Make your own affordable and mouth-watering crockpot meals without breaking a sweat! Simply toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker and create a dinner that’s both nourishing and enjoyable for the whole family.
Did you know that the average person spends around $2640 annually on meals? And that’s just for one person! Add an extra adult and a kid, and that number skyrockets to about $6600 per year. No wonder many of us rely heavily on eating out – it accounts for at least 40% of our food budget.
However, cooking more meals at home can be a game-changer. Not only will you save a significant amount of money, but you’ll also enjoy the health benefits that come with consuming wholesome, homemade fare.
Hamburger Stew
As the mercury drops, there’s nothing quite like a warm and comforting bowl of stew to thaw out your chilled bones. However, stews can often break the bank, especially when they’re made with pricey cuts of beef like chuck roast or round. That’s why I’m excited to share this budget-friendly Hamburger Stew recipe that clocks in at under $2 per serving! The secret to its affordability lies in the use of ground beef instead of expensive cuts. And don’t worry about sacrificing flavor – the carrots, onions, and potatoes add a hearty depth, while the beef broth and frozen peas bring a rich sweetness. But what really sets this stew apart is its nutritional profile: it’s a veritable powerhouse of Vitamins A and C, making it an excellent choice for boosting your immune system. Plus, it’s packed with fiber, providing nearly a third of your daily needs in just one serving! And the best part? This stew only gets better with time – it’s even more flavorful the next day, and can be safely stored in the freezer for up to two months, making it an ideal option for meal prep. Just remember to store it in glass containers that are oven, dishwasher, and freezer safe, and you’ll be all set.
Chipotle Chicken Soup
Looking for a flavorful and nutritious meal with a Mexican twist? Look no further than this Chipotle Chicken Soup, bursting with the bold flavors of corn, jalapeño peppers, and green chiles. The smoky heat from the chipotle pepper is perfectly balanced by the creamy tang of sour cream, creating a truly fiesta-like experience in every bite. To add some satisfying texture to the dish, simply shred your chicken using two forks or an easy-to-use meat shredder. Not only will this soup tantalize your taste buds, but it’s also packed with essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C and iron, keeping your energy levels up throughout the day.
Per serving:
Calories: 251
Fats: 10g
Protein: 26g
Carbs: 17g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Recipe: [insert recipe]
Crispy Whole30 Keto Pork Carnitas
Indulge in the rich flavors of Pork Carnitas, a dish that will leave your taste buds and stomach happy. The tender pork is infused with the brightness of orange juice, while the lime juice adds a refreshing twist. This mouthwatering recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also provides a nutritional boost. With Vitamins A and C, potassium, and essential fatty acids, these Pork Carnitas are a guilt-free pleasure. To make it a satisfying meal, serve with tortillas for a flavorful and filling combination. Per serving: Calories 245, Fats 10g, Protein 33g, Carbs 4g, Fiber 1g, Sugar 1g.
Sweet Potato Chili
As much as I enjoy meat, it’s refreshing to take a break and indulge in a plant-based delight. The Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili is just that – chunky, flavorful, and satisfying. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes harmonizes with the pungency of garlic, while black beans and veggie crumbles provide a filling and nutritious boost. Without a hint of meat, this chili still packs a punch thanks to the savory umami flavor from nutritional yeast flakes. These flakes are more than just a tasty addition – they’re also a complete protein, making them an excellent vegan source. Plus, they contain beta-glucans that may even enhance your immune system. Feel free to add these flakes to soups, popcorn, or pasta for an extra dose of nutrition. As for the recipe itself:
Calories: 99
Fats: 2g
Protein: 6g
Carbs: 15g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 3g
Keto Crockpot Chicken Thighs
While a keto diet can lead to rapid weight loss, it’s not always budget-friendly. Fortunately, this keto dish offers a delicious and cost-effective way to enjoy low-carb eating.The centerpiece of this recipe is tender, flavorful chicken thighs, which are perfectly complemented by a bed of cauliflower rice infused with rich chicken broth and crunchy cabbage. This harmonious combination is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a healthy choice.Each serving boasts an impressive nutritional profile, featuring less than 5 grams of net carbs and fewer calories to boot. The secret to this dish’s low-carb credentials lies in the cauliflower rice – a nutrient-dense ingredient that’s remarkably low in carbohydrates.A single cup of cauliflower rice provides nearly 60% of your daily Vitamin C needs, while also being an excellent source of folate, essential for DNA synthesis. Additionally, it’s extremely low in calories, making it an ideal component of a balanced diet.Per Serving:Calories: 286Fats: 9.3gProtein: 41.5gCarbs: 8.1gFiber: 2.7gSugar: 3.8gRecipe:
Vegetable Beef Soup
There’s no denying the importance of incorporating more vegetables into our diets, but sometimes it can be challenging to make room for them on our plates. The cost and preparation time required for fresh veggies can be significant barriers. Frozen options, however, offer a convenient solution that is often more budget-friendly. Case in point: this Slow Cooker Vegetable Beef Soup recipe is packed with frozen vegetables, making it easy to get your daily dose of greens without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen.
