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26 Crockpot Meals For Days You Don’t Want To Cook

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There are days when I just don’t have the energy to stand in the kitchen, and that’s exactly when my slow cooker comes to the rescue. With hardly any prep and almost no cleanup, it lets me put together a warm, comforting meal without hovering over the stove. These easy crockpot recipes are my go-to for staying well-fed on busy days when cooking feels like one more thing on the to-do list.

Close-up of a spoonful of creamy macaroni and cheese topped with green onions.
Crock Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup

Close-up of a ladle holding a hearty soup with visible chunks of tomato, cabbage, ground meat, and grains in broth.
Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This soup brings the comforting flavors of cabbage rolls into an easy, one-pot meal that practically cooks itself. It’s hearty, filled with ground meat, rice, and vegetables, and perfect for days when you need something warm without hovering over the stove. Just set it in the morning, and you’ll have a filling dinner by the time you’re ready to unwind. It’s a dependable choice when you need a hands-off meal that still tastes home-cooked.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup

Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas

A baking dish full of chicken enchiladas is surrounded by cut limes, a halved avocado, and a green linen.
Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

These chicken enchiladas turn out tender, cheesy, and full of flavor with almost no effort. Everything simmers together in the slow cooker, letting the flavors develop while you go about your day. It’s a great way to serve a family-style Mexican dish without the usual prep and cleanup. This recipe is perfect for when you want something comforting that cooks itself while you rest or work.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas

Crock Pot Beef and Noodles

Closeup of Slow Cooker beef with egg noodles.
Crock Pot Beef and Noodles. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

A classic comfort dish, this beef and noodles recipe gives you tender chunks of beef in a rich, savory gravy. It’s simple to put together and slow cooks into a hearty dinner that feels like it took hours of effort. The slow cooker handles all the heavy lifting, leaving you with minimal cleanup. It’s ideal for when you want a homemade meal but not the time commitment.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Beef and Noodles

Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot

Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This pork loin turns out juicy and flavorful with barely any hands-on work. The slow cooking process locks in moisture and creates a tender main dish that pairs well with simple sides. It’s a reliable dinner that works well for busy days when you’d rather not spend time in the kitchen. Let it cook through the day and enjoy a warm meal ready when you are.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot

Slow Cooker Tomato Lime Chicken

Image shows a Bite of tomato lime chicken on a fork with rice and the rest of the bowl in the background.
Slow Cooker Tomato Lime Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Tomato and lime add a bright, fresh taste to this tender chicken dish. It cooks low and slow until the flavors blend perfectly, giving you a meal that’s both light and comforting. With little prep and simple ingredients, it’s an easy way to enjoy a flavorful dinner after a long day. This recipe is great for those times when you want a fuss-free meal with a hint of freshness.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Tomato Lime Chicken

Slow Cooker Carnitas

Carnitas tacos on a blue plate.
Slow Cooker Carnitas. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

These carnitas turn out tender inside and easy to crisp up for tacos, bowls, or burritos. The slow cooker makes the pork melt-in-your-mouth without much effort from you. It’s a convenient option when you want something versatile that can stretch into multiple meals. Great for busy days, it gives you flavorful results with almost no work required.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Carnitas

Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs

Slow cooker country style ribs on a tray on top of mashed potatoes with corn.
Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These country-style ribs come out tender and packed with flavor after hours of slow cooking. The meat falls off the bone and can be finished with your favorite sauce for a hearty dinner. It’s a dependable recipe that requires minimal effort but still delivers big results. Perfect for days when you’d rather relax than tend to a grill or stove.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs

Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Olive garden chicken pasta on a fork.
Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This dish recreates the restaurant favorite in the comfort of your home with just a few ingredients. Creamy, rich, and full of flavor, it’s a family-friendly option that practically makes itself. Everything cooks together for a satisfying dinner that’s ready when you are. It’s the kind of easy meal that saves you from cooking stress on busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

Cooked chicken breasts in a blue bowl, garnished with chopped herbs, on a light blue cloth background.
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These chicken thighs cook until tender and flavorful, making them a dependable choice for any weeknight. The slow cooker does all the work while the meat absorbs the seasonings beautifully. It’s an effortless way to serve a filling and comforting meal. Ideal for when you need something home-cooked without being tied to the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

Crock Pot Tomato Soup

Top view of a bowl of creamy tomato soup garnished with basil, served with a spoon and sunglasses on the side.
Crock Pot Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This tomato soup is creamy, rich, and simple to prepare with pantry staples. The slow cooker helps the flavors develop slowly, giving it that homemade taste without the hassle. It’s a warm, comforting bowl that pairs perfectly with bread or sandwiches. Perfect for days when you want something cozy that practically cooks itself.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Tomato Soup

Slow Cooker Honey Lemon Chicken

A cooked chicken thigh next to roasted asparagus and baby potatoes on a white plate.
Slow Cooker Honey Lemon Chicken. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

The mix of honey and lemon brings a sweet and tangy balance to this easy chicken dish. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, it turns into a meal that’s light yet full of flavor. The slow cooker makes the chicken tender while you take care of other things. It’s an easy option for when you want dinner done without hovering in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Honey Lemon Chicken

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

A bowl of rice with meat and peppers in front of a slow cooker.
Slow Cooker Pepper Steak. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Tender strips of beef simmer with peppers and onions in a flavorful sauce that thickens as it cooks. It’s a filling, no-fuss meal that pairs easily with rice or noodles. You can set it up in minutes and let it cook throughout the day. It’s perfect for when you want something hearty with almost no effort.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Slow Cooker Pork Roast

