17 Slow Cooker Recipes That Work While You Do

Slow cookers are a real lifesaver on busy days you can toss in a few ingredients in the morning and come home to a hot, ready meal. Whether you’re working from home or out all day, these recipes take care of the cooking while you focus on everything else.

From hearty stews to tender shredded meats and even a few surprising dishes, there’s something here for different tastes and needs. Each one has been chosen for its ease and reliability, with ingredients that won’t send you on a scavenger hunt.

Perfect for weekdays, meal prep, or just keeping things simple, these slow cooker meals are all about convenience and flavor without the fuss. Let your slow cooker handle the heavy lifting while you get stuff done.

Slow Cooker Pork Roast

This one’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or laid-back Sunday meal. The pork comes out incredibly tender after hours of slow simmering with herbs and broth. Serve it with mashed potatoes or your favorite roasted veggies for a comforting plate.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Roast

Slow Cooker Corned Beef Hash

A hearty option that’s great for breakfast or brinner. Let everything cook low and slow corned beef, potatoes, onions, and spices blend together beautifully. It’s a no-fuss way to enjoy a classic dish with rich, savory flavor.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Corned Beef Hash

Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Simple ingredients come together here for big results. The garlic and parmesan combo adds a rich, creamy finish to tender chicken. It pairs well with pasta, rice, or even just a side salad.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Slow Cooker Maid Rite

This one’s a Midwest favorite for a reason. Ground beef simmers gently with a few pantry staples to create a loose meat sandwich filling that’s packed with flavor. Pile it onto soft buns with pickles or mustard—easy and so satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Maid Rite

Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken

Sweet and savory come together in the best way with this one. The apricot glaze adds a unique flavor that balances out perfectly with tender chicken. It’s a great option for nights when you want something a little different but still easy to throw together.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken

Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini

All the bold flavor of a Philly cheesesteak, mixed with cheesy pasta. This dish is creamy, hearty, and makes the whole house smell amazing. Great for a hands-off dinner that still feels a little indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini

Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken

This one’s a mix of sweet and savory thanks to pineapple, sauce, and juicy chicken. It’s super easy to prep and great for busy weeknights. Serve over rice or even in sandwiches for a laid-back meal.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken

Slow Cooker Pinto Beans

A budget-friendly, protein-packed option that’s great as a side or main. Let the beans soak up flavor from garlic, onion, and spices all day long. You can enjoy them with cornbread, rice, or even tucked into tortillas.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pinto Beans

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

A comforting classic that’s always a hit. The patties cook slowly in a rich, flavorful gravy until they’re tender and juicy. Best served with mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a cozy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

Slow Cooker Butternut Soup

Creamy, warming, and just the right amount of sweet from the butternut squash. It’s an easy set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s great for fall or anytime you want something soothing. Perfect with crusty bread on the side.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Butternut Soup

Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken

A few bold ingredients bring serious flavor with hardly any effort. The chicken ends up super tender with a tangy, savory kick. Ideal for serving over mashed potatoes or stuffing into sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken

Slow Cooker Sausage and Potatoes

Hearty and filling, this one is great for a low-effort meal. The sausage and potatoes soak up plenty of flavor while cooking together all day. It’s a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t require a lot of fuss.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Sausage and Potatoes

Slow Cooker Mississippi Salisbury Steak

Think Salisbury steak, but with an extra flavor boost. This version uses bold pantry staples to create a rich gravy while the patties stay tender. It’s great for dinner when you want something a little extra without the work.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mississippi Salisbury Steak

Slow Cooker Pot Roast

This is a tried-and-true classic that’s perfect for a no-stress meal. The roast gets fall-apart tender, and the veggies soak up all the good flavors. A real comfort food favorite that everyone at the table can agree on.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Bell peppers and tender beef strips come together in a savory sauce that’s great over rice. It’s a solid option for a meal that feels like takeout but is super easy to prep. Let the slow cooker do the work, and dinner’s set.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops

These chops simmer all day in a rich, flavorful gravy. The end result is fork-tender meat that goes great with rice or mashed potatoes. A solid comfort food meal that’s simple to pull together.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops