Source: Closetcooking.com

Compilation of Slow Cooker Recipes for Effortless and Tasty Dishes

**The Wonder of Slow Cookers: Simple Meals and More**

Slow cookers, commonly known as crockpots, have become essential in numerous kitchens globally. Their charm lies in their ease of use and practicality, enabling you to create meals with minimal input. Just add your ingredients in the morning, adjust the temperature, and when you arrive home, a tasty meal is ready to serve. However, the adaptability of slow cookers goes beyond merely preparing dinner. They’re ideal for keeping food warm at potlucks, crafting dips for gatherings, or even making breakfast overnight.

One of the most favored applications for a slow cooker is preparing pulled pork. The gentle, even heat breaks down the meat, resulting in tender, flavorful pulled pork suitable for sandwiches, tacos, or served alongside coleslaw. Another breakfast hit is oatmeal. By cooking oats overnight, you wake up to a warm, hearty breakfast with no morning preparation required.

Although slow cookers may not be perfect for every dish, they shine in cooking soups, stews, and chili. These dishes thrive on the long cooking duration, allowing flavors to combine wonderfully. Furthermore, slow cookers are superb for crafting homemade broths and stocks, as the extended simmering draws out maximum flavor from bones and vegetables.

Here are some favorite slow cooker recipes to experiment with:

1. **Beef Stew**: Mix chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and your preferred seasonings. Let it cook all day for a warm, hearty meal.

2. **Chicken Curry**: Incorporate chicken, coconut milk, curry paste, and vegetables. Pair with rice for a tasty, easy dinner.

3. **Vegetarian Chili**: Combine a variety of beans, tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices for a nutritious, satisfying dish.

4. **Mac and Cheese**: A rich, cheesy delight that’s ideal for a family dinner or potluck.

5. **Apple Crisp**: For dessert, layer sliced apples with oats, sugar, and cinnamon for a delightful treat.

The slow cooker is a multifunctional tool that can help you conserve time and energy in the kitchen. Whether you’re making a meal for your family or hosting a gathering, it’s a dependable companion that produces delicious outcomes. What are your favorite meals to make in a slow cooker?

Warm Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

Butternut Squash Soup

Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 40 minutes Total Duration: 50 minutes Servings: 6

A creamy chowder highlighted by butternut squash, Italian turkey sausage, and corn, featuring the addition of melted white cheddar in the broth!

ingredients

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 pound (fresh) (turkey) Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sage, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup flour (gluten-free for gluten-free)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (link) (or chicken broth (link))
• 4 cups butternut squash, cut into 1 inch pieces
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or 1/2 cup sour cream or 4 ounces cream cheese)
• 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)
• 2 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
• salt and pepper to taste

directions

1. In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat, add the sausage and cook, breaking it apart as it cooks, before removing it from the pan.
2. Add the butter and allow it to melt.
3. Incorporate the onion and sauté until soft, approximately 5 minutes.
4. Mix in the garlic, sage, red pepper flakes, and flour, cooking until aromatic, about a minute.
5. Pour in the broth, butternut squash, and sausage, bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until the squash is soft, around 20 minutes.
6. Switch off the heat, stir in the cream and cheese, letting it melt into the mixture.
7. Stir in the corn.
8. Season with salt and pepper to your liking and relish!

Option: Incorporate 1 cup diced celery with the onion.
Option: Include 1 cup diced carrots alongside the onion.
Option: Introduce 1 cup butternut squash puree (link) or pumpkin puree (link).
Option: Add 2 cups peeled and diced potatoes.
Option: Include 1 (15 ounce) can of white kidney beans, drained and rinsed.
Option: Add 1 teaspoon chopped rosemary with the garlic.
Option: Mix in 1 teaspoon chopped thyme alongside the garlic.
Option: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika with the garlic.

