Olivia Carter
Looking for a convenient and time-saving way to prepare meals for the week ahead? Look no further than the slow cooker. This kitchen appliance is a game-changer when it comes to batch cooking, allowing you to prepare large quantities of delicious meals with minimal effort.
Batch cooking is the process of preparing multiple servings of a meal at once, which can then be stored and enjoyed later. It’s a great way to save time during the week, as you can simply reheat the pre-cooked meals instead of starting from scratch every day. And when it comes to batch cooking, the slow cooker is your best friend.
The slow cooker, also known as a crockpot, is designed to cook food slowly over a long period of time. This slow and gentle cooking method helps to bring out the flavors in your ingredients and creates tender, succulent dishes. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work for you – simply add your ingredients, set the timer, and let it do its magic while you go about your day.
So, which meals are best for batch cooking in a slow cooker? The options are endless. From hearty stews and soups to tender pulled pork and flavorful curries, the slow cooker can handle it all. Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer vegetarian options, there’s a batch cook meal recipe out there for you. So get out your slow cooker, stock up on ingredients, and start batch cooking delicious meals that will keep you well-fed and satisfied all week long.
7 Batch Cook Meals for Your Slow Cooker
If you love the convenience of slow cooker meals and want to save time and effort in the kitchen, batch cooking is the way to go. By preparing large quantities of food at once and then freezing them in smaller portions, you’ll have delicious meals at the ready whenever you need them. Here are seven batch cook meals that are perfect for your slow cooker:
1. Beef Stew
Nothing beats a hearty bowl of beef stew on a cold winter day. By batch cooking this classic dish in your slow cooker, you can have comforting meals ready for weeks to come. Load your stew with tender chunks of beef, root vegetables, and a rich broth seasoned with herbs and spices.
2. Chicken Curry
Spice up your mealtime with a batch of slow-cooked chicken curry. This versatile dish allows you to customize the level of spiciness to your preference. Simply combine chicken, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and your choice of spices in the slow cooker for a delicious curry that can be enjoyed over rice or with naan bread.
3. Lentil Soup
For a healthy and filling option, batch cook a hearty lentil soup. Loaded with protein and fiber, lentils are a nutritious base for this soup. Add in vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, along with herbs and spices for extra flavor. Freeze individual portions for a quick and satisfying meal.
4. Pulled Pork
Get your barbecue fix with a batch of slow-cooked pulled pork. Season a pork shoulder or butt with your favorite spices and let it cook low and slow in your slow cooker until it’s tender and easy to shred. Serve the pulled pork on buns with coleslaw for a mouthwatering meal.
5. Vegetable Curry
If you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan option, try batch cooking a vegetable curry. Load your slow cooker with a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, and chickpeas, along with a creamy curry sauce. Serve over rice or with naan bread for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
6. Chili
Warm up with a big batch of slow-cooked chili. Whether you prefer a classic beef chili or a vegetarian version with beans and vegetables, the slow cooker is the perfect tool for creating a rich and flavorful chili. Top with cheese, sour cream, and cilantro, and freeze individual portions for a quick and easy meal.
7. Bolognese Sauce
Prepare a batch of homemade bolognese sauce in your slow cooker and you’ll have the base for many delicious meals. Use the sauce to make spaghetti bolognese, lasagna, or even as a topping for pizza. Freeze in individual portions for easy meal prep.
By batch cooking these delicious meals in your slow cooker, you can save time and effort in the kitchen while still enjoying homemade, flavorful dishes. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing meals for yourself, these batch cook meals are sure to satisfy.
Hearty Beef Stew
Looking for a delicious and satisfying meal to prepare in your slow cooker? Look no further than this hearty beef stew. Packed with tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, this stew is the perfect comfort food for those chilly winter nights or busy weeknights when you don’t have time to cook.
To make this stew, start by browning the beef in a hot skillet to enhance its flavor. Then, transfer the beef to the slow cooker along with a medley of vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and onions. Add in a mixture of beef broth, tomato paste, and seasonings to create a savory and robust base for the stew. Let everything cook low and slow for several hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cubed
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Once the stew is ready, serve it piping hot with a side of crusty bread or fluffy mashed potatoes. The tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth will warm you up from the inside out, leaving you feeling satisfied and nourished. Plus, since this stew can be made in a large batch and stored in the fridge or freezer, you can enjoy it for multiple meals throughout the week, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for busy individuals or families.
So next time you’re in the mood for a comforting and hearty meal, grab your slow cooker and give this beef stew recipe a try. With its tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Chicken Curry
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dish to prepare in the slow cooker, Chicken Curry is a perfect choice. This flavorful Indian-inspired dish is made with tender chicken pieces, aromatic spices, and a rich curry sauce. With the slow cooker, you can simply put all the ingredients together in the morning and come back to a delicious meal in the evening. It’s a great option for batch cooking, as you can make a large quantity and freeze the leftovers for later.
To make Chicken Curry in the slow cooker, start by browning the chicken pieces in a pan to add extra flavor. Then, transfer the chicken to the slow cooker along with onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. You can also add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers for extra texture and nutrients. Pour in some coconut milk or stock to create a creamy and fragrant curry sauce. Cook on low for several hours until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together.
When serving Chicken Curry, you can garnish it with fresh cilantro or mint leaves for a pop of freshness. It pairs well with basmati rice or naan bread, which can help soak up the delicious sauce. The leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days or frozen for longer storage. So, take advantage of your slow cooker and make a batch of Chicken Curry to enjoy flavorful and convenient meals throughout the week.
Vegetarian Chili
If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal that’s also vegetarian-friendly, then look no further than vegetarian chili. Made with a combination of beans, vegetables, and spices, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrients.
Vegetarian chili is a versatile recipe that can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. You can use a variety of beans like kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans, as well as vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, and corn. The spices are what give this dish its signature bold and smoky flavor. Common chili spices include chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano.
Ingredients:
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
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Vegetarian chili is a perfect dish for meal prep as it can be made in large batches and frozen for later use. It’s a great option for busy individuals or families who want a healthy and convenient meal option. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, even for those who aren’t vegetarian or vegan. So give this recipe a try and enjoy a satisfying bowl of vegetarian chili.
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Pulled pork sandwiches are a classic slow-cooker meal that can be made in large batches, making them ideal for batch cooking. The succulent, tender pork is slow-cooked for hours, resulting in a rich and flavorful filling for sandwiches. This versatile dish can be customized with various sauces and toppings to suit your taste preferences.
To make pulled pork sandwiches, start by seasoning a pork shoulder with a blend of spices such as paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar. Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreddable. Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and use two forks to pull the meat apart, creating thin strands.
For the sauce, you can use store-bought barbecue sauce or make your own by combining ingredients like ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and spices. Toss the pulled pork in the sauce until it is evenly coated.
To assemble the sandwiches, choose your preferred bread or buns and lightly toast them. Place a generous amount of pulled pork on one side of the bread and top with your choice of toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, or sliced onions. You can also add a slice of cheese for an extra flavor boost. Finally, place the other half of the bread on top and press the sandwich gently to hold everything together.
Pulled pork sandwiches are a crowd-pleasing option for gatherings or parties, as they can be made ahead of time and easily reheated. The tender and juicy pork combined with the tangy sauce and crunchy toppings make for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole
One of the best batch cook meals that you can make in a slow cooker is the Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a comforting dinner or meal prep for busy weekdays. With a combination of Italian sausage, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, this casserole is packed with delicious Mediterranean flavors.
