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16 Crockpot Meal Prep Recipes for Effortless Dinners
Did you know that using a crockpot can reduce meal prep time by up to 50%? Imagine coming home to the tantalizing aroma of effortless dinners that practically cook themselves! In this blog, we’ve rounded up 16 delicious crockpot meal prep recipes—from savory chicken tacos to hearty beef stew—that will not only simplify your weeknight cooking but also delight your taste buds. Get ready to transform your dinner routine and discover how easy it can be to serve mouthwatering meals with minimal effort!
Savory Slow-Cooked Chicken Tacos
This Savory Slow-Cooked Chicken Tacos recipe brings out rich, aromatic flavors and a delightful texture that will make your taco night unforgettable.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken thighs for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
3. Transfer the seared chicken to a slow cooker and add the chicken broth and diced tomatoes.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
5. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it with the juices in the slow cooker.
6. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet over medium heat until pliable, about 30 seconds on each side.
7. Assemble the tacos by adding the shredded chicken, lettuce, onions, avocado, and cilantro to each tortilla.
8. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a burst of flavor.
Tips:
- For extra heat, add diced jalapeños while cooking the chicken.
- You can prepare the spice mix in advance for a quicker taco night.
- Save leftover shredded chicken for salads or sandwiches the next day.
Hearty Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
This Hearty Beef Stew with Root Vegetables is a comforting dish that combines tender beef, flavorful herbs, and nutrient-packed veggies for a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup parsnips, peeled and diced
- 1 cup onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef chuck and brown on all sides.
2. Add onions and garlic to the pot, cooking until onions are translucent.
3. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
4. Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil.
5. Add potatoes, carrots, and parsnips to the pot.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
Tips:
- For a thicker stew, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to substitute any root vegetables you have on hand, such as turnips or sweet potatoes.
- This stew is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for later use.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto is a delightful blend of rich flavors, creamy texture, and an irresistible garlic kick that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup white wine
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, warm the chicken or vegetable broth over low heat.
2. In another large pot, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Add the Arborio rice and toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
6. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer until mostly absorbed, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Begin adding the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more.
8. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18-20 minutes.
9. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the remaining butter and the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
10. Season with salt and black pepper to taste and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips:
- For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of heavy cream after mixing in the cheese.
- Stir continuously to keep the rice from sticking to the pan and to achieve a creamy texture.
- Feel free to add cooked vegetables or proteins like mushrooms or chicken for a heartier dish.
Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
This Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches recipe is a mouth-watering delight that combines tender, flavorful pork with a spicy tangy barbecue sauce for an irresistible meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 pounds pork shoulder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 6 hamburger buns
- 1 cup coleslaw (optional)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Instructions:
1. Rub the pork shoulder with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
2. Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a slow cooker.
3. Pour the barbecue sauce and apple cider vinegar over the pork.
4. Cover and cook on low for about 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily pulled apart with a fork.
5. Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
6. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker to soak up the juices before serving.
7. Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns, and top with coleslaw if desired.
Tips:
- For extra spice, add more cayenne pepper to the rub.
- Let the pork rest for a few minutes before shredding for better texture.
- Make the pulled pork a day in advance for enhanced flavor.
Mediterranean Chickpea and Quinoa Bowl
This Mediterranean Chickpea and Quinoa Bowl is a vibrant medley of flavors and textures, packed with protein and fresh ingredients that make it both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions:
1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water and drain.
2. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy.
3. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
5. Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the vegetable mixture.
6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients.
7. Top with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Tips:
- For added flavor, marinate the chickpeas in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a few hours before mixing.
- You can substitute quinoa with couscous or bulgur for different textures.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- This bowl can be served warm or cold, making it a versatile option for meal prep.
Tangy Lemon Garlic Roast Chicken
This Tangy Lemon Garlic Roast Chicken is special for its vibrant citrus flavors and aromatic garlic, creating a flavorful and juicy dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and pour the marinade over it, making sure to coat the chicken evenly.
4. Stuff the cavity of the chicken with lemon slices.
5. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.
Tips:
- For even more flavor, brine the chicken in a saltwater solution for a few hours before marinating.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Sweet and Sour Meatballs
These Sweet and Sour Meatballs are special for their perfect blend of tangy and savory flavors, making them a delightful dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 cup bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup sweet and sour sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce by combining sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, cornstarch, and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until thickened.
6. In a large skillet, add pineapple chunks and chopped bell pepper, sautéing them for about 5 minutes.
7. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the skillet with the pineapple and bell pepper, then pour the sauce over everything. Stir to coat.
8. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, letting everything simmer together before serving.
Tips:
- For added flavor, try using ground pork or a blend of meats.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less sugar.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Vegetarian Lentil and Sweet Potato Chili
This Vegetarian Lentil and Sweet Potato Chili is a hearty, healthy dish that bursts with flavors from earthy lentils, sweet potatoes, and a blend of spices.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, diced
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic, bell pepper, and carrot; cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the diced sweet potatoes, lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in the corn and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Tips:
- You can substitute sweet potatoes with butternut squash for a different flavor.
