Meal prepping can be a total lifesaver when you’re juggling a busy schedule and trying to eat healthier. One of the best-kept secrets for stress-free weekly cooking is the slow cooker.
With minimal prep time and the magic of low-and-slow cooking, a slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into hearty, flavorful meals that practically cook themselves.
In this guide, we’re exploring how to meal prep for the entire week using your slow cooker—with 12 delicious recipes that not only save time but also keep calories and carbs in check while packing in the nutrients.
Why Use a Slow Cooker for Meal Prep?
Slow cookers are amazing for a few reasons. First, they allow you to toss in your ingredients in the morning, and by the time you get home, dinner is ready.
The long, gentle cooking process helps to meld flavors together, resulting in meals that are tender, nutritious, and full of taste. They’re perfect for batch-cooking because you can prepare large portions that keep well in the fridge or freezer.
Plus, using a slow cooker means you’re less likely to overcook your food, preserving both flavor and nutrients.
Whether you’re aiming for fat loss, muscle building, or simply trying to streamline your week, slow cooker meal prep is a smart, time-saving solution that reduces cleanup and ensures you have wholesome, ready-to-eat meals waiting for you.
How to Plan Your Slow Cooker Meal Prep
Before you get started, spend a little time planning your week. Here are some steps to help you out:
- Choose Your Recipes: Select a mix of proteins, veggies, and even a breakfast option to keep your menu diverse. In this guide, we’ve gathered 12 recipes that cover soups, stews, casseroles, and even a breakfast treat.
- Make a Shopping List: Write down all the ingredients you’ll need. Many slow cooker recipes share common ingredients like garlic, onions, and herbs, so you can buy in bulk.
- Prep in Advance: Consider chopping vegetables, marinating meats, or even pre-cooking grains on the weekend. Some recipes can be assembled in the slow cooker the night before.
- Portion Control: Invest in quality meal prep containers so you can portion out your meals for the week. This way, you avoid overeating and keep your macros in check.
- Set It and Forget It: One of the biggest perks of a slow cooker is that it does the work for you. Just load up your ingredients in the morning, set your timer, and enjoy the convenience of having a full week’s worth of meals almost ready to serve.
Now, let’s dive into 12 mouthwatering slow cooker recipes that are perfect for meal prepping!
1. Slow Cooker Chicken and Veggie Stew
This comforting stew is a meal prep favorite. Tender chicken breasts, an array of colorful vegetables, and a savory broth come together in a hearty dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 large carrot, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned, no-salt-added)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
Instructions:
- Place the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and tomatoes in the slow cooker.
- Pour in the chicken broth, add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. Add green beans in the last 30 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaf and shred the chicken before serving or portioning into containers.
Pro Tip:
For an extra boost of flavor, add a splash of lemon juice just before serving. This stew keeps well for up to 5 days and can also be frozen for later use.
2. Slow Cooker Beef Chili
This low-carb beef chili is a hearty, protein-packed dish loaded with tender beef, tomatoes, and just the right blend of spices. It’s perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners that warm you up from the inside out.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef or stew meat
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth (low sodium)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the beef in a pan over medium heat (optional for extra flavor), then transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, bell peppers, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
- Stir well before serving and portion into meal prep containers.
Pro Tip:
Top with a sprinkle of low-fat cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt when reheating for an extra creamy touch.
3. Slow Cooker Lentil Soup
Packed with plant-based protein and fiber, this lentil soup is a nutritious option for any day of the week. It’s hearty, satisfying, and loaded with vegetables that make it both colorful and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups spinach (added at the end)
Instructions:
- Add lentils, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth into the slow cooker.
- Season with cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and add the bay leaf.
- Cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
- Remove the bay leaf, stir in the spinach, and let it wilt for a few minutes before serving.
- Portion into containers and enjoy throughout the week.
Pro Tip:
Lentil soup improves in flavor after a day or two, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added brightness.
4. Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs with Marinara
These turkey meatballs are tender, flavorful, and perfect for a quick low-carb meal. They’re cooked in a savory marinara sauce that infuses every bite with rich Italian flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1/4 cup almond flour (for binding)
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups low-sugar marinara sauce
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, almond flour, egg, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs.
- Place the meatballs in the slow cooker and pour marinara sauce over them.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
- Portion the meatballs with extra sauce into meal prep containers.
Pro Tip:
These meatballs are also great served over zucchini noodles for a complete low-carb meal. They store well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
5. Slow Cooker Quinoa and Black Bean Casserole
A hearty, fiber-rich casserole that’s perfect for meal prep. This dish blends protein-packed quinoa with black beans, corn, and a medley of spices for a satisfying meal that’s both filling and nutritious.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned, drained)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
Instructions:
- Add quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and stir to combine.
- Cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours until the quinoa is tender.
- Stir well and portion into containers once cooled.
