When temperatures begin to plummet and daylight becomes scarce, we tend to seek comfort in our crock pots. After all, these magical machines render delicious meals with minimal prep and clean-up on our parts—allowing us to spend time snuggled on the couch rather than slaving in the kitchen.
To celebrate slow cooker season, Pinterest gave us some insider info dated as of October 2017 on the most-pinned recipes that call for the trusty tool. Get inspired by the recipes below, and then check out these 50 Cheap and Easy Slow Cooker Recipes to amp up your winter weight loss.
Portobella Chicken
Mushrooms are one of our favorite spring foods that help you melt winter fat, and this recipe—that was pinned over 25,000 times!—just happens to call for the hearty portobello variety. You can whip up this creamy dish with only four ingredients you probably already have stocked in your pantry.
Cabbage Roll Soup
Cold winter nights demand a no-fuss soup that'll keep you satiated without ruining your New Year's resolutions. When you're over your usual bowl of chicken noodle, opt for this brew that's packed with fiber, protein, flu-fighting vitamin C, and eye-protecting lutein.
Slow Cooker Meatballs
Rather than simmering meatballs on the stove top per usual, try tossing them into your Crock-Pot with antioxidant-rich garlic, onion, tomatoes, and flavorful herbs such as oregano and parsley. Pair these with your favorite spiralized veggies (we love zoodles) for an added dose of belly-filling fiber.
Veggie Slow Cooker Lasagna
Ditch the meat and you could finally drop those last few pesky pounds, according to a study in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition. Kick off the week with this vegetarian-friendly, vitamin-packed lasagna. Opt for protein-packed cottage cheese over ricotta, and this meal will land a spot on your Meatless Monday rotation.
Lemon Garlic Dump Chicken
Although the name doesn't sound all too appetizing, this winning recipe will totally become your new weeknight favorite. All you have to do is toss chicken breasts with lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley flakes, and heart-healthy olive oil. This versatile poultry pick will go well with a side salad, baked sweet potato, or some sauteed veggies.
4-Ingredient Pot Roast
If you're short on prep time or fresh ingredients, rest assured that this recipe requires just three simple seasonings: dry brown gravy as well as dry Ranch and Italian dressings. Pair the protein with some sauteed vegetables to add fiber and round out your dinner.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Here at Eat This, Not That!, we love anything and everything involving slimming sweet potatoes. This recipe takes the succulent tater to a new level by stuffing it with buffalo sauce-slathered chicken, rendering the tastiest sweet and spicy dish.
Caramel Apple Pudding Cake
Slow cookers aren't just for setting and forgetting your dinners—they work wonders with dessert, too! The Crock-Pot produces a cinnamon-spiced cake, perfectly-cooked apples, and rich caramel sauce for the most indulgent sweet treat. Planning to whip this up ASAP? Don't forget to invite some guests over to share the sugar.
Coca-Cola Braised Pork Loin
Seeking a hack that'll keep your pork loin moist? Surprisingly enough, soda is your secret weapon! This recipe simmers the protein for four to eight hours until it's fall-off-the-bone tender and perfect for a pulled pork sandwich.
Slow Cooker Bread Pudding
Another all-star dessert recipe, this slow cooker bread pudding is stuffed with comforting butterscotch chips, chewy raisins, and crunchy pecans. If you're weight-conscious, split a serving with a friend and opt for trying any of our 20 Healthy Desserts for Weight Loss.