Slow Cooker Recipes: Easy Meals, Less Effort!
Family-friendly dishes for busy people — quick prep, delicious results.
Grab yours for $4Meal prep can be a lifesaver for busy families, and that’s why I created this post. I’ve been on the lookout for ways to make cooking easier without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Let’s face it—between work, school, and everything in between, finding time to cook can feel impossible. That’s where these freezer bag crockpot dump meals come in. They allow you to prep ingredients in advance, so on a busy day, all you have to do is dump the bag into your slow cooker and let it do the work.
If you’re a parent juggling a million things or someone who simply loves a good meal but doesn’t want to spend all day in the kitchen, this post is for you. These recipes are not only simple but also healthy, ensuring that you and your family can enjoy delicious meals without the hassle of complex preparations. With these easy crockpot meals, you’ll find that planning dinner can be a breeze.
In this guide, you’ll discover 18 freezer bag crockpot dump meals that are tasty, nutritious, and perfect for those hectic weeknights. You’ll get a range of options, from hearty stews to delicious stir-fries, all designed to keep your family satisfied and healthy. So grab your slow cooker and get ready to make weeknight dinners something to look forward to!
Key Takeaways
– These 18 freezer bag crockpot meals are designed for busy families looking to simplify meal prep without sacrificing taste or health.
– Each recipe is easy to follow and allows you to prepare meals in advance, saving you time during the week.
– You’ll find a variety of options, from comforting soups to savory stir-fries, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences.
– These meals can help you stick to a healthier eating plan while enjoying flavorful dishes that everyone will love.
– Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, turning dinnertime into a stress-free experience for you and your family.
1. Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew
Craving a warm and cozy meal on a chilly night? This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is just what you need. It’s bursting with flavor and packed with nutritious ingredients, making it a family favorite. Simply toss everything into a freezer bag, and when you’re ready, let the slow cooker work its magic for a deliciously comforting dish.
Each serving is not only delicious but also rich in protein and vitamins, ensuring a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups diced carrots
– 2 cups diced potatoes
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 onion, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
1. Dice the chicken and vegetables, then add them to a freezer bag.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and seasonings, then seal the bag and freeze.
3. When ready to cook, dump the contents into the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until everything is tender.
5. Adjust seasoning before serving, adding fresh herbs if desired.
– Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, just increase the cooking time slightly.
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Transform mealtime with effortless ground beef recipes perfect for busy families seeking health-conscious options.
2. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Looking for a quick dinner that satisfies your takeout cravings? This Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a perfect choice. It’s easy to prepare, with tender beef and vibrant broccoli cooked to perfection in the slow cooker. Serve it over brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal that hits the spot.
This dish combines rich flavors and good nutrition, making it a family favorite any night of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak, sliced thinly
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ginger, minced
1. Place sliced beef and broccoli in a freezer bag.
2. Add soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Seal and freeze until ready to cook.
4. When ready, dump the contents into the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve it over rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
FAQs:
– Can I use other veggies? Yes, bell peppers or snap peas would be great additions!
3. Italian Sausage and Peppers
Want to bring a taste of Italy to your dinner table? This Italian Sausage and Peppers dish is bursting with flavor. The spicy sausage paired with colorful bell peppers and onions creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for sandwiches or over pasta.
Slow cooking brings out the best in these ingredients, making each bite incredibly tender and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
– 2 bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
1. Place sausage, peppers, onion, and tomatoes into a freezer bag.
2. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Seal and freeze until you’re ready to cook.
4. Dump the contents into the slow cooker and set on low for 6-8 hours.
5. Serve in hoagie rolls or over pasta for a delightful meal.
FAQs:
– Can I use turkey sausage? Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great alternative.
4. Lemon Garlic Chicken
In need of a refreshing dinner option? This Lemon Garlic Chicken is bright, zesty, and oh-so-tender! With a burst of citrus flavor and a delightful garlic aroma, it’s a dish you can enjoy any night of the week.
