Looking for easy, cheap meals that fit your busy lifestyle? You’re not alone. As life gets busier, many families struggle to put together wholesome dinners without breaking the bank. That’s why I created this post! It’s packed with 17 fantastic crockpot recipes that are not only simple to make but also budget-friendly. You won’t have to sacrifice flavor or nutrition when you’re pressed for time or low on cash.
If you’re a busy parent, a college student, or anyone looking to save money while still enjoying delicious meals, you’re in the right place. You need meals that are quick to prepare and can cook themselves while you tackle other tasks. These crockpot recipes are perfect for you. They require minimal effort, letting you set it and forget it. All you need is a crockpot and a few simple ingredients to create mouthwatering dishes your whole family will love.
Get ready to dive into recipes like Classic Beef Stew, Creamy Chicken and Rice, and Vegetarian Chili. Each dish is designed to deliver comfort and satisfaction while being gentle on your wallet. You’ll find that cooking can be both easy and affordable, making weeknight dinners something to look forward to, rather than a dreaded chore.
Key Takeaways
– Variety of Recipes: Explore 17 different crockpot recipes that cater to various tastes, including meat dishes, vegetarian options, and comforting meals.
– Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Each recipe uses affordable ingredients, making it easier to stick to your budget while enjoying delicious meals.
– Simple Preparation: Most recipes require only a few minutes of prep, allowing you to spend your time on other important tasks.
– Convenience of Slow Cooking: Just set your crockpot in the morning, and come home to a hot, ready meal without any fuss.
– Family-Friendly Meals: These recipes are designed with families in mind, ensuring everyone at the table will find something they love.
1. Classic Beef Stew
Craving a warm hug in a bowl? Classic beef stew is your answer. This dish combines tender beef and hearty vegetables like carrots and potatoes, simmering all day in a savory broth that fills your home with incredible aromas. It’s not just delicious; it also stretches your budget with plenty of leftovers for the week ahead.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 4 cups beef broth
– 4 medium potatoes, diced
– 3 medium carrots, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Transfer beef to the crockpot and add vegetables.
3. In a small bowl, mix beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the mixture over the beef and veggies.
5. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, just add them in the last hour of cooking.
– Can I make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free broth and ensure your tomato paste is gluten-free.
2. Creamy Chicken and Rice
Need a quick and comforting meal? This creamy chicken and rice dish is perfect for busy weeknights. With its rich flavor and creamy texture, it’s a family favorite that pleases even the pickiest eaters. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing the chicken to cook perfectly while the rice soaks up all the delicious flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken breasts
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 can cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Add rice, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, peas, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir until combined.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until chicken is done.
5. Shred the chicken before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I use brown rice instead? Yes, but increase the cooking time to 7-8 hours.
– Can I make it dairy-free? Substitute with a dairy-free cream soup and use plant-based milk.
3. Vegetarian Chili
Looking for a hearty dish that satisfies without the meat? This vegetarian chili is packed with beans, tomatoes, and spices, making it perfect for meatless Mondays or budget-friendly meals. As it simmers in the crockpot, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting meal that pairs perfectly with cornbread or rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cans black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Combine all ingredients in the crockpot.
2. Stir well to mix everything together.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
4. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
FAQs:
– Can I add meat? Yes, feel free to add cooked ground beef or turkey.
– Can I make it spicier? Add chopped jalapeños or extra chili powder for heat.
4. Teriyaki Chicken
Craving something sweet and savory? This teriyaki chicken is your go-to for busy weeknights. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that cooks to perfection in your slow cooker. The chicken absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce, making it a delightful meal served over rice or noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– Cooked rice for serving
Instructions:
1. Place chicken in the crockpot.
2. In a bowl, mix teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and honey; pour over chicken.
3. Cook on low for 4 hours.
4. Add broccoli 30 minutes before serving.
5. Serve over cooked rice.
FAQs:
– Can I use chicken breasts instead? Yes, but adjust the cooking time to 3-4 hours.
– Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Bell peppers or snap peas work great too.
💡 Fun fact: a simple teriyaki chicken crockpot dinner can save busy families up to 45 minutes on weeknights. With pantry staples like soy sauce and honey, you get crockpot recipes easy cheap that taste amazing over rice.
5. Spaghetti and Meatballs
Who can resist a classic spaghetti and meatballs? This dish takes the beloved favorite and makes it even easier in the slow cooker. The meatballs simmer in marinara sauce, absorbing all those rich flavors while the spaghetti cooks perfectly on the side. It’s a simple yet satisfying dinner that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 eggs
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 package spaghetti
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, salt, and pepper; form into meatballs.
