15+ Simple Crock Pot Recipes with Just a Few Ingredients

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to cook healthy, delicious meals can often feel like an uphill battle. Enter the trusty crock pot—a kitchen hero that transforms simple ingredients into hearty, flavorful dishes with minimal effort.

With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a variety of mouthwatering meals that will impress your family and friends without keeping you chained to the stove.

This article presents 15+ few ingredient crock pot recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or any occasion when you want to enjoy a homemade meal with little fuss.

Whether you’re a seasoned crock pot enthusiast or just starting, these recipes will inspire you to explore the magic of slow cooking!

15+ Simple Crock Pot Recipes with Just a Few Ingredients

Crock pot cooking is all about simplicity, convenience, and maximizing flavor while minimizing the number of ingredients.

The 15+ few ingredient crock pot recipes showcased here demonstrate that you don’t need an extensive list of items to whip up delicious meals.

From hearty soups and stews to succulent meats and vibrant vegetable dishes, these recipes allow you to enjoy home-cooked goodness without the stress of complicated cooking techniques or excessive prep work.

Embrace the ease of crock pot cooking and make these recipes a staple in your meal rotation.

You’ll be amazed at how much flavor you can pack into a dish with so few ingredients!

Crock Pot BBQ Chicken

This Crock Pot BBQ Chicken is a flavor-packed dish that transforms simple chicken breasts into a mouthwatering meal. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is a perfect option for busy weeknights or gatherings. The slow cooking method ensures that the chicken becomes tender and juicy while soaking up the tangy barbecue sauce.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken breasts in the crock pot.
2. In a small bowl, mix the barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
5. Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir it back into the sauce before serving.

This Crock Pot BBQ Chicken is not just quick to prepare; it also delivers on flavor and satisfaction. Serve it on buns for a delicious sandwich, with a side of coleslaw for a classic barbecue meal, or over rice for a comforting dinner. The versatility of this dish makes it a favorite in many households, and it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Crock Pot Vegetable Soup

This hearty Crock Pot Vegetable Soup is a delightful way to enjoy a medley of seasonal vegetables in a warm and nourishing broth. With minimal ingredients, this recipe allows the natural flavors of the vegetables to shine through. It’s an ideal dish for those looking to incorporate more veggies into their diet or for anyone seeking a comforting meal on a chilly day.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups mixed vegetables (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the mixed vegetables, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the crock pot.
2. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

This Crock Pot Vegetable Soup is not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying and nutritious. It’s an excellent option for meal prep, as it can be stored in the fridge for several days or frozen for later use. Enjoy it on its own, or pair it with a crusty bread for a complete meal. This recipe is a fantastic way to clear out your fridge, use up leftover vegetables, and provide your family with a delicious, healthful dish.

Crock Pot Beef Stew

This Crock Pot Beef Stew is a classic comfort food that combines tender beef with hearty vegetables, all cooked in a savory broth. With just a few ingredients, this stew is an easy and delicious way to warm up during the colder months. The slow cooking process melds the flavors beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 4 potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the beef cubes at the bottom of the crock pot.
2. Add the carrots, potatoes, and onion on top of the beef.
3. Pour in the beef broth and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
5. Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

This Crock Pot Beef Stew is a perfect meal for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. The rich, savory flavors and tender texture make it a dish everyone will love. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth, and savor the comforting flavors that come from a slow-cooked meal.

Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that marries the sweetness of honey with the savory depth of garlic. With just a few ingredients, this recipe is quick to throw together and yields a flavorful meal that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. The slow cooking method allows the chicken to become incredibly tender while absorbing the rich sauce, making each bite a burst of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of the crock pot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Serve the chicken with rice or steamed vegetables, spooning extra sauce over the top.

Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare and provides a delicious meal with minimal effort. The tender chicken pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles, and the sauce is fantastic for drizzling over veggies or even using as a dipping sauce. This dish not only satisfies but also showcases how a few simple ingredients can create a memorable meal.