Not only is this soup a nutritious and filling option, but it’s also surprisingly low-calorie – just 107 calories per serving! With a quarter of your daily protein needs provided by each bowlful, you can indulge guilt-free. Plus, the Vitamins A and C present in this recipe will give your immune system a boost.
Per serving:
Calories: 107
Fats: 1.8g
Protein: 12.2g
Carbs: 11.5g
Fiber:
Sugar: 6.2g
Teriyaki Chicken
Looking for a quick and easy dinner solution that’s also packed with flavor? Ditch the takeout menu and opt for Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken instead. This mouthwatering dish boasts a rich, sweet, savory, and umami taste profile thanks to its homemade Teriyaki sauce. Plus, it’s a nutritious choice too! With potassium levels supporting healthy blood pressure and a high protein content that keeps you full, this meal is a winner. Serve with brown rice or fried rice for a satisfying meal. Per serving, Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken delivers: 348 calories, 7g of fat, 37g of protein, 35g of carbs, 1g of fiber, and 27g of sugar.
Thai Peanut Chicken
Indulge in the rich flavors of Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken, a dish that will transport your taste buds to the Far East. The recipe features tender chicken thighs smothered in a luscious peanut sauce, topped with the satisfying crunch of roasted peanuts and the freshness of cilantro. A dash of sriracha adds a bold kick, while coconut milk provides a creamy respite from the heat. Peanut butter contributes its signature sweetness, rounding out the dish’s complexity. What’s more, this mouthwatering meal is surprisingly low in sugar, with each serving containing just 3 grams. The nutritional breakdown is impressive: per serving, you can expect 560 calories, 47g of fat, 28g of protein, 11g of carbohydrates, and a respectable 2g of fiber.
Crockpot Vegetable Chicken Potato Soup
As the cold weather sets in, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm and comforting bowl of soup. This particular recipe is a real winner – it’s chunky, nutritious, and packed with vitamins and minerals that will keep you feeling cozy from the inside out. The addition of shredded chicken adds a nice texture to the dish, making it feel like a hearty hug in a bowl.
One of the best things about this soup is its impressive nutritional profile. It’s a great source of Vitamins A, C, and potassium, which can help boost your immune system and support heart health.