Tagliatelle con Salsa Bolognese di Zucca

**Pumpkin Bolognese Tagliatelle: A Delight Inspired by Fall**

As the foliage changes and the temperatures dip, there’s no better way to celebrate the tastes of autumn than with a robust meal that merges the comforting flavor of bolognese with the seasonal allure of pumpkin. Presenting Pumpkin Bolognese Tagliatelle—a charming variation on a traditional Italian classic that infuses the warmth of the season into your meal.

**Preparation and Cooking Time:**
– **Prep Time:** 15 minutes
– **Cook Time:** 35 minutes
– **Total Time:** 50 minutes
– **Servings:** 8

**A Flavor of Autumn:**
This distinctive bolognese sauce features pumpkin puree and bits of pumpkin, delivering a hearty and flavorful dish ideal for brisk nights. Incorporating pumpkin not only imparts a gentle sweetness but also boosts the meal’s nutritional value, creating a healthy option for family gatherings.

**Ingredients:**
– 1 tablespoon oil
– 1 pound ground turkey (or substitute with chicken, beef, pork, or Italian sausage)
– 1 cup onion, diced
– 1 cup carrot, diced
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 cup bell pepper, diced
– 8 ounces mushrooms, chopped
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sage, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (to taste)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 (15 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (or marinara sauce)
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 cups diced pumpkin or butternut squash (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (or oregano)
– 1/4 cup Parmigiano Reggiano, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound pasta (use gluten-free pasta if required)

**Directions:**
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan. Add the ground turkey, onion, carrot, celery, and mushrooms. Cook for about 15 minutes, breaking the turkey apart as it cooks.
2. Stir in the tomato paste, garlic, sage, and red pepper flakes. Cook until aromatic, about a minute.
3. Add the chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, pumpkin puree, diced pumpkin, cinnamon, balsamic vinegar, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly, bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until the pumpkin is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Turn off the heat, incorporate the grated Parmesan, and stir until it melts into the sauce.
5. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
6. While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and combine with the sauce before serving.

**Optional Enhancements:**
– Cook and mix in 1/4 pound pancetta or bacon for added flavor.
– Include 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika with the garlic for a smoky depth.
– Add 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a zesty twist.
– Stir in 1 tablespoon of fish sauce at the end for umami richness.
– Incorporate 1/4 cup of heavy cream, milk, or ricotta with the Parmesan for a creamy consistency.

**Nutritional Information:**
– **Calories:** 428
– **Fat:** 9g (Saturated 2g)
– **Cholesterol:** 44mg
– **Sodium:** 487mg
– **Carbohydrates:** 61g (Fiber 6g, Sugars 11g)
– **Protein:** 24g

This Pumpkin Bolognese Tagliatelle not only delights your palate but also adds a festive flair to your dining experience. Relish the cozy tastes of autumn with every bite!

An All-Encompassing Manual to 100 Snacks for Game Day

### Game Day Snacks: Tasty Recipes for Every Supporter

Game day isn’t solely about the excitement of witnessing your favorite squads compete; it’s also a chance to treat yourself to some delectable snacks. Whether you’re viewing solo, with a few pals and family, or throwing a large gathering, having the suitable snacks is crucial. Below are some of the top game day recipes that will keep everyone pleased, from indulgent dips to tasty grilled proteins.

#### 1. Indulgent Dips
Dips are a must-have on game day, serving as the perfect complement to chips, veggies, and beyond. Give a classic spinach and artichoke dip a try, or spice it up with a buffalo chicken dip. Both are simple to make and can be prepared using a slow cooker, letting you concentrate on the game.

#### 2. Chicken Wings
A game day wouldn’t be complete without chicken wings. Whether you like them spicy, sweet, or tangy, there’s a recipe for all tastes. Try honey garlic wings for a sweet flavor, or stick with the classic hot buffalo wings. Bake or grill them for a healthier alternative.

#### 3. Chili
A robust bowl of chili is ideal for chilly game days. You can whip up a traditional beef chili or choose a vegetarian version loaded with beans and ample spices. Slow cookers are perfect for chili, allowing the flavors to blend over time.

