Crockpot - Lauren's Latest https://laurenslatest.com/recipes/dinner-ideas/crockpot/ A food and recipe blog Sat, 15 Oct 2022 15:39:55 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.0.3 https://laurenslatest.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/cropped-favicon-180x180.png Crockpot - Lauren's Latest https://laurenslatest.com/recipes/dinner-ideas/crockpot/ 32 32 Southwest Crock Pot Pork Chops https://laurenslatest.com/southwest-crock-pot-pork/ https://laurenslatest.com/southwest-crock-pot-pork/#comments Mon, 10 Oct 2022 03:34:00 +0000 http://www.laurenslatest.com/?p=8 Creamy and flavorful with just a hint of heat, Southwest Crockpot Pork Chops are a true “dump and go” dinner idea. Toss the ingredients in the crockpot in the morning and return to a meal ready to be served! Want another easy method for tender pork chops? Try my Instant Pot Pork Chops! Either way […]

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Creamy and flavorful with just a hint of heat, Southwest Crockpot Pork Chops are a true “dump and go” dinner idea. Toss the ingredients in the crockpot in the morning and return to a meal ready to be served! Want another easy method for tender pork chops? Try my Instant Pot Pork Chops! Either way you choose, it turns out delicious every time.

Overhead view of 2 bowls of Southwest pork over rice

Easiest Crockpot Pork Chops Ever

If you’re looking for a dinner that basically cooks itself, this easy pork recipe is for you! All you need to do is add the ingredients into the slow cooker, turn it on high, and come back 6 hours later. Shred the pork, stir in the remaining ingredients, and dinner is served.

How easy is that?! Perfect for busy weeknights and those days you just don’t want to cook. Plus it’s a warm, hearty, and filling meal. I often find myself turning to this one on cold, dreary days. The creamy sauce and warm Southwest flavors make this an ideal comfort food recipe.

As a bonus, there are usually lots of leftovers left which means even less cooking the next day. Seriously, this crockpot pork is a real winner in my house and once you see how easy it is, it may become a staple in yours too!

What’s the Best Pork to Use?

This Southwest pork can be made with a 3 to 4 pound pork roast or thick pork chops. I used 3 thick pork chops with the fat removed, but since the meat gets shredded, it’s totally up to your personal preference.

I would avoid bone-in pork chops, as you want something thick that can shred easily. You also want to choose meat that has some fat in it, as that adds lots of flavor, but trim any excess fat to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy.

How to Make Southwest Crockpot Pork Chops

This crockpot pork is made with a creamy soup, a few Southwest seasonings, corn, black beans, and of course, cheese. You can’t forget the cheese! For full recipe details, see the printable recipe card down below. Here is what you can expect when making this recipe:

Add Sauce Ingredients + Pork to Crockpot

Whisk together the soup, water, corn, spices and cheese in the bottom of a crockpot. Add the pork to the sauce. Turn the crockpot on high and cook for at least 6 hours.

Shred the Pork

Remove the pork and shred the meat. Stir the shredded meat into the sauce with the black beans, cilantro, and scallions.

Serve

Serve your Southwest pork over rice or with corn tortillas.

Two bowls of Southwest crockpot pork served over rice

Tips & Variations

If you don’t cook a lot of pork in your crockpot, here are some tips to help you out.

  • How to tell when pork is done. The length of time it takes to fully cook your pork will depend on the slow cooker and the size of the roast or pork chops used. The best way to tell if your pork is ready is with an internal thermometer. Pork is fully cooked at 145Β° F.
  • Can I make this with chicken? While I’ve never made this recipe with chicken, you can definitely use chicken breast or thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as chicken tends to cook faster than pork.
  • Add some heat. If you want to kick up the Southwest flavor a bit more, you can add in some jalapeno slices to the dish before serving.

Side Dish Ideas

I typically serve this shredded crockpot pork over a bowl of rice for a quick and easy dinner. You can also serve it with corn tortillas…taco-style. If you want a lower-carb option, try quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of plain white rice.

With the black beans and corn right in the dish, you can easily get away with calling this Southwest pork a meal on its own. However, if you want a little something extra, you can’t go wrong with a bright green salad or some roasted veggies like green beans or cauliflower.

Leftovers & Storage

One of the best things about crockpot pork chops is the leftovers! Extras easily store for a few days and can be made into burritos, tacos, sandwiches and quesadillas. You can even stuff leftover pork into a baked sweet potato, then top it with lots of cheese for a simple and healthy meal.

  • How to store leftovers. Leftover Southwest pork will last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to store in an airtight container. If you are serving with rice, I recommend storing the rice separately.
  • How to reheat leftovers. I recommend reheating leftovers on the stovetop, though you can heat them up in the microwave as well.
Overhead of two bowls of slow cooker shredded pork over rice

More Crockpot Recipes to Try…

There you have it, an amazingly tasty meal that you didn’t have to slave in the kitchen all day to make, but definitely tastes like you did! Be sure to save, print, bookmark or share this recipe. The printable recipe card is below. Have a great day, friends! πŸ™‚

Two bowls of Southwest crockpot pork served over rice
Print

Southwest Crockpot Pork Chops

Creamy and flavorful with just a hint of heat, this Southwest Crockpot Pork is a true "dump and go" crockpot recipe. Toss the ingredients in the crockpot in the morning and return to a dinner ready to be served!
Course Dinner
Cuisine Southwestern
Keyword crockpot pork chops, easy pork recipes, slow cooker pork
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings 8 Servings
Calories 488kcal
Author Lauren

Ingredients

  • 3-4 lb pork roast or I used 3 super thick pork chops with the fat removed
  • 2 cans cream of chicken soup
  • 1 can water
  • 1 can sweet corn drained
  • 2 Tablespoons cumin
  • 1 Tablespoon chili powder
  • salt & pepper
  • 2 cups grated cheddar cheese I use sharp
  • 1 can black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup cilantro chopped
  • 2 scallions chopped

Instructions

  • In the bottom of a crockpot, whisk soup, water, corn, spices, and cheese. Set roast in the sauce and set crockpot to high. Cook for at least 6 hours..
  • Before serving, remove roast and shred the meat. Stir meat back into sauce with black beans, cilantro, and scallions. Serve over rice or in fried corn tortillas

Nutrition

Calories: 488kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 51g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 140mg | Sodium: 532mg | Potassium: 1402mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 1104IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 242mg | Iron: 3mg

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35+ Crockpot Recipes https://laurenslatest.com/one-month-of-crockpot-meals/ https://laurenslatest.com/one-month-of-crockpot-meals/#comments Wed, 05 Oct 2022 23:48:00 +0000 https://laurenslatest.com/?p=37057 A list of 31 delicious, easy, and kid-friendly Crockpot meals. Soup, stew, pasta, casserole, and more! Grab that slow cooker!

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A list of 35+ delicious, easy, and kid-friendly Crockpot Recipes. Soup, stew, pasta, casserole, and more! Grab that slow cooker and let’s get started!

Crockpot Meals

Crockpot Meals

If you love Crockpot Recipes then this post is for YOU! I have come to the realization that you all love your Crockpots! I am right there with you πŸ™‚ They are so convenient to use for a busy or working parent and all the food comes out so delicious every darn time. What’s not to love?

So today I’ve compiled a list of 35+ popular crockpot recipes, so you can use it throughout the next few months! There should be a recipe or two on this list that you and your family would love but at the very least give you a little inspiration for your next meal.

Make sure to pin this post because it is SUCH a good resource to have on hand. Have a great day, friends!

35+ Crockpot Recipes

tongs picking up chicken spaghetti from the crockpot

Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

This Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is one of the most popular recipes on my site! It is a creamy, cheesy, southwestern family favorite! Cook the sauce for a few hours, shred the chicken and then toss with pasta.

BBQ Chicken Cheddar Sliders

Crockpot BBQ Chicken Cheddar Sliders

An easy, simple and tasty dinner or appetizer…these Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sliders will make you a believer in your crockpot again.

Pot Roast

Slow Cooker Pot Roast

This Pot Roast Crockpot Recipe is comfort food at its best! Vegetables, beef roast and savory gravy all cook together low and slow in a crockpot until it’s fall-apart tender. 

chicken taco meat

Crockpot Chicken Taco Meat

This Crockpot Chicken Taco Meat Recipe makes taco night even easier! This is a very flavorful, not too spicy and a super simple way to make shredded chicken! The possibilities are endless whether you use it in Chicken EnchiladasChicken Tortilla Soup, tacos, nachos or quesadillas.

 Bolognese Sauce on pasta

Slowcooker Bolognese Sauce

A meaty, flavorful, Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce made in the crockpot! This sauce is the perfect balance of salty, creamy, rich, and delicious. It will be love at first bite.

Stuffed Shells

Crockpot Pesto Stuffed Shells

An easy and foolproof way to make stuffed shells: use the crockpot! The pesto gives these stuffed shells delicious flavor and the three cheeses don’t hurt either. Crockpot Pesto Stuffed Shells are your new best friend.

Cauliflower Soup

Creamy Crockpot Cauliflower Soup

Cauliflower Soup is a low carb, easy and tasty dinner for those chilly nights ahead! Grab your preferred appliance, some bacon (yum!), and this comforting recipe.

Slow-Cooked Tri Tips & Gravy with Mashed Potatoes... slow cooked to tender perfection!

Slow Cooked Tri Tips & Gravy

This Slow Cooked Tri-Tip Roast creates the most tender beef and creamy gravy. Serve over warm mashed potatoes and a side of Brussel Sprouts! Comfort food at its finest!

BBQ Chicken Wings

Crockpot BBQ Chicken Wings

These Crockpot BBQ Chicken Wings are the easiest appetizer of all time. You only need chicken wings and some BBQ sauce. For an amazing finished product, finish them off on the grill or under the broiler. Tasty little devils.

chicken tortilla soup in white bowl

Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup

The easiest, healthiest and tastiest recipe for Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup, guaranteed. A veggie-packed soup that tastes great with all the taco toppings you could handle. Guacamole, cheese, and cilantro are my favorites.

Southwest Crockpot Egg Noodle Casserole

Southwest Crockpot Egg Noodle Casserole is a creamy and easy Mexican inspired chicken dinner! Filled with peppers, cream cheese, chicken, and lots of egg noodles, this meal is totally family-friendly and kid-approved.

Sloppy Joes

Healthier Crockpot Sloppy Joes

This Healthier Crockpot Sloppy Joes recipe is half meat and half veggies, but no one will know!  Everything cooks down together, so when you serve over rolls, no one will see or be able to taste all the onions, zucchini and squash.

close up of pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw on it

Root Beer Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Root Beer Pulled Pork is the best! The sweet flavor cooks down and makes that tender pork amazing! Your Crockpot makes it effortless.

crockpot chicken enchilada casserole on a white plate with sour cream and avocado slices on top

Healthy Crockpot Enchilada Casserole

This Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Casserole is easy, delicious, and full of vegetables. It’s a kid-approved recipe that is perfect for dinner! 

Crockpot Italian Chicken Pasta

Crockpot Italian Chicken Pasta is another very popular recipe, made with marinara sauce, chicken breasts, Italian seasoning, and cream cheese! Seems like an unlikely pairing, but I assure you it’s delicious!

Crockpot Smoked Sausage & Hash Brown Casserole...a fast dinner idea!

Crockpot Smoked Sausage & Hash Brown Casserole

Crockpot Hash Brown Casserole has frozen hash browns, chopped smoked sausage, and a homemade sauce. Finish it with cheese and serve. If you like smoked sausage, you will love this recipe.

Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is an easy and delicious make ahead dinner, perfect for any weeknight. Filled with red onion, peppers, pineapple and chicken, cooked low and slow in teriyaki sauce to perfection.

Chicken Tetrazzini

Crockpot Chicken Tetrazzini

Crockpot Chicken Tetrazzini has peas, mushrooms, and chicken in a creamy sauce and topped with crunchy, buttery bread crumbs. Makes a great weeknight dinner for those chilly fall school nights!

honey mustard chicken

Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Sweet, slightly tangy, buttery, and addicting, with one taste this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken will be your new favorite dinner. 

Crockpot Balsamic Beef with Rosemary

This Crockpot Balsamic Beef with Rosemary is the easiest, most flavorful meat stew out there! Only a few ingredients needed for this filling, delicious dinner. 

Beef stew

Creamy Crockpot Stew

A comforting, classic recipe for Beef Stew – crockpot version! Tender beef chunks with carrots and red potatoes all wrapped up in a buttery, velvety thick gravy. 

Butternut Squash Alfredo

Crockpot Butternut Squash Alfredo

Butternut Squash Alfredo is a delicious vegetarian option that is so creamy! A simple dinner, with the flavors of the season and the slow-cooked convenience of your crockpot.

 Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork

Crockpot Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork

Crockpot Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin is easy to throw together, delicious and kid-friendly. Pair with potatoes or rice and that’s dinner!

Crockpot Sweet Corn and Sausage Chowder

Fall is upon us and nothing is quite as comforting {or easy!} as a warm, creamy Sweet Corn Chowder with Sausage from your slow cooker.

Garlic Cheesy Bread

Crockpot Garlic Cheesy Bread

The ultimate easy Garlic Bread is made in your slow cooker! This delicious carby goodness cannot be resisted by anyone and is completely foolproof!

How to Cook a Spaghetti Squash in a Crockpot

Crockpot Spaghetti Squash is a simple how-to on how to cook spaghetti squash! It’s so EASY and it cooks perfectly every time.

Angled view of two bowls of Southwest pork served over rice

Southwest Crockpot Pork

This easy Southwest Crockpot Pork recipe is for you! All you need to do is add the ingredients into the slow cooker, turn it on high, and come back 6 hours later to shred the pork and dinner is served.

mashed potatoes in a crockpot with butter and garnish

Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are smooth, silky, and extra creamy. They taste just as delicious as the stovetop version, but made easier because we used the crockpot! They are the perfect make-ahead mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving or Christmas!

sliced ribs on foil

Crockpot Ribs

This Crockpot Ribs Recipe yields the most tender and tasty ribs ever! Cook them until tender in the crockpot and then finish them off on the grill or broiler with lots of BBQ sauce! 

Chicken Fajitas

Crockpot Chicken Fajitas

Need a super simple dinner idea? Try these easy Crockpot Chicken Fajitas! With minimal ingredients, it’s a meal that requires little prep while giving you big flavor.

Shredded Mexican Pork

This slow-cooked, Mexican Pork is so tender, flavorful and just falls apart in shreds. Perfect for filling tacos, burritos, and nachos! Make it in the oven or crockpot.

finished crockpot lasagna

Slow Cooker Lasagna

This Slow Cooker Lasagna recipe features a meaty sauce, three cheeses and uncooked lasagna pasta sheets that are layered and cooked low and slow in a crockpot. 

sweet and sour meatballs

Sweet + Sour Meatballs

This Sweet and Sour Meatballs recipe is so simple to make and is the perfect appetizer. The odds are you have all the ingredients already on hand!

