17 Crockpot Meals That Simmer All Day While You’re Out Running Errands

When the day pulls you in a dozen directions, it helps to have dinner already in motion before you leave. I’ve found that starting the crockpot in the morning makes the whole evening feel calmer and more manageable. These 17 crockpot meals give you simple prep, familiar flavors, and steady results you can count on. You come home to a kitchen that smells like dinner is already done.

Crock Pot Brisket - Beth's Brisket Recipe

Crock Pot Brisket - Beth's Brisket Recipe cooks low and slow until the beef becomes soft and easy to slice. As the brisket simmers, it stays moist while building deep flavor. This is a simple way to prepare a homemade dinner without constant attention. Let the meat rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Brisket - Beth's Brisket Recipe

Barbecue Chicken in Crock Pot

Barbecue Chicken in Crock Pot cooks gradually until the chicken turns tender and easy to shred. As the sauce thickens, it coats the meat for simple serving over buns or sides. This recipe works well for busy evenings when dinner needs to be ready. Stir once during cooking so the sauce spreads evenly.
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Crock Pot London Broil

Crock Pot London Broil cooks low and steady until the beef becomes tender alongside soft potatoes and carrots. As the hours pass, the gentle heat helps the meat stay moist and easy to slice. This simple one-pot meal is helpful when the day gets busy. Be sure to slice the beef against the grain for a softer texture.
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St. Louis Ribs made in the Crock Pot

St. Louis Ribs made in the Crock Pot cook slowly until the meat turns tender and pulls easily from the bone. As they simmer, the seasoning settles into the ribs without needing a grill. This method works well for relaxed family meals or weekends. For a lightly crisp finish, place them under the broiler before serving.
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Crock Pot Pork Roast with Potatoes and Carrots

Crock Pot Pork Roast with Potatoes and Carrots cooks together until the roast turns tender and the vegetables soften in a light broth. As it simmers, everything absorbs the cooking juices for a full meal. This one-pot recipe helps keep cleanup simple. Place the vegetables underneath so they cook evenly.
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Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Crock Pot

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Crock Pot cooks gently into a creamy soup with tender chicken and soft gnocchi. As everything simmers, the broth thickens without requiring much attention. This easy meal works well for weeknights when prep time is limited. Add the greens toward the end so they stay soft without overcooking.
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Loaded Potato Soup in the Crock Pot

Loaded Potato Soup in the Crock Pot slowly simmers into a creamy soup filled with soft potatoes, bacon, and cheese. As it cooks, the flavors blend together with very little prep needed. This easy comfort food works well on days when dinner needs to be ready without much effort. For best results, cut the potatoes evenly so they cook at the same pace.
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Crock Pot Chili - Easy and Delicious!

Crock Pot Chili - Easy and Delicious! simmers slowly until the meat becomes tender and the sauce thickens. As it cooks throughout the day, the flavors come together into a hearty meal. This easy recipe fits well into busy schedules. Browning the meat first helps keep the texture rich and full.
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Crockpot Cranberry Pot Roast

Crockpot Cranberry Pot Roast cooks steadily until the beef becomes tender in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. As the hours pass, the flavors blend into a rich gravy. This meal works well for both everyday dinners and gatherings. Spoon the sauce over the meat before serving to keep it moist.
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Slow Cooker Tomato Sauce with Meatballs

Slow Cooker Tomato Sauce with Meatballs simmers slowly until the meatballs turn tender and the sauce thickens. While it cooks, the flavors build into a rich and hearty base for pasta or sandwiches. This homemade option makes dinner easier to plan ahead. To help the meatballs hold together, brown them before adding to the sauce.
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Slow Cooker Osso Buco

Slow Cooker Osso Buco cooks gently until the beef shanks become fork-tender in a rich sauce. As it simmers, the vegetables soften and absorb the cooking juices. This dish works well when you want a hands-off family meal. Serving it over mashed potatoes or rice helps catch the sauce.
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Slow Cooker Yankee Pot Roast

Slow Cooker Yankee Pot Roast cooks low and steady until the beef becomes tender with soft vegetables. As it simmers, a rich broth develops around the meat. This classic meal works well when you want dinner cooking while you’re away. Cut the vegetables into larger pieces so they don’t overcook.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Yankee Pot Roast

Bacon Wrapped BBQ Crock Pot Chicken

Bacon Wrapped BBQ Crock Pot Chicken cooks slowly until the chicken stays tender and the bacon cooks through. As it simmers, the sauce thickens around each piece for a rich finish. This meal is easy to prep ahead when time is limited. Place the bacon seam-side down so it holds together while cooking.
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Slow Cooker Cranberry BBQ Turkey Sliders

Slow Cooker Cranberry BBQ Turkey Sliders cook slowly until the turkey becomes tender and easy to shred. As the sauce thickens, it coats the meat for simple serving on buns. This recipe works well for casual dinners or busy afternoons. Lightly toast the buns so they hold the filling better.
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Crock Pot Turkey Breast

Crock Pot Turkey Breast cooks low and steady until the meat turns tender and slices easily. As it cooks, the slow heat helps keep the turkey moist with very little prep. This recipe works well for smaller gatherings or simple dinners. Brushing the top with butter helps keep the meat from drying out.
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Sunday Dinner Pot Roast

Sunday Dinner Pot Roast simmers low and slow until the beef turns tender with soft vegetables and gravy. As everything cooks together, the flavors build into a classic comfort food meal. This recipe works well for days when you want dinner ready without extra steps. Add vegetables later if you prefer them less soft.
Get the Recipe: Sunday Dinner Pot Roast

Slow Cooker Beef Curry

Slow Cooker Beef Curry cooks slowly until the beef turns tender and the sauce thickens. As it simmers, the spices blend into a smooth, rich sauce. This simple recipe is helpful for preparing dinner ahead of time. Stir once during cooking to keep the sauce even.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Curry