If you’re looking for affordable meals that save you time and money, this list of the best crockpot recipes is just what you need. These cheap crockpot meals are perfect for families, whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just trying to whip up a quick dinner on a budget.
From hearty stews to delicious one-pot wonders, these cheap family meals are both flavorful and simple to make. With a focus on cheap meal prep, easy dinner recipes crockpot, and crockpot dump recipes, you’ll find plenty of crockpot dinner ideas that make feeding your family stress-free.
Whether you’re looking for slow cooker meals to save money on food, easy crockpot meals for a busy weeknight, or dump dinners that practically cook themselves, these recipes check all the boxes.
Perfect for meal ideas on a budget and large family meals, these crockpot ideas will quickly become your go-to for delicious crock pot recipes. Say goodbye to expensive takeout and hello to easy and cheap meals that make dinner a breeze!
1. Slow Cooker Chicken Curry
This chicken curry is a family favorite! It’s so comforting, full of flavor, and super easy to make. Just toss everything into your crockpot and let it do its magic while you go about your day. Perfect for busy nights when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It smells amazing as it cooks too!
Servings: 4-6
Time: 6-8 hours
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless chicken (thighs or breasts, cut into chunks)
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Cooked rice or naan for serving
Instructions:
- Add chicken, onion, garlic, and ginger to the crockpot.
- Sprinkle all the spices over the top.
- Pour in the coconut milk and crushed tomatoes, then give it a good stir.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is tender.
- About 20 minutes before serving, stir in the peas if you’re using them.
- Serve over rice or with warm naan bread.
2. Vegetable and Lentil Soup
This veggie and lentil soup is one of those meals that warms your soul. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients and a cozy flavor that makes it perfect for chilly days. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and so filling! My kids even love it, and they’re picky about veggies.
Servings: 6-8
Time: 6-7 hours
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried lentils (any color), rinsed
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
Instructions:
- Add lentils, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth.
- Sprinkle in cumin, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until lentils and veggies are tender.
- Stir in spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Serve warm with crusty bread.
3. Beef and Potato Stew
Beef and potato stew is the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’re getting a big hug from your grandma. It’s hearty, warm, and just so satisfying. The crockpot makes it all so easy—just toss it in and forget it. This one’s a winter must-have for sure!
Servings: 4-6
Time: 8 hours
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
- Place beef, potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic in the crockpot.
- In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour it over the beef and veggies.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- If you like a thicker stew, mix 2 tbsp flour with some water and stir it into the stew 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or biscuits.
4. Chickpea and Spinach Curry
Here’s a vegetarian dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Chickpea and spinach curry is so creamy, spicy (but not too much), and filling. It’s great for meal prepping too since the flavors get even better the next day. We love it with rice, but it’s amazing on its own!
Servings: 4-6
Time: 6 hours
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (14 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Instructions:
- Add chickpeas, onion, garlic, and ginger to the crockpot.
- Sprinkle in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, garam masala, and salt. Stir to coat.
- Pour in coconut milk and diced tomatoes. Stir everything well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
- About 20 minutes before serving, stir in spinach until wilted.
- Serve over rice or with flatbread.
5. BBQ Pulled Chicken
This BBQ pulled chicken is a hit at my house—perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or even on top of a salad. It’s tangy, sweet, and smoky, and you barely have to do anything to make it. Just let the crockpot handle all the work!
Servings: 6-8
Time: 4-6 hours
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (check for halal ingredients)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Shred the chicken with two forks and stir it into the sauce.
- Serve on buns, over rice, or however you like!
6. Creamy Mushroom and Rice Casserole
This one’s for the mushroom lovers! It’s creamy, hearty, and oh-so-comforting. The rice cooks up perfectly in the crockpot, soaking in all that flavor. It’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup—win-win!
Ingredients:
Servings: 4-6
Time: 6 hours
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add rice, mushrooms, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
- Pour in vegetable broth, cream, and sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.
- Once the rice is tender, stir in Parmesan cheese and let it melt.
- Serve warm as a side or main dish.
7. Slow Cooker Turkey Chili
This turkey chili is one of my go-to recipes when I need something easy and filling. It’s loaded with beans, turkey, and spices that make it super hearty. You can customize the spice level to your liking, and it’s perfect for those cold nights when you just want to cozy up with a warm bowl.
Servings: 6-8
Time: 6-8 hours
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the ground turkey in a skillet, then add it to the crockpot.
- Add all other ingredients to the crockpot and stir well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips on top!
8. Moroccan Vegetable Stew
This Moroccan-inspired stew is bursting with warm spices and sweet-and-savory flavors. It’s a great way to use up whatever veggies you have on hand, and it’s completely vegan. The cinnamon and cumin give it such a unique and comforting taste.
