11 Brilliant Crockpot Ground Beef Meals For Stress Free Nights

There’s something truly comforting about returning home to the inviting scent of a meal that’s been slow-cooking all day. I often feel like a kitchen whiz when I toss some ingredients into my trusty crockpot and let it do its magic. From a heartwarming beef chili to a creamy pasta bake, these recipes are sure to revamp your dinner routine. Picture the simplicity of having a tasty meal ready for you after a busy day. Eager to explore more?

Easy Beef Chili: A Comforting Classic

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chili to soothe the soul on a chilly day. Easy Beef Chili is a classic comfort food that’s not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare, especially when you use a crockpot. Ground beef is the star of the show, providing a hearty base that’s complemented by the rich flavors of tomatoes, beans, and a blend of spices. This dish is perfect for those who love a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—enjoying time with family and friends.

Using a crockpot to prepare this chili recipe is a game-changer. It allows the flavors to meld together over several hours, creating a deep, savory profile that’s hard to resist. Plus, the slow cooking process guarantees that the beef becomes tender and fully infused with the spices and aromatics. Simply set it up in the morning and let it cook throughout the day, and by dinner time, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to serve. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ground Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Transfer the beef mixture to your crockpot. Add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Add Liquid: Pour in the beef broth, stirring to confirm everything is well-mixed. This will help create a nice consistency for the chili.
5. Slow Cook: Set your crockpot to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time on low allows the flavors to meld more deeply.
6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the chili about halfway through cooking and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or cayenne for additional heat.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot. You can top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions if desired.

Extra Tips:

For added depth of flavor, consider browning the tomato paste slightly in the skillet before adding it to the crockpot. This caramelization can enhance the overall taste of the chili.

If you prefer a thicker chili, mash some of the beans before adding them to the crockpot, or leave the lid slightly ajar during the last hour of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.

Finally, this chili can be made a day ahead; it often tastes even better after the flavors have had more time to develop in the refrigerator. Enjoy your comforting bowl of chili!

Savory Ground Beef Stroganoff

Savory Ground Beef Stroganoff is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce with the tangy hint of sour cream. This crockpot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, offering a hearty meal with minimal effort.

The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a savory and satisfying dish that can be served over egg noodles or rice.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings. By preparing it in a crockpot, you can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other tasks while a delicious meal cooks itself.

The ground beef stroganoff is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences by adjusting the seasonings or adding additional ingredients like vegetables or herbs.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 12 ounces egg noodles
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef and Vegetables: In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. While browning, break the meat into small pieces. Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to the crockpot.
2. Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms to the crockpot with the ground beef. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle paprika, salt, and pepper over the top. Stir to combine all ingredients.
3. Cook: Set the crockpot to low and cook for 4-5 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
4. Prepare the Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, mix the sour cream with flour in a small bowl until smooth. This will thicken the sauce. Stir this mixture into the crockpot, ensuring it’s well incorporated. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes on low.
5. Cook the Noodles: While the sauce is thickening, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. Serve: Once the sauce has thickened and the noodles are ready, serve the stroganoff over the egg noodles. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Extra Tips:

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of tomato paste to the crockpot along with the other ingredients.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, adjust the flour or add a cornstarch slurry during the final cooking stage. Additionally, you can use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter version of this dish.

If time allows, sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot can enhance their flavor. Enjoy your savory ground beef stroganoff with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Warm up With Hearty Taco Soup

Warm up with a delicious bowl of Hearty Taco Soup, a comforting and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of Mexican cuisine. This crockpot meal isn’t only easy to prepare but also perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.

The combination of ground beef, beans, corn, and tomatoes simmered with aromatic spices creates a rich and satisfying soup that will surely please everyone’s palate. This recipe serves 4-6 people and is ideal for those who love a bit of spice and hearty textures in their meals.

