15 Delicious Slow Cooker Meal Prep Ideas for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Eating well doesn’t have to be a time-consuming chore, and that’s where slow cookers come in! With these 15 meal prep ideas, you can whip up delicious, hearty dishes that practically cook themselves, leaving you with more time to do what you love. Get ready to enjoy satisfying meals throughout the week with minimal fuss!

Moroccan Spiced Lentil Stew

This Moroccan Spiced Lentil Stew is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for meal prep. The image shows a slow cooker filled with a rich, vibrant stew. You can see the lentils, colorful peppers, and spices blending together beautifully. This dish is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients.

The stew features lentils as the main ingredient, which are a great source of protein and fiber. The spices, like cumin and coriander, give it that distinct Moroccan flavor. It’s a simple recipe that you can set and forget, making it ideal for busy days.

To make this stew, you’ll want to gather your ingredients and follow a few easy steps. The slow cooker does most of the work for you, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Creamy Mushroom Risotto is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The image shows a slow cooker filled with fluffy risotto, topped with sautéed mushrooms and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great choice for meal prep.

To make this risotto, you’ll need Arborio rice, which gives it that creamy texture. The mushrooms add a rich flavor, while the slow cooker does all the hard work. Just set it and forget it!

Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until translucent.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they are soft.
3. In the slow cooker, combine the sautéed mixture with Arborio rice and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Once the rice is tender, stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

BBQ pulled pork sandwiches are a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any gathering. The image shows a soft bun filled with tender, shredded pork, topped with a drizzle of ketchup. This dish is not only delicious but also super easy to prepare in a slow cooker.

To make these sandwiches, you’ll start with a pork shoulder, which becomes incredibly tender after slow cooking. The key is to season it well and let it cook low and slow. The result is juicy, flavorful meat that you can pile high on a bun. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 3-4 pounds pork shoulder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
• 4-6 hamburger buns
• Ketchup (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. Season the Pork: In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder.
2. Slow Cook: Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker. Pour the BBQ sauce over the top. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
3. Shred the Meat: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce.
4. Assemble the Sandwiches: Spoon the pulled pork onto the hamburger buns. Add ketchup if desired, and enjoy!

Vegetarian Chili Loaded with Beans

This vegetarian chili is a hearty and satisfying dish, perfect for any meal prep. Packed with a variety of beans, colorful peppers, and spices, it’s a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal. The slow cooker makes it easy to prepare, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.

The image shows a rich, vibrant chili bubbling away in a slow cooker. You can see the mix of beans, diced tomatoes, and peppers, all swimming in a savory broth. It’s a comforting sight that promises warmth and flavor.

To make this chili, you’ll need some basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. It’s versatile, so feel free to add or substitute any veggies you like!

Ingredients

• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by chopping the onion, bell pepper, and mincing the garlic.
2. Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, add the black beans, kidney beans, white beans, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, chili powder, and cumin.
3. Season: Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded.
5. Serve: Enjoy hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, or cheese.

Lemon Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken

This Lemon Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. The image shows a whole chicken nestled in a slow cooker, adorned with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of herbs. The vibrant yellow of the lemons contrasts beautifully with the seasoned chicken, making it not just tasty but visually appealing too.

Using a slow cooker for this recipe is a game changer. It allows the chicken to cook slowly, ensuring it remains juicy and tender. The lemon and garlic infuse the meat with a refreshing flavor, while the herbs add depth. It’s perfect for meal prep, as you can easily make enough for several meals throughout the week.

Let’s get into the ingredients and steps to create this delicious dish!

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
• 2 lemons, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Place it in the slow cooker.
2. Season: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get it under the skin for extra flavor.
3. Add Lemons: Place the lemon slices inside the cavity of the chicken and on top of it.
4. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
5. Serve: Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Let it rest for a few minutes before carving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Hearty Beef Stew with Root Vegetables

Hearty beef stew is a classic comfort food that warms the soul. This dish combines tender chunks of beef with a colorful array of root vegetables. The rich broth is infused with herbs, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week.

In the image, you can see the stew simmering in a slow cooker. The beef is browned and surrounded by vibrant pieces of carrots and squash, creating a beautiful mix of colors. The stew looks inviting and hearty, ready to be served with a side of crusty bread.

Making this stew is simple and rewarding. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work. It’s a great way to meal prep for the week ahead!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 3 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet, brown the beef stew meat over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. Transfer it to the slow cooker.
2. Add Vegetables: Add the chopped carrots, potatoes, butternut squash, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
3. Mix the Broth: In a bowl, mix the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the meat and vegetables in the slow cooker.
4. Add the Bay Leaf: Toss in the bay leaf for added flavor.
5. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6. Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy your hearty beef stew with some fresh bread!

Spicy Taco Soup with Avocado

Spicy Taco Soup is a warm and comforting dish that packs a punch. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something hearty and satisfying. The vibrant colors in the soup, along with the creamy avocado slices on top, make it visually appealing too. The combination of spices, beans, and veggies creates a delightful flavor that everyone will love.

This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare in a slow cooker. Just toss in your ingredients, set it, and let the magic happen. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and savory soup.

Don’t forget the avocado! It adds a creamy texture that balances the spiciness of the soup. You can also top it with some fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for an extra zing. Serve it with tortilla chips for a fun crunch!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker. Add black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and broth.
4. Stir everything together and cover. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. When ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls and top with avocado slices and fresh cilantro.

Savory Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This slow cooker version makes it easy to enjoy this flavorful curry without spending hours in the kitchen. The image shows a rich and creamy sauce enveloping tender pieces of chicken, garnished with fresh cilantro and a hint of red chili for that extra kick.

Using a slow cooker allows the spices to meld beautifully, creating a depth of flavor that is hard to resist. You can serve it over rice or with naan for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with garam masala, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Add chopped onion, garlic, ginger, coconut milk, and crushed tomatoes. Stir to combine.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Finish and Serve: Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot over rice or with naan.

Coconut Curry Vegetable Medley

This Coconut Curry Vegetable Medley is a delightful mix of colorful veggies simmered in a creamy coconut curry sauce. The image shows a slow cooker filled with vibrant chunks of squash, bell peppers, and jalapeños, all waiting to be transformed into a comforting meal. The combination of spices and coconut milk creates a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.

Using a slow cooker makes this dish super easy. Just toss in your ingredients, set it, and let it do its magic. You can enjoy this medley on its own or serve it over rice or quinoa for a complete meal. It’s perfect for meal prep, too, as it stores well and tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

• 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (any color)
• 1 cup potatoes, diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine coconut milk, red curry paste, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Stir until well mixed.
3. Add to Slow Cooker: Place all the chopped vegetables in the slow cooker. Pour the coconut curry sauce over the top.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
5. Season: Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Stir gently to combine.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious Coconut Curry Vegetable Medley!

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for breakfast. This slow cooker recipe makes mornings easier by allowing you to prepare a hearty meal overnight. Imagine waking up to the sweet aroma of apples and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen!

The image shows a delicious mix of oats, tender apple chunks, and a hint of cinnamon, all bubbling away in a slow cooker. This meal not only tastes great but is also packed with nutrients. It’s a fantastic way to start your day on a healthy note.

To make this oatmeal, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. It’s a great option for meal prep, as you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. You can customize it by adding nuts, dried fruits, or even a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 4 cups water or milk
• 2 apples, diced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, mix together the rolled oats, water or milk, diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract.
2. Cook: Set the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible.
3. Serve: Once cooked, give it a good stir and serve warm. Top with additional apple slices, nuts, or a splash of milk if desired.

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa

Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for meal prep. In this image, you can see vibrant bell peppers filled with a hearty quinoa mixture. The peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrients.