Pair it with rice or steamed veggies for a well-rounded and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
1. Place chicken thighs in a freezer bag.
2. Add lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Seal the bag and freeze.
4. When ready, dump everything into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
5. Serve with rice and your choice of veggies.
FAQs:
– Can I use chicken breasts instead? Yes, just reduce the cooking time slightly as they cook faster.
How To Choose Freezer Bag Crockpot Dump Meals
Selecting the right freezer bag crockpot dump meals for your family can make weeknight dinners a breeze. Here are some key factors to consider when making your choices:
1. Ingredients
Look for meals that include fresh, wholesome ingredients. You want a mix of protein, vegetables, and grains. This ensures your family gets the nutrients they need. Check the recipes for ingredients that you enjoy and those that fit your dietary needs. For example, if someone in your family is vegetarian, choose recipes with beans or lentils as the main protein source.
2. Cooking Time
Different recipes have varying cooking times. Take a look at how long each recipe takes in the crockpot. Some meals may require longer cooking times, while others are ready in a couple of hours. For busy weekdays, you might prefer quick meals that can cook in four hours on high or eight hours on low. Make sure to factor this into your meal planning to avoid any surprises at dinner time.
3. Flavor Profiles
Choose meals that cater to your family’s palate. Some may prefer spicy flavors, while others enjoy milder dishes. Look for recipes that showcase different cuisines, such as Italian, Thai, or classic American. This variety can help keep your meals exciting and ensure everyone at the table finds something they love.
4. Portion Sizes
Consider the portion sizes when selecting your meals. If you have a large family or plan to have leftovers for lunch, choose recipes with generous serving sizes. Most crockpot meals are designed to be filling, but it’s good to double-check the number of servings each recipe provides to avoid running short.
5. Freezer-Friendly Nature
Not all meals freeze well, so it’s essential to pick recipes that maintain their quality after being frozen. Look for meals that freeze without losing flavor or texture. Certain ingredients, like dairy or certain vegetables, may not freeze well, so find recipes that specify they can be stored in freezer bags.
6. Ease of Preparation
The beauty of dump meals is their simplicity. Look for recipes that require minimal prep. If a recipe needs a lot of chopping or pre-cooking, it might defeat the purpose of quick meal prep. Ideally, you want recipes that allow you to throw everything into a bag without much fuss.
Pro Tip: To make your freezer bag meal prep even easier, designate a day each month for meal prep. Create multiple freezer bags of different recipes in one go. Label each bag with the cooking instructions and date, so you always know what you have ready to go!
With these guidelines, you can confidently choose freezer bag crockpot dump meals that fit your family’s needs and preferences. Enjoy the convenience of having delicious meals ready to cook with minimal effort!
5. Vegetable Lentil Soup
Searching for a hearty and healthy meal option? This Vegetable Lentil Soup is a nutritious powerhouse that’s perfect for busy families. Rich in protein and fiber, it’s a filling dish that’s comforting on any day.
With a mix of vegetables and warm spices, this soup will leave you feeling satisfied and happy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lentils, rinsed
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
1. Combine lentils, carrots, celery, onion, tomatoes, and broth in a freezer bag.
2. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper, then seal the bag and freeze.
3. When ready, dump into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
4. Adjust seasoning before serving.
– Can I blend this soup? Yes, blending gives it a creamy texture while keeping all the nutrients intact!
Did you know lentil soup doubles as a protein-packed, fiber-rich staple? This freezer bag crockpot meals dump recipes approach makes weeknights easy: just dump, set, and wait—comfort in a pot. Perfect for busy families who want nutrition without the fuss.
6. Honey Garlic Drumsticks
Looking for a dish that’s both sweet and savory? These Honey Garlic Drumsticks are a delightful option! The sticky sauce caramelizes wonderfully, creating a glaze you’ll want to savor with every bite.
Pair them with roasted veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
1. Place drumsticks into a freezer bag.
2. Add honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper.
3. Seal and freeze until ready to cook.
4. When ready, dump everything into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
5. Serve with your favorite sides.
FAQs:
– Can I use thigh pieces instead? Yes, thighs work wonderfully with this recipe too!