Crockpot Hot Chocolate

Crockpot Hot Chocolate is a well balanced, creamy, chocolatey, sweet homemade recipe everyone will enjoy! Take it over the top with creamer!

olive garden chicken pasta

Olive Garden {Copycat} Chicken Pasta

This Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is a creamy and delightful weeknight meal made in the crockpot! With a small list of ingredients, this recipe is super simple to throw together and cook. 

brushing ham in crockpot with glaze

Crockpot Ham

This easy, 3-ingredient Crockpot Ham recipe is made with precooked spiralized ham and brown sugar.

beef vegetable soup in white bowl

Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup

Filled with tender stew meat, comforting broth and tons of veggies, this Vegetable Beef Soup is a delicious, filling and hearty soup.

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25 Fall Soup Recipes https://laurenslatest.com/25-fall-soup-recipes/ https://laurenslatest.com/25-fall-soup-recipes/#comments Sun, 11 Sep 2022 11:30:00 +0000 https://laurenslatest.com/?p=90466 With September here and back to school in full swing, it can only mean that Fall is just around the corner. I couldn’t be more thrilled! Cooler temps and leaves changing colors means it’s time to cozy up, watch a movie…and start making soups! Nothing is better than the warmth and comfort that a hearty […]

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With September here and back to school in full swing, it can only mean that Fall is just around the corner. I couldn’t be more thrilled! Cooler temps and leaves changing colors means it’s time to cozy up, watch a movie…and start making soups! Nothing is better than the warmth and comfort that a hearty soup brings. Today I am excited to bring to you 25 of my favorite soups, chilis and chowders all in one conveinent place. My hope is that this list will inspire you to pull out the slow cooker and make your favorite soup, or try a new one!

fall soup recipes

What Are You Looking For?

Chicken and Dumplings, Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup, White Chicken Chili, Chicken Noodle Soup, or whatever you’re craving, this list has it! Whichever recipe you choose first, it’s sure to leave your belly full and happy and we won’t judge you for licking the bowl clean. Dig in!

Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup

This Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup is the perfect warm and comforting meal for the upcoming cold winter months. Filled with lots of veggies and wholesome wild rice, your family will fall in love with this recipe.

Cauliflower Soup

Cauliflower Soup (Instant Pot & Slow Cooker Directions)

Instant Pot Cauliflower Soup is a low carb, easy and tasty dinner for those chilly nights ahead this fall! Grab your preferred appliance, some bacon (yum!), and this comforting recipe.

chicken gnocchi soup in bowl

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

An Olive Garden copycat recipe, this Chicken Gnocchi Soup is creamy, flavorful and really easy to make. Flavorful carrots, chicken and gnocchi cooked together in a thick and creamy broth, this soup will become your new fall favorite!

Baked Potato Soup

Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This 25-minute Loaded Baked Potato Soup is super simple and delicious! Perfect for busy weeknights this fall. Top with traditional baked potato toppings and then enjoy!

broccoli cheese soup in bowl

Broccoli Cheese Soup

Creamy, cheesy and oh so yummy, this Broccoli Cheese Soup will knock your socks off! A quick and comforting weeknight meal that tastes great! Grab some broccoli and cheese and get cooking! 

tortellini soup in white bowl

Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup

This Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup is a super easy vegetarian meal that is packed full of tomatoes, seasonings, and cheesy tortellini! It’s a really quick meal that comes together in a cinch. It’s comforting but not too heavy. Perfect for those chilly evenings.

Creamy Tomato Bisque

This soup is filled with lots of veggies, plus butter and cream for good measure and blended to perfection! I like mine a little chunky, but feel free to keep that blender going until it’s completely smooth. 

Close up of Taco Soup

Taco Soup

This Taco Soup is healthy, hearty, easy, and delicious, it will make you want to give up tacos completely and commit to just soup! My favorite part is all the toppings to load on top!

Beef Stew ( Crockpot Recipe)

A comforting, classic recipe for beef stew – crockpot version! Tender beef chunks with carrots and red potatoes all wrapped up in a buttery, velvety thick gravy. The longer it cooks, the tastier it gets. Like a big warm slow cooker beef stew hug straight from my kitchen to yours.

top down view of pumpkin soup in two bowls

Pumpkin Soup

This Creamy Pumpkin Soup is filled with lots of spices, maple syrup, pumpkin, and heavy cream making it savory, a little sweet and so creamy! Top with pepitas for a light crunch.

beef vegetable soup in white bowl

Vegetable Beef Soup

Filled with tender stew meat, comforting broth and tons of veggies, this Vegetable Beef Soup is a delicious, filling and hearty soup. Perfect for dinner as we get into the chilly Fall months. Make it on the stove or in the crockpot, I’ve got directions for both! 

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

This Chicken Pot Pie Soup is a lighter, lower-calorie version of Chicken Pot Pie that is faster and easier to make but just as delicious! Packed with veggies, shredded chicken and seasonings, you’ll have a quick and healthful weeknight meal, in less than 30 minutes.

sausage kale soup in white bowl

Creamy Sausage Kale Soup

Made with Italian Sausage, kale, and potatoes, this Creamy Sausage Kale Soup is exactly what you need to warm up on a cold day! And yes, it is a Zuppa Toscana copycat recipe! The sweet Italian sausage flavors the creamy broth and the potatoes and kale add substance to make this hearty and healthful. It’s a relatively quick recipe to make and doesn’t take a bunch of prep work.

bowl of chicken tortilla soup

Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup

This recipe is so tasty and will feed a crowd! Very hearty, very healthy and is particularly divine with lots of cheese, sour cream, cilantro, crushed tortilla chips and anything else you want to throw up on top. 

Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

The most delicious, comforting Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe! Ready in 30 minutes and perfect for chilly or sick days!

Sweet Potato Curry Soup

You all will LOVE Sweet Potato Curry Soup. Warm, creamy, and {mostly} nutritious. It’s super delish and takes almost zero elbow grease. AND, it’s full of yummy spices that will make you want to get cozy by a fire and put on heavy turtleneck sweaters.

Minestrone Soup

This flavorful classic Minestrone Soup recipe is warm, satisfying, and packed full of nutrition. Perfect for the colder months and even more perfect in a homemade bread bowl.

hamburger soup in bowl

Hamburger Soup

This humble and simple Hamburger Soup recipe is the perfect comforting dinner or quick weeknight meal. Filled with ground beef and veggies with a hearty and flavorful broth, this soup will make it to the weekly rotation this Fall.

white chicken chili in bowl

White Chicken Chili

You have to give this White Chicken Chili a try! It is creamy, a little spicy, filling, and filled with nutrition. Make a big pot, serve with rice and it will seem bottomless. The perfect meal for a crowd on a cold evening.

top down view of no bean chili in a bowl next to cornbread

No Bean Chili

This No Bean Chili is a hearty and healthy recipe, filled with turkey and tons of vegetables! This meal comes together quickly and is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner! 

top down view of chili in a bowl

Homemade Chili

You’ll never need another Chili Recipe again! This is the most basic, family-friendly, veggie-filled, delicious, one-pot chili recipe ever

Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and Dumplings

A homemade, easy Chicken and Dumplings recipe that is both comforting and tasty! Warm broth with tender chicken and buttery dumplings. Perfect for Fall!

carrot soup in white bowl

Creamy Carrot Soup

This Creamy Carrot Soup is simplicity at its finest. A ridiculously easy, thick and creamy soup that is made with carrots, onions and potatoes. It’s the perfect comforting soup for Fall.

mushroom soup in bowl

Cream of Mushroom Soup

This Cream of Mushroom Soup is as easy as they come. Lots of straightforward ingredients, simple steps, and a delicious end product.