- Add a splash of lime juice before serving for extra brightness.
- This chili can be made ahead of time and freezes well for convenient meals.
Teriyaki Glazed Salmon with Rice
This Teriyaki Glazed Salmon with Rice is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors that tantalize your taste buds while delivering a healthy meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 fillets salmon
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the jasmine rice and water, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is cooked.
2. While the rice is cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the garlic and ginger to the skillet, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down, and pour the teriyaki sauce over them.
5. Cook the salmon for about 5-7 minutes on each side, basting with the sauce to create a glaze.
6. Once the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, remove it from the heat.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve it on plates, topped with the teriyaki-glazed salmon.
8. Garnish with sliced green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added flavor and crunch.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the salmon in teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers, to the skillet to create a complete meal.
- Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Moroccan Spiced Vegetable Tagine
This Moroccan Spiced Vegetable Tagine is a celebration of aromatic spices and fresh vegetables, making it a vibrant and hearty dish that captures the essence of Moroccan cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 2 cups zucchini, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked couscous or rice for serving
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large tagine or pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, and smoked paprika; cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Add the chickpeas, carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and raisins to the pot.
7. Season with salt and pepper, then cover and cook for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the fresh cilantro and adjust seasoning if necessary.
9. Serve the tagine over cooked couscous or rice.
Tips:
- Add your favorite seasonal vegetables for a personal twist.
- Let the tagine sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
- For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of almond butter just before serving.
Rustic Italian Sausage and Peppers
This Rustic Italian Sausage and Peppers recipe brings together the bold flavors of Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and vibrant herbs, creating a dish that’s both hearty and comforting.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
4. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Add the sliced bell peppers and continue to sauté for another 5 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
7. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet along with the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
8. Stir to combine and let simmer for 10-15 minutes until heated through and flavors have melded.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Serve this dish over pasta, polenta, or in a crusty hoagie roll for a delicious sandwich.
- You can also add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for more variety.
Coconut Curry Chicken with Rice
This Coconut Curry Chicken with Rice is a delightful fusion of creamy coconut milk and spices, bringing warmth and richness to your dining experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 4 cups water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion until translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the curry powder and turmeric, cooking for about 30 seconds to release the spices’ aromas.
4. Add the chicken pieces, cooking until they are no longer pink on the outside.
5. Pour in the coconut milk, chicken broth, and fish sauce, stirring to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
7. Meanwhile, rinse the jasmine rice under cold water and combine it with the water in a separate pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover, cooking for about 15 minutes until tender.
8. Season the coconut curry with salt and pepper to taste, and serve it over the cooked jasmine rice.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Tips:
- For extra heat, add a chopped chili or some red pepper flakes to the curry.
- You can substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Letting the curry sit for a few minutes off the heat allows the flavors to develop even more.
Classic Clam Chowder
This Classic Clam Chowder is special for its creamy, rich flavor balanced with the freshness of clams and the earthiness of potatoes.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups clam broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (6.5 oz) chopped clams, drained and juice reserved
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crisp.
2. Add the onions and celery to the pot and sauté until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the diced potatoes, clam broth, and reserved clam juice; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Add the heavy cream, chopped clams, and thyme to the pot; stir well and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your chowder hot.
Tips:
- For a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot.
- Use fresh clams if available; they can add an even richer flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Black Bean and Corn Enchiladas
This Black Bean and Corn Enchiladas recipe is a vibrant blend of savory black beans, sweet corn, and zesty spices, making it a wholesome and delightful dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, and half of the shredded cheese.
3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Warm the corn tortillas in the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the filling onto each tortilla, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
5. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven, garnish with cilantro if desired, and serve hot.
Tips:
- You can add diced bell peppers or onions to the filling for extra flavor.
- To make it spicy, add chopped jalapeños or use spicy enchilada sauce.
- These enchiladas can be frozen before baking for a quick meal later.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili
This Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of potatoes with the earthiness of black beans, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), corn, and vegetable broth to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Tips:
- Top with avocado, cilantro, or lime for added freshness.
- This chili tastes even better the next day, so consider making it ahead of time.
- Adjust the spice levels by adding jalapeños or hot sauce if desired.
Easy Beef Stroganoff over Egg Noodles
This Easy Beef Stroganoff over Egg Noodles combines tender beef and rich, creamy sauce with the comforting bite of egg noodles, making it a quick yet satisfying meal for any night.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef sirloin, sliced thin
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, and mushrooms; cook until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika; bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and stir in the sour cream until smooth.
8. Return the cooked beef to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
9. Serve the beef stroganoff over the cooked egg noodles.
Tips:
- For added flavor, substitute half of the beef broth with red wine.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a few tablespoons of water and stir it into the sauce while it simmers.
- Top with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness before serving.