To make this deliciousness, simply shred your chicken using two forks – it’s easier than you might think! And don’t worry about the calorie count; with 334 calories per serving, you’ll be getting a satisfying meal that will keep you full without feeling weighed down. Here are the details:
Per Serving: Calories: 334, Fats: 6g, Protein: 49g, Carbs: 19g, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 5g
3-Ingredient Crockpot Chicken Tacos
For a hassle-free Taco night, look no further than these 3-Ingredient Crockpot Chicken Tacos. With just three simple components – skinless chicken breasts, low-sodium taco seasoning, and jarred salsa – you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready to devour in no time. Simply combine the ingredients in your slow cooker and let the magic happen. Upon returning, you’ll be greeted with tender, flavorful chicken tacos that are not only scrumptious but also packed with 22 grams of protein per serving, making for a satisfying and filling meal. Here’s the breakdown: Per Serving: Calories: 137, Fats: 3g, Protein: 22g, Carbs: 5g, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 2g
Chicken Burrito Bowls
Indulge in a flavorful fiesta with Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls, where tender chicken is infused with the boldness of taco seasoning. The dish is elevated by a medley of Mexican-inspired ingredients, including creamy black beans, sweet corn, and spicy green chiles. To take it to the next level, consider adding rich avocados, tangy guacamole, or a kick of hot sauce. With this recipe, you’ll be treating your taste buds to a vibrant celebration of flavors.Per Serving:Calories: 314Fats: 5gProtein: 38gCarbs: 31gFiber: 8gSugar: 5g
Shredded Mexican Chicken Thighs
When it comes to Mexican cuisine, it’s easy to get hooked. The combination of bold flavors and spices is a match made in heaven. This recipe for chicken thighs is no exception. The blend of cumin, chili powder, coriander, and passata creates a depth of flavor that will leave your taste buds singing. And the best part? It’s a cinch to make with just six essential spices. Having good measuring spoons on hand is crucial to ensure everything turns out just right. With this recipe, you’ll be using them frequently, so it’s worth investing in a quality set. If you’re looking for more delicious and healthy options, check out our collection of 400-calorie recipes. As for the nutritional breakdown, here are the details per serving: Calories: 380, Fats: 24g, Protein: 41g, Carbs: 1g, Fiber: 0g, Sugar: 0g.
BBQ Pineapple Meatballs
When the day is done and stress has taken its toll, the last thing you want to do is head into the kitchen. But what if you could have a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal effort? Enter these BBQ Pineapple Meatballs, a game-changing slow cooker recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your household. Simply combine store-bought frozen meatballs, BBQ sauce, and crushed pineapple in your slow cooker, and let the magic happen. As you return home, you’ll be greeted by tender, saucy, and utterly scrumptious meatballs that will transport you to a tropical paradise with their sweet and savory flavors. And the best part? With only 56 calories per serving, you can indulge guilt-free. Per serving, you can expect: Calories: 56, Fats: 3g, Protein: 2g, Carbs: 4g, Fiber: 0g, Sugar: 3g.
Lentil Sloppy Joes
Indulge in the comforting goodness of vegan Lentil Sloppy Joes, a satisfying and filling meal option. The dish is characterized by its rich flavor, chunky texture, and saucy consistency – perfect for those looking for a hearty plant-based treat. However, be prepared for a messy affair, as these sloppy joes are sure to leave you with a few napkins to clean up. But don’t let the messiness deter you, as the nutritional benefits of brown lentils more than make up for it. Rich in plant-based protein and packed with bone-building minerals like manganese, phosphorus, and magnesium, lentils are an excellent addition to any vegan diet. And with only 166 calories per serving, you can enjoy this comforting meal without worrying about compromising your dietary goals. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional profile: Calories: 166, Fats: 1g, Protein: 9g, Carbs: 30g, Fiber: 11g, Sugar: 7g. If you’re looking for more delicious and nutritious vegan meal ideas, be sure to check out our collection of 200-calorie meals.
Thai Pumpkin & Red Lentil Soup
Indulge in the ultimate vegan comfort experience with this extraordinary soup. Its creamy texture and rich flavors will transport you to a state of serenity, as if wrapped in a warm hug. The harmonious balance of spices, coconut milk, and pumpkin creates a symphony of taste sensations that will leave you wanting more. To achieve this velvety smoothness, it’s essential to blend the soup once it’s cooked to perfection, ensuring an imperceptible texture that masks the presence of veggies and lentils. However, please note that blending hot liquids in a regular blender can be hazardous, so take necessary precautions to avoid any mishaps. Here’s the breakdown: Per Serving: Calories 365, Fats 17g, Protein 14g, Carbs 42g, Fiber 12g, Sugar 11g.