Using a slow cooker makes this dish even easier. You can throw everything in and let it cook while you go about your day. The quinoa provides a great source of protein, and you can customize the filling with your favorite ingredients.

These stuffed peppers are great for lunch or dinner and can be made ahead of time. Just reheat them when you’re ready to eat!

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy.
2. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
3. Stuff the Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Fill each pepper with the quinoa mixture, packing it in gently.
4. Cook in the Slow Cooker: Place the stuffed peppers upright in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the peppers are tender.
5. Serve: Once cooked, garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy!

Peanut Butter Chicken with Rice

Peanut Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a creamy, savory peanut sauce. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. The image shows a bowl of this delicious chicken served over a fluffy bed of rice, garnished with fresh green onions. It’s a comforting dish that brings a taste of the exotic right to your kitchen.

The combination of peanut butter and chicken might sound unusual, but trust me, it works wonders! The sauce is rich and flavorful, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

To make this dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Gather chicken breast, peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a splash of lime juice. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that’s sure to please.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked rice
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, lime juice, and chicken broth until smooth.
2. Combine Ingredients: Place the chicken pieces in the slow cooker and pour the peanut sauce over them. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Serve: Once done, serve the peanut butter chicken over cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.

Classic Beef and Broccoli

Classic Beef and Broccoli is a timeless dish that brings together tender beef and vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce. This slow cooker version makes it easy to prepare a delicious meal without much fuss. Just imagine coming home to the warm aroma of beef simmering with fresh vegetables!

The image shows a hearty serving of beef chunks alongside bright green broccoli and a hint of red peppers, all coated in a rich sauce. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and colors that makes your dinner plate inviting.

This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. The broccoli adds a nice crunch and is a great source of vitamins. Plus, using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making meal prep a breeze!

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add the beef and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Set Up the Slow Cooker: Place the marinated beef in the slow cooker. Add the sliced red bell pepper and broccoli florets on top.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
4. Serve: Once cooked, stir everything together and serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Italian Sausage and Peppers

Italian Sausage and Peppers is a classic dish that brings together the rich flavors of sausage and the freshness of colorful bell peppers. This meal is perfect for busy days, as it cooks effortlessly in a slow cooker. Just toss everything in, set it, and let the magic happen!

The vibrant mix of red, yellow, and green peppers not only adds a pop of color but also a variety of flavors. The sausages become tender and juicy, soaking up the essence of the peppers and any spices you choose to add. It’s a hearty dish that can be served on its own or with crusty bread, rice, or pasta.

This recipe is not just easy; it’s also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite spices or even some garlic for an extra kick. Perfect for meal prep, this dish can be made ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
• 2 red bell peppers, sliced
• 2 yellow bell peppers, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup marinara sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the bell peppers and onion. Mince the garlic.
2. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced peppers and onion at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic on top.
3. Add the Sausage: Place the Italian sausages over the vegetables.
4. Season: Sprinkle Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper over the sausages.
5. Add Marinara: Pour the marinara sauce over everything, ensuring the sausages are well coated.
6. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the sausages are cooked through and the peppers are tender.
7. Serve: Slice the sausages and serve with the peppers. Enjoy it on a bun, over pasta, or on its own!

Sweet and Sour Chicken

Sweet and sour chicken is a classic dish that brings a delightful mix of flavors to your dinner table. This dish features tender chicken pieces simmered in a tangy sauce, combined with colorful bell peppers and pineapple. The vibrant colors in the slow cooker make it look as good as it tastes!

Using a slow cooker for this recipe is a game changer. You can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time. The chicken becomes incredibly tender, soaking up all the sweet and sour goodness. Plus, it’s a great meal prep option for busy weeknights.

Serve this dish over rice or noodles for a complete meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (any color)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a bowl, mix the sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
2. Add to Slow Cooker: Place the chicken, bell peppers, and pineapple in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture over the top and stir to combine.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a little cornstarch with water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Serve: Serve the sweet and sour chicken over rice or noodles. Enjoy!