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35 Slow Cooker Recipes

Finding time to prepare a homemade meal for the family can be challenging. As a busy cook myself, I know the struggle firsthand. That’s why I swear by the slow cooker. With minimal effort and maximum flavour, slow cooker meals are a lifesaver for busy individuals like you and me. In this blog post, I’m thrilled to share 35 of my all-time favourite slow cooker recipes. These dishes are not only delicious but also perfect for easy dinners and satisfying family meals.

Why Use a Slow Cooker?

Let’s talk about why slow cookers are a game-changer. Not only do they save you precious time, but they also help you make the most of your ingredients, especially those spices sitting in your cupboard. And here’s the kicker – they’re energy efficient! Slow cookers use significantly less electricity compared to traditional ovens. Let’s break it down.

Are Slow Cookers Energy Efficient?

Slow cookers are the superheroes of the kitchen when it comes to saving energy. Think about it like this: a typical 10W energy-efficient light bulb uses 10 watts to stay on for an hour. Now, compare that to a slow cooker, which typically consumes between 100W and 160W per hour. A standard electric oven, on the other hand, can use up as much as 5000W per hour. That’s a massive difference. So, yes, slow cookers are not only energy efficient but also cost-effective.

How Much Does a Slow Cooker Cost to Run?

Let’s put numbers to it. Depending on the size and specifications of your slow cooker, it can cost as little as 4.08p or as much as 10.2p per hour to run. If you use your slow cooker for eight hours a day, three times a week, it would cost you between £50.92 and £127.40 per year. That’s a bargain considering the convenience and savings it offers.

Without further ado, here are some of my favourite slow cooker recipes categorised for you by classic family dinners, friday night fakeaway curries, budget friendly meals and slow cooker soups to name a few.

Classic Family Dinners

Let’s take a look at some classic family dinner recipes. From slow cooker cottage pie to hearty Irish stews, these slow cooker dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters at the table.

Slow Cooker Cottage Pie

Slow Cooker Cottage Pie – the ultimate time, money, and calorie saver! This one-pot wonder is designed to cut corners without compromising taste. At just £1.70 per serving, it’s a budget-friendly delight you can’t resist!

Slow Cooker Cottage Pie

Slow Cooker Beef Meatballs, Onions & Gravy

A real nostalgic flashback dinner for me, after school my Granda would have made this for me and my brother whilst our parents were at work. It hits differently and perfect on a wet miserable day. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for those busy days when you need a warm, satisfying dish without the hassle. Inspired by @thedalydish, this classic dish is a staple in many Irish households.

Slow Cooker Beef Meatballs, Onions & Gravy

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken, Chorizo & Sundried Tomato Pasta

My most popular recipe ever, this has been viewed over 20 million times. I hope you love it as much as I do. It is higher in calories than most of my recipes but the taste is worth it. However, you could reduce the calories by using soft cream cheese instead of cream. It’s even featured on Happy Foodie.

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken, Chorizo & Sundried Tomato Pasta

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken

Chicken that’s been soaking up garlic butter all day will hit honestly differently. Simply coat your chicken breasts in flour and pan fry in 50g of butter (I used the HexaClad to do this). Once fried for one minute each side, add to the slow cooker with all your other ingredients and let the magic happen. A game-changer for any dinner routine.

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken

Slow Cooker Garlic Mac & Cheese

This is a simple, fuss-free way to make it at home in one pot, saving time but never compromising on flavour. When I think of mac & cheese, it reminds me of being in New York. This is proper comfort food to fill you up on a cold winter night. I use low-fat butter as you might as well save on calories where you can! Mac & cheese puts a smile on everyone’s face.

Slow Cooker Garlic Mac & Cheese

Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken

Looking to win over hearts with a delicious and effortless dinner? Look no further than this famous Marry Me Chicken recipe! Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or just craving a comforting meal, this Marry Me Chicken in the slow cooker is the perfect choice for an easy yet unforgettable dinner.

Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken

Slow Cooker Irish Stew

Being from the island of Ireland, I had to include an Irish stew. It’s controversial, but I like it this way and it was inspired by my Mum who always has, and always will, make her stew in a slow cooker. Don’t worry if you don’t like Guinness, you won’t taste it – the alcohol evaporates, leaving an amazing richness in the gravy.

Slow Cooker Irish Stew

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pie

Looking for a hassle-free yet satisfying dinner option that the whole family will love? Look no further than our Slow Cooker Chicken Pie recipe! With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious homemade pie ready to serve in no time.

Slow Cooker Cottage Pie

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Chorizo Orzo

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Chorizo Orzo – a delightful twist on my viral slow cooker pasta dish that’s destined to become your new favourite. Drawing inspiration from one of my all-time beloved recipes, this variation brings together the rich flavours of creamy chicken and spicy chorizo, perfectly complemented by the comforting texture of orzo pasta.