To make this Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole, start by browning the Italian sausage in a skillet and then transferring it to the slow cooker. Sauté the bell peppers and onions until they are softened and add them to the slow cooker as well. Pour in a can of diced tomatoes and season the casserole with garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir and let it cook on low heat for several hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Once the casserole is ready, serve it hot with your favorite side dish, such as rice or pasta. You can also enjoy it on its own or with a crusty bread. The Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole is a versatile dish that can be customized to your taste preferences. You can add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or spice it up with some red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Italian sausage
- Bell peppers
- Onions
- Tomatoes
- Aromatic herbs (garlic, oregano, basil)
If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that can be easily prepared in advance, the Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole is the perfect option. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish will surely become a family favorite. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work for you, making it ideal for busy days when you don’t have much time to spend in the kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy the taste of Italy in the comfort of your own home!
Mexican Chicken Soup
If you’re searching for a delicious and easy meal to prepare in batches, look no further than Mexican chicken soup. This hearty soup is packed with vibrant flavors and is perfect for those chilly evenings or when you’re in need of a comforting meal. By using a slow cooker, you can easily batch cook this soup, making it a convenient option for busy individuals or families.
To make Mexican chicken soup, start by combining tender chicken breast with a medley of vegetables such as onions, garlic, bell peppers, and corn. Add in a variety of Mexican spices such as cumin, chili powder, and paprika to enhance the overall flavor profile. For some heat, consider adding diced jalapenos or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. To complement the flavors, include a can of tomatoes and some chicken broth for a savory base. Let the ingredients slow cook for several hours until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Once the soup is ready, you can serve it with a variety of toppings to customize each bowl to your liking. Consider adding some freshly squeezed lime juice for a burst of citrusy freshness. Sprinkle on some fresh cilantro for an herbaceous note, and top it off with a dollop of sour cream for a creamy texture. For added crunch, accompany the soup with tortilla chips or serve it over a bed of cooked rice. The possibilities are endless, and you can get creative with your toppings to make each bowl of Mexican chicken soup unique.
Creamy Coconut Curry Lentils
Are you a fan of warm, comforting meals that are packed with flavor? Look no further than creamy coconut curry lentils! This recipe is not only delicious, but it can also be easily prepared in a slow cooker, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
With a combination of creamy coconut milk, aromatic spices, and hearty lentils, this dish is a true winner. The slow cooker allows all the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and satisfying curry that will leave you wanting more.
To make creamy coconut curry lentils in a slow cooker, simply combine lentils, coconut milk, vegetable broth, curry powder, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The lentils will become tender and soak up all the delicious flavors of the curry.
Once the lentils are cooked, you can add a squeeze of lime juice and a handful of fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. Serve the creamy coconut curry lentils over steamed rice or with your favorite naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
This dish is not only delicious, but it’s also nutritious. Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. They are also low in fat and calories, making them a healthy addition to your diet.
So, if you’re looking for a flavorful and comforting meal that can be prepared with minimal effort, give creamy coconut curry lentils a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
10 Best Batch Cook Meals Slow Cooker
Kenmore 7 Quart Slow Cooker Programmable Kitchen Appliance Dipper Sauce-Warmer Stainless Steel Digital Display One-Touch Controls Braise Simmer Sous Vide...
Features
| Part Number | KKSC7QSS_AZ |
| Model | KKSC7QSS_AZ |
| Warranty | 2 Years LTD |
| Color | Silver 7 QT |
| Release Date | 2022-02-14T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 7 Quarts |
- Programmable Convenience: Simply add your ingredients, select cook mode, and pre-set cooking time from 30 minutes up to 10 hours and come home to a hot meal that's ready when you are
- Large 7 Quart Capacity: With its huge 7 qt (6.6L) capacity and oval shape, this slowcooker can comfortably fit a whole 7 lb chicken, 5 lb roast, or enough delicious soup or stew to feed the whole family
- Dipper for Sauces: All-in-one slow-cooker set includes a bonus dip warmer with LED power indicator that heats dips, sauces, and gravy to the perfect temperature and goes straight from kitchen to table for serving
- Four Temperature Settings with One-Touch Controls: Use the simple controls and clear digital LED display to set your slow cooker to Low, Medium, High, or Warm to suit your recipe and needs
- Hassle-Free Cleanup: Contemporary-style black and silver slow cooker and dipper's stainless steel exteriors and handles easily wipe down and the removable ceramic inserts and tempered glass lids are dishwasher-safe for effortless cleanup
Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker, with 8-in-1 Slow Cooker, Dutch Oven, Steamer, Glass Lid Integrated Spoon, Nonstick, Oven Safe...
Features
| Part Number | MC1001 |
| Model | MC1001 |
| Warranty | 1 Year Limited Warranty |
| Color | Sea Salt Gray |
| Release Date | 2022-08-10T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 8.5 Quarts |
- REPLACES 14 COOKING TOOLS and APPLIANCES: This cooker replaces the need for a slow cooker, steam oven, food warmer, nonstick pot, sauté pan, cast iron skillet, saucier, steamer, saucepan, stock pot, Dutch oven, roasting pan, bread maker, and utensil.
- SEAR and SAUTÉ DIRECTLY IN THE POT: Using the bottom heating elements, you are able to sear proteins and sauté vegetables right in the cooking pot—no need to transfer to the stovetop.
- OVEN SAFE TO 500 degree F: Removable cooking pot is oven safe up to 500 degree F, so you can finish your meal in the oven for a crispy top.
- PERFECT FOR ENTERTAINING: 8.5-quart cooking capacity allows you to make chili for up to 20 people, 9 lbs. of spaghetti and meatballs, or enough pulled pork for 30 sliders.
- TRIPLE FUSION HEAT TECHNOLOGY: Cook up to 30 percent faster* than conventional ovens by combining bottom, side, and steam heat. More heat, more possibilities. Tested on 6-lb chickens.
- 8 COOKING FUNCTIONS: Slow Cook, Sear/Sauté, Steam, Keep Warm, Sous Vide, Braise, Bake, and Proof.
- INCLUDED UTENSIL: Multi-functional utensil works as a ladle and pasta fork, plus it has its own utensil rest right in the lid handle.
- EASY CLEANUP: Nonstick pot enables you to quickly wipe away messes and makes for a stress-free cleaning experience. Utensil and glass lid are dishwasher safe. Hand-washing pot recommended to extend its life.
- SAFE and EASY TO USE: Free of PFOA, cadmium, and lead.
- WHAT'S INCLUDED: 8.5-Quart Cooking Pot, PossibleCooker Base Unit, Integrated Detachable Spoon-Ladle, Glass Cooking Lid, Chef Curated Recipe Guide.
Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)
Features
| Part Number | 33195 |
| Model | 33195 |
| Warranty | One(1) Year Warranty |
| Color | Black |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 10 Quarts |
- PERFECT FOR A LARGE GATHERING: The 10 quart slow cooker lets you cook enough food for a gathering of 12 or more people and fits a 10 lb. turkey or a 12 lb. roast.
- REDUCE SPILLS: The lid clips tightly to the slow cooker handles to reduce messy spills when transporting food. Carry hot meals to family gatherings, potlucks or to serve at the table without worrying about spills.
- COOK FLAVORFUL MEALS WITH MINIMAL EFFORT: This Hamilton Beach slow cooker has simple controls that make it easy for you to create flavorful meals with minimal effort and great results. Just turn the dial. No watching needed.
- MAINTAIN THE IDEAL TEMPERATURE WITH 3 HEAT SETTINGS: Just turn the dial to choose from 3 heat settings. Cook your meal on Low or High, and then switch to Warm when cooking is complete for food that's warm and ready when it's time to eat.
- EASY TO CARRY WITH FULL-GRIP HANDLES: The large slow cooker is easy to lift and hold onto when carrying to the table to serve a meal or when taking food to gatherings.
- SIMPLE TO CLEAN: The removable stoneware crock and glass lid are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer, Stainless Steel (CPSCVC60LL-S), pack of 1
Features
| Part Number | B004P2NG0K1 |
| Model | CPSCVC60LL-S |
| Warranty | 1yr |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2020-09-08T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 6 Quarts |
| Language | English |
- Programmable Digital Timer: Control cooking times from 30 minutes up to 20 hours
- Serve a Crowd: 6 quart Cook & Carry Slow Cooker serves 7 plus people
- Locking Lid: Lid gasket provides extra seal for less mess during transport
- Interactive Cooking: Safe for use in oven up to 400 degree F, and microwave
- Worry-free Travel: Secure locking lid and rubber gasket prevent spills
- Material: Contains Aluminum, Stainless Steel (Iron, Chromium, Nickel, Manganese, Copper, Phosphorus)
- Environmentally Friendly: Energy efficient at 240 Watts at 120V A.C; and 60Hz
Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker, Portable Programmable with Timer, Locking Lid, Stainless Steel; an Essential Kitchen Appliance, Perfect for Families and...
Features
| Part Number | CPSCVTS70LL-S |
| Model | CPSCVTS70LL-S |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Size | 7 Quarts |
- Personalized Cooking: MyTime adjusts the cooking cycle so your meal is ready exactly when you want it
- Leak-proof Lid: Travel-proof locking lid provides a tight seal to prevent leaks and spills
- Large Capacity: Fitted with a 7-quart bowl that serves 7+ people - perfect for families or gatherings
- Temperature Control: Auto-adjustment cooking cycle ensures meals are never overcooked but always flavor-filled
- Intuitive Control: Flat digital control screen lets you schedule meal times, and manually control cook time and temperature
- Convenient Handles: 'Cook and Carry' handles for hassle-free lifting and carrying
- Sustainable Materials: Made of Aluminum, Stainless Steel (Iron, Chromium, Nickel, Manganese, Copper, Phosphorus), and is 100% recyclable.
FAQ
What are Creamy Coconut Curry Lentils?
Creamy Coconut Curry Lentils are a delicious and aromatic dish made with lentils, coconut milk, and a blend of curry spices. It is a popular vegetarian and vegan dish that is often served over rice or with naan bread.
How do you make Creamy Coconut Curry Lentils?
To make Creamy Coconut Curry Lentils, you will need lentils, coconut milk, onion, garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, chilli powder, tomato paste, vegetable broth, and salt. First, you will sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger in a large pot. Then, you will add the spices and lentils and cook for a few minutes. Next, add the coconut milk, tomato paste, vegetable broth, and salt. Simmer the mixture until the lentils are tender and the curry has thickened. Serve hot with rice or naan bread.
Can Creamy Coconut Curry Lentils be made vegan?
Yes, Creamy Coconut Curry Lentils can easily be made vegan. Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and make sure to check that all the ingredients, such as the curry powder and coconut milk, are vegan-friendly.
What can I serve with Creamy Coconut Curry Lentils?
Creamy Coconut Curry Lentils can be served with rice, naan bread, or roti. They are also delicious on their own as a main dish or can be paired with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Are Creamy Coconut Curry Lentils spicy?
The level of spiciness in Creamy Coconut Curry Lentils can be adjusted to your preference. If you prefer a milder curry, you can reduce the amount of chilli powder or omit it altogether. On the other hand, if you enjoy spicy food, you can add more chilli powder or even some fresh chillies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Creamy Coconut Curry Lentils is a delicious and satisfying dish that offers a unique blend of flavours. The combination of creamy coconut milk, fragrant curry spices, and hearty lentils creates a comforting and nourishing meal. This recipe is not only packed with flavour, but it is also easy to make and can be enjoyed by vegans and non-vegans alike. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, Creamy Coconut Curry Lentils is a must-try. So, grab your ingredients and give this recipe a go – you won’t be disappointed!