Servings: 4-6
Time: 6-7 hours
Ingredients:
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, diced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried apricots (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Add all the vegetables, chickpeas, tomatoes, and broth to the crockpot.
- Stir in cumin, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- If using raisins or apricots, toss them in too.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve with couscous or crusty bread.
9. Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Butter chicken is one of those dishes that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make, especially in a crockpot. The chicken gets so tender, and the creamy sauce is perfect for spooning over rice or scooping up with naan. My kids even ask for seconds when I make this!
Servings: 4-6
Time: 6 hours
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Place the chicken, onion, garlic, and ginger in the crockpot.
- Sprinkle garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and salt over the chicken.
- Add the tomato sauce and butter. Stir well to coat everything.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
- Stir in the cream or coconut milk about 20 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
10. Black Bean and Corn Chili
This black bean and corn chili is a lighter twist on traditional chili. It’s vegetarian, full of zesty flavors, and so easy to throw together. I love topping it with avocado and a squeeze of lime for an extra kick.
Servings: 6-8
Time: 6 hours
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (14 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to the crockpot and stir well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Serve with toppings like avocado, lime, or tortilla chips.
11. Cheesy Broccoli and Rice
This cheesy broccoli and rice dish is the ultimate comfort food. It’s creamy, cheesy, and so easy to make. My kids love it as a side dish or even a main meal. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Servings: 4-6
Time: 5 hours
Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add rice, broccoli, onion, and broth to the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.
- Once the rice is tender, stir in heavy cream and cheese.
- Let it sit for a few minutes to melt the cheese.
- Serve warm as a side or main dish.
12. Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
Chicken tacos are always a win at my house. This slow cooker version makes the chicken so juicy and flavorful, you won’t believe how easy it is. Just shred it up and stuff it in your favorite tortillas with all the toppings. Taco night just got a whole lot simpler!
Servings: 6-8
Time: 4-6 hours
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot—your choice!)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (halal)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Tortillas and toppings (lettuce, cheese, sour cream, etc.)
Instructions:
- Place the chicken in the crockpot.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken.
- Pour the salsa and chicken broth on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Shred the chicken with two forks and stir it into the sauce.
- Serve with tortillas and your favorite toppings.
13. Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew
This sweet potato and chickpea stew is a total lifesaver when I want something healthy but still satisfying. The sweet potatoes and chickpeas soak up all the spices, making each bite so flavorful. It’s great for meal prep too!
Servings: 4-6
Time: 6-7 hours
Ingredients:
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups spinach or kale (optional)
Instructions:
- Add sweet potatoes, chickpeas, onion, garlic, tomatoes, and broth to the crockpot.
- Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Stir in spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Serve on its own or over rice.
14. Slow Cooker Vegetable Pasta Sauce
If you’ve never made pasta sauce from scratch in your crockpot, you’re missing out! This veggie-packed sauce is so flavorful and way better than anything from a jar. Plus, it’s perfect for sneaking extra veggies into your kids’ meals.
Servings: 6-8
Time: 6 hours
Ingredients:
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups zucchini, diced
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add onion, garlic, zucchini, carrots, crushed tomatoes, and diced tomatoes to the crockpot.
- Sprinkle oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper on top. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the sauce if you prefer it smooth.
- Serve over your favorite pasta or use as a pizza sauce!
15. Spiced Lentil and Rice Pilaf
This spiced lentil and rice pilaf is a simple yet flavorful dish that can be served as a main or a side. It’s inspired by Middle Eastern flavors, and the lentils make it hearty enough to stand on its own. Plus, it’s all done in one pot—so easy!
Servings: 4-6
Time: 5-6 hours
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Add lentils, rice, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
- Sprinkle in cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and stir everything together.
- Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours, or until the lentils and rice are tender.
- Fluff with a fork and garnish with parsley before serving.
Crockpots truly are a game-changer when it comes to creating affordable meals that are both delicious and easy to prepare. These best crockpot recipes prove that you don’t need to spend a lot to feed your family well.
With these cheap crockpot meals and cheap slow cooker recipes, you can whip up cheap family meals that are perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or stretching your grocery budget. From easy crockpot dinners to dump dinners, these crockpot meal ideas are a lifesaver for anyone looking for cheap and quick dinners for a family.
So, whether you’re tackling meal prep on a budget or searching for crock pot dinner ideas easy, these cheap recipes are here to inspire your weekly menu. With these crockpot dinners, you can save money on food while enjoying hearty, comforting dishes.
No matter the size of your family or your schedule, these large family meals, crockpot ideas, and delicious crock pot recipes are here to make dinner a breeze. Say goodbye to stress and hello to easy, affordable meals that will quickly become household favorites!
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