Cheap Crockpot Recipes for Quick Weeknight Meals
Weeknight dinners can be a challenge, especially when you’re trying to balance flavor, nutrition, and budget. Luckily, crockpots come to the rescue! With just a bit of prep work in the morning or the night before, you can return home to a delicious, home-cooked meal that’s ready to serve. In this article, we’ll explore several cheap crockpot recipes that are not only easy to make but also perfect for busy weeknights.
Recipe 1: Hearty Vegetable and Bean Chili
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup vegetable broth
Instructions:
- In the crockpot, combine all the ingredients and stir well to mix.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving. Enjoy with rice or cornbread!
Recipe 2: Easy Chicken Tacos
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours on low
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- Taco shells or tortillas for serving
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, lettuce, sour cream, avocado
Instructions:
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot and sprinkle with taco seasoning.
- Pour salsa over the chicken and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
- Shred the chicken with two forks and mix well with the juices. Serve in taco shells with your favorite toppings!
Recipe 3: Budget-Friendly Beef Stew
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours on low
Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs stew meat, cut into cubes
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
Instructions:
- In the crockpot, combine all ingredients and stir to mix.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until meat is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
- Remove bay leaves before serving. This stew pairs well with crusty bread!
Recipe 4: Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours on low
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pasta (any shape)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Add crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, and basil to the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours, then stir in pasta and cream.
- Cook for an additional hour or until pasta is al dente. Season to taste and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Conclusion
These cheap crockpot recipes are not only friendly to your wallet but also save you precious time during busy weeknights. The slow cooker is a fantastic tool for creating nourishing and satisfying meals with minimal effort. Give these recipes a try, and enjoy the convenience and comfort of a home-cooked dinner without breaking the bank!