#### 4. Grilled Meat
Grilled meats are always a crowd-pleaser. Think about creating sliders with mini buns and your choice of beef, chicken, or veggie patties. Add some cheese, lettuce, and tomato for a fulfilling bite. Grilled sausages or skewers make excellent alternatives too.

#### 5. Jalapeno Poppers
For an added spicy twist, jalapeno poppers are essential. Fill them with cream cheese and wrap them in bacon for a delightful snack. Bake them until crispy and serve them while hot.

#### 6. Potato Skins
Potato skins are a flexible snack that can be adorned with cheese, bacon, sour cream, and chives. Bake them until the cheese is melted and bubbling for a crunchy, cheesy treat.

#### 7. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Elevate the traditional grilled cheese by incorporating ingredients like tomatoes, bacon, or avocado. Utilize a mix of cheeses for a rich, gooey sandwich that is guaranteed to satisfy.

### Conclusion
These game day snacks are not only straightforward to make but also incredibly gratifying. With choices ranging from dips to grilled meats, there’s something for everyone to relish. Most of these recipes can be prepared with minimal hassle, and many are slow cooker friendly, making them perfect for any game day celebration. So, bypass the takeout and wow your guests with these homemade treats!

Chicken Pasta with Rich Sauce and 40 Cloves of Garlic

Creamy 40 Clove Garlic Chicken Pasta

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4

Pasta with chicken in a luscious sauce featuring 40 cloves of garlic simmered to perfection, gentle, and absolutely delicious!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (gluten-free for those avoiding gluten)
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into small pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon (smoked) paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 onion, diced or sliced
• 2 whole heads of garlic, peeled
• 1/4 teaspoon thyme (optional)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 1/2 cup parmigiano reggiano (parmesan cheese), grated
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Begin cooking the pasta according to the instructions on the packaging.
2. In the meantime, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the chicken, seasoned with paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and onion, and cook for about 10 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and thyme, cooking until aromatic, around a minute.
4. Pour in the broth and deglaze the pan, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom as the broth bubbles.
5. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer, covered, until the garlic becomes extremely tender, roughly 10 minutes.
6. Stir in the cream and parmesan, then season with salt and pepper to your liking.
7. Toss in the drained pasta, optionally adding reserved pasta water to achieve the desired sauce consistency, and savor!

Option: Serve topped with chopped parsley.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 478

Fat: 36g (Saturated 18g, Trans 0.8g)

Cholesterol: 188mg

Sodium: 438mg

Carbs: 58g (Fiber 3g, Sugars 5g)

Protein: 41g

Crispy Chicken with Spicy Honey and Feta

Crispy Spicy Honey Feta Chicken

Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Servings: 4

Chicken enveloped in crushed corn flakes, baked to crisp perfection, and adorned with melted feta, finished with a drizzle of spicy honey!

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (substitute gluten-free for gluten-free)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 large eggs, whisked
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 2 cups corn flake crumbs (or breadcrumbs) (substitute gluten-free for gluten-free)
• 1/4 cup grated parmigiano reggiano (parmesan cheese)
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, pounded to thinness
• 6 ounces crumbled feta cheese

For the hot honey:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (like Frank Red Hot)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon (smoked) paprika

Directions

For the chicken:

1. Combine the flour, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder in a large bowl.
2. Combine the eggs and hot sauce in a large bowl.
3. Place the corn flake crumbs in a large bowl.
4. Gently coat the chicken in the flour mixture, tapping off any excess.
5. Submerge the chicken in the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.
6. Dredge the chicken in the crumb mixture, ensuring it’s well coated, and shake off any extra.
7. Arrange the chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, which can be lightly oiled if desired.
8. Bake in a preheated 425F/220C until golden and reaching an internal temperature of 165F, roughly 20-30 minutes.
9. Sprinkle feta over the chicken and return to the oven until the feta begins to brown lightly, about 5 minutes.
10. Serve drizzled with hot honey!

For the hot honey:

11. Combine all ingredients and let them sit for a bit.

Option: Fry the chicken in oil instead of baking; add feta and broil afterward.