Crockpot Sweet Corn Chowder with Sausage

Fall is upon us and nothing is quite as comforting {or easy!} as a warm, creamy Sweet Corn Chowder Recipe with Sausage from your slow cooker.

I hope you find a new favorite soup recipe from this list. There are so many good ones! Be sure to save, print, bookmark or share your favorites. Happy Fall cooking, friends! πŸ™‚

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Crockpot Chicken Taco Meat https://laurenslatest.com/crockpot-chicken-taco-meat/ https://laurenslatest.com/crockpot-chicken-taco-meat/#comments Sun, 07 Aug 2022 11:13:00 +0000 http://www.laurenslatest.com/?p=17203 This Crockpot Chicken Taco Meat Recipe is a super simple and very flavorful way to make healthy shredded chicken!

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Ready for an easy dinner idea? This Crockpot Chicken Taco Meat Recipe makes taco night even easier! This is a very flavorful, not too spicy and super simple way to make shredded chicken! The possibilities are endless whether you use it in Chicken Enchiladas, Chicken Tortilla Soup, tacos, nachos or quesadillas.

chicken taco meat

Why Should I Make Chicken Taco Meat in the Crockpot?

I think nearly everyone will agree, crockpot recipes always seem to be the most delicious and super easy. Chicken is always cooked to perfection and shreds so easily every time. I love the ease of throwing everything in the crockpot early on in my day, and set it and forget it (for the most part). Knowing dinner will be ready or at least mostly ready by the time dinner time rolls around is the best! Be warned, this recipe is ridiculously easy.

Recipes Ideas to use this Chicken Taco Meat

Whether you’re adding chicken to tacos or quesadillas, this crockpot chicken is perfect for the job. Here are few recipe ideas to get you started.

Make Your Own Taco Seasoning

You can use store-bought taco seasoning, no problem! I always keep a few on hand for busy days. But if you want to make your own, I have a great one! My Homemade Taco Seasoning is so much better than store bought and you probably have all of the ingredients in your spice cabinet.

How to Make Crockpot Chicken Taco Meat

Throwing this recipe together for the crockpot is ridiculously easy. For full recipe details and measurements, see the printable recipe card below.

Add Ingredients to a Cold Crockpot

Place chicken into the crockpot. Sprinkle taco seasoning onto chicken, and pour the can of chilis and salsa over the top.

Cook

Cover and cook on high for 4-5 hours or until chicken is cooked thoroughly and will shred easily.

Shred Chicken + Place Back in Crockpot

Shred chicken by using two forks or in your stand mixer using the paddle attachment. It only takes a few seconds. A hand mixer will also work.

Remove any questionable pieces (fat, cartilage, etc.) and place back into the crockpot with the cooking liquid. Cover to keep warm and serve in tacos, quesadillas, on a salad, or however your little heart desires.

Storing Leftover Shredded Chicken

Any leftover shredded chicken can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Simply reheat in the microwave in intervals, occasionally stirring until heated through. Freezing this chicken and using for later is very simple. Allow chicken to cool completely before placing in a freezer safe, airtight container. Chicken will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw and use: Place in the fridge overnight to thaw. When ready to use, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Other taco recipes you might like:

That’s it!

Be sure to save, print, bookmark, and share this recipe! Get the printable version below.

Have a great week, friends!

chicken taco meat
Print

Crockpot Chicken Taco Meat Recipe

This Crockpot Chicken Taco Meat Recipe is a super simple and very flavorful way to make healthy shredded chicken! Use for days in a variety of different dishes!
Course Dinner
Cuisine Mexican
Keyword Chicken Taco Meat, Chicken Taco Meat Recipe, Crockpot Chicken Taco Meat
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 5 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 206kcal
Author Lauren Brennan

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs frozen chicken breasts about 4 breasts
  • 1.25 oz taco seasoning packet 1/4 cup
  • 4.5 oz mild diced green chiles 1 can
  • 1 1/2 cups salsa

Instructions

  • Place all ingredients into a crockpot and cook on high for 4-5 hours or until chicken is cooked thoroughly and will shred easily.
  • Remove chicken from crockpot and shred, removing any fat.
  • Place back into the crockpot and stir with remaining liquid. Cover and keep warm in the crockpot until ready to serve.
  • Serve in tacos, quesadillas, nachos, etc.

Nutrition

Calories: 206kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 96mg | Sodium: 1194mg | Potassium: 768mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 940IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 35mg | Iron: 1.5mg

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Crockpot Chicken Fajitas https://laurenslatest.com/crockpot-chicken-fajitas/ https://laurenslatest.com/crockpot-chicken-fajitas/#comments Tue, 31 May 2022 15:30:00 +0000 https://laurenslatest.com/?p=65788 Crockpot Chicken Fajitas are an easy throw together meal that requires little prep and results in tons of flavor. Plus it's high in protein!

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Need a super simple dinner idea? Try these easy Crockpot Chicken Fajitas! With minimal ingredients, it’s a meal that requires little prep while giving you big flavor. Delicious served with some Cilantro Lime Rice and Pico de Gallo.

cooked chicken fajitas in a crockpot

A Mexican Favorite Made in the Crockpot!

I love a good crockpot meal and this one certainly does not disappoint! While I have an Easy Chicken Fajita Recipe that can be made on the stove or in the oven, I thought it made sense to add crockpot chicken fajitas to my recipe arsenal. Not only is this an easy “set it and forget it” dinner, it tastes just as good as the other versions. The only thing you need to be careful of is overcooking the peppers. If you’re a little picky about keeping the integrity of the peppers, I’d suggest using the smaller chicken tenders, cutting up your larger chicken breasts into thinner pieces OR adding the peppers in later, during the last hour to hour and a half of cooking time.

How to Make Chicken Fajitas in the Crockpot

I love set it and forget it type meals made in the crockpot! For full details on how to make chicken fajitas in the crockpot see the recipe card down below.

Prep Veggies

Slice your onions and peppers. (I used half of each color of pepper, but you are welcome to just use all green, all red or a combination of the colors available to you.)

Add onions and peppers to a large bowl. Toss with olive oil and 2/3 of the fajita seasoning. Set aside.

Cook in the Crockpot

Spray a cold crockpot with nonstick cooking spray and add the chicken. Sprinkle with remaining fajita seasoning.

Top chicken with onions and peppers. Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours or until chicken is thoroughly cooked and peppers have softened (not mushy).

uncooked chicken fajitas in the crockpot

Shred and Serve

Shred chicken and serve with tortillas and any other desired fajita toppings (more on that below).

Favorite Chicken Fajita Toppings

Traditionally fajitas are served ‘taco style’ in a variety of different tortillas. Flour tortillas being the most popular at restaurants (and at my house). However, if you’re not wanting tortillas, the finished crockpot chicken fajitas mixture is delicious served as a ‘bowl’ with rice, beans and other yummy toppings. Here are a couple of ideas:

chicken fajita mixture on a tortilla on a white plate

Storing Leftovers

While fajitas are best eaten the day they are prepared, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days. The main thing to note here is that the chicken will be fine, but the onions and peppers will get soggy the longer they sit.

Love Chicken Fajitas? More Mexican Dishes to Try:

There you have it! Protein packed, easy as pie, Crockpot Chicken Fajitas!

The printable recipe card is down below. Be sure to print/save/pin/bookmark this page…it’s a good one!

