Are you looking for some delicious and healthy meal ideas that can be prepared with ease? Look no further! Slow cookers are a staple in many kitchens, and for good reason. They allow us to prepare hearty and flavorful meals with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering slow cooker beef recipes that are not only delicious but also healthy and easy to make.
From classic stews and soups to international-inspired dishes and tacos, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a beef lover or just looking for some new ideas to add to your repertoire, these recipes are sure to become quick favorites in your household.
Slow Cooker Beef and Vegetable Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect comfort food solution on a chilly day. With tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef cubes in a skillet over medium-high heat, then transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, and red bell pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, followed by the thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Healthy Slow Cooker Beef Chili
This recipe makes a deliciously comforting beef chili that’s packed with nutrients and flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this slow cooker meal is easy to prepare and cooks all day while you’re busy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and add the remaining ingredients.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Beef and Quinoa Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender beef, nutty quinoa, and aromatic spices, all slow-cooked to perfection in your crock pot. It’s a great option for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine beef, water, quinoa, onion, garlic, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
3. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
Lean Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
A French classic with a healthier twist! This slow-cooked beef stew is made with lean ingredients and minimal added sugar, making it a delicious and nutritious option for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
2. Add the beef, onion, garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme to a slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Beef and Barley Stew
Warm up with a hearty and comforting slow cooker stew that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines tender beef, creamy barley, and a rich broth to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat; remove from heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker; add the browned beef, barley, beef broth, water, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Healthy Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
A comforting and flavorful twist on the classic Russian dish, this slow cooker recipe is a perfect solution for a busy day. With tender beef, creamy sauce, and nutritious vegetables, it’s a meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean beef strips (90% lean)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of low-sodium beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup low-fat sour cream
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine beef strips, beef broth, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and salt.
2. Add sliced mushrooms and diced bell peppers on top of the beef mixture.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
4. Stir in low-fat sour cream before serving.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Beef and Sweet Potato Curry
A hearty and flavorful curry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep. This slow cooker recipe is easy to make and packed with tender beef, sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add beef, sweet potatoes, onion, garlic, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together diced tomatoes and beef broth. Pour over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Low-Carb Slow Cooker Beef Ragu
Transform your slow cooker into a hearty Italian kitchen with this rich and flavorful Low-Carb Slow Cooker Beef Ragu. Perfect for a comforting meal or as a base for a low-carb pasta dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck roast, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and add sliced mushrooms, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and dried basil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
6. Serve hot over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Slow Cooker Beef and Lentil Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender beef, nutritious lentils, and aromatic spices, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. Serve with crusty bread for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add beef, lentils, carrots, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in beef broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on Low for 8-10 hours or High for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (Low) or 4-6 hours (High)
Healthy Slow Cooker Beef Tacos
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional tacos, packed with tender beef, wholesome veggies, and bold spices. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 tacos shells
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in chopped cilantro.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning beef mixture into shells.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Beef and Mushroom Stew
Cozy up with this comforting slow cooker stew that simmers tender beef and earthy mushrooms in a rich broth, perfect for a chilly evening or lazy Sunday afternoon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef pieces for 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Add the browned beef, onion, mushrooms, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme to the slow cooker.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Slow Cooker Beef and Spinach Lasagna
Elevate your lasagna game with this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe that combines tender beef, flavorful spinach, and creamy ricotta cheese. Perfect for a busy day when you need a comforting meal without the fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion, garlic, spinach, and marinara sauce to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese and mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a slow cooker, create a layer of meat mixture, followed by a layer of lasagna noodles, then a layer of ricotta cheese mixture. Repeat for 2-3 layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Healthy Slow Cooker Beef Pho
Rich and flavorful, this slow cooker beef pho recipe is a twist on the classic Vietnamese noodle soup. With tender beef, aromatic spices, and nutritious vegetables, it’s a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef brisket or chuck roast
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup rice noodles
– Fresh herbs, such as basil or mint, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine beef, onion, garlic, ginger, beef broth, water, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), cinnamon, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
4. Assemble pho by placing cooked beef and noodles into bowls, then ladle broth over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Slow Cooker Beef and Cabbage Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect comfort food for a chilly day. Tender beef and crisp cabbage come together in a flavorful broth that’s easy to prepare and requires minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket or chuck roast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine beef, onion, garlic, and thyme.
2. Add beef broth, water, and cabbage on top of the beef mixture.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Beef and Chickpea Curry
Elevate your slow cooker game with this flavorful and aromatic curry recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. With tender beef, creamy chickpeas, and a blend of Indian spices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Instructions:
1. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Add beef stew meat, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato paste.
3. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 8-4 hours
Healthy Slow Cooker Beef Meatballs
This recipe is a twist on traditional meatballs, using lean beef and a blend of aromatic spices to create a flavorful and nutritious meal. With minimal prep time and effortless cooking, these meatballs are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup low-sodium beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to high.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, oats, onion, garlic, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter).
4. Place meatballs in slow cooker and pour in beef broth.
5. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (high) or 6-8 hours (low)
Slow Cooker Beef and Kale Stew
This comforting slow cooker stew is perfect for a chilly evening. Tender beef, richly flavored broth, and nutritious kale come together to create a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck or brisket, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups kale leaves (stemmed and chopped)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the beef, onion, garlic, beef broth, water, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Add the kale to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Beef and Black Bean Chili
This comforting recipe combines tender beef, flavorful black beans, and a rich blend of spices to create a deliciously satisfying slow cooker chili. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Transfer mixture to slow cooker. Stir in remaining ingredients.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve: Hot, garnished with shredded cheese, diced onions, and crushed tortilla chips, if desired.
Summary
Looking for delicious and healthy slow cooker beef recipes? Look no further! This collection of 18 mouth-watering dishes offers something for everyone. From classic stews to international-inspired curries, these easy-to-make recipes are perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal with minimal effort. Try the Slow Cooker Beef and Vegetable Stew, Healthy Slow Cooker Beef Chili, or Lean Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon, just to name a few. With options ranging from low-carb to vegetarian-friendly, there’s something for every taste bud. Get ready to enjoy a new favorite dish!
