14 Mouthwatering Healthy Slow Cooker Recipes to Try

Slow cookers are a fantastic way to whip up healthy meals with minimal effort. These recipes are perfect for busy days, allowing you to toss in ingredients and let the magic happen while you go about your day. From hearty soups to wholesome stews, discover how simple it can be to enjoy nourishing meals right from your slow cooker.

Herbed Chicken and Sweet Potatoes

This Herbed Chicken and Sweet Potatoes recipe is a fantastic choice for a healthy meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. The tender chicken mingles with sweet potatoes, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. With various herbs to season the dish, you’ll find it bursting with taste while being incredibly easy to prepare.

Cooking in a slow cooker allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, making it a perfect option for busy days. Just set it and forget it! By the time you’re ready to eat, you’ll have a wholesome dish that’s ready to serve. Let’s get started with the ingredients and instructions!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Layer Ingredients: In the slow cooker, add the diced sweet potatoes. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top.
3. Add Liquid: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and pour in the chicken broth.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your healthy meal!

Spicy Chickpea and Spinach Stew

This Spicy Chickpea and Spinach Stew is a hearty dish that’s both nutritious and easy to make. Packed with protein from chickpeas and loaded with leafy greens, it delivers a delightful kick from spices, making each bite satisfying and warming.

The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a meal prep option for busy weekdays.

Ingredients

• 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to your slow cooker. Add chickpeas, spinach, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, and enjoy your comforting stew!

Quinoa and Black Bean Chili

This quinoa and black bean chili is a warm, hearty dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option that’s still full of flavor. The combination of spices, beans, and quinoa creates a delightful blend that not only satisfies but also excites your palate.

What’s great about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. Just toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and let it do its magic. Whether you’re having a cozy night in or hosting friends, this chili is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Avocado slices for serving

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients except for the cilantro and avocado in the slow cooker.
2. Stir well to mix everything together.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the quinoa is cooked and the mixture is heated through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and avocado slices.

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

This Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for busy weeknights. The tender beef melds beautifully with crisp broccoli, all coated in a savory sauce that’s both rich and satisfying.

Not only is this meal delicious, but it’s also super easy to prepare in a slow cooker. Just toss your ingredients in, let them do their thing, and before you know it, you have a wholesome meal ready to serve!

Ingredients

• 1 pound flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, beef broth, and honey. Mix well.
2. Mix Ingredients: Place the sliced flank steak and broccoli florets in the slow cooker. Pour the marinade over the top and toss to coat everything evenly.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the beef is tender and the broccoli is bright green.
4. Serve: Once done, serve the stir-fry over rice or noodles, if desired, and enjoy!

Lentil and Vegetable Stew

This lentil and vegetable stew is not only hearty and satisfying but also packed with nutrition. It has a comforting blend of flavors that makes it perfect for any day of the week. With its rich texture and wholesome ingredients, this dish is simple to whip up in your slow cooker, requiring minimal prep time while delivering maximum flavor.

The combination of lentils, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a delicious meal that warms the soul. Plus, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking healthy, plant-based options. Let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the delightful aroma filling your home!

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils (green or brown)
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium potato, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain.
2. In the slow cooker, combine lentils, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, potato, bell pepper, and spices.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until lentils and vegetables are tender.
5. Stir before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.

Mushroom Risotto

Mushroom risotto is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The rich, earthy flavors of the mushrooms blend beautifully with the creamy rice, creating a deliciously satisfying meal. Plus, using a slow cooker makes it super easy—just set it and forget it!

This recipe is not only simple but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a healthy dinner. The combination of fresh mushrooms, herbs, and a touch of cheese results in a dish that’s both hearty and delightful. You’ll love how the slow cooking process brings out the flavors, resulting in a risotto that’s creamy without the need for constant stirring.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: In a slow cooker, add the Arborio rice, vegetable broth, sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for about 4-5 hours, or until the rice is tender and creamy. Stir occasionally if possible.
3. Add Cheese: Once cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy mushroom risotto!

Vegetable Biryani

Vegetable Biryani is a fragrant, colorful rice dish that combines an array of vegetables with aromatic spices. It offers a delightful mix of flavors that are both comforting and satisfying. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare; just throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work!

The layers of basmati rice and vegetables create a beautiful presentation that will impress anyone at your dinner table. With its robust spices and tender veggies, this biryani is a fantastic option for a healthy meal that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, green beans, bell peppers)
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for about 30 minutes, then drain.
2. In the slow cooker, add the sliced onion, mixed vegetables, chopped tomatoes, and ginger-garlic paste. Stir to combine.
3. Add the drained rice on top, followed by the vegetable broth, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, garam masala, bay leaf, and salt. Gently mix everything together.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the rice is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
5. Once done, fluff the biryani with a fork, remove the bay leaf, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Coconut Curry Lentils

Coconut Curry Lentils are a delicious, hearty dish that brings a touch of warmth and spice to your table. This recipe combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the earthy flavors of lentils, creating a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and comforting. Perfect for busy weeknights, this slow cooker dish allows you to set it and forget it, making dinner prep a breeze!