7. Turkey Chili
Craving comfort food? This Turkey Chili is a healthier twist on the classic dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Packed with lean turkey, beans, and spices, it’s a hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Plus, it freezes well, making it an ideal option for meal prep!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 can kidney beans (15 oz), drained
– 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
1. Brown the ground turkey in a skillet and let cool.
2. Combine turkey, beans, tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a freezer bag.
3. Seal and freeze.
4. When ready, dump everything into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
5. Serve with toppings like cheese or avocado.
– Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, just omit the turkey and add more beans or lentils!
8. BBQ Pulled Pork
Want a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make? This BBQ Pulled Pork is a fantastic choice! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or over rice. The slow cooking transforms the pork into tender, shreddable goodness everyone will enjoy.
It’s a versatile meal that brings smiles to the table!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 onion, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
1. Place the pork shoulder in a freezer bag with BBQ sauce, onion, salt, and pepper.
2. Seal and freeze.
3. When ready, dump everything into the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and mix well with the sauce before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I use chicken instead? Yes, you can make this recipe with chicken thighs for a lighter option!
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9. Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
In the mood for a comforting classic? This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is just the ticket, especially when paired with grilled cheese sandwiches! With fresh tomatoes and basil, it’s a deliciously simple dish that feels indulgent yet healthy.
Prepare it ahead of time, and let the slow cooker do the work for you!
Ingredients:
– 6 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
1. Combine tomatoes, onion, garlic, and vegetable broth in a freezer bag.
2. Seal and freeze.
3. When ready to cook, dump into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
4. Stir in heavy cream and basil before serving.
5. Adjust seasoning to taste.
FAQs:
– Can I use canned tomatoes? Yes, canned tomatoes work well, but fresh will give the best flavor!
10. Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells
Looking for a way to sneak more veggies into dinner? These Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells are sure to be a hit! Filled with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture, they’re baked in marinara sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Prepped ahead of time, this dish will warm your heart and your belly!
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup spinach, chopped
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
1. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions and let cool.
2. In a bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff the shells with the cheese mixture and place in a freezer bag.
4. Add marinara sauce on top and sprinkle with mozzarella.
5. Seal and freeze.
6. When ready to cook, dump everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
FAQs:
– Can I use different fillings? Absolutely! Ground turkey or more vegetables would be delicious alternatives.
Busy weeknights no longer sabotage dinner time. Freezer bag crockpot meals dump recipes let you dump and go, and Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells make veggies feel irresistible.
11. Coconut Curry Chicken
Want to spice up your dinner routine? This Coconut Curry Chicken brings tropical flavors right to your table. With aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk, this dish is comforting yet exotic, making it a perfect choice for any night.
Serve it over rice or with naan bread to soak up that delicious sauce!
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cubed
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cups mixed veggies (bell pepper, carrots, peas)
– Salt to taste
1. Place cubed chicken, coconut milk, curry powder, onion, veggies, and salt in a freezer bag.
2. Seal and freeze.
3. When ready to cook, dump into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
4. Serve over rice or with naan.
FAQs:
– Can I use other proteins? Yes! Shrimp or tofu would also work great in this recipe!
12. Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole
Craving comfort food that everyone will love? This Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with nutrients from the broccoli. You can prepare it in advance and let the slow cooker do the work while you handle other tasks, making dinner easy and delicious.
It’s a perfect side dish or a satisfying main meal!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 2 cups broccoli, chopped
– 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Combine rice, broccoli, cheddar cheese, soup, and milk in a freezer bag.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Seal and freeze.
4. When ready to cook, dump everything into the slow cooker and set on low for 4-6 hours.
5. Stir before serving to combine the cheese and soup.
FAQs:
– Can I add chicken? Absolutely! Shredded chicken makes a great addition.
13. Thai Peanut Chicken
If you’re looking for a dish bursting with bold flavors, this Thai Peanut Chicken is for you! With a blend of peanut butter, soy sauce, and spices, it creates a mouthwatering dish perfect over rice or noodles.
