5 Crockpot Dump and Go Dinner Recipes You'll Love
Introduction to Crockpot Dump and Go Dinners
Imagine coming home after a long day, and dinner is already simmering away, filling your kitchen with delicious aromas. This is the magic of the crockpot or slow cooker, especially when you're dealing with dump and go recipes. These meals require minimal prep work, making them ideal for busy cooks, beginners, or anyone looking for an easy way to eat healthy and delicious food. Here, we'll delve into five fantastic crockpot dump and go dinner recipes that not only save you time but also promise flavors your whole family will love.
Recipe 1: Creamy Garlic Chicken
Perfect for those who adore garlic, this dish transforms simple chicken breasts into something tender and mouthwateringly flavorful.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1⁄2 cup heavy cream
- 1⁄4 cup minced garlic
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1⁄2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1⁄2 teaspoon dried rosemary
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Mix all other ingredients in a bowl and pour over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the chicken with forks if desired and stir back into the creamy sauce.
- Serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
🍽️ Note: This recipe is perfect for prepping ahead. You can prepare the sauce mixture the night before and refrigerate it, making your morning assembly even quicker.
Recipe 2: Beef and Bean Burritos
This hearty meal turns an ordinary day into a fiesta with a simple dump-and-go approach.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chuck roast, cut into chunks
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Tortillas for serving
- Toppings like cheese, salsa, avocado, or sour cream
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet, brown the beef chuck roast pieces for about 4 minutes.
- Transfer the browned beef to the crockpot.
- Add beans, tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Stir to combine.
- Cook on low for 8-9 hours or until the beef is tender.
- Shred the beef and assemble your burritos with your favorite toppings.
Recipe 3: Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin
A sweet and savory dish that elevates the humble pork tenderloin into a dinner sensation.
Ingredients
- 1-2 lbs pork tenderloin
- 1⁄3 cup honey
- 1⁄4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Place the pork tenderloin in the slow cooker.
- Mix all other ingredients in a bowl and pour over the pork.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the pork is fork-tender.
- Slice and serve with the juices from the cooker, or thicken the sauce with cornstarch for a thicker gravy.
Recipe 4: Vegetarian Chili
This vegetarian chili is full of hearty ingredients and can be customized with your favorite veggies.
Ingredients
- 2 cans of black beans, drained
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes with their juice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1⁄2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Stir to mix well.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or until vegetables are tender.
- Serve with your choice of toppings like sour cream, cheese, avocado, or cilantro.
🌱 Note: Feel free to add in other veggies like zucchini or butternut squash for variety and extra nutrition.
Recipe 5: Lemon Garlic Herb Turkey Breast
This recipe is light, flavorful, and perfect for those who want a healthier option with a burst of citrus flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 turkey breast (about 2 lbs)
- 2 lemons, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Place lemon slices at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, herbs, and olive oil.
- Place the turkey breast on top of the lemons.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F.
- Slice and serve with the lemon slices and a drizzle of the juices for added flavor.
As we wrap up this culinary journey, remember that these recipes are designed to make your life easier without compromising on taste. Whether you're cooking for a family or just for yourself, these crockpot dump and go recipes provide a hassle-free way to enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals. They're perfect for meal prep, for when you're short on time, or simply when you want to enjoy a comforting dinner without the fuss of intricate cooking techniques. The key is in the slow, even cooking process that allows flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in dishes that are both convenient and richly satisfying.
Can I cook these dishes in an Instant Pot?
+Yes, most of these recipes can be adapted for an Instant Pot. Adjust cooking times to high pressure for about 25-35 minutes for meats and vegetables, followed by a natural pressure release for best results.
Can I freeze leftovers?
+Absolutely! Most of these dishes freeze well. Store in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Are these recipes suitable for meal prep?
+Definitely! They’re great for meal prep. Cook larger batches, divide into portions, and refrigerate or freeze for future meals, ensuring you have convenient, healthy dinners ready to go.
What can I serve these dishes with?
+Consider sides like rice, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or even simple green salads. For variety, try roasted vegetables or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauces.