Healthy Crockpot Dinner
Create delicious, healthy meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd with wholesome ingredients.
Equipment
- Crockpot
- Skillet (optional for browning meat)
Ingredients
Protein Options
- chicken breasts, chicken thighs, beef roast, ground beef, steak or vegetarian alternatives like beans or lentils Choose your favorite protein
Vegetables
- onions, carrots, celery, potatoes, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, spinach, broccoli Use fresh or frozen vegetables
Broth or Liquid
- chicken broth, beef broth, vegetable broth, or water Use low-sodium broth if preferred
Herbs & Spices
- garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, cumin, chili powder, Italian seasoning Adjust to taste
Sauce (Optional)
- tomato sauce, marinara sauce, BBQ sauce, creamy sauce Add for extra flavor and richness
Other Add-Ins (Optional)
- beans, pasta, rice, quinoa To bulk up meal and add nutrients
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Chop vegetables, trim meat if necessary, and gather all ingredients.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place denser vegetables at the bottom of the crockpot, then add the meat, followed by lighter vegetables and sauces.
- Add Liquid: Pour broth or liquid over ingredients ensuring meat is partially submerged.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until meat is tender and vegetables are cooked.
- Shred Meat (if applicable): Remove meat and shred with forks, then return to crockpot and mix well.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy your healthy crockpot dinner.
Notes
Tips: Don't overfill the crockpot, avoid lifting the lid during cooking, brown meat beforehand for extra flavor, and use a crockpot liner for easy cleanup.