You don’t need to be home to make a home-cooked meal if you have a slow cooker, a countertop appliance that’ll simmer food at low temperatures for long periods of time as you go about your day.
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It’s pretty much a plug-and-go process, too. Just load the ceramic pot with healthy ingredients, turn the cooker on and let it do its thing.
Hours later, when you return to the kitchen, you’ll have a hot-and-hearty meal ready to serve.
Here’s how to make that kitchen magic.
A family favorite
The calorie count in comfort food doesn’t have to make you uncomfortable. Want proof? Check out this recipe for slow cooker chicken pot pie. The crustless dish puts the focus on the flavorful filling. (And let’s be honest: That’s the best part!)
The perfect pairing
Apples and pork work well together, with the fruit’s sweetness serving as a perfect taste partner for the savory meat. See for yourself with this tasty (and surprisingly lean) recipe.
Simple and savory
Brisket in the slow cooker can be a treat even before you sit down for dinner. The reason? Let’s just say that the smell of herbs, spices and savory meat cooking for eight+ hours is absolute heaven in the house. Consider the meal an extra bonus.
Soup selections
Soup develops a richness the longer it cooks, which makes it an ideal meal for a slow cooker. Try any of these recipes if you’re craving a bowl of deliciousness.
- Chicken Tortilla: Take “Taco Tuesday” in a different direction.
- Chicken Mushroom Barley: Warm your belly and soul with a bowl of cozy goodness.
- Chicken Noodle: Perfect if you’re feeling under the weather. Just as good (if not even better) when you’re 100%, too.
- Tomato Soup With Chickpeas and Lentils: There’s no meat in this soup … and given the spices and seasonings, you won’t miss it!
Breakfast option
Your slow cooker can work the night shift, too! Before bedtime, put together this recipe for steel-cut oats with apples and walnuts. It’ll cook while you sleep and make getting up in the morning a true treat.
Don’t forget dessert!
Question: What do you get when you combine tart apples, brown sugar, walnuts and assorted other spices and let them mingle in a slow cooker for four hours? Answer: A deliciously memorable apple crisp and requests for seconds.
