced tomatoes, two cans of drained beans, and 1-2 tablespoons of chili powder.

Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper.
Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 6-8 hours.

I can serve it with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal. It’s a simple, warm dish that is sure to please everyone.

5. Pot Roast

a bowl of beef stew with large chunks of tender beef, carrots, potatoes, and onions in a rich, dark broth. the stew is shot from above, showcasing the hearty ingredients. the bowl has a speckled pattern and sits on a dark wooden surface. the beef is cooked to perfection and the vegetables are soft

Pot roast is a classic dish made by slow cooking beef until it’s tender. I enjoy using chuck roast because it’s flavorful and becomes very soft in the crock pot.

Making pot roast is easy. I simply season the meat with salt and pepper before searing it for extra flavor. After that, I place it in the crock pot.

Here are the steps I follow:

Sear the Meat: Heat some oil in a pan and brown the chuck roast on all sides.
Add Vegetables: Chop carrots, onions, and potatoes. Place them in the bottom of the crock pot.
Combine Ingredients: Put the seared roast on top of the vegetables. I usually add beef broth and a few sprigs of thyme for more taste.

Cook: I set my crock pot to low and let it cook for 8-10 hours.

This method gives me a hearty meal with minimal effort. I love serving it with the vegetables and some of the rich gravy that develops during cooking.

6. Spaghetti Sauce

a bowl of spaghetti topped with a chunky tomato sauce, featuring visible pieces of tomatoes, onions, and herbs. the pasta is cooked al dente and the sauce is rich and vibrant. a basil leaf garnishes the dish. the bowl has a speckled pattern and sits on a dark surface. the image is shot from a close angle

Spaghetti sauce is a flavorful mix of tomatoes, herbs, and spices. It’s a staple for pasta dishes and is easy to make in a crock pot.

I enjoy making spaghetti sauce because it requires minimal effort. It cooks slowly, allowing the flavors to blend perfectly.

Here’s how I prepare it:

Gather Ingredients: I use diced tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, onion, and seasoning like oregano and basil.

Prep the Vegetables: I chop the onion and garlic.
Combine Ingredients: I add all ingredients to the crock pot and mix.
Set the Temperature: I cook it on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.

Stir Occasionally: I give it a stir every couple of hours if I can.

The long cooking time allows the sauce to thicken and develop rich flavors. Once it’s done, I serve it over pasta or use it for other dishes. This simple recipe provides a tasty sauce with minimal work.

7. Butternut Squash Soup

two bowls of vibrant orange soup, likely pumpkin or carrot, topped with swirls of cream and a sprinkle of spice. sliced bread rests beside one bowl. a gold spoon is placed next to the front bowl. the bowls have a speckled pattern and sit on a dark wooden table. the image is shot from above

Butternut squash soup is a creamy and flavorful dish. It has a sweet, nutty taste and a smooth texture, making it a comforting option for any meal.

I find this recipe easy to make in a crock pot. The hands-on time is minimal, allowing me to focus on other tasks while it cooks.

Here’s how I prepare it:

Start by peeling and dicing 1 medium butternut squash.

Chop 1 onion and 2 cloves of garlic.
Add the squash, onion, garlic, 4 cups of vegetable broth, and 1 teaspoon of salt to the crock pot.
Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.

Once it’s done, blend the soup until smooth.

For extra flavor, I like to add spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg. This soup pairs well with crusty bread. It’s a simple, nutritious meal that warms me up on cool days.

8. BBQ Ribs

a plate of bbq ribs, glazed with a thick, red sauce. the ribs are arranged on a grey plate, resting on a wooden table. the meat is tender and the sauce is glossy. the image is shot from a close angle, showcasing the texture and presentation of the dish. the ribs appear juicy and flavorful

BBQ ribs are a popular and tasty dish. They are usually made from pork or beef ribs that are seasoned and cooked until tender. Using a crock pot makes the process simple and keeps the meat juicy.

Making BBQ ribs is easy. First, I prepare the ribs by trimming any excess fat. Then, I coat them with my favorite BBQ rub. I prefer using a mix of brown sugar, paprika, and garlic powder.

Next, I place the ribs in the crock pot. I add a bit of BBQ sauce for flavor. I then cover the pot and set it to cook.

I usually cook the ribs on low for 6 to 8 hours. If I want them ready more quickly, I set the pot on high for 3 to 4 hours. The goal is tender meat that falls off the bone.

Once the cooking time is over, I often broil the ribs in the oven for a few minutes. This step adds a nice char and caramelizes the sauce. Enjoying these BBQ ribs is always a delight, and they pair well with sides like coleslaw or baked beans.

9. Macaroni and Cheese

a bowl of macaroni and cheese, topped with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. the macaroni is coated in a creamy cheese sauce. the bowl has a speckled pattern and sits on a light surface. the image is shot from a close angle, showcasing the texture and simple presentation of the dish

Macaroni and cheese is a classic dish made with cooked macaroni pasta and a creamy cheese sauce. It’s simple to prepare and is a great comfort food option for any meal.

To make this dish in a crock pot, I start by gathering the ingredients. You will need 2 cups of macaroni, 4 cups of shredded cheese, 3 cups of milk, and salt and pepper to taste.

First, I cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Then, I drain it and add it to the crock pot. Next, I mix in the milk, cheese, salt, and pepper.

I set the crock pot on low for about 2 to 3 hours. During this time, I stir the mixture occasionally. This helps the cheese melt evenly.

Once the macaroni and cheese is creamy and hot, it’s ready to serve. This dish is not only easy to make, but it also allows for variations like adding vegetables or different types of cheese.

How Do You Choose the Right Crock Pot?

When selecting a crock pot, it’s important to understand the size and features that best fit your cooking needs. Making the right choice will enhance your cooking experience and ensure delicious results.

What Should You Know About Crock Pot Size and Capacity?

Crock pots come in various sizes, typically ranging from 1.5 to 7 quarts. Selecting the right capacity is crucial for preparing meals for different numbers of people.

1.5 to 3 quarts: Ideal for small families or individuals.

4 to 5 quarts: Great for families of four to six.
6 to 7 quarts: Best for larger gatherings or meal prep.

It’s important to consider what types of recipes you’ll be making. For soups or stews, a larger pot may be necessary. For sides or dips, a smaller one will suffice.

What Features Should You Consider When Buying a Crock Pot?

When examining different crock pots, several features stand out that can influence your choice.

Temperature Settings: Many models provide low, high, and warm settings, enhancing flexibility with cooking times.
Programmable Functions: Some crock pots have digital timers or programmable settings, allowing you to set the cooking time in advance.

Lid Type: Glass lids allow you to monitor your food without removing them, helping maintain temperature and moisture.

Choosing a model with a removable stoneware insert also simplifies cleaning. By focusing on these features, I can ensure I select a crock pot that suits my cooking style.

9 Best Simple Crock Pot Recipes for Effortless Meal Prep