Pro Tip:
This casserole tastes even better the next day. Top with a bit of fresh cilantro when reheating for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Slow Cooker Vegetable Curry
A vibrant and aromatic curry loaded with vegetables and spices makes for an excellent plant-based meal prep option. This curry is rich in flavor and low in carbs, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 sweet potato, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk (light version)
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh spinach (added at the end)
Instructions:
- Place cauliflower, carrots, sweet potato, onion, garlic, and ginger in the slow cooker.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, coconut milk, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until vegetables are tender.
- In the last 10 minutes, stir in fresh spinach until wilted.
- Divide into meal prep containers and serve over cauliflower rice if desired.
Pro Tip:
A squeeze of lime juice over the curry before serving adds a tangy brightness that elevates the flavors.
7. Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken Tacos
Transform chicken breasts into tender, shredded chicken perfect for tacos without any hassle. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the chicken with spices and keeping it moist. Serve with low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade mix with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Optional: diced onions and cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker and sprinkle taco seasoning over them.
- Pour in chicken broth and add the lime juice.
- Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender enough to shred.
- Shred the chicken in the slow cooker and stir to mix with the juices.
- Portion into containers and serve with low-carb tortillas or over a salad.
Pro Tip:
Top your tacos with fresh salsa or a squeeze more lime for an extra kick.
8. Slow Cooker Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin
This pork tenderloin recipe delivers lean protein with a burst of flavor from a tangy balsamic glaze. It’s simple to prepare and comes out incredibly tender—a great choice for a satisfying meal prep option.
Ingredients:
- 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 lb)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Season the pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, and rosemary.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and minced garlic.
- Place the pork in the slow cooker and pour the balsamic mixture over it.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the pork is tender.
- Slice and portion into containers with a drizzle of the remaining glaze.
Pro Tip:
Serve with a side of steamed green beans or a light salad to keep the meal balanced and low in carbs.
9. Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
This hearty minestrone soup is packed with low-carb vegetables, lean protein, and just enough pasta or beans to keep it satisfying. It’s a warming, nutritious option for meal prep that you can enjoy throughout the week.
Ingredients:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup green beans, cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: a small handful of whole wheat pasta or cannellini beans
Instructions:
- Add onion, carrots, celery, zucchini, tomatoes, broth, green beans, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
- If using pasta or beans, add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
- Stir well and portion into containers once cooled.
Pro Tip:
Minestrone tastes even better the next day. Top with fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan when reheating.
10. Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers make for a colorful, low-carb meal prep option. Fill them with a mixture of lean ground turkey, cauliflower rice, diced tomatoes, and spices, then let the slow cooker do its magic.
Ingredients:
- 4 bell peppers, tops cut off and seeded
- 1/2 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 cup cauliflower rice
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup shredded low-fat cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix ground turkey, cauliflower rice, diced tomatoes, onion, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the mixture.
- Place the peppers in the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
- If using cheese, sprinkle on top in the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Pro Tip:
These stuffed peppers can be a complete meal on their own or served with a side salad for extra fiber.
11. Slow Cooker Ratatouille
Ratatouille is a vibrant, vegetable-packed dish that’s perfect for a low-carb lifestyle. With eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and bell peppers simmered in aromatic herbs, this recipe is not only healthy but also bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 eggplant, diced
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- Place all the vegetables and garlic in the slow cooker.
- Add diced tomatoes, thyme, basil, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
- Stir gently and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
- Stir before serving and portion into meal prep containers.
Pro Tip:
Ratatouille can be enjoyed on its own or served over a small portion of quinoa for a more filling meal.
12. Slow Cooker Overnight Oats (Breakfast Option)
Although not a lunch dish, these overnight oats are perfect for meal prepping a nutritious breakfast. The slow cooker gently warms the oats overnight, infusing them with flavor while keeping them hearty and filling for the morning.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- A handful of mixed berries or sliced banana
- Sweetener of choice (optional)
Instructions:
- In a slow cooker-safe jar or container, mix oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, and cinnamon.
- Stir in berries or banana and add sweetener if desired.
- Cover and let it sit overnight in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting, or refrigerate overnight.
- In the morning, stir and enjoy a hearty, pre-made breakfast.
Pro Tip:
Top with a few extra fresh berries or a drizzle of honey just before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
Conclusion
Meal prepping for the whole week using a slow cooker is not only convenient but also a game-changing way to ensure you eat healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.
By planning ahead and using these 12 delicious recipes—from comforting stews and hearty soups to vibrant vegetable dishes and even a nourishing breakfast—you can streamline your week and focus on what matters most.
Each recipe is designed to be low-carb, high in protein, and packed with flavor, making them perfect for anyone on a journey to fast fat loss or simply looking for nutritious, stress-free meals.
With a little prep, your slow cooker becomes your best friend, turning simple ingredients into satisfying dishes that keep you fueled all week long. Happy meal prepping!
