Skip to content

Top Navigation

Real Simple Logo Real Simple Logo
  • Food
  • Home
  • Life
  • Health
  • Money
  • Style and Beauty
  • Holidays & Entertaining
  • News
  • Shopping
  • About Us

Profile Menu

Your Account

Account

  • My Account
  • Join Now
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletters
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Free Organizing App this link opens in a new tab
Login
Subscribe
Pin FB

Explore Real Simple

Real Simple Logo Real Simple Logo
  • Explore

    Explore

    • How to Measure Your Ring Size at Home

      How to Measure Your Ring Size at Home

      Try one of these three easy methods to make sure your ring fits perfectly, every time. Read More
    • Here's the Right Temperature for Your Refrigerator and Freezer (Because a Few Degrees Makes a Difference)

      Here's the Right Temperature for Your Refrigerator and Freezer (Because a Few Degrees Makes a Difference)

      Keeping foods chilled properly helps them last longer and stay fresher. Sticking to the ideal refrigerator temps can help you avoid potential foodborne illnesses, too. Read More
    • 34 Great Books to Suit Any Mood or Interest

      34 Great Books to Suit Any Mood or Interest

      This list has you covered, no matter how you're feeling. Read More
  • Food

    Food

    See All Food
    9 Cheeses You Can Eat Even If You're Lactose Intolerant

    9 Cheeses You Can Eat Even If You're Lactose Intolerant

    Not all dairy is created equal. 
    • Recipes
    • Real Simple Cooking School
    • Cooking Tips & Techniques
    • Shopping and Storing
    • Kitchen Tools and Products
  • Home

    Home

    See All Home
    • Cleaning
    • Organizing
    • Decorating
    • Gardening
    • Home Improvement
    • Green Living
    • New Uses for Old Things at Home
    • Quick Fix
    • Real Simple Home
  • Life

    Life

    See All Life
    • Family
    • Entertainment
    • Technology
    • Wedding Planning
    • Travel Ideas
    • Career
    • Get It Done
  • Health

    Health

    See All Health
    Feel Like You Don't Enjoy Anything Anymore? There's a Name for That—Here Are 8 Ways You Can Break Through It

    Feel Like You Don't Enjoy Anything Anymore? There's a Name for That—Here Are 8 Ways You Can Break Through It

    Mental health experts explain anhedonia and how you can bounce back from this joyless state of mind.
    • Preventive Health
    • Mental Health
    • Health Coach
    • Crisis Coping
    • Fitness & Exercise
    • Sleep
    • Healthy Eating
    • Well Fed
  • Money

    Money

    See All Money
    Are You Keeping Too Much Money in the Bank? Here's How to Tell

    Are You Keeping Too Much Money in the Bank? Here's How to Tell

    Putting money in the bank is smart, but too much cash savings can actually be a poor use of that money.
    • Money Confidential Podcast
    • Saving Money
    • Money Planning
    • Money Confidential
    • Spending
    • Money Etiquette
    • Invest Better
  • Style and Beauty

    Style and Beauty

    See All Style and Beauty
    How to Measure Your Bra Size at Home

    How to Measure Your Bra Size at Home

    All you need is a tape measure and a little free time.
    • Clothing
    • Skincare
    • Shoes
    • Hair
    • Clothing Care
    • Makeup
    • Hair Body Face
  • Holidays & Entertaining

    Holidays & Entertaining

    See All Holidays & Entertaining
    PowerPoint Parties Are the Party Trend You Have to Try: Here's How to Host One

    PowerPoint Parties Are the Party Trend You Have to Try: Here's How to Host One

    PowerPoint nights are the new fun way to party together—even when you're far apart.
    • All Holidays
    • Gifts
    • Father's Day
    • Passover
    • Entertaining
    • Home for the Holidays
    • Come Together
    • Hanukkah
    • Halloween
    • Thanksgiving
    • Christmas
    • Valentine's Day
    • Easter
    • Mother's Day
  • News
  • Shopping
  • About Us

Profile Menu

Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
Your Account

Account

  • My Account
  • Join Now
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletters
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Free Organizing App this link opens in a new tab
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

  1. Real Simple
  2. Food
  3. Recipe Collections & Favorites
  4. 31 Easy Slow Cooker Recipes for When You're Craving Comfort Food

31 Easy Slow Cooker Recipes for When You're Craving Comfort Food

Betty Gold
By Betty Gold Updated September 19, 2019
Skip gallery slides
FB Tweet
slow cooker recipes: brisket
Credit: Sang An

Coming home to a hot meal after a long day of work is the ultimate gift. The slow cooker method is a lifesaver for busy families: simply toss your ingredients in, set it, and forget it until dinnertime. Slow-cooked chicken, beef, vegetables, and more are incredibly tender, too. For dishes you know you'll want to eat again soon, we recommend doubling up on ingredients and tossing leftovers in the freezer.