2. Place meatballs in the slow cooker and cover with marinara sauce.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours.
4. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions and serve with meatballs on top.
FAQs:
– Can I use pre-made meatballs? Yes, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
– Can I make it vegetarian? Use lentil or veggie meatballs instead.
6. Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Satisfy your cravings with pulled pork sandwiches that are incredibly easy to make! The pork shoulder cooks slowly in a tangy barbecue sauce, creating tender, flavorful meat that’s perfect for piling on a bun. These sandwiches are ideal for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners, and everyone will love them!
Ingredients:
– 3 lb pork shoulder
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 onion, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Hamburger buns for serving
Instructions:
1. Season the pork with salt and pepper and place it in the slow cooker.
2. Top with sliced onions and pour barbecue sauce over it.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours until the pork is tender.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and mix with sauce.
5. Serve on hamburger buns.
FAQs:
– Can I use a different cut of pork? Yes, pork loin or tenderloin can also work.
– Can I make it spicy? Add some hot sauce to the barbecue sauce for a kick.
These crockpot recipes easy cheap prove pulled pork sandwiches can wow a crowd without breaking the bank. Slow-cooked pork with tangy barbecue sauce keeps weeknights simple, flavorful, and budget-friendly.
7. Beef Tacos
Taco night just got a delicious upgrade with these slow-cooked beef tacos! The beef cooks with a blend of spices until it’s fall-apart tender, making every bite a treat. The fun part? You can customize your tacos with all your favorite toppings, making it a great meal for everyone in the family.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck roast
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 cup beef broth
– Corn tortillas for serving
– Toppings: shredded cheese, lettuce, salsa, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Place the beef in the slow cooker and sprinkle with taco seasoning.
2. Pour beef broth over the top.
3. Cook on low for 7 hours.
4. Shred the beef with forks and serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings.
FAQs:
– Can I use chicken instead? Yes, chicken thighs or breasts work well too.
– Can I use flour tortillas? Absolutely! Use whichever you prefer.
8. Honey Garlic Chicken
Sweet, sticky, and oh-so-delicious, this honey garlic chicken is a breeze to prepare! The chicken cooks in a flavorful honey-garlic sauce that your whole family will love. It pairs beautifully with rice or steamed veggies for a complete meal that’s not only tasty but also budget-friendly.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup carrots, sliced
– Cooked rice for serving
Instructions:
1. Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
2. Mix honey, soy sauce, and garlic in a bowl; pour over chicken.
3. Cook on low for 4 hours, adding carrots in the last hour.
4. Serve over rice, drizzling extra sauce on top.
FAQs:
– Can I use chicken breasts instead? Yes, just adjust the cooking time slightly.
– Can I add other veggies? Absolutely! Broccoli or snap peas would be great additions.
9. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
Looking for a light and nutritious meal? This Mediterranean quinoa salad is a perfect choice. Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, it’s not just healthy; it’s also incredibly easy to make in the crockpot. The combination of chickpeas, cucumbers, and feta creates a refreshing dish that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
– 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Combine quinoa, chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, and feta in the crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 2 hours, then let cool before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I use other grains? Yes, farro or bulgur is a great alternative.
– Can I add olives? Absolutely! They add a nice briny flavor.
How To Choose Budget-Friendly Crockpot Recipes
When it comes to cooking on a budget, selecting the right crockpot recipes can make all the difference. With so many options available, it’s essential to know what to look for. Here are some key criteria to help you choose easy, cheap crockpot recipes that fit your family’s needs.
1. Ingredient Availability
Before diving into a recipe, check the ingredients list. Aim for recipes that use ingredients you already have or that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Basic staples like beans, rice, vegetables, and inexpensive cuts of meat can often be transformed into delicious meals. This not only saves you money but also makes meal prep more convenient!
2. Cooking Time
Different crockpot recipes have varying cooking times. If you’re busy during the day, look for recipes that require longer cooking times but can be prepped in the morning. Recipes like classic beef stew or chili can simmer all day, letting you come home to a warm meal. Alternatively, if you need a quick dinner, find recipes that can cook in 4-6 hours.
3. Portion Size
Consider how many people you need to feed. Many crockpot recipes are designed to serve large families, allowing you to prepare meals that can be enjoyed over several days. Check the serving size mentioned in the recipe and adjust the ingredients if necessary. This way, you can cut down on food waste and stretch your budget even further!
4. Nutritional Value
While staying on budget is crucial, so is health. Look for recipes that include a variety of vegetables and lean proteins. Dishes like Mediterranean quinoa salad or vegetarian chili provide essential nutrients without breaking the bank. A well-balanced meal will keep your family healthy and satisfied.