Korean Chicken
If you’re tired of the same old chicken dinners, it’s time to spice things up with this Slow Cooker Korean Chicken recipe. This dish is a flavor bomb that combines the bold flavors of Korea with tender, juicy chicken and a medley of nutritious vegetables.
The heat from the chiles adds a pleasant kick without overwhelming the palate, while the oyster sauce and soy sauce provide a rich, savory depth. The sweetness from the dark brown sugar ties everything together in perfect harmony.
But what really sets this recipe apart is its packed nutritional profile. You’ll find potatoes, carrots, and mushrooms – all of which are not only delicious but also good for you. So, go ahead and indulge in a guilt-free dinner that’s both tasty and healthy. Winner, winner, chicken dinner indeed.
Per Serving:
Calories: 742
Fats: 42g
Protein: 45g
Carbs: 43g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 16g
Navy Bean Soup
Save money and nourish your body with a delicious and wholesome Slow Cooker Navy Bean Soup. By incorporating meatless Mondays into your routine, you can enjoy the benefits of unprocessed plant-based proteins at an affordable price. A bag of dried navy beans is an excellent starting point. This hearty soup boasts a sweet and savory flavor profile, thanks to the carrots and fennel, while the bay leaf adds a refreshing touch. With 17 grams of protein and close to 80% of your daily fiber needs per serving, this dish will not only satisfy your taste buds but also support digestive health. Per serving, you can expect: 309 calories, 6g fat, 17g protein, 50g carbohydrates, 19g fiber, and 6g sugar.
Vegetable Beef Barley Soup
For those who can’t get enough of meat, this soup is a must-try. Its rich and satisfying flavor profile makes it an ideal option for a hearty meal. And the best part? It’s not just about the meat – the addition of vegetables like celery, potatoes, carrots, and mushrooms gives it a nutritional boost. The soup is packed with vitamins A, C, and potassium, making it a great choice for those looking to balance their diet.
Per serving, this recipe delivers:
* Calories: 385
* Fats: 9g
* Protein: 40g
* Carbs: 33g
* Fiber: 7g
* Sugar: 3g
Ham Bone Split Pea Soup
When Thanksgiving rolls around, it’s common to be left with a bounty of ham leftovers. While ham sandwiches are certainly a satisfying way to reuse the meat, there comes a point where you yearn for something more substantial. Enter the humble ham bone spit pea soup. This comforting, creamy concoction is a game-changer, as its gentle sweetness and savory flavor profile perfectly offset the richness of the ham. The addition of carrots and celery adds a delightful freshness to each spoonful, making it easy to justify a second (or third, or fourth) serving. What’s more, this recipe boasts an impressively low sodium content, clocking in at a mere 267 milligrams per serving – a far cry from the canned variety. With a nutritional breakdown that includes just 194 calories, 1g of fat, 12g of protein, 37g of carbohydrates, and 13g of fiber per serving, this soup is not only delicious but also an excellent choice for those looking to make healthier meal choices.
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Satisfy your Chinese takeout cravings with this Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe, which offers a harmonious balance of sweet, tangy, and umami flavors. The addition of green and red bell peppers adds freshness and a boost of nutrition, making it a healthier alternative to traditional takeout. To achieve the desired level of sweetness, you’ll be using orange juice, pineapples, and monk fruit sweetener – a natural alternative that won’t cause blood sugar spikes. This recipe is not only delicious but also mindful of nutritional values, with each serving providing 175 calories, 2g of fat, 16g of protein, 33g of carbohydrates, 2g of fiber, and 23g of sugar.
Easy White Bean Chicken Chili
Looking for a break from traditional beef chili? Look no further than this mouthwatering Easy White Bean Chicken Chili. The combination of creamy white beans, rich bone broth, and spicy green chilies creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar yet excitingly new. And let’s not forget the crowning glory: a generous sprinkling of melted cheese and crunchy green onions on top. It’s a game-changer, if you will. In addition to its impressive taste, this recipe also boasts the nutritional benefits of bone broth, making it a wholesome choice for anyone looking to mix things up in their culinary routine. If you’re as hooked on this recipe as we are, be sure to explore more healthy college dinner ideas here.