Slow Cooker Pork Roast. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This pork roast turns out tender, juicy, and full of comforting flavor. It cooks low and slow, making it simple to prepare ahead of time. You can pair it with mashed potatoes or vegetables for a complete dinner. It’s a dependable go-to when you need a warm, home-style meal that requires little attention.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Roast

Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

A bowl of hearty Texas Roadhouse chili.
Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

This chili is packed with ground beef, beans, and spices that simmer together for hours. The long cooking time helps deepen the flavor, giving you a meal that feels like it’s been watched over all day. It’s simple to prepare and great for feeding a crowd. Perfect for days when you want something hearty ready with little effort.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu

a plate of slow cooker lamb ragu over pappardelle pasta surrounded by a block of parmesan, a white linen, and torn baguette.
Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Slow-cooked lamb becomes tender and rich in this comforting sauce. It’s perfect over pasta or polenta for a meal that feels special without much work. The slow cooker handles the long simmering, giving you time to focus on other things. It’s a reliable option when you want something warm and flavorful with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu

Crock Pot Ramen

Top view of slow cooker chicken ramen in the Crock Pot.
Crock Pot Ramen. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This ramen turns into a comforting bowl with tender noodles, broth, and protein of your choice. Everything cooks together gently, letting the flavors blend seamlessly. It’s a convenient meal that feels homemade with little time spent in the kitchen. Ideal for days when you need something simple yet filling.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Ramen

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

Two tacos on a plate with a bowl of guacamole.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These chicken tacos are flavorful, juicy, and easy to assemble after slow cooking. The chicken shreds effortlessly, making it perfect for tacos, burritos, or rice bowls. It’s a time-saver that can feed the whole family with minimal work. Great for those evenings when you want dinner ready as soon as you walk in.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

Cajun Smothered Chicken Recipe

Cajun smothered chicken served with rice and vegetables.
Cajun Smothered Chicken Recipe. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

This Cajun-style chicken cooks slowly in a flavorful sauce that’s rich and comforting. The slow cooker keeps the meat tender and juicy while the spices blend perfectly. It’s a hearty, no-fuss dish that pairs well with rice or mashed potatoes. A dependable choice for when you’d rather let dinner cook itself.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Smothered Chicken Recipe

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken on a white plate on rice topped with parsley.
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This creamy chicken recipe turns out tender and rich with every bite. The slow cooker makes it easy to prepare, and the sauce pairs perfectly with rice, pasta, or bread. It’s an easy way to get a full, comforting meal without extra effort. Ideal for evenings when you want to relax and still enjoy something warm and filling.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken

Slow Cooker German Pot Roast

A plate of German pot roast beef with a sauce being poured over it.
Slow Cooker German Pot Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This pot roast is seasoned and slow-cooked until it’s fall-apart tender. The vegetables soak up the flavor, making it a complete and hearty meal. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for weekends or busy workdays alike. A great pick for when you want a traditional dinner without standing over the stove.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker German Pot Roast

Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers

A crock pot full of sausage, peppers, and marinara sauce.
Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

This meal combines sausage, peppers, and onions for a dish that’s full of familiar flavor. It’s quick to assemble and slow cooks into a hearty dinner that pairs well with rice or rolls. Everything blends together into a comforting, hands-off meal. Perfect for nights when you want something warm and ready with no fuss.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

A bowl of macaroni and cheese in front of a slow cooker.
Crock Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Creamy and cheesy, this mac and cheese cooks perfectly in the slow cooker without needing to stir. It’s a crowd-pleasing comfort food that comes together with minimal work. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it stays warm for serving. Great for those times when you want something cozy without turning on the oven.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

Easy Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

Slow cooker salsa chicken with rice and beans on a plate.
Easy Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

This chicken cooks in salsa until it’s tender and easy to shred for tacos, salads, or rice bowls. The setup takes just minutes, and the slow cooker does the rest. It’s flavorful, simple, and versatile enough for several meals. Perfect for when you want to cook once and eat well for days.
Get the Recipe: Easy Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

Italian Slow Cooker Pork Roast

A white bowl with slow cooker Italian pork roast, potatoes and carrots.
Italian Slow Cooker Pork Roast. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

This pork roast simmers with Italian herbs and seasonings for a flavorful, tender result. The slow cooker ensures the meat stays juicy while the aroma fills your kitchen. It’s easy to prepare and makes a comforting main dish that pairs with pasta or potatoes. A great meal choice when you want something homemade without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Italian Slow Cooker Pork Roast

Slow Cooker Chili Mac

Cheese covered slow cooker chili mac in the crock pot with a wooden spoon.
Slow Cooker Chili Mac. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This recipe combines two favorites—chili and macaroni—into one hearty, slow-cooked dish. It’s easy to assemble, and the slow cooker melds everything together into a warm, filling meal. It’s perfect for feeding a family or saving leftovers for later. Ideal for days when you need something cozy with very little prep.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chili Mac

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This pork shoulder cooks slowly until it’s tender enough to shred with a fork. The mustard BBQ sauce gives it a tangy, balanced flavor that works well in sandwiches or over rice. It’s easy to prep and makes plenty for multiple meals. A great option for when you want something flavorful that practically cooks itself.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce

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