The delightful blend of spices and ingredients results in a rich and flavorful curry that pairs beautifully with rice or naan. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and hard to resist!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried red lentils
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: In your slow cooker, combine the lentils, chopped onion, garlic, ginger, curry powder, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix everything well.
2. Add Liquids: Pour in the coconut milk and diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir again to combine.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the lentils are tender.
4. Finish and Serve: Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot over cooked rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare in a slow cooker. These vibrant peppers are filled with a mixture of grains, vegetables, and protein, making them both satisfying and healthy. The combination of spices and melted cheese on top brings a burst of flavor, creating a dish that everyone will love.

Not only are these stuffed peppers tasty, but they are also simple to make. Just prep the filling, stuff the peppers, and let the slow cooker do the work. In a few hours, you will have a hearty meal ready to enjoy!

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 cup salsa

Instructions

1. Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa or rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Stuff the peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Fill each pepper with the quinoa mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.
3. Arrange in the slow cooker: Pour salsa into the bottom of the slow cooker, then place the stuffed peppers upright in the pot.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the peppers are tender.
5. Add cheese: In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle cheese on top of the stuffed peppers and cover until melted.

Creamy Tomato and Basil Soup

This creamy tomato and basil soup is a warm hug in a bowl. With its rich flavors and smooth texture, it’s perfect for a cozy night in or a simple lunch. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in a slow cooker, making meal prep a breeze.

Combining ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream, this soup is both comforting and nutritious. The flavors blend beautifully as they simmer, resulting in a delightful dish that pairs well with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (14 oz each) of diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Combine diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, and vegetable broth in a slow cooker. Stir well to mix.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
3. Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Let it cook for an additional 15 minutes on low before serving. Enjoy warm!

Moroccan Spiced Vegetable Tagine

This Moroccan Spiced Vegetable Tagine is a delightful mix of vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices. It’s packed with flavor, featuring ingredients like carrots, zucchini, and a touch of sweetness from dried fruits like raisins and apricots. The slow cooker makes it incredibly simple, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully without much fuss in the kitchen.

The dish is both hearty and healthy, making it perfect for a cozy dinner. Serve it over couscous or with warm bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Get ready to impress your taste buds with this easy, nutritious recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup almonds, toasted

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Place the sliced carrots, zucchinis, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker.
2. Add the Spices: Sprinkle in the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir the vegetables to coat them evenly in the spices.
3. Pour the Broth: Add the vegetable broth into the slow cooker, ensuring the vegetables are covered.
4. Add the Chickpeas and Fruits: Stir in the chickpeas, dried apricots, and raisins. Mix well.
5. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve: Once cooked, top with toasted almonds before serving. Enjoy your flavorful tagine over couscous or with warm bread!

Turkey and Zucchini Meatballs

Turkey and zucchini meatballs are a fantastic option for a healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. These meatballs are moist, savory, and packed with nutrients, making them perfect for a family dinner. With turkey as the lean protein and zucchini adding moisture and a veggie boost, this recipe is both satisfying and light.

The best part? They are super easy to make! Just mix the ingredients, roll them into balls, and let the slow cooker do the rest. You’ll have a delicious dish ready to serve with minimal effort, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 cup grated zucchini (excess moisture squeezed out)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

1. Mix all the ingredients (except marinara sauce) in a large bowl until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Place the meatballs in the slow cooker and cover with marinara sauce.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy with pasta, rice, or on their own!

Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon

Get ready for a simple and delicious meal with Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon! This dish is a fantastic blend of fresh flavors, with zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and aromatic herbs coming together to enhance the tender salmon. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Using a slow cooker makes this recipe even easier, allowing the salmon to cook gently and stay moist. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a healthy meal that’s packed with flavor. Let’s dive right into making this delightful dish!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Add Ingredients: Place salmon fillets in the slow cooker. Top with minced garlic, lemon slices, thyme, oregano, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Serve: Carefully remove the salmon and serve it with the cooked garlic and lemon over a side of vegetables or rice. Enjoy!

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for breakfast. The sweet and spicy aroma of cinnamon mixed with fresh apples creates a delightful start to your day. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, especially with a slow cooker doing most of the work for you.

This recipe packs a healthful punch with oats providing fiber and apples adding vitamins. You can customize it by adding nuts or dried fruits to suit your taste. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of creamy oatmeal that’s both satisfying and nutritious!

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 4 cups water or milk
• 2 apples, diced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine the oats, water or milk, diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in the slow cooker.
2. Stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Set the slow cooker on low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.
4. Once cooked, serve warm and top with additional apple slices or nuts if desired.

Nina Redford

I’m Nina, and I’m very passionate about spirituality. Exploring the depths of the soul and connecting with the divine has always been my source of inspiration. Join me on a journey of self-discovery and inner peace through my writing.