Is there anything worse than hearing the question "What's for dinner?" and having no answer — especially when you and your family are eat-anything-in-the-fridge hungry?
Rather than scrambling to come up with a hearty and healthy dinner on the spot, consider these set-it-and-forget-it Crock-Pot recipes that will change your dinnertime routine from fearsome to fierce.
From sumptuous soups to enticing exotic cuisine, we've rounded up slow cooker meals that will make your life a whole lot easier (not to mention, more delicious!). Seriously, is there anything better than walking in the door to the wonderful aroma of a dinner that's just waiting to be savored?
No, we don't think so either! So, pull out your slow cooker, prep, and enjoy.
Image via number-2-pencil.com
Butternut Squash Soup
Nicole of Pumps & Iron shares her mouthwatering recipe for Easy Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup. As she points out, it's a wonderful dish to serve on Thanksgiving, or if you happen to have a vegan or vegetarian visiting.
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Summer Beef Stew
Just because the weather is turning crisp, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy this Summer Beef Stew, created by Gina of Running to the Kitchen. Packed with zucchini and peppers, this is a colorful dish you'll enjoy year round.
Chicken Noodle Soup
With cold and flu season underway, this Chicken Noodle Soup is a lifesaver. Jaclyn of Cooking Classy shares her recipe, which is loaded with fresh herbs and veggies.
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Chicken Tikka Masala
Want all the flavor of take-out without any of the fuss? This Chicken Tikka Masala from Christin of Spicy Southern Kitchen is a warm and wonderful dish you'll want in your weekly rotation. Coriander, cumin, and ginger add just the right amount of spice.
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Chicken Burrito Bowl
Melissa at No. 2 Pencil tops her Chicken Burrito Bowls with fresh tomatoes, onions, cheese, and avocado. Are you drooling yet? We are. Skip the Chipotle on your way home and savor your own creation with far less expense.
Garlic Parmesan Risotto
While risotto is a delicious fall dinner, not everyone has the time to stand by the stove stirring it until it reaches peak creamy perfection.
Fortunately, Gina at Kleinworth & Co. developed a recipe for Garlic Parmesan Risotto that does all the work for you — in your slow cooker, no less! You'll think you've come home to a restaurant.
Sausage, Spinach & White Bean Soup
Looking for a warm and hearty meal? Try this Sausage, Spinach & White Bean Soup created by Chungah of Damn Delicious, who notes that the prep time is just 10 minutes.
You can't beat that on a busy day! Plus, it's amazing on its own or served with a salad or crusty loaf of bread.
Turkey Meatballs
Turkey Meatballs are the ideal comfort food because they taste amazing but are a little bit lighter and healthier than your regular fare.
Erin of Well Plated uses a combo of ground turkey and turkey sausage to ensure her meatballs aren't dry. Serve these with the pasta of your choice or a warm loaf of Italian bread.
Ham & Cheese Cauliflower Soup
This low-carb Ham & Cheese Cauliflower Soup is a great way to use up any extra ham. It's also the perfect way to unwind on a chilly evening. Or, serve it for a soothing weekend lunch.
Carolyn of All Day I Dream About Food shared her recipe on Lauren Kelly's blog when the nutritionist was recovering from surgery. A bowl of this certainly looks healing.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
When someone uses the words "simple" and "velvety" in the same sentence, we're all ears. This Chicken Gnocchi Soup from Pinch of Yum has bacon in it as well.
Once this is in your Crock-Pot, you'll be counting down the hours until you can grab a spoon and dig in!
Easy Orange Chicken
Orange marmalade will be your best friend when it comes to this Easy Orange Chicken recipe from Nellie Bellie. Soy sauce, ginger, and barbecue sauce add tons of delicious flavor. Serve this with rice, noodles, or veggies, and prepare to fall in love.
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