5. Recipe Simplicity
Choose recipes that are easy to follow. Simple, straightforward recipes with fewer steps and minimal prep time are ideal for busy families. Look for meals that require little more than chopping veggies and adding ingredients to the pot. This not only saves time but also reduces stress during meal prep.
6. Versatility
Select recipes that allow for ingredient substitutions or modifications. For instance, pulled pork sandwiches can easily be made with chicken or beef based on what’s on sale. Versatile dishes let you adapt to your pantry and budget while keeping the meals exciting and new.
Pro Tip: Consider meal planning for the week! Choosing recipes that share similar ingredients can help cut down on costs and reduce waste. For example, if you buy bell peppers for stuffed peppers, use any leftovers in a stir-fry later in the week.
By keeping these criteria in mind, you can select budget-friendly crockpot recipes that save you time, money, and effort. These meals can not only provide nourishment but also bring your family together around the dinner table, making weeknight meals less stressful and more enjoyable.
10. Lasagna
Lasagna gets a delicious twist when made in the slow cooker. Layered with noodles, cheese, and a rich meat sauce, this recipe is comforting and easy to prepare. Just set it and forget it while you enjoy your day, and come home to a warm, filling meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
– 9 lasagna noodles
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef in a skillet and drain fat.
2. Spread some marinara sauce at the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Layer with noodles, ricotta, meat, and mozzarella, and repeat until ingredients are finished.
4. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
5. Cook on low for 6 hours.
FAQs:
– Can I make it vegetarian? Yes, use veggie crumbles instead of beef.
– Can I prepare it ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble it the night before and cook it the next day.
11. Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are not only colorful but also a fun way to enjoy a healthy meal! These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of rice, ground meat, and spices, making each bite delicious. The slow cooker ensures they cook evenly, and you can customize the filling based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds.
2. In a bowl, mix the ground meat, rice, marinara sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture.
4. Place in the crockpot and top with cheese.
5. Cook on low for 6 hours.
FAQs:
– Can I use quinoa instead of rice? Yes, that’s a great healthier option.
– Can I add more veggies? Definitely! Chopped onions or zucchini can enhance the filling.
12. Chicken and Dumplings
Feel like indulging in the ultimate comfort food? This chicken and dumplings recipe is just what you need. Tender chicken paired with fluffy dumplings creates an all-in-one meal that’s hearty and satisfying. Let your slow cooker transform simple ingredients into a warm family dinner that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
– 1 package refrigerated biscuit dough
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place chicken in the crockpot and season with salt and pepper.
2. Add chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and mixed vegetables.
3. Cook on low for 6 hours.
4. Pull apart biscuit dough into pieces and drop on top of the chicken mixture.
5. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, just add extra cooking time.
– Can I make it with homemade dumplings? Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
13. Potato Soup
Nothing beats a warm, creamy potato soup on a chilly day! This recipe allows you to toss everything into the crockpot in the morning and come home to a comforting dinner. The flavors of potatoes, bacon, and cheese meld perfectly, creating a family-favorite meal that’s both easy to make and budget-friendly.
Ingredients:
– 6 potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Combine potatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper in the crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours.
3. Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth, then stir in cheese and cream.
4. Top with crumbled bacon before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I make it vegetarian? Yes, just skip the bacon and use vegetable broth.
– Can I add other toppings? Green onions or sour cream are great additions!
14. Balsamic Glazed Chicken
Balsamic glazed chicken is a dish that’s impressive yet easy to prepare. As the chicken thighs cook in a sweet and tangy balsamic sauce, they become sticky and rich in flavor. This meal pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, whether you choose rice or roasted veggies. It’s perfect for nights when you want something special without much fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place chicken in the slow cooker and season with salt and pepper.
2. In a bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, honey, and garlic; pour over chicken.
3. Cook on low for 5 hours.
4. Serve with your favorite sides.
FAQs:
– Can I use chicken breasts? Yes, just adjust the cooking time slightly.
– Can I add vegetables? Absolutely! Carrots or bell peppers would be great additions.
15. Cabbage Roll Casserole
Love the flavors of cabbage rolls but hate the time? This casserole version makes it a breeze! All the delicious ingredients get combined into one dish, allowing you to set it and forget it in the crockpot. It’s a hearty meal that uses pantry staples, keeping your budget intact while delivering comfort food at its best.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 cups chopped cabbage
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can tomato soup
– 1 onion, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the crockpot, layer cabbage, beef, rice, onion, and salt and pepper.
2. Spoon tomato soup over the top and cover.
3. Cook on low for 6 hours until cabbage is tender.
FAQs:
– Can I add other spices? Yes, paprika or Italian seasoning works well.