Print

Crockpot Chicken Fajitas

Crockpot Chicken Fajitas are an easy throw together meal that requires little prep and results in tons of flavor. Plus it's high in protein!
Course Dinner
Cuisine Mexican
Keyword crockpot chicken fajitas
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 190kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 bell peppers any color
  • 1 red onion
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into slices
  • 1.27 oz fajita seasoning one packet

Instructions

  • Slice onions and peppers. (I used half of each color of pepper, but you are welcome to just use all green, all red or a combination of the colors available to you.)
  • Add onions and peppers to a large bowl. Toss with olive oil and β…” of the fajita seasoning. Set aside.
  • Spray a cold crockpot with nonstick cooking spray and add the chicken. Sprinkle with remaining fajita seasoning.
  • Top chicken with onions and peppers. Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours or until chicken is thoroughly cooked and peppers have softened (but not mushy).
  • Shred chicken and serve with tortillas and any other desired fajita toppings: tomatoes, salsa, avocado, guacamole, rice, beans, cilantro.

Nutrition

Calories: 190kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 73mg | Sodium: 135mg | Potassium: 585mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1897IU | Vitamin C: 79mg | Calcium: 16mg | Iron: 1mg

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Olive Garden Chicken Pasta https://laurenslatest.com/olive-garden-chicken-pasta/ https://laurenslatest.com/olive-garden-chicken-pasta/#comments Thu, 12 May 2022 18:30:08 +0000 https://laurenslatest.com/?p=86935 This Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is a creamy and delightful weeknight meal made in the crockpot! With a small list of ingredients, this recipe is super simple to throw together and cook. Simply shred the chicken, toss with pasta and serve. While I do think the original recipe floating around the internet is totally overkill […]

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This Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is a creamy and delightful weeknight meal made in the crockpot! With a small list of ingredients, this recipe is super simple to throw together and cook. Simply shred the chicken, toss with pasta and serve. While I do think the original recipe floating around the internet is totally overkill (read: fat on fat on fat), this is a much tastier, lightened up version that you can feel a little better about feeding your family.

olive garden chicken pasta

Four Main Ingredients

Crockpot recipes are fabulous and the small list of ingredients is usually one of the reasons why I love them so much. Throw everything in and let her rip. Here are the basics of what you’ll need:

  • chicken breasts
  • light olive garden salad dressing
  • cream cheese
  • Italian Seasoning

Chicken is cooked in this creamy, Italian-flavored sauce, then shredded and tossed with cooked pasta, parmesan cheese and fat free half and half. Yes, I did cut the calories by 2/3rds!! And yes, it still tastes fabulous! You’re welcome.

Of course you can use the full fat original olive garden salad dressing. But just know that it will increase the calorie and fat gram count on the nutrition.

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

This isn’t a copycat recipe taken directly from the Olive Garden Archives. Oh, no dear reader, this is simply just a recipe using a whole lot of olive garden salad dressing to flavor a chicken and pasta crockpot dish.

Cook Chicken In Crockpot

In the bottom of a cold crockpot, add salad dressing, chicken, cream cheese and Italian seasoning. Cover and cook 3-4 hours on high.

Shred Chicken & Toss with Pasta

Turn crockpot to warm, shred chicken and stir to melt cream cheese completely into sauce. Toss with parmesan cheese, half & half and cooked pasta. Divide into portions and serve warm.

Saving Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover pasta, it stores really well in the fridge for up to 4 days as long as it is in air tight containers. Because it’s a creamy pasta sauce, it won’t reheat as ‘saucy’ unless you add in a splash of water to loosen it up. After you microwave it, stir that water in well to create that creamy sauce and it’s as good as new.

What to Serve with Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Here are some classic side dishes that go well with any Italian meal, regardless of what you’re making!

Other Crockpot Recipes You Will Love

The slow cooker has been a fabulous go-to kitchen appliance for years for good reason! It never gets old and it produces delicious results. Here are a few reader favorite recipes:

Anyways, I hope you enjoy this easy and delicious pasta recipe as much as me and my husband did. It’s a good one you will want to save and make again and again.

olive garden chicken pasta
olive garden chicken pasta
Print

Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

This Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is a creamy and delightful weeknight meal made in the crockpot! With a small list of ingredients, this recipe is super simple to throw together and cook.
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 491kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Crockpot or Slowcooker

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Light Olive Garden Salad Dressing
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
  • 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup fat free half & half
  • 1 pound short cut pasta cooked and drained

Instructions

  • In the bottom of a cold crockpot, add salad dressing, chicken, cream cheese and Italian seasoning. Cover and cook 3-4 hours on high.
  • Turn crockpot to warm, shred chicken and stir to melt cream cheese completely into sauce. Toss with parmesan cheese, half & half and cooked pasta.
  • Divide into portions and serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 491kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 78mg | Sodium: 632mg | Potassium: 594mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 362IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 185mg | Iron: 2mg

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Crockpot Ribs https://laurenslatest.com/crockpot-ribs/ https://laurenslatest.com/crockpot-ribs/#comments Wed, 26 Jan 2022 23:56:00 +0000 https://laurenslatest.com/?p=56271 This Crockpot Ribs Recipe yields the most tender and tasty ribs ever! Cook them until tender in the crockpot and then finish them off on the grill or broiler with lots of BBQ sauce! So delicious with Italian Pasta Salad, Potato Salad or Mexican Street Corn. An Easier Way to Cook Ribs! I have been […]

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This Crockpot Ribs Recipe yields the most tender and tasty ribs ever! Cook them until tender in the crockpot and then finish them off on the grill or broiler with lots of BBQ sauce! So delicious with Italian Pasta Salad, Potato Salad or Mexican Street Corn.

sliced ribs on foil

An Easier Way to Cook Ribs!

I have been working on perfecting this Crockpot Ribs recipe for a couple weeks and am so thrilled to be sharing this recipe with you today! I actually ended up cooking six racks of ribs for a family rib cook-off against myself (yes, I totally did that) and had everyone vote on their favorites and this recipe was the clear winner!

So, using a crockpot to cook ribs is probably one of the easiest methods out there. You rub the ribs down generously with some BBQ seasonings and cook them on low (or high!) in the crockpot that has the slightest bit of apple juice to prevent scorching and to keep things as moist as possible. After several hours, they are cooked through and are *almost* fall apart tender. If you are wanting to finish them on the grill, be sure to pull them before they are falling apart. Slather them generously with BBQ sauce and grill or broil until they have a nice crust on them, cut into pieces and serve warm.

It’s a bit of a labor of love because the cook time is 3+ hours when all is said and done, but man oh man the pay off is so worth it!

racks of ribs in crockpot

Cooking Ribs Basics

Baby Back vs St. Louis Style Ribs

Baby back ribs are typically a little smaller with less meat on them, but sometimes you can find them really meaty (like as seen in these pictures). St. Louis style ribs are a little larger with a little more meat. Honestly, it just comes down to personal preference. Also, you can cook your ribs in the oven (tutorial here) or make crockpot ribs as this post describes.

What is Silver Skin and Do I Have to Remove it?

Silver Skin is a membrane of connective tissue found on the back of every rack of ribs. No matter how long you cook your ribs (in the crockpot, in a smoker, in the oven, etc..), this tissue won’t break down so its best to remove all silver skin before cooking to ensure the ribs are as tender as you want. Removing it also ensures your seasonings penetrate all the meat.

How to Remove Silver Skin

This is actually so much easier than you think! It seems like it would be intimidating but couldn’t be simpler.