This appliance has come a long way in recent years. Many newer models have auto-shutoff and keep warm settings (for times you get tied up in meetings or traffic), LED-lit digital displays, delay start functionality, and multiple temperature settings. Don't be intimidated: all of these fancy features help make slow cooking even more convenient.

Ready to slow cook? Keep scrolling for our best, super easy slow cooker recipes.

RELATED: The 12 Best Slow Cookers on the Market for Every Budget

Start Slideshow

1 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

BBQ Sweet Potato Bakers

Slow-Cooker BBQ Sweet Potato Bakers
Credit: Max Kelly

Use your slow cooker to soften spuds, like these healthy and hearty sweet potatoes. Pack them with plenty of summer-ready toppings like fresh corn, chopped tomatoes, or crisp chives to bring your farmer's market haul right to your table. Serve with a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store to avoid turning on your stove.

Get the recipe: BBQ Sweet Potato Bakers 

1 of 31

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Pulled-Pork Tacos

Slow-Cooker Pulled-Pork Tacos
Credit: Kan Kanbayashi

Store-bought salsa is a quick fix to flavor the pork and sauce.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Pulled-Pork Tacos

2 of 31

3 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Soy-Glazed Chicken With Stir-Fried Vegetables

Slow-Cooker Soy-Glazed Chicken With Stir-Fried Vegetables
Credit: Marcus Nilsson

Tender chicken gets an Asian spin with fish sauce, soy sauce, and ginger.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Soy-Glazed Chicken With Stir-Fried Vegetables

3 of 31

Advertisement

4 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Cheesecake

Slow-Cooker Cheesecake
Credit: Victor Protasio

Once you make cheesecake in a slow cooker, you may never bother with the traditional oven method again. The caramel sauce is optional, but we highly recommend fresh fruit like blackberries and blueberries. A little whipped cream on top never hurt, either.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Cheesecake

4 of 31

5 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Barbecue Pork Sandwiches With Crunchy Coleslaw

Slow-Cooker Barbecue Pork Sandwiches With Crunchy Coleslaw
Credit: Romulo Yanes

The sweet, tangy, spicy pork matches well with the crisp, creamy slaw.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Barbecue Pork Sandwiches With Crunchy Coleslaw

5 of 31

6 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Sweet and Spicy Pork Tenderloin

Sweet and Spicy Pork Tenderloin
Credit: Greg DuPree

A spicy-sweet coating of brown sugar and crushed red pepper helps seal in moisture in this pork tenderloin. A hint of umami is added by soy-spiked beef stock. You can use this tenderloin the way we recommend—served over rice with crisp, refreshing cucumbers and carrots, or use it to make quick tacos, a salad topper, or even the meat for a mix-and-match burrito bowl.

Get the recipe: Sweet and Spicy Pork Tenderloin

6 of 31

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Coffee-Braised Brisket With Potatoes and Carrots

Slow-Cooker Coffee-Braised Brisket With Potatoes and Carrots
Credit: Sang An

This well-priced cut of meat does best when cooked low and slow. Just don't try to make it on the high setting or it may end up chewy and stringy.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Coffee-Braised Brisket With Potatoes and Carrots

7 of 31

8 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Big-Batch Slow Cooker Black Beans

Big-Batch Slow Cooker Black Beans
Credit: Jennifer Causey

Beans can long simmer over a stove eye, but the heat can be overwhelming, especially is warmer months. Opt for cooking beans in your slow cooker instead. You can even skip the overnight soaking step. Use your batch of beans as a side throughout the week or as the base for a soup, salad, or grain bowl.

Get the recipe: Big Batch Black Beans

8 of 31

9 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Soy-Braised Chicken

Slow-Cooker Soy-Braised Chicken
Credit: Con Poulos

Serve with rice to soak up the delicious sauce made from apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and brown sugar.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Soy-Braised Chicken

9 of 31

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Chicken With Bacon, Mushrooms, and Onions

Slow-Cooker Chicken With Bacon, Mushrooms, and Onions
Credit: Susie Cushner

Smoky bacon, garlic, and rosemary flavor the tender, moist chicken.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Chicken With Bacon, Mushrooms, and Onionss

10 of 31

11 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow Cooked Angel Food Cake

Slow-Cooker Angel Food Cake
Credit: Victor Protasio

Light-as-air angel food cake is the perfect companion to juicy strawberries, vanilla ice cream, and/or a tropical mixture of pineapple, mango, and flaked coconut. 