The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a robust and savory dish. Simply set it up in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have a warm, delicious meal ready to enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, crushed tortilla chips

Cooking Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and cooked through. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat.
2. Combine Ingredients: In the crockpot, combine the cooked beef, black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chopped onion.
3. Season the Soup: Add the taco seasoning mix, minced garlic, and beef broth to the crockpot. Stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Cook the Soup: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. This allows the flavors to blend and the ingredients to become tender.
5. Final Seasoning: About 30 minutes before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your choice of optional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and crushed tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor profile, consider browning the onions and garlic with the ground beef before adding them to the crockpot. If you prefer a spicier soup, add more green chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper.

This recipe is quite flexible, so feel free to substitute or add ingredients like bell peppers or zucchini. For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of beef broth or simmer longer uncovered towards the end of the cooking time.

Finally, this soup pairs wonderfully with warm cornbread or a side of tortilla chips for dipping.

Simple Sloppy Joes for the Family

Sloppy Joes are a classic family favorite, known for their tangy, savory flavor and ease of preparation. This crockpot version allows you to set it and forget it, resulting in a delicious meal that can easily feed a crowd. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich, hearty filling that pairs perfectly with soft hamburger buns.

Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a casual get-together, these Simple Sloppy Joes are bound to be a hit.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a comforting meal ready by dinnertime. Perfect for busy days, this dish requires only a bit of browning and mixing before the crockpot takes over.

By the time you’re ready to eat, the ground beef will be tender, and the sauce will have thickened to the perfect consistency. Serve these Sloppy Joes with a side of coleslaw or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4-6 hamburger buns

Cooking Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook and crumble the meat until it’s fully browned. Drain excess fat from the skillet to avoid a greasy dish.
2. Prepare Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
4. Combine in Crockpot: Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to the crockpot. Pour the sauce over the top and stir to make sure everything is well-coated.
5. Slow Cook: Set the crockpot on low and cook for 4-5 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and make certain even cooking.
6. Serve: Once cooked, spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto the hamburger buns. Serve warm, optionally with toppings like pickles or cheese.

Extra Tips:

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce. If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, allow the mixture to cook uncovered in the last 30 minutes to let excess liquid evaporate.

For those watching their sugar intake, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a sugar substitute. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months for a quick meal later on.

Flavorful Cabbage Roll Casserole

Flavorful Cabbage Roll Casserole is a delightful dish that combines the hearty flavors of traditional cabbage rolls with the convenience of a casserole. Perfect for busy families, this dish allows you to enjoy the robust taste of cabbage rolls without the fuss of individually wrapping each roll. The crockpot method guarantees that all the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a comforting and satisfying meal.

With the ease of preparation and the rich, savory flavors, this casserole is bound to become a regular addition to your meal rotation. The dish is perfect for serving 4-6 people, making it an ideal option for a family dinner or a small gathering.

As the cabbage, ground beef, and rice cook slowly in the crockpot, they absorb the rich tomato and spice flavors, creating a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen. This recipe not only saves you time but also delivers a delicious and nutritious meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth

Cooking Instructions:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain the excess fat and transfer the beef to the crockpot.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Add these to the crockpot.
3. Prepare the Cabbage: Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Layer the cabbage on top of the ground beef mixture in the crockpot.
4. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, paprika, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper. Pour this mixture over the cabbage in the crockpot.
5. Add the Rice and Broth: Sprinkle the uncooked rice evenly over the mixture in the crockpot. Pour the beef broth over everything, guaranteeing the rice is submerged.
6. Cook the Casserole: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the rice and cabbage are tender. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours.
7. Serve: Once cooked, stir the casserole to combine the layers before serving. Enjoy your Flavorful Cabbage Roll Casserole warm.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the depth of flavor, consider browning the ground beef with a touch of Worcestershire sauce. For added texture, you could include a handful of chopped carrots or bell peppers with the onions and garlic.

If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce. This casserole can easily be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply reheat before serving for a quick and easy meal.

Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers

Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and nutritious meal that can be effortlessly prepared in a crockpot. This dish combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and vibrant bell peppers, resulting in a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Cooking the peppers in a crockpot allows the flavors to meld beautifully as the peppers slowly become tender, making it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. You can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, and it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

With minimal preparation time, you can set your crockpot and let it work its magic, freeing you up to focus on other tasks. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or even meal prep for the week.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 6 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Peppers: Start by washing the bell peppers and cutting off the tops. Remove the seeds and membranes inside, creating a hollow cavity. Set the prepared peppers aside.
2. Cook the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Mix the Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each hollowed pepper with the beef and rice mixture, pressing down gently to confirm they’re packed well.
5. Arrange in the Crockpot: Place the stuffed peppers upright in the crockpot. If they don’t stand on their own, you can lean them against each other or use crumpled aluminum foil to support them.
6. Cook in the Crockpot: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the peppers are tender.
7. Add Cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of each pepper. Cover and let the cheese melt.
8. Serve: Carefully remove the peppers from the crockpot. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.

Extra Tips:

When selecting bell peppers, choose ones that are similar in size to confirm even cooking. If you prefer a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.

The filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making assembly quicker on the day of cooking. If you have leftovers, these stuffed peppers reheat well and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Enjoy your hearty and flavorful meal!

Cheesy Beef and Pasta Bake

If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that requires minimal effort, this Cheesy Beef and Pasta Bake is the perfect solution. Utilizing the convenience of a crockpot, this dish combines savory ground beef with tender pasta and a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want a meal that will satisfy the whole family without spending hours in the kitchen.

With its blend of flavors and ease of preparation, this recipe is certain to become a staple in your meal rotation.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. By cooking everything in the crockpot, you allow the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a deliciously cohesive meal. The ground beef provides a hearty base, while the pasta soaks up the tangy tomato sauce and gooey cheese, resulting in a perfectly balanced bite.

Plus, this recipe makes enough to feed 4-6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Ingredients (serves 4-6):

• 1 pound ground beef
• 12 ounces pasta (such as penne or rotini)
• 24 ounces marinara sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crockpot: Begin by lightly greasing the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and crumbled. Drain the excess fat and transfer the beef to the crockpot.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Using the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Add this to the crockpot with the beef.
4. Add Pasta and Sauce: Pour in the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and beef broth into the crockpot. Stir everything together to confirm the pasta is well-coated with sauce.
5. Season: Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and add salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to distribute the seasoning evenly throughout the dish.
6. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
7. Add Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top. Allow the cheese to melt, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
8. Serve: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, the Cheesy Beef and Pasta Bake is ready to serve. Dish it up hot and enjoy!

Extra Tips:

For a bit of extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice or some chopped fresh basil before serving for a fresh, aromatic touch.

You can also experiment with different cheeses, like cheddar or provolone, to suit your taste preferences. If your mixture appears too dry during cooking, add a little more beef broth to keep the pasta moist.

Fast and Flavorful Beef Enchiladas

For a delicious and hassle-free dinner, these Fast and Flavorful Beef Enchiladas are a perfect choice, made effortlessly in your crockpot. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, producing tender ground beef wrapped in soft tortillas, smothered in a rich and zesty enchilada sauce.

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe offers a satisfying blend of spices and textures that everyone will enjoy. The simplicity of using a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other activities while dinner cooks itself.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family meal or small gathering. With just a few staple ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll have a delightful dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients for 4-6 Servings:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
• 8-10 flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: sour cream, chopped cilantro, and diced tomatoes for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat.
2. Season the Beef: Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the drained black beans and diced green chilies. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
3. Layer the Enchiladas: Lightly spray the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray. Pour a small amount of enchilada sauce to cover the bottom. Fill each tortilla with a generous portion of the beef mixture and a sprinkle of cheese, then roll up tightly.
4. Assemble the Dish: Place the filled tortillas seam-side down in the crockpot. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top, ensuring each enchilada is covered. Sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce.
5. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the enchiladas are heated through.
6. Serve: Carefully remove the enchiladas from the crockpot using a spatula. Serve hot, topped with optional sour cream, chopped cilantro, and diced tomatoes.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the beef mixture for a smoky kick. If you prefer spicier enchiladas, increase the amount of chili powder or add sliced jalapeños.

This dish pairs well with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated in the microwave or oven.

Tasty Beef and Bean Stew

Crockpot meals are a lifesaver for busy weekdays, and this Tasty Beef and Bean Stew is no exception. This hearty dish combines ground beef with a medley of beans and vegetables, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal that will please the whole family.

