Commonly known as a crock pot, a slow cooker is a countertop appliance that uses electricity to simmer food at very low temperatures. Since the temperatures are low, the process is slow and takes quite a long time; hence, it is a great option for the winter season when you are just at home. The result is very tender and tasty food. Here are some of the best winter crock pot meals you can prepare.
1. Lentil, Carrot, and Potato Soup
You can quickly purée the lentil-vegetable mixture and combine it with the remaining fresh veggies. This is among the best winter slow cooker recipes for creamy soup.
2. Braised Beef with Turnips and Carrots
If you love winter crock pot ideas, this is a healthy stew for you to try. You can serve it over creamy polenta or with whole-wheat egg noodles. Don’t forget to add some of your favorite spices, including cinnamon and cloves.
3. Whole Chicken
While it may sound crazy, it is possible to slow-cook the whole bird in your crock pot. Rub some brown sugar on the chicken to get a crispy skin and a soft inside. The result is a beautifully caramelized effect.
4. Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken pot pie is one of the greatest winter slow cooker recipes you shouldn’t miss. It gives your family and guests that comforting feel during the cold season. When toping it, use piecrust for that flaky and crunchy taste.
5. Vegetable Casserole
This is a perfect option for vegetarians. It includes two types of beans and a rainbow of your preferred vegetables. You can let them simmer with some garlic and basil for that aroma. Add in some fresh spinach and radicchio when serving for an extra crunch.
6. Spicy Turkey with Lasagna
While the crock pot is a favorite for stews and soups, you can also make a very nice lasagna. For this, chop your vegetables, then layer them with your preferred raw ingredients. Use spiced ground turkey and some creamy ricotta cheese. This is best served with garlic bread or salad.
7. Butternut Squash Casserole
Butternut squash is a popular type of pumpkin that grows on a vine. Also known as winter squash, this gamma has a sweet and nutty taste that will excite your taste buds. While there are many ways to go around crock pot recipes with butternut squash, a casserole is the easiest.
8. Meatloaf
For those on a strict diet of fats and calories, a lean meatloaf will make all the difference. Use lean meat and low-sodium ingredients to achieve a Mediterranean-inspired meatloaf. Depending on your preference, you can drape it with balsamic mushroom sauce or add honey to taste.
9. Shepherd's Pie
If you are looking for an unmatched level of satisfaction, try some shepherd’s pie with some lean ground pork, carrots, and parsnips. A potato mash would be the best option to go with this pie.
10. Creamy Chicken Soup with Noodles
Even though noodles get ready quickly, they can still be slow-cooked into a beautiful mushy casserole. You can add in some chicken and mushrooms for extra heartiness. Make it creamy, and you have a perfect winter meal for everyone at home, regardless of age.
11. Salsa Chicken
This winter crock pot idea is only made with four ingredients. It has the chicken falling apart and is very tender. You can also season it with your favorite flavors with some drops of fresh lime juice.
12. Beef and Broccoli
You can never go wrong with beef and broccoli. The beef gets fully cooked with the slow cooker and falls off the bone. The trick is to add the broccoli at the final stage to reap the full nutritional value.
13. Salmon or Seafood
We cannot complete this list without seafood. Like the other winter slow cooker recipes, you can always spice it up with your preferred ingredients. Most people reported satisfaction using rosemary, thyme and leeks. Place some fresh lemons on the salmon after it’s ready to get the fishy smell out. You can redo this recipe with other seafood.
Spatz slow cooker recipes for a healthy winter
As you can see, there is a range of cold weather crock pot recipes you can use this winter. From the heartiest stews to winter veggies, you can make and enjoy your favorite meals with your family. You only need to play around with your ingredients, mostly high-protein options, and elevate the quality of your food this winter.
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