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Angel Food Cake

11 of 31

12 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Open-Face Pulled-Pork Sandwiches With Tangy Broccoli Slaw

Slow-Cooker Open-Face Pulled-Pork Sandwiches With Tangy Broccoli Slaw
Credit: Marcus Nilsson

Coat the pork with a mixture of tomato paste, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and Cajun seasoning to impart sweet, tangy flavors while it cooks.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Open-Face Pulled-Pork Sandwiches With Tangy Broccoli Slaw

12 of 31

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

13 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow cooker Chicken Congee

Slow cooker chicken congee
Credit: Jennifer Causey

Making this congee recipe in the slow-cooker not only allows for hands-off cooking, it infuses the coconut milk-base with even more flavor. Suggested toppings include cilantro and Sriracha, but almost any savory element tastes great on top—roasted mushrooms, a fried egg, even avocado would all be equally at home here.

Get the recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Congee 

13 of 31

14 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese

Slow-Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese
Credit: Marcus Nilsson

Just mix all the ingredients together and cook for a few hours; 20 minutes before dinner, make the spaghetti and toss with the sauce.

Get the recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

14 of 31

15 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Lamb, Apricot, and Olive Tagine

Slow-Cooker Lamb, Apricot, and Olive Tagine
Credit: Marcus Nilsson

Paprika, cumin, cinnamon, and ginger give this delicious dish its Moroccan kick.

15 of 31

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

16 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Sausages With Sauerkraut and Potatoes

Slow-Cooker Sausages With Sauerkraut and Potatoes
Credit: Marcus Nilsson

Serve these juicy brats with toast, butter, and mustard on the side.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Sausages With Sauerkraut and Potatoes

16 of 31

17 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Slow-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Credit: David Prince

The key to this dish is garam masala, a mix of spices often used in Indian cooking. It usually includes cumin, cinnamon, coriander, cloves, and nutmeg.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

17 of 31

18 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Curried Chicken With Ginger and Yogurt

Slow-Cooker Curried Chicken With Ginger and Yogurt
Credit: José Picayo

If you like your curry spicy, turn up the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Curried Chicken With Ginger and Yogurt

18 of 31

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

19 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Sweet and Spicy Asian Pork Shoulder

Slow-Cooker Sweet and Spicy Asian Pork Shoulder
Credit: Jonny Valiant

Chinese five-spice powder—typically made from cinnamon, cloves, fennel seed, star anise, and Szechuan peppercorns—wakes up the braised pork.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Sweet and Spicy Asian Pork Shoulder

19 of 31

20 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Cuban Braised Beef and Peppers

Slow-Cooker Cuban Braised Beef and Peppers
Credit: Quentin Bacon

This colorful stew is a take on the hearty Cuban dish ropa viejo.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Cuban Braised Beef and Peppers

20 of 31

21 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Classic Pot Roast

Classic Pot Roast
Credit: Jonny Valiant

There's no need to add more ingredients during the cooking process with this recipe—just toss everything in your slow cooker and you're good to go.

Get the recipe: Classic Pot Roast

21 of 31

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

22 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Chipotle Beef Tacos With Cabbage and Radish Slaw

Slow-Cooker Chipotle Beef Tacos With Cabbage and Radish Slaw
Credit: José Picayo

The meat cooks gently with onions, garlic, chipotles, and bay leaves until fall-apart tender.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Chipotle Beef Tacos With Cabbage and Radish Slaw

22 of 31

23 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Asian Short Ribs

Slow-Cooker Asian Short Ribs
Credit: Marcus Nilsson

Preparing short ribs may sound intimidating, but they're a cinch to make in the slow cooker.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Asian Short Ribs

23 of 31

24 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Bolognese Sauce

Slow-Cooker Bolognese Sauce
Credit: Susie Cushner

Adding tomato paste to the sauce gives it a deeper, richer flavor and thicker texture.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Bolognese Sauce

24 of 31

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

25 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Chicken With Tarragon and Leeks

Chicken With Tarragon and Leeks
Credit: Hallie Burton

Mash a few potatoes into the cooking liquid to help thicken the creamy sauce.

Get the recipe: Chicken With Tarragon and Leeksc

25 of 31

26 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Asian Pork With Snow Peas, Red Peppers, and Soba Noodles

Slow-Cooker Asian Pork With Snow Peas, Red Peppers, and Soba Noodles
Credit: José Picayo

Add the raw vegetables right into the noodle cooking water to save time.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Asian Pork With Snow Peas, Red Peppers, and Soba Noodles

26 of 31

27 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Spiced Braised Beef With Sweet Potatoes

Spiced Braised Beef With Sweet Potatoes
Credit: Kan Kanbayashi

Meat and potatoes get a delicious upgrade with dried apricots, cumin, ginger, and cinnamon.

Get the recipe: Spiced Braised Beef With Sweet Potatoes

27 of 31

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

28 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Ale-Braised Corned Beef, Brussels Sprouts, and Carrots

Ale-Braised Corned Beef, Brussels Sprouts, and Carrots
Credit: Quentin Bacon

Thinly sliced Brussels sprouts make a more elegant substitution for heartier, earthier cabbage.

Get the recipe: Ale-Braised Corned Beef, Brussels Sprouts, and Carrots

28 of 31

29 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Tuscan Pot Roast

Slow-Cooker Tuscan Pot Roast
Credit: Susie Cushner

Dry red wine and tomato paste give this dish extra depth and layers of flavor.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Tuscan Pot Roast

29 of 31

30 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Slow-Cooker Spicy Country Ribs

Slow-Cooker Spicy Country Ribs
Credit: Susie Cushner

Broiling the ribs before serving adds a tasty char.

Get the recipe: Slow-Cooker Spicy Country Ribsa

30 of 31

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

31 of 31

FB Tweet
Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print

Asian Baby-Back Ribs With Udon Salad

Asian Baby-Back Ribs With Udon Salad
Credit: Con Poulos

These fall-off-the-bone ribs are coated in a succulent mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cayenne pepper.

Get the recipe: Asian Baby-Back Ribs With Udon Salad

31 of 31

Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

By Betty Gold

    Share the Gallery

    Pinterest Facebook
    Trending Videos
    Advertisement
    Skip slide summaries

    Everything in This Slideshow

    Advertisement

    View All

    1 of 31 BBQ Sweet Potato Bakers
    2 of 31 Slow-Cooker Pulled-Pork Tacos
    3 of 31 Slow-Cooker Soy-Glazed Chicken With Stir-Fried Vegetables
    4 of 31 Slow-Cooker Cheesecake
    5 of 31 Slow-Cooker Barbecue Pork Sandwiches With Crunchy Coleslaw
    6 of 31 Sweet and Spicy Pork Tenderloin
    7 of 31 Slow-Cooker Coffee-Braised Brisket With Potatoes and Carrots
    8 of 31 Big-Batch Slow Cooker Black Beans
    9 of 31 Slow-Cooker Soy-Braised Chicken
    10 of 31 Slow-Cooker Chicken With Bacon, Mushrooms, and Onions
    11 of 31 Slow Cooked Angel Food Cake
    12 of 31 Slow-Cooker Open-Face Pulled-Pork Sandwiches With Tangy Broccoli Slaw
    13 of 31 Slow cooker Chicken Congee
    14 of 31 Slow-Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese
    15 of 31 Slow-Cooker Lamb, Apricot, and Olive Tagine
    16 of 31 Slow-Cooker Sausages With Sauerkraut and Potatoes
    17 of 31 Slow-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
    18 of 31 Slow-Cooker Curried Chicken With Ginger and Yogurt
    19 of 31 Slow-Cooker Sweet and Spicy Asian Pork Shoulder
    20 of 31 Slow-Cooker Cuban Braised Beef and Peppers
    21 of 31 Classic Pot Roast
    22 of 31 Slow-Cooker Chipotle Beef Tacos With Cabbage and Radish Slaw
    23 of 31 Slow-Cooker Asian Short Ribs
    24 of 31 Slow-Cooker Bolognese Sauce
    25 of 31 Chicken With Tarragon and Leeks
    26 of 31 Slow-Cooker Asian Pork With Snow Peas, Red Peppers, and Soba Noodles
    27 of 31 Spiced Braised Beef With Sweet Potatoes
    28 of 31 Ale-Braised Corned Beef, Brussels Sprouts, and Carrots
    29 of 31 Slow-Cooker Tuscan Pot Roast
    30 of 31 Slow-Cooker Spicy Country Ribs
    31 of 31 Asian Baby-Back Ribs With Udon Salad

    Share & More

    Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print
    Real Simple Logo

    Magazines & More

    Learn More

    • About Us
    • Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
    • Help
    • Advertise
    • Content Licensing
    • Accolades this link opens in a new tab

    Connect

    Subscribe to Our Newsletter
    Sign Up
    MeredithAll products and services featured are selected by our editors. Real Simple may receive compensation for some links to products and services in this email on this website. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Real Simple is part of the Meredith Home Group. © Copyright 2022 Meredith Corporationthis link opens in a new tab. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
    © Copyright Real Simple. All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.realsimple.com

    Sign in

    View image

    31 Easy Slow Cooker Recipes for When You're Craving Comfort Food
    this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.