Crock Pot Chili

This Crock Pot Chili is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for cozy nights at home. With minimal ingredients, this recipe allows the bold flavors of chili to shine through. The slow cooker makes it easy to prepare ahead of time, letting you come home to a deliciously simmered meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 packet chili seasoning mix
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2. Transfer the cooked beef to the crock pot and add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili seasoning mix, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir to combine all ingredients.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Serve hot, optionally topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions.

This Crock Pot Chili is a quintessential comfort food that’s perfect for gatherings or family dinners. It’s filling, flavorful, and can be easily customized by adding your favorite toppings or spices. Whether you serve it with cornbread, over rice, or simply in a bowl with some toppings, this chili is sure to warm you up and leave you satisfied. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover ingredients, making it both versatile and resourceful.

Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers

Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines juicy sausage with colorful bell peppers and aromatic herbs. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal prep work. The slow cooking method ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s perfect for sandwiches, pasta, or served over rice.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
• 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the Italian sausage at the bottom of the crock pot.
2. Layer the sliced bell peppers and onion over the sausage.
3. Pour the diced tomatoes over the top and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve on rolls for a sandwich, over pasta, or with crusty bread for dipping.

Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. This dish can be served in various ways, whether as a hearty sandwich filling, over pasta, or simply on its own. The combination of savory sausage and sweet, tender peppers creates a delightful flavor profile that will please everyone at the table. Enjoy this comforting dish any day of the week, knowing that minimal effort yields maximum taste!

Crock Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Crock Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and creamy tomato sauce. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. The slow cooking method ensures the chicken is infused with the flavors of tomatoes and basil, resulting in a satisfying and hearty meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crock pot.
2. Pour the crushed tomatoes over the chicken, then add the heavy cream, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Crock Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a delightful meal that is both rich and satisfying. The combination of creamy tomatoes and fragrant basil elevates this dish, making it a standout choice for any dinner table. It’s easy to prepare and allows for versatility in serving options—whether over pasta, rice, or even as a filling for sandwiches. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, perfect for those evenings when you want something comforting without the fuss.

Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Tilapia

Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Tilapia is a light and flavorful dish that highlights the delicate taste of tilapia with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a healthy option for busy days. The slow cooker gently steams the fish, ensuring it remains moist and flaky, making for a delicious meal that’s perfect for seafood lovers.

Ingredients:

• 4 tilapia fillets
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the tilapia fillets in the crock pot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture over the tilapia fillets, ensuring they are well-coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1-2 hours, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve with steamed vegetables or over a bed of rice for a light, satisfying meal.

Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Tilapia is a refreshing and healthy option that can be prepared in no time. The bright flavors of lemon and garlic complement the fish beautifully, making it a great choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, to create a well-rounded meal. This recipe showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that is both elegant and easy to prepare.

Crock Pot Stuffed Peppers

Crock Pot Stuffed Peppers are a colorful and nutritious dish that combines bell peppers with a savory filling. This recipe is an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a hearty meal. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld perfectly, resulting in tender peppers filled with a delicious mixture of ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
2. In a bowl, mix together the ground beef, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.
4. Place the stuffed peppers upright in the crock pot.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through.

Crock Pot Stuffed Peppers are a versatile and satisfying meal option that can be customized to suit your taste. They make a complete meal in themselves, packed with protein and vegetables, and are great for leftovers. The slow cooker allows the flavors to develop, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and wholesome. Serve these stuffed peppers with a side salad or bread for a delightful family dinner, and enjoy the healthy benefits of this colorful dish!

Crock Pot Mushroom Risotto

Crock Pot Mushroom Risotto is a creamy and indulgent dish that captures the essence of traditional risotto without the constant stirring. This recipe utilizes the slow cooker to allow the rice to absorb the flavors of the mushrooms and broth, resulting in a rich and comforting meal. Perfect for busy days, this risotto is a fantastic way to enjoy a gourmet dish with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the Arborio rice, vegetable broth, sliced mushrooms, and chopped onion in the crock pot.
2. Stir to combine all the ingredients and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours, until the rice is creamy and cooked through.
4. Once cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Crock Pot Mushroom Risotto is an easy yet elegant dish that brings comfort food to a new level. The slow cooking process allows the rice to develop a creamy texture, complemented by the earthy flavors of mushrooms. This dish is perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Pair it with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal, and enjoy the satisfaction of a homemade risotto with far less effort!

