If you're looking to simplify your cooking routine without sacrificing flavor or nutrition, a slow cooker can be a game-changer, especially when it comes to vegetarian dishes. Today, we delve into seven delicious, meatless slow cooker sauce recipes that are perfect for those with a hectic schedule but a hunger for hearty, home-cooked meals. Whether you're a full-time vegetarian, trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, or simply looking for new flavors, these recipes will keep your meals exciting and effortlessly prepared.
1. Slow Cooker Marinara Magic
The classic marinara sauce is elevated when prepared in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time. Here's how to make it:
- 2 cans of crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in your slow cooker, cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the sauce thickens and the flavors are well-blended. This sauce pairs wonderfully with pasta or as a dip for crusty bread.
🔔 Note: Grating the carrot helps sweeten the sauce naturally, enhancing the overall taste profile without added sugar.
2. Lentil Bolognese Bliss
This vegan version of the Italian classic is both protein-rich and flavorful:
- 1 cup dried green lentils
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable stock
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Start by sautéing the onions and garlic in olive oil until they're translucent. Add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. The result is a thick, hearty sauce that goes great with any type of pasta or even over baked potatoes.
3. Spiced Chickpea Tomato Ragù
Bring some Mediterranean flair to your dinner table with this simple yet flavorful dish:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Ras el Hanout
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup vegetable stock
- Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours. Serve over couscous, rice, or flatbread for a satisfying meal.
4. Garden Vegetable Alfredo
A twist on the traditional Alfredo, this vegetarian version is made creamy with the help of cauliflower:
- 1 small cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 cups vegetable stock
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- Salt, pepper to taste
Blend cauliflower florets with garlic in the vegetable stock until smooth. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker, add cream/milk, Parmesan, and seasonings. Cook on low for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn't stick. This sauce is perfect over fettuccine or with grilled vegetables.
5. Spicy Black Bean and Corn Sauce
For those who enjoy a little heat, this sauce packs a punch with its vibrant flavors:
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, cook on low for 4-5 hours. The sauce can be used as a topping for nachos, burritos, or as a base for vegetable enchiladas.
6. Slow Cooked Mushroom Stroganoff Sauce
This comfort food recipe reimagines stroganoff with earthy mushrooms:
- 4 cups assorted mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable stock
- 1 cup sour cream or vegan alternative
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms in olive oil until soft. Add to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients, except the sour cream. Cook on low for 3-4 hours, then stir in the sour cream. Serve over egg noodles or mashed potatoes.
7. Butternut Squash Arrabbiata
An unexpected twist on the classic fiery arrabbiata:
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 cans diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
Add all ingredients into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours. Blend until smooth after cooking for a rich, creamy sauce, or leave it chunky for texture. This sauce is delicious over pasta or as a dip with breadsticks.
🌱 Note: The butternut squash in the arrabbiata adds a sweet note that balances the heat, making it a delightfully versatile sauce.
In summary, these seven slow cooker meatless sauce recipes provide an easy way to bring nutritious, flavorful, and diverse vegetarian options to your table. Each recipe harnesses the power of slow cooking to enhance flavors, offering busy cooks the chance to prepare wholesome meals without the hassle of constant supervision. From the hearty Lentil Bolognese to the unique Butternut Squash Arrabbiata, these sauces prove that meatless cooking can be just as exciting and satisfying as any traditional dish.
Can I make these recipes in advance?
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Yes, these recipes can be prepared in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze them for longer storage. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat!
Are slow cooker sauces freezer-friendly?
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Most of these sauces freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I add meat to these recipes for non-vegetarians?
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Certainly! You can incorporate meats like ground beef or sausage into recipes like the Lentil Bolognese or Spiced Chickpea Tomato Ragù. Just brown the meat first and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How can I thicken these sauces if they are too watery?
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If a sauce seems too thin, you can either let it cook uncovered for an extra hour to reduce the liquid, or thicken it with a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and add to the sauce).
Related Terms:
- Slow cooker vegetable curry
- Slow cooker chicken curry
- Slow cooker bolognese
- Bola daging
- Slow cooker lasagna
- Slow Cooker Vegetable Lasagna
