Easy and Affordable High Protein Crockpot Recipes
If you’re looking to save time and money while still enjoying delicious and nutritious meals, you’ve come to the right place! This collection of cheap crockpot recipes is designed to provide high protein options that will keep you satisfied and energized throughout the day. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking for your family, these recipes are simple to prepare and full of flavor!
Recipe 1: Hearty Chicken and Quinoa Stew
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 2 cups chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In the crockpot, combine chicken, quinoa, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until chicken is cooked through and quinoa is tender.
- Stir again before serving and enjoy your hearty stew!
Recipe 2: Beef and Bean Chili
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the beef mixture to the crockpot.
- Add kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours. Serve hot!
Recipe 3: Lentil and Vegetable Curry
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In the crockpot, combine lentils, coconut milk, vegetable broth, carrots, bell peppers, onion, garlic, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well and cover.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or until lentils are tender.
- Serve warm over rice or with naan bread!
Tips for Using Your Crockpot
Using a crockpot can be a game changer for busy families or individuals. Here are some tips to make the most of your crockpot:
- Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out spices the night before.
- Layering: Place denser ingredients (like potatoes and carrots) at the bottom, followed by meat, and then lighter ingredients.
- Cook on Low: For best results, cook on low heat for a longer period, allowing flavors to meld.
- Don’t Overfill: Leave some space at the top to allow for steam.
Conclusion
These cheap crockpot recipes are not only high in protein but also incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal effort, you can create satisfying meals that your whole family will love. Experiment with different ingredients and spices to make these recipes your own. Happy cooking!
