Are you tired of the same old weeknight routine? Do you find yourself stuck in a culinary rut, serving up the same old dishes to your family or friends time and again? Look no further! This collection of 20 delicious and unique crock pot recipes is here to shake things up and add some excitement back into your mealtime.
From sweet and tangy honey sriracha chicken to savory Moroccan lamb stew, these mouth-watering dishes are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. And the best part? They’re all easy to make and require minimal effort – perfect for busy weeknights when cooking from scratch just isn’t in the cards.
So go ahead, grab your crock pot, and get ready to spice up your mealtime with these incredible recipes!
Slow Cooker Honey Sriracha Chicken
Savor the sweet and spicy flavors of this tender chicken dish, perfectly cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, honey, Sriracha sauce, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
3. When done, remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time:
– Low: 6-8 hours
– High: 3-4 hours
Crock Pot Moroccan Lamb Stew
Experience the bold flavors of North Africa with this hearty and aromatic lamb stew, slow-cooked to perfection in a crock pot. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon of ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Add the lamb, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to a 6-quart crock pot.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Ribs
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with this easy-to-make recipe featuring tender pork ribs smothered in a tangy pineapple teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic powder.
3. Place pork ribs in a large baking dish and brush with the teriyaki glaze.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meat is tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and brush with pineapple juice and sprinkle with chopped pineapple.
6. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce is sticky and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Buffalo Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
This Buffalo Cauliflower Mac and Cheese recipe combines the creamy richness of macaroni and cheese with the spicy kick of buffalo cauliflower. A perfect blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy your comfort food cravings.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cauliflower and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, combine milk, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, buffalo cauliflower, and cheese sauce in a baking dish.
6. Top with additional grated cheese and Frank’s RedHot sauce.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Korean Beef Bulgogi Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of Korea in a taco twist! This recipe combines the sweet and savory essence of bulgogi beef with the crunch of crispy tacos, perfect for adventurous foodies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (thinly sliced), marinated in bulgogi sauce (see below)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Kimchi slaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Cilantro leaves
– Lime wedges
– Bulgogi sauce (see below)
Bulgogi Sauce:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Instructions:
1. Fry tortillas in hot oil until crispy, about 30 seconds per side.
2. Grill or cook beef to desired doneness, about 3-5 minutes per side.
3. Assemble tacos by placing beef on a fried tortilla, topping with kimchi slaw and cilantro leaves.
4. Serve immediately and squeeze lime juice over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers
Transform ordinary bell peppers into a flavorful Mediterranean delight with this easy and satisfying recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked rice, olives, feta cheese, parsley, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the rice mixture, filling as full as possible.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Coconut Curry Lentil Soup
Coconut Curry Lentil Soup: A flavorful and nutritious meal that combines the comfort of lentils with the warmth of coconut curry spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in the curry powder and cumin; cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the lentils, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sandwiches
Experience the magic of plant-based comfort food with these tender, flavorful, and easy-to-make BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sandwiches. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can jackfruit in brine, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine jackfruit, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
4. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spooning jackfruit onto hamburger buns. Top with coleslaw or pickles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Greek Yogurt Chicken Tikka Masala
A creamy and flavorful twist on the classic Indian dish, this Greek Yogurt Chicken Tikka Masala recipe combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with the spices of tikka masala.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook chicken until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.
5. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Maple Bacon Baked Beans
Elevate your BBQ game with this rich and tangy recipe that combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the smoky goodness of bacon. Perfect for a summer cookout or family gathering, these baked beans are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or bean pot, combine soaked navy beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, maple syrup, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in crumbled bacon and diced tomatoes.
4. Cover the pot and bake for 6-8 hours or overnight.
5. Serve warm with your favorite grilled meats or as a side dish.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Thai Peanut Butter Chicken
Thai Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe
This recipe combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chicken with a hint of Thai spices, creating a unique and delicious dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken and toss until coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the chicken in a single layer and sprinkle with chopped peanuts.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Ratatouille
Slow Cooker Ratatouille: A Hearty Vegetarian Stew
Ratatouille is a classic Provençal dish that’s perfect for a warm and comforting meal. This slow cooker version makes it easy to prepare, as all the ingredients simmer together in one pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 can of crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the eggplant, bell peppers, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, and thyme to the slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Caramelized Onion French Dip Sliders
Elevate your slider game with this sweet and savory recipe, featuring caramelized onions and melted Swiss cheese on crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns (slider-sized)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Swiss cheese
– 4 slices of French dip au jus-cooked roast beef
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Split hamburger buns in half and toast on the oven rack for 5 minutes.
4. Assemble sliders by placing a few slices of roast beef onto each bun, followed by a spoonful of caramelized onions and a sprinkle of Swiss cheese.
5. Serve immediately and garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes (including oven time)
Pumpkin Chili with Dark Chocolate
Elevate your chili game with this unexpected combination of flavors, featuring roasted pumpkin and rich dark chocolate. This unique recipe is perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup roasted pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or other hot peppers for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, pumpkin puree, red bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, and dark chocolate chips. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Spiced Pulled Pork
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouthwatering pulled pork recipe, infused with the signature spices and aromas of jerk seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid.
5. Add sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the pork.
6. Pour in chicken broth, covering the pork by about 1 inch (2.5 cm).
7. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer to the preheated oven.
8. Cook for 4-5 hours or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Garlic Parmesan Mushroom Risotto
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy risotto recipe, infused with savory garlic, parmesan cheese, and earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they release their moisture and start browning.
4. Add the Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with mushrooms.
5. Add the warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, the rice should be creamy and tender. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Fig Glazed Short Ribs
A sweet and savory twist on traditional short ribs, this recipe combines the richness of beef with the sweetness of figs and the tanginess of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in short ribs
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons fig jam
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, and fig jam.
3. Season short ribs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove short ribs from pot and set aside. Add sliced onion to pot and cook until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
5. Add garlic to pot and cook for an additional minute.
6. Return short ribs to pot and pour in balsamic fig glaze. Cover pot with a lid or foil and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours, or until short ribs are tender and falling off the bone.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Quickly elevate your seafood game with this simple yet flavorful dish. Lemon garlic butter shrimp scampi is a classic Italian-American recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and just cooked through.
5. Remove the shrimp from the skillet with a slotted spoon.
6. Reduce heat to low and add the lemon juice and remaining butter. Stir until melted.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss with the lemon garlic butter sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Mango Habanero Wings
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this sweet and spicy twist on classic chicken wings!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken wings
– 1/4 cup mango chutney
– 2 tbsp habanero peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mango chutney, habanero peppers, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are fully coated with the spice mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the wings on the sheet in a single layer.
5. Drizzle the melted butter over the wings.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chipotle Chocolate Mole Chicken
This recipe combines the bold flavors of chipotle peppers, dark chocolate, and spices to create a deeply satisfying mole sauce for chicken. The result is a harmonious blend of smoky heat, rich sweetness, and tangy acidity that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, cocoa powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat the blended mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, whisking constantly.
4. Add garlic, chicken broth, and chocolate chips. Whisk until melted and smooth.
5. Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and spoon the mole sauce over them.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 unique and delicious crock pot recipes! From sweet and savory slow cooker honey sriracha chicken to spicy mango habanero wings, there’s something for everyone. Try making a Moroccan lamb stew, Korean beef bulgogi tacos, or Mediterranean stuffed peppers. You’ll also find comforting classics like buffalo cauliflower mac and cheese and garlic parmesan mushroom risotto. With these recipes, you can have a mouth-watering meal ready in no time, without sacrificing flavor or effort.