Easiest Crock-Pot Recipes for Busy Weeknights
Are you looking for easy crock pot recipes that require minimal prep time and deliver maximum flavor? Look no further! Crock-pots are a lifesaver for busy weeknights, allowing you to throw ingredients in the morning and come home to a delicious, home-cooked meal. These recipes are perfect for beginners and seasoned crock-pot cooks alike.
Simple & Delicious Crock-Pot Meals:
Here are some of the easiest crock-pot recipes that are guaranteed to impress:
1. Classic Pulled Pork:
This is a crowd-pleasing crock-pot recipe that's surprisingly simple.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb pork shoulder (butt roast)
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place the pork shoulder in the crock-pot.
- In a bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the sauce over the pork shoulder.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, until the pork is easily shredded.
- Shred the pork with two forks and mix it back into the sauce. Serve on buns with your favorite coleslaw.
2. One-Pot Chicken Chili:
This easy crock-pot chicken chili is perfect for a chilly evening. It's packed with flavor and requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place all ingredients in the crock-pot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and shredded.
- Shred the chicken with two forks and mix it back into the chili. Serve with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and avocado.
3. Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken:
This versatile crock-pot recipe is perfect for tacos, burritos, salads, or bowls.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 jar (16 oz) of your favorite salsa
- 1 packet taco seasoning (optional)
Instructions:
- Place chicken breasts in the crock pot.
- Pour salsa over the chicken. Stir in taco seasoning if using.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the chicken and serve as desired.
Tips for Crock-Pot Success:
- Don't overfill your crock-pot. Leave some space at the top for the food to steam.
- Use a liner. This makes cleanup a breeze!
- Check your crock-pot regularly. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on your crock-pot and the ingredients you're using.
These easy crock-pot recipes are just a starting point. With a little experimentation, you can create countless delicious and convenient meals using your crock-pot. Enjoy!