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Dive into the comforting world of Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, a potent elixir to ward off the chill of a cold. This flavorful brew is teeming with tender shredded chicken, carrots, spinach, and onions – a medley of vitamins C, K, and antioxidants that will leave your immune system stronger than ever. The beta-carotene in carrots adds an anti-inflammatory boost, making this soup not only delicious but also a healthy haven. And the best part? Each spoonful is a taste sensation that will have you hooked. Per serving, expect: Calories – 184, Fats – 4g, Protein – 27g, Carbs – 12g, Fiber – 3g, Sugar – 4g.
Chicken Tacos
Simplify Taco Night with ease by whipping up a batch of delicious Chicken Tacos. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make. Simply combine chicken, taco seasoning, and homemade pico de gallo in your crockpot, then come home to a flavorful meal that’s ready to devour. Pico de gallo not only adds a burst of flavor, but also provides a dose of Vitamin C, lycopene for its numerous health benefits, and jalapenos that help boost metabolism and burn fat. For this recipe, we’re using freshly made pico de gallo to give these Tacos an extra layer of flavor. Nutrition information per serving: Calories – 197, Fats – 3g, Protein – 18g, Carbs – 26g, Fiber – 2g, Sugar – 7g.
Salsa Verde Chicken
When family gatherings roll around, there’s no denying the importance of connecting with loved ones. From engaging in lively board games to sharing hearty meals, these get-togethers offer a unique opportunity to bond and create lasting memories.
As the hunger pangs start setting in, it’s time to break out the culinary arsenal. That’s where Salsa Verde Chicken comes in – a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that requires minimal effort yet yields maximum satisfaction.
To whip up this tasty treat, you’ll need just four essential ingredients: chicken thighs, taco seasoning, salsa verde, and a dash of taco seasoning mix. The result is a mouthwatering, easy-to-make meal that’s sure to disappear in no time – and leave your guests begging for the recipe.
Per serving, Salsa Verde Chicken boasts a nutrition profile that’s hard to beat: 271 calories, 9g of fats, 44g of protein, 1g of carbs, and just 1g of sugar. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that’s perfect for satisfying those pesky cravings.
Lentil Sweet Potato Chilli
Planning a plant-based dinner for friends? Look no further than this Lentil Sweet Potato Chili. The combination of flavors is spot on – the natural sweetness of corn and sweet potatoes is beautifully balanced by the savory notes from garlic, onions, and spices like cumin and chili powder. Meanwhile, the red kidney beans and green lentils add a satisfying heft to each bowlful. And don’t worry if you’re looking for something to pair with it: serving this chili with some warm cornbread makes for a truly comforting meal. As for the details, each serving of this deliciousness comes in at 407 calories, with just 1g of fat, 22g of protein, 78g of carbs, 9g of fiber, and 15g of sugar.
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
While frequent date nights can be a great way to keep the romance alive, they don’t have to break the bank. In fact, hosting dinner at home can be just as impressive and indulgent as dining out. This is where these Stuffed Cabbage Rolls come in – they’re an impressive and flavorful dish that’s sure to earn you extra brownie points. While it does require a bit of time upfront – about an hour – the payoff is well worth the effort. To take your date night to the next level, consider serving the stuffed cabbage rolls on elegant dinner platters for a touch of sophistication. With its impressive presentation and satisfying flavor, this dish is sure to impress.
Lentil and Ham Soup
Indulge in a comforting bowl of Lentil and Ham Soup, where the rich flavor of ham is harmoniously balanced by the freshness of carrots, spinach, and celery. This nutritious soup is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals from the lentils, making it a satisfying and filling option. In fact, one serving provides more than half of your daily Vitamin A needs and approximately a quarter of your daily Vitamin C needs. If you’re looking for more healthy recipes to warm up your fall days, be sure to check out these seasonal options, or explore our selection of 300-calorie meals for more delicious and nutritious ideas. Per serving, this recipe yields: Calories – 307; Fats – 9g; Protein – 22g; Carbs – 37g; Fiber – 13g; Sugar – 8g.