Prepare it in advance and let the slow cooker transform it into a tender, flavorful meal!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken thighs, cubed
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ginger, minced
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
1. Place chicken, peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and peppers in a freezer bag.
2. Seal and freeze.
3. When ready to cook, dump everything into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
4. Serve over rice or noodles for a delightful dinner.
FAQs:
– Can I use almond butter? Yes, almond butter is a great substitute!
14. Balsamic Glazed Chicken
In search of a dish that’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory? This Balsamic Glazed Chicken is just that! The chicken cooks perfectly with the rich balsamic sauce, making it delicious served over quinoa or with roasted vegetables.
Prepare it in a freezer bag and let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting for you!
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
1. Place chicken, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper in a freezer bag.
2. Seal and freeze until ready to cook.
3. When ready, dump into the slow cooker and set on low for 6-8 hours.
4. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
FAQs:
– Can I use a different protein? Yes, pork or turkey would also work beautifully with this glaze!
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15. Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
Craving a nutritious dish that’s filling and delicious? This Quinoa and Black Bean Salad is perfect warm or cold! It’s a protein-packed meal combining fresh vegetables and spices, and prepping it in a freezer bag means you’ll have an easy meal ready to go!
This salad is ideal for lunch or dinner and is great for meal prep!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
– 1 can black beans (15 oz), rinsed
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
1. Combine quinoa, black beans, bell pepper, corn, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper in a freezer bag.
2. Seal and freeze.
3. When ready, dump the contents into the slow cooker with 2 cups of water, and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
4. Fluff with a fork before serving for a light, fresh meal.
FAQs:
– Can I use different beans? Definitely! You can mix and match beans based on your preference.
16. Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this Greek Chicken Souvlaki. Marinated in a zesty blend of lemon and herbs, this dish is both flavorful and fragrant. Enjoy it in wraps, salads, or with rice for a fulfilling meal that’s easy to prepare.
This dish promises to bring a burst of flavor to your dinner table!
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cubed
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
1. Combine chicken, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper in a freezer bag.
2. Seal and freeze until ready to cook.
3. When ready, dump everything into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
4. Serve with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and fresh veggies.
FAQs:
– Can I grill this instead? Yes! Just grill the marinated chicken for a delicious smoky flavor.
17. Vegetable Stuffed Peppers
Want to enjoy a colorful and nutritious meal? These Vegetable Stuffed Peppers are a fantastic option! Filled with quinoa, beans, and spices, they make a hearty and healthy dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Whether you bake or slow cook them, they’re sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
– 1 cup quinoa, cooked
– 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained
– 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
– 1 cup diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Pre-cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each bell pepper half with the mixture and place in a freezer bag.
4. Seal and freeze.
5. When ready, dump into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
FAQs:
– Can I use other fillings? Yes! Feel free to customize with your favorite grains or proteins!
Vegetable Stuffed Peppers prove that freezer bag crockpot meals dump recipes can be vibrant and nutritious. Prep ahead, dump, and let the slow cooker do the work—quinoa, beans, corn, and tomatoes come together for a hearty, colorful dinner. Busy week? This is your practical, flavorful solution.
18. Sweet and Sour Chicken
Looking for a dish that’s both fun and flavorful? This Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delightful blend that’s sure to please both kids and adults. The sauce is a perfect mix of tangy and sweet, creating a meal that’s satisfying and easy to prepare.
Serve it over rice or noodles, and dinner is ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 onion, diced
1. Place chicken, pineapple, sweet and sour sauce, bell pepper, and onion in a freezer bag.
2. Seal and freeze until ready to cook.
3. When ready, dump everything into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
4. Serve over rice or noodles for a delicious meal.
– Can I use tofu instead of chicken? Yes, tofu is a great substitute for a vegetarian option!
Conclusion
Freezer bag crockpot dump meals are the perfect solution for busy families, combining convenience with healthy ingredients. With these 18 delightful recipes, you can simplify your meal prep while ensuring that everyone at the table enjoys hearty and delicious dinners. Embrace the joy of easy cooking and make every mealtime a breeze!
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