Crock Pot Taco Soup

Crock Pot Taco Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the best elements of tacos into a warm, comforting soup. This recipe is not only quick to prepare, but it also allows for flexibility in ingredients, making it a great option for using up what you have on hand. Packed with protein and vegetables, this soup is perfect for chilly nights or for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 packet taco seasoning

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2. Transfer the cooked beef to the crock pot and add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning.
3. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until heated through and flavors have melded.
5. Serve hot, topped with your favorite taco toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado.

Crock Pot Taco Soup is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings all the flavors of tacos into a hearty soup. It’s perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and stored for later, making it a great option for busy weeks. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it with different beans or toppings, catering to your family’s preferences. Serve it at your next gathering or cozy night in, and enjoy the warmth and comfort that this flavorful soup brings!

Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli

Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the taste of a classic takeout favorite right to your home. With just a few ingredients, this recipe allows the beef to become tender while absorbing the delicious flavors of the sauce. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that can be served over rice or noodles, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound flank steak, sliced thinly
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Place the sliced flank steak in the crock pot.
2. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, and minced garlic. Pour this mixture over the beef.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the beef is tender.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, add the broccoli florets to the crock pot, stirring to combine.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles, drizzling some of the sauce over the top.

Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dish with minimal effort. The slow cooking process tenderizes the beef and infuses it with savory flavors, while the broccoli adds a fresh and nutritious element. This recipe is perfect for busy families, allowing you to come home to a delicious meal ready to serve. Enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner or as part of a larger spread during gatherings. With its balance of protein and vegetables, it’s a deliciously satisfying meal that everyone will love!

Crock Pot BBQ Pulled Pork

Crock Pot BBQ Pulled Pork is a classic dish that is perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners. This recipe uses simple ingredients to create tender, flavorful pulled pork that can be served in a variety of ways. The slow cooking method allows the pork to absorb the rich BBQ flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal preparation.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds pork shoulder
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the sliced onion in the bottom of the crock pot.
2. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then place it on top of the onions.
3. Pour the BBQ sauce over the pork, ensuring it is well-coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
5. Remove the pork from the crock pot, shred it with two forks, and mix it back into the sauce. Serve on buns, over rice, or with coleslaw.

Crock Pot BBQ Pulled Pork is an incredibly easy and satisfying meal that brings the flavor of a backyard barbecue right to your dinner table. The pork becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, infused with delicious BBQ sauce that you can customize to your taste. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a family dinner, this dish is always a hit. It’s also great for meal prepping and leftovers, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire!

Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is a sweet and savory dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal ingredients, this recipe highlights the natural flavors of chicken, enhanced by a delicious honey garlic sauce. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb the sauce, creating a rich and comforting meal that pairs well with rice or vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken thighs in the crock pot.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Serve with steamed rice and vegetables, drizzling some of the sauce over the top.

Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a taste of Asian-inspired cuisine to your table. The combination of sweet honey and savory garlic creates a mouthwatering sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile—serve it over rice, in wraps, or with stir-fried vegetables. It’s sure to become a family favorite, offering a delicious and stress-free meal option that you can enjoy any night of the week!

Crock Pot Vegetable Chili

Crock Pot Vegetable Chili is a hearty and nutritious dish that showcases a variety of vegetables and beans. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a meatless meal that is still filling and packed with flavor. The slow cooker allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in a comforting chili that is ideal for any time of the year.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, and onion in the crock pot.
2. Add the chili powder, salt, and pepper, then stir to combine all the ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado, if desired.

Crock Pot Vegetable Chili is a vibrant and satisfying meal that brings together a variety of flavors and textures. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also offers a healthy way to enjoy a comforting dish that is high in fiber and packed with nutrients. Perfect for meal prep, leftovers can be stored and reheated for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week. Enjoy this chili as a stand-alone dish or serve it with cornbread for a hearty and wholesome meal that everyone will love!