  • Turn your rack of ribs over so the back, boney side is face up.
  • Starting at the smaller, narrower end, use a small knife or kitchen shears to slide under the edge of silver skin and get a little flap to grab.
  • Using a paper towel, grip the flap you created and pull off. It should come off in one long sheet but if it doesn’t, use the knife to pull up another section and start pulling again.
Raw rack of ribs on a cutting board

How to Cook Ribs in a Crockpot

These are pretty simple directions start to finish; the hardest part is waiting until they are ready to grill (or broil). Just be sure to keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t start falling apart in the crockpot. They are a PAIN to grill if they don’t even hold together. If you overcook them and they are falling apart, do your best to brush with bbq sauce and broil. Broiling required less movement and will keep them together more than grilling would. For full recipe details, see the printable recipe card below.

Prep Your Rack of Ribs

Prep the ribs: remove silver skin and rub generously with dry rub of your choice. This is the one I use and was voted most delicious by my large extended family.

Cook Your Ribs in the Crockpot

Stand two racks of ribs upright in the crockpot, cutting in half if necessary to fit vertically.

Pour in apple juice to the bottom to help prevent scorching.

Cover and cook 4 hours or low or 2 1/2 hours on high or until meat is tender but not falling off the bone. Every crockpot is different, so you’ll have to double check your ribs for doneness.

Brush with BBQ Sauce and Grill

Remove from crockpot, brush with BBQ sauce and broil or grill (this bbq sauce was voted our family favorite).

Cut into portions and serve. While I recommend using pork baby back ribs because I just prefer them better, this recipe will work using St. Louis Style ribs.

covered crockpot with ribs inside

What to Serve with Ribs

Here are some of my favorite side dishes that go well with ribs or really anything you’ll be BBQing this summer. My full list of side dishes can be found here.

Leftovers

Leftover Crockpot Ribs should be wrapped in foil or plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container, in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you want to freeze them for later, place in a freezer safe ziplock bag or container. Ribs will stay fresh in the freezer for 2-3 months.

rack of ribs on foil

Love Crockpot Cooking? Try these other favorites:

There you have it, I hope you enjoy these ribs as much as we did! The printable recipe card is below. Have a great day, friends! πŸ™‚

sliced ribs on foil
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How to Cook Ribs in the Crockpot

This Crockpot Ribs recipe yields the most tender and tasty ribs ever! Cook them until tender in the crockpot and then finish them off on the grill or broiler with lots of BBQ sauce!
Course Dinner
Cuisine American, BBQ
Keyword crockpot bbq ribs, crockpot ribs
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Servings 6 servings
Calories 524kcal

Equipment

  • Crockpot

Ingredients

  • 2 racks pork baby back ribs or st. louis style
  • 1/4 cup dry rub McCormick Mesquite Seasoning recommended
  • 1/2 cup apple juice
  • 1 cup BBQ Sauce Stubb's Smokey Brown Sugar BBQ Sauce recommended

Instructions

  • Prep the ribs: remove silver skin and rub generously with dry rub of your choice.
  • Stand two racks of ribs upright in the crockpot, cutting in half if necessary to fit vertically. Pour in apple juice to the bottom. Cover and cook 4 hours or low or 2 1/2 hours on high or until meat is tender but not falling off the bone. Every crockpot is different, so you’ll have to double check your ribs for doneness.
  • Remove from crockpot, brush with BBQ sauce liberally on both sides and broil or grill. Cut into portions and serve.

Notes

LOWER CARB OPTION: To make this recipe have even less carbs, consider using chicken broth in place of the apple juice and a sugar free BBQ sauce to finish.

Nutrition

Calories: 524kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 37g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 130mg | Sodium: 656mg | Potassium: 618mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 225IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 103mg | Iron: 3mg

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Crock Pot Sloppy Joes https://laurenslatest.com/healthier-crockpot-sloppy-joes/ https://laurenslatest.com/healthier-crockpot-sloppy-joes/#comments Sat, 22 Jan 2022 02:10:00 +0000 http://www.laurenslatest.com/?p=15075 This healthy Crock Pot Sloppy Joes recipe looks and sounds unhealthy, but is packed with tons of veggies {hello zucchini, carrot, and squash} and lean beef! An easy and tasty meal everyone will enjoy!

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This healthier version of Crock Pot Sloppy Joes is packed with tons of veggies {hello zucchini, carrot, and squash} and lean beef! An easy and tasty meal everyone will enjoy! To round out this meaty meal try serving it alongside Garlic Fries Recipe or Pan-Fried Potatoes.

sloppy joes sandwich with meat made in the crock pot all on a white plate

Full of Hidden Veggies

Crock Pot Sloppy Joes are a pretty typical dinner that we eat over at the Lauren’s Latest household. It looks and sounds unhealthy, but is packed with tons of veggies {hello zucchini, carrot, and squash} and lean beef. Plus, I took it a step further and served these on whole wheat buns. Oh, and it makes for an awesome crockpot meal too! My family gobbled this up and we even had leftovers. Seriously so good!

crock pot sloppy joes in the slow cooker

How to Make Sloppy Joes in the Crock Pot

This Crock Pot Sloppy Joes recipe is a simple one! Once you cook and drain the beef & veggies, the rest is a cakewalk. And the longer it cooks, the yummier it gets, as is the case with most crockpot meals. For the full recipe details, check out the recipe card down below!

Brown Meat + Prep Veggies

Turn crock pot to high and set it aside. In a large, nonstick skillet, brown ground beef. While meat is browning, grate onion, carrot, zucchini, and yellow squash. Drain well and spoon meat into warmed crock pot. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Cook Veggies

Replace pan to the heat. Place vegetables into the hot pan and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Saute until the vegetables are tender. Pour over meat in crock pot.

Cook in Crock Pot

Replace pan back on the heat. Pour in all ingredients for the sauce and whisk until smooth. Simmer then pour over ingredients in crock pot. Stir then cover and cook.

A Note about Sloppy Joe Sauce + Crock Pots

If you plan on cooking this sloppy joe recipe for longer in the crock pot than what the recipe calls for, make a sauce with a tad bit more water. You want the sauce to stay “sloppy” while cooking. If your crock pot runs hot, you may need to turn it down half way through the cook time.

Serve!

Serve over tightly toasted whole wheat hamburger or kaiser buns with any desired toppings.

Toppings

  • Whole Wheat Kaiser Buns – or you could use hamburger buns. Toasting your buns is always recommended!
  • Dill Pickles – we like dill pickles with our sloppy joes. Feel free to add what you like to yours.
  • Cheddar Cheese – cheese adds a great creamy texture to the sandwich.

Storing Crock Pot Sloppy Joes

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container, in the fridge for up to 5 days!

This recipe is great for meal prepping for the rest of the week.

Freezing Instructions

The beauty of this recipe is that you could even store the leftovers in the freezer for up to 4 months!

To freeze, cool completely, then transfer sloppy joe mixture into an airtight container. To use, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the crock pot or stovetop.

More Sloppy Joe Recipes to Try!

If you loved this Crock Pot Sloppy Joes recipe you’re going to love the other sloppy joes I have to offer!