– Can I use ground turkey instead? Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time if necessary.
16. Apple Crisp
End your meal on a sweet note with this simple apple crisp. Perfectly spiced apples are topped with a buttery oat crumble, baking beautifully in the slow cooker. It’s a delightful dessert that you can serve alone or with a scoop of ice cream for that extra indulgence. Affordable and delicious, this recipe is a must-try for any apple lover!
Ingredients:
– 6 cups sliced apples
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup flour
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Place sliced apples in the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, oats, flour, butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Pour the mixture over the apples.
4. Cook on low for 4 hours until the apples are tender.
5. Serve warm, optionally with ice cream on top.
FAQs:
– Can I use a mix of apples? Yes, using both sweet and tart apples enhances the flavor.
– Can I make it ahead of time? Yes, just prepare it and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook.
17. Chili Mac
Craving a comforting dish that combines two favorites? Chili mac is the ultimate meal, fusing hearty chili with creamy macaroni and cheese. This recipe is not only filling but also incredibly easy to make, ensuring a satisfying dinner for the whole family while sticking to your budget.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can chili beans
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– 1 packet chili seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain fat.
2. In the crockpot, combine beef, chili beans, diced tomatoes, macaroni, chili seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6 hours.
4. Stir in cheese just before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I add more vegetables? Yes, bell peppers or corn would be great additions.
– Can I make it vegetarian? Substitute the beef with black beans or lentils for a hearty option.
Fun fact: a hearty chili mac in the crockpot can save busy families up to 30 minutes of prep and keep dinners under $5 per serving. With crockpot recipes easy cheap like this, weeknight meals turn comforting, quick, and budget-friendly.
Conclusion
Exploring these 17 easy and cheap crockpot recipes opens up a world of budget-friendly culinary delights. Each dish not only saves you time but also ensures that you can enjoy satisfying meals without the stress of overspending. From comforting stews to delightful desserts, these recipes are perfect for busy families looking to maximize flavor and minimize costs. Give them a try, and you’ll find cooking at home can be both enjoyable and affordable!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best crockpot recipes easy cheap for busy weeknights?
For busy weeknights, look for crockpot recipes easy cheap that use simple, affordable ingredients you already have. This article features 17 Crockpot Recipes Easy Cheap Budget Friendly Meals designed for minimal prep and maximum flavor. Practical tips: choose inexpensive proteins like chicken thighs or ground beef, use beans, lentils, rice, and canned tomatoes, and stock up on onions and garlic for flavor. Let the slow cooker do the work by cooking on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. Finish with a bright topping such as lime juice or fresh herbs for a quick and simple dinner idea. Leftovers are perfect for lunch the next day.
How can I make cheap crockpot meals without sacrificing flavor?
Flavor on a budget is all about smart pantry choices and strong seasoning. Start with a protein that stretches, like chicken thighs or pork shoulder, then fill the pot with beans, lentils, and affordable vegetables. Use slow cooker meals built with tomato paste, canned tomatoes, soy sauce, Worcestershire, dried herbs, and garlic. A touch of brown sugar or apple cider vinegar can balance acidity without adding cost. Let everything simmer to develop depth, then finish with fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt for brightness.
What ingredients should I keep on hand for quick and simple crockpot dinners?
Stock up on a versatile base that covers many budget-friendly recipes. Keep onions, garlic, potatoes, carrots, and celery for the flavor backbone; canned tomatoes, beans or lentils, and rice or noodles for heartiness; broth or stock; dried spices and sauces (soy, Worcestershire, tomato paste) for depth; olive oil or another cooking fat; and a few proteins like chicken thighs or ground beef. Frozen vegetables are great time-savers too. With these staples, you can whip up easy dinner ideas in a snap using affordable crockpot meals.
Can I freeze or meal-prep crockpot meals on a budget?
Absolutely. You can meal-prep by assembling ingredients in freezer bags and freezing them, then dumping into the slow cooker when you are ready. You can also cook a batch and freeze individual portions for quick dinners. For the best results, freeze components such as proteins and beans separately from dairy-based sauces, and add dairy after reheating. Label with date and rehearse in 1 to 3 months for fresh flavor in your quick and simple recipes.
Are there easy dinner ideas in the article that are both affordable and kid-friendly?
Yes. The collection includes kid-friendly and budget-friendly options like hearty chili, cheese-tinished bean stews, and meat-and-potato meals that can be mild or tuned up with toppings. These easy dinner ideas rely on affordable ingredients and budget-friendly recipes to feed a family without breaking the bank. To suit picky eaters, start with milder seasoning, offer toppings on the side, and pair with rice or crusty bread for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.
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