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Chorizo Orzo

Slow Cooker Red Lentil Dhal

I absolutely love dhal and this is one of my go-to dishes when I am having a vegetarian day, and it’s sure to become one of your family favourites.

Slow Cooker Red Lentil Dhal

Friday Night Fakeaway

Craving curry but trying to stick to a budget? Skip the takeaway and try these mouthwatering fakeaway curry recipes instead. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and won’t break the bank.

Slow Cooker Honey Chilli Beef Noodles

This is a quick and lean version of one of my favourite local Chinese takeaway dishes, and one of the most popular recipes I have ever shared with my online followers. Just toss beef, honey chilli sauce, and noodles into your slow cooker for a tasty meal everyone will love!

Slow Cooker Honey Chilli Beef Noodles

Slow Cooker Thai Basil Beef

The smell alone transports me back to my childhood so it holds such sentimental value. That’s the beauty of food – it can trigger wonderful memories. The flavour here is sensational, like a very rich satay. It’s got to be one of my all-time favourite fakeaways.

Slow Cooker Thai Basil Beef

Slow Cooker Beef Noodles With Peanut Sauce

One of my favourite slow cooker recipes. Ideal for busy weekdays or meal prepping, this wholesome recipe streamlines your lunch preparation effortlessly. For those who prefer rice, just skip the noodles and stock.

Slow Cooker Beef Noodles With Peanut Sauce

Slow Cooker Classic Chicken Curry

This slow cooker chicken curry is another perfect recipe for making ahead and reheating for midweek lunches or dinners. If you ever go to Ireland and you order a curry from a local takeaway, more often than not it will come with peas in it and I find them such a delicious addition.

Slow Cooker Classic Chicken Curry

Slow Cooker Mango Chicken Curry

Hands down, this slow cooker mango chicken curry fakeaway reigns supreme as the most recreated dish among my followers, with millions of views across social media platforms. Inspired by my travels in Thailand where I fell in love with a similar mango chicken curry like this, and honestly its a game changer when it comes to flavour – and so easy to make too.

Slow Cooker Mango Chicken Curry

Slow Cooker Thai Red Chicken Curry

Dining at my favourite curry chain would cost me nearly £15 per person and this slow cooker Thai red chicken curry recipe tastes just as good, at a fraction of the cost. Made effortlessly in the slow cooker, this curry is a testament to convenience and affordability without compromising on taste.

Slow Cooker Thai Basil Beef

Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Pasta

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this perfect “throw it all in” slow cooker dish. Taking your classic cheeseburger and turning it into a slow cooker pasta dish. To all the Italians I apologise for taking your much loved pasta and pairing it with beef into some sort of cheeseburger masterpiece but it really is good, once you make it trust me it’ll be a favourite.

Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Pasta

Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef Tacos with Lime & Chipotle Mayo

Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef Tacos topped with zesty Lime & Chipotle Mayo – an absolute 10/10. Super easy to make and full of flavour. Trust me, it’s super messy – but you’ll be making this recipe again and again.

Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef Tacos with Lime & Chipotle Mayo

Slow Cooker Beef Curry

Slow Cooker Beef Curry – a dish that’s sure to become a new favourite. Serve it over a generous portion of rice for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. And if you’re watching your calorie intake, simply adjust the rice portion down to 150g without sacrificing any of the flavour.

Slow Cooker Beef Curry

Slow Cooker Peri Peri Style Chicken

The eagle-eyed among you might recognise the flavours here from one of the most popular chicken chain restaurants, which I personally am a huge fan of. With succulent meat falling off the bone and extra-crispy skin, this chicken is amazing, and perfect for meal prep too.

Slow Cooker Peri Peri Style Chicken

Low Calorie & Slimming Friendly

Explore my selection of slow cooker meals tailored for those seeking low-calorie options that align with slimming goals. From slow cooker chicken tacos to honey garlic chicken noodles, you can enjoy delicious slowcooker recipes without the guilt.

Slow Cooker Rich Moussaka-inspired Lasagne

Traditionally, moussaka is made with lamb mince and layered with thin potatoes, so this version here is probably closer to a lasagne but, whatever you call it, it’s delicious. Serve with a simple cucumber and green salad.

Slow Cooker Rich Moussaka-inspired Lasagne

90 Second Prep Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

With just a quick prep of 90 seconds, you’re on your way to a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress. Perfect for busy days when you need a hassle-free dinner solution, this recipe offers both convenience and taste. A must try recipe.

90 Second Prep Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

Get ready to spice up your mealtime routine with Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos, a hassle-free recipe that’s as easy as it gets. Simply toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you go about your day. These tacos are a true crowd-pleaser, with tender, flavourful chicken that’s perfect for stuffing into your favourite tortillas.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Noodles

This slow cooker honey garlic chicken noodle recipe is comfort food at its finest. Just toss everything in, set it, and forget it until dinnertime rolls around. This recipe isn’t just a hit with me – it’s gone viral among my Instagram followers. I’m still getting tagged in recreations of this slow cooker dish, and for good reason.

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Noodles

Slow Cooker Pesto, Parmesan, Garlic Chicken & Potatoes

Ready for a seriously tasty, no-fuss meal? This Slow Cooker Pesto, Parmesan, Garlic Chicken & Potato recipe is one of my favourites. And here’s the best part: you just dump everything into your slow cooker, press a button, and let it work its magic. No fancy techniques, no complicated steps – everything is super easy thanks to the slow cooker.

Slow Cooker Pesto, Parmesan, Garlic Chicken & Potatoes

Budget-Friendly Meals and Meal Prep Ideas

Looking to save even more money? Slow cooker meals are perfect for meal prep! Whip up a big batch of slow cooker bolognese or chili and portion it out for easy, budget-friendly lunches and dinners throughout the week.

Slow Cooker Cheesy Beef Taco Rice

If you’re a fan of beef tacos and the ease of a slow cooker, this recipe is your new best friend. Inspired by the legend @scaseyfitness, it’s the perfect blend of convenience and flavour. Just toss everything in your slow cooker, and let it work its magic. With only 496 cals per serving and enough to feed 5, it’s a win-win for busy nights and happy bellies!

Slow Cooker Cheesy Beef Taco Rice

Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken

I LOVE the combination of potatoes and garlic. Add some Cajun-spiced chicken thighs and a buttery Parmesan sauce and I’m in heaven with every bite. The thought of the chicken falling off the bone into those garlicky juices is making salivate as I’m writing…

Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Slow Cooker Sausage & Baby Potato Casserole

Nothing compares to dipping butter-slathered bread into a casserole like this when the weather is miserable. I’ve used cocktail sausages here but you could use large sausages if you prefer. Add the cornflour paste if you like a thicker sauce.

Slow Cooker Sausage & Baby Potato Casserole

Slow Cooker Meatball & Chorizo Pasta

This hearty dish is a winner any time of year, and super easy to make. While you might associate meatballs with summer, I have it in the colder months for a beautifully filling bowl of pasta. Whether you’re craving a cosy meal for a chilly evening or hosting a casual gathering with friends, this easy-to-make dish is sure to impress.

Slow Cooker Meatball & Chorizo Pasta

Slow Cooker Pizza Pastabake

If you’ve ever found yourself torn between ordering pizza or pasta at an Italian restaurant, this recipe is your answer. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy the flavours of your favourite pizza toppings combined with perfectly cooked pasta, all in one foolproof and delicious meal.

Slow Cooker Pizza Pastabake

Slow Cooker Soups

When the weather cools down, there’s nothing better than a warm bowl of soup. Throw some leftover veggies into your slow cooker, add some broth and seasonings, and let it simmer away for a cosy meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Slow Cooker Carrot & Parsnip Soup

Slow Cooker Carrot & Parsnip Soup – a comforting classic that’s perfect for any time of year. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to use up any leftover cooked carrots and parsnips you may have on hand.

Slow Cooker Carrot & Parsnip Soup

Slow Cooker Tomato & Chilli Soup

Looking for the easiest soup recipe ever? You have to make this Slow Cooker Tomato & Chilli Soup. This one is as simple as it gets. Simply throw everything straight into your slow cooker for minimal prep. At Bored of Lunch, we’re all about the “throw and go” mentality, just toss in the ingredients, set it, and let your slow cooker work its magic.

Slow Cooker Tomato & Chilli Soup

Slow Cooker French Onion Soup

With the first spoonful, I knew I had to make it at home and I have evolved it into a convenient slow-cooker recipe. This might not be the most authentic recipe and I apologise now to the French nation – I must confess to using Italian herb seasoning and Worcestershire sauce in my French onion soup.

Slow Cooker French Onion Soup

110 Calorie Slow Cooker Celery Soup

Low-calorie slow cooker celery soup. It’s super easy to make, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. This recipe serves six, making it perfect for meal prepping or sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re after a comforting dinner or a healthy lunch option, this soup is sure to hit the spot while keeping your calorie intake in check.

110 Calorie Slow Cooker Celery Soup

Slow cooker pea and ham soup, hearty winter warmer

Slowcooker Pea & Ham Soup

If you’re craving a hearty and comforting meal with minimal effort, you’re in the right place. This pea and ham soup recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So, dust off your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a bowl of warm, satisfying soup that will keep you coming back for more.

Slowcooker Pea & Ham Soup

Happy slowcooking!

So there you have it – 35 mouthwatering slow cooker recipes that will save you time, money, and energy costs. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week ahead, or simply craving something delicious, these recipes have got you covered. If you want more easy, delicious slow cooker recipes like these, you can purchase my latest slowcooker book Bored of Lunch Slow Cooker Even Easier today.