The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it an ideal option for those who appreciate the convenience of set-it-and-forget-it cooking.

Perfect for serving 4-6 people, the Tasty Beef and Bean Stew isn’t only delicious but also nutritious. With the addition of spices and herbs, the rich taste is complemented by the wholesome goodness of beans, offering a balanced meal that’s both filling and comforting.

Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or need something easy yet tasty for a weeknight, this crockpot recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Drain and rinse both the kidney beans and black beans. Set these aside for later use.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot: Transfer the browned beef into the crockpot. Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Season and Cook: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld and the beans to become tender.
5. Final Touches: Once the cooking time is complete, check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. Your Tasty Beef and Bean Stew is now ready to be served hot!

Extra Tips:

For an extra burst of flavor, consider topping the stew with freshly chopped cilantro or shredded cheese before serving.

If you prefer a spicier stew, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño along with the other ingredients.

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side of rice for a complete meal. Additionally, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep.

Easy Crockpot Meatball Subs With Marinara

Easy Crockpot Meatball Subs With Marinara are a delightful and satisfying meal that can be effortlessly prepared in a slow cooker. This delicious comfort food combines juicy meatballs with rich marinara sauce, all nestled inside a soft, toasted sub roll and topped with melted cheese.

Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these meatball subs allow you to enjoy a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. By using the crockpot, you guarantee that the meatballs are tender and infused with the savory flavors of the marinara sauce, making each bite incredibly tasty.

This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it an ideal choice for a family dinner or a small party. The beauty of this dish is its simplicity and the minimal hands-on time required. With just a few minutes of preparation, you can set your crockpot and let it do the work while you go about your day.

When it’s time to eat, all you have to do is assemble the subs, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 24 oz jar marinara sauce
• 4-6 sub rolls
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well using your hands until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a plate. You should have around 20-24 meatballs, depending on size.
3. Set Up the Crockpot: Pour half of the marinara sauce into the bottom of the crockpot. Gently place the meatballs on top of the sauce in a single layer. Pour the remaining sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they’re completely covered.
4. Cook the Meatballs: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
5. Prepare the Subs: About 10 minutes before serving, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the sub rolls and arrange them on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes until lightly golden.
6. Assemble the Subs: Place several meatballs into each toasted sub roll. Spoon additional marinara sauce over the meatballs and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Melt the Cheese: Return the assembled subs to the oven and bake for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately.

Extra Tips:

For an even richer flavor, consider browning the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot. This step is optional but will add a nice depth of flavor.

Additionally, you can customize your meatball subs by adding toppings such as sliced jalapeños, sautéed onions, or bell peppers. If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara.

Always guarantee your meatballs are evenly sized to cook uniformly. Finally, these subs pair wonderfully with a side salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Slow-Cooked Beef and Vegetable Medley

The Slow-Cooked Beef and Vegetable Medley is a hearty and flavorful meal that perfectly combines the savory taste of ground beef with a vibrant assortment of vegetables. This dish is ideal for busy families or anyone who enjoys the convenience of a delicious meal that practically cooks itself. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a meal that’s comforting and satisfying.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering. The ingredients are simple yet packed with nutrition, including lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs. When cooked in a crockpot, the ingredients become tender and full of rich flavor, making each bite a delight.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by preparing all your vegetables. Dice the potatoes, slice the carrots, chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Verify the green beans are trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot: In your crockpot, add the browned ground beef first. Then, layer the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, chopped onion, and green beans on top.
4. Add the Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth and undrained diced tomatoes over the layered ingredients. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Mix and Cook: Gently stir the mixture in the crockpot to combine all ingredients. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.
6. Serve: Once cooked, give the medley a final stir and serve hot. Enjoy your meal with a crusty bread roll or a simple side salad for a complete dinner experience.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, make sure to use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and promote a healthier dish. Feel free to substitute the vegetables with others you might’ve on hand, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to add more variety.

If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mix. To save time, you can prepare the vegetables the night before and store them in the refrigerator, so they’re ready to go in the morning.

Enjoy experimenting with this versatile recipe to suit your taste preferences!