Anyways, printable recipe below. Enjoy, friends!!

crock pot sloppy joes on a white plate
Print

Crock Pot Sloppy Joes

Crock Pot Sloppy Joes look and sound unhealthy, but are packed with tons of veggies and lean beef! An easy and tasty meal everyone will enjoy!
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Keyword crock pot sloppy joes, sloppy joe recipe crock pot, slow cooker sloppy joes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 388kcal
Author Lauren Brennan

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs. lean ground beef I used 90/10
  • 1 large onion
  • 2/3 cup baby carrots
  • 2 small zucchini
  • 2 small yellow squash

sloppy joe sauce:

  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 2 1/2 cups ketchup
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tablespoon dried mustard
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • salt & pepper to taste
  • 6-8 whole wheat kaiser rolls or hamburger buns

optional toppings:

  • dill pickles
  • cheddar cheese

Instructions

  • Turn crockpot to high and set aside. In a large, nonstick skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat. While meat is browning, grate onion, carrot, zucchini, and yellow squash using a food processor {or you can do it by hand}. Drain well and spoon meat into warmed crockpot. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  • Replace pan to the heat.
  • Place vegetables into the hot pan and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Saute until the water from the veggies has evaporated and vegetables are tender about 7 minutes. Pour over meat in crockpot.
  • Replace pan back on the heat. Pour in all ingredients for the sauce and whisk until smooth. Simmer gently 5 minutes, then pour over ingredients in crockpot. Stir to coat everything evenly. Cover and cook 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally. Serve over tightly toasted whole wheat hamburger or kaiser buns.

Nutrition

Calories: 388kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 982mg | Potassium: 1025mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 28g | Vitamin A: 2350IU | Vitamin C: 22.3mg | Calcium: 114mg | Iron: 5mg

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Slow Cooker Lasagna https://laurenslatest.com/slow-cooker-lasagna/ https://laurenslatest.com/slow-cooker-lasagna/#comments Thu, 06 Jan 2022 21:02:00 +0000 https://laurenslatest.com/?p=83240 Lasagna just got easier to make with this crockpot version! This Slow Cooker Lasagna recipe features a meaty sauce, three cheeses and uncooked lasagna pasta sheets that are layered and cooked low and slow in a crockpot. Based on my classic Lasagna Recipe, this is a simpler version with less steps because we use raw […]

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Lasagna just got easier to make with this crockpot version! This Slow Cooker Lasagna recipe features a meaty sauce, three cheeses and uncooked lasagna pasta sheets that are layered and cooked low and slow in a crockpot. Based on my classic Lasagna Recipe, this is a simpler version with less steps because we use raw pasta. Grab the garlic bread because we are having Lasagna tonight!

slice of slow cooker lasagna on plate

Lasagna Basics

Every lasagna, whether its a slow cooker recipe or a classic oven-baked version, is made up of three basic parts that are layered together and baked.

Lasagna Noodles

If you are making a traditional lasagna, then you would boil your noodles first to soften them, and layer them up in your 9×13 or casserole dish. For this crockpot lasagna, you use those same pasta sheets, but you layer them up in your crockpot raw and they cook right along with everything else. It works perfectly!

Cheese Filling

I like using a mixture of cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese in my lasagna. Of course ricotta is the traditional choice and can be substituted 1:1. Use a 4% or higher cottage cheese OR whole milk ricotta, if using. Lasagna is meant to be decadent, after all.

Meat Sauce

While in my classic recipe, I recommend making the sauce well in advance and making sure it is very thick, that is not required for this recipe. You want it a little loose because that extra moisture helps cook the pasta sheets. And, with this spending a good two hours in the slow cooker, it does a nice job adding that slow cooked flavor.

How to Make this Crockpot Lasagna in a Slow Cooker

While this isn’t as fast as some of my other crockpot recipes, this certainly is a quicker way to make lasagna! Because we are skipping a step and not boiling the lasagna noodles, we only have to worry about making the meat sauce and stirring up the cheese filling. The we layer it up in a cold crockpot and let it rip for 1 1/2 to 2 hours until it’s meaty and cheesy perfection.

Make the Meat Sauce

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add in diced onion and ground beef. Break beef apart as it browns. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Add in tomato paste, basil, oregano and salt and cook 2-3 minutes or until the tomato paste starts to brown the bottom of the pan. (Not burn, but just brown slightly.) Immediately add in marinara sauce, bay leaves, water and sugar. Stir and bing to boil, then reduce to simmer and cook 30 minutes.

Make the Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, stir together the cottage cheese, parmesan cheese, part of the mozzarella cheese, eggs, salt, pepper and basil until well combined. Set this aside.

lasagna noodles and sauce in slow cooker

Layer in the Slow Cooker

Spray a cold crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. Add 1/2-3/4 cup of sauce in the bottom. Layer with pieces of raw lasagna pasta sheets. It’s ok if you break them into smaller pieces to make them fit. Top the pasta sheets with 1/3 of the cheese mixture. Then add enough sauce to cover the noodles. Repeat this process until you have layered the cheese three times. Top with sauce, another layer of noodles and more sauce, finishing with a sprinkling of mozzarella cheese. So here is an easier way to remember it:

Correct Lasagna Layers

  1. Spray the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray
  2. Add a little sauce to the bottom of the crockpot to help prevent sticking.
  3. Lasagna pasta sheets
  4. 1/3 cheese mixture
  5. 1/4 of the sauce
  6. Lasagna pasta sheets
  7. 1/3 cheese mixture
  8. 1/4 sauce
  9. Lasagna pasta sheets
  10. 1/3 cheese mixture
  11. 1/4 sauce
  12. Lasagna pasta sheets
  13. Last of the sauce
  14. Mozzarella cheese

Cover and Cook

Add the lid to the top of the slow cooker and cook on high for 1 1/2 to 2 hours OR until the pasta is al dente. Alternately, you can cook this for 3 hours on low. Again, it is done when the pasta is al dente. Turn crockpot off completely and set aside to rest. This will make it easier to serve. Cut into pieces and serve.

Lasagnas made in crockpots or slow cookers are pretty thick, so I’d recommend cutting smaller, taller pieces or you can cut larger pieces and divide them in half horizontally. Or just live your life and eat the huge mile high lasagna!

Storing Directions

Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply microwave until hot.

Beware of Overcooking Your Pasta

The set it and forget it mentality of general crockpot cooking should not apply to this recipe. While this can work for any other recipe, because we are cooking pasta in a slow cooker, we need to be careful that it doesn’t OVER cook and get mushy. Of course every crockpot is a little different and will have slightly different cooking times. A good rule of thumb is to start checking at 1 1/2 to 2 hours.

finished crockpot lasagna

Other Lasagna Recipes to Try

While I would highly recommend trying this slow cooker lasagna as a new way to enjoy lasagna, here are some other lasagna recipes I’ve made through the years.

Favorite Sides to Serve with this Slow Cooker Lasagna

I am sharing a few of my all time favorite sides not just to have with lasagna, but to have with any meal. These are family favorites across the board and I know you all will love them as much as we do!

So there you have it! An easier way to make a lasagna in a slow cooker! I hope you love it as much as me and my family did. It was a favorite for sure. Have a great day, friends!

finished crockpot lasagna
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Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe

Lasagna just got easier to make with this crockpot version! This Slow Cooker Lasagna recipe features a meaty sauce, three cheeses and uncooked lasagna pasta sheets that are layered and cooked low and slow in a crockpot. Based on my classic Lasagna Recipe, this is a simpler version with less steps because we use raw pasta. Grab the garlic bread because we are having Lasagna tonight!
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Keyword classic lasagna, crockpot, homemade lasagna, lasagna recipe, slow cooker
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings 12 servings
Calories 322kcal

Equipment

  • 1 6 qt. slow cooker or crockpot

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup onion diced
  • 1 pound ground beef I used 97/3
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 6 oz tomato paste 1 small can
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • salt to taste
  • 28 oz Marinara Sauce I used Rao's
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 2 teaspoons sugar

For the Cheese Filling

  • 2 cups cottage cheese or ricotta
  • 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese divided
  • 2 whole eggs
  • salt & pepper to taste
  • dried basil
  • 3/4 pound lasagna sheets

Instructions

Make the Meat Sauce

  • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add in diced onion and ground beef. Break beef apart as it browns. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add in tomato paste, basil, oregano and salt and cook 2-3 minutes or until the tomato paste starts to brown the bottom of the pan. (Not burn, but just brown slightly.) Immediately add in marinara sauce, bay leaves, water and sugar. Stir and bing to boil, then reduce to simmer and cook 30 minutes.

Make the Cheese Filling

  • While the sauce is simmering, mix the cottage cheese together with the parmesan cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, eggs, salt, pepper and basil. Set aside.

Assemble the Lasagna

  • Spray cold crockpot or slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. Add a small amount of sauce to spread across the bottom to help prevent sticking. Add a layer of raw lasagna pasta sheets, breaking them to fit in place. Top the pasta sheets with 1/3 of the cheese mixture. Then add enough sauce to cover the noodles. Repeat this process until you have layered the cheese three times. Top with sauce, another layer of noodles and more sauce, finishing with a sprinkling of mozzarella cheese. So here is an easier way to remember it:
    sauce | Lasagna pasta sheets | 1/3 cheese mixture | 1/4 of the sauce | Lasagna pasta sheets | 1/3 cheese mixture | 1/4 sauce | Lasagna pasta sheets | 1/3 cheese mixture | 1/4 sauce | Lasagna pasta sheets | Last of the sauce | Mozzarella cheese

Cook

  • Add the lid to the top of the slow cooker and cook on high for 1 1/2 to 2 hours OR until the pasta is al dente. Alternately, you can cook this for 3 hours on low. Again, it is done when the pasta is al dente. Turn crockpot off completely and set aside to rest. This will make it easier to serve. Cut into pieces and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 322kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 48mg | Sodium: 799mg | Potassium: 640mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 717IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 207mg | Iron: 3mg

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Honey Mustard Chicken https://laurenslatest.com/crock-pot-honey-mustard-chicken/ https://laurenslatest.com/crock-pot-honey-mustard-chicken/#comments Tue, 04 Jan 2022 03:26:00 +0000 http://www.laurenslatest.com/?p=12506 Sweet, slightly tangy, buttery, and addicting, with one taste this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken will be your new favorite dinner.Β 

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Sweet, slightly tangy, buttery, and addicting, with one taste this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken will be your new favorite dinner. Similar to my Baked Honey Mustard Chicken, but made in a slow cooker.

Honey Mustard Chicken

Homemade Honey Mustard Sauce

While you can buy a bottle of honey mustard, I much prefer making this at home with a few simple (but delicious!) ingredients. It’s so tasty cooked low and slow in the crockpot with some chicken. Here are the basic ingredients:

  • Onion and Garlic – two basic but powerful ingredients in terms of flavor!
  • Dijon Mustard and Honey – this is where the sweet tangy flavor comes from. If you don’t have Dijon mustard, regular yellow mustard is a good substitute. Or feel free to experiment with any specialty mustard or honey.
  • Salted Butter – I recommend using butter and not subbing it out for oil because the oil tends to make it a bit greasy while the butter is perfect for flavor and sauce consistency.
  • Fresh Rosemary – I use rosemary sprigs that I later take out, however, if dried rosemary is all you have, go for it!

How to Make Honey Mustard Chicken

This slow cooker version of Honey Mustard Chicken has got to be the easiest dinner ever! Prepare ahead of time and then make some rice or get some sandwich rolls ready. For full details see the recipe card down below.

  1. Place all ingredients into the crockpot and cook until the chicken is cooked through.
  2. Remove rosemary sprigs.
  3. Remove chicken and shred, then add it back into the sauce. Sprinkle on some chopped chives for a garnish and serve warm!

How Long to Cook Honey Mustard Chicken

Most crockpots have a ‘high’ setting, a ‘low’ setting, and a ‘keep warm’ setting. If you are confused at all here is how long to cook Honey Mustard chicken on low or high:

  • If your crockpot is on high cook for 3-4 hours.
  • If your crockpot is on low cook for 7-8 hours.

Freezing Instructions

Now, this is considered a freezer-meal, meaning that you can prep everything ahead of time and freeze it! Then when you are ready to make it, thaw the frozen ingredients and place them into your crockpot to cook away. Freeze up to 3 months.

More Chicken Recipes to Try!

Be sure to check out my other chicken recipes too!

The printable recipe card for Honey Mustard Chicken is below, enjoy πŸ™‚

Sweet, slightly tangy, buttery, and addicting, with one taste this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken will be your new favorite dinner. Similar to my Baked Honey Mustard Chicken, but made in a slow cooker.

Honey Mustard Chicken

Homemade Honey Mustard Sauce

While you can buy a bottle of honey mustard, I much prefer making this at home with a few simple (but delicious!) ingredients. It’s so tasty cooked low and slow in the crockpot with some chicken. Here are the basic ingredients:

  • Onion and Garlic – two basic but powerful ingredients in terms of flavor!
  • Dijon Mustard and Honey – this is where the sweet tangy flavor comes from. If you don’t have Dijon mustard, regular yellow mustard is a good substitute. Or feel free to experiment with any specialty mustard or honey.
  • Salted Butter – I recommend using butter and not subbing it out for oil because the oil tends to make it a bit greasy while the butter is perfect for flavor and sauce consistency.
  • Fresh Rosemary – I use rosemary sprigs that I later take out, however, if dried rosemary is all you have, go for it!

How to Make Honey Mustard Chicken

This slow cooker version of Honey Mustard Chicken has got to be the easiest dinner ever! Prepare ahead of time and then make some rice or get some sandwich rolls ready. For full details see the recipe card down below.

  1. Place all ingredients into the crockpot and cook until the chicken is cooked through.
  2. Remove rosemary sprigs.
  3. Remove chicken and shred, then add it back into the sauce. Sprinkle on some chopped chives for a garnish and serve warm!

How Long to Cook Honey Mustard Chicken

Most crockpots have a ‘high’ setting, a ‘low’ setting, and a ‘keep warm’ setting. If you are confused at all here is how long to cook Honey Mustard chicken on low or high:

  • If your crockpot is on high cook for 3-4 hours.
  • If your crockpot is on low cook for 7-8 hours.

Freezing Instructions

Now, this is considered a freezer-meal, meaning that you can prep everything ahead of time and freeze it! Then when you are ready to make it, thaw the frozen ingredients and place them into your crockpot to cook away. Freeze up to 3 months.

More Chicken Recipes to Try!

Be sure to check out my other chicken recipes too!

The printable recipe card for Honey Mustard Chicken is below, enjoy πŸ™‚

Print

Honey Mustard Chicken

Sweet, slightly tangy, buttery and addicting, with one taste this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken will be your new favorite dinner. 
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Keyword Honey Mustard Chicken
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 410kcal
Author Lauren’s Latest

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup onion diced
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup dijon mustard
  • 3/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary
  • salt & pepper to taste
  • 2 teaspoons dried chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Place contents into crockpot and cook covered 3-4 hours on high or until chicken is fully cooked.
  • Discard rosemary sprig. Remove chicken, shred and place back into sauce. Stir in a few chives for color if desired. Keep warm until ready to serve.
  • Serve over rice.

Nutrition

Calories: 410kcal | Carbohydrates: 57g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 87mg | Sodium: 539mg | Potassium: 597mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 53g | Vitamin A: 1915IU | Vitamin C: 20.1mg | Calcium: 52mg | Iron: 1.7mg

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