Cooking for two? You've hit the jackpot with these 10 awesome crockpot recipes! Try the Chicken and Rice Delight for a cozy dinner, or spice things up with a zesty Spicy Beef Chili. Feeling a little fancy? Whip up some Creamy Tomato Basil Soup! You can't go wrong with Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken or a comforting Vegetable Curry either. And dessert? Don't forget the Chocolate Lava Cake for a sweet finish! These meals are easy to prepare and taste like a hug in a bowl. Stick around, and you'll discover even more mouth-watering options for your crockpot adventures!
Main Points
- Chicken and Rice Delight is perfect for two, featuring simple ingredients and slow-cooked tenderness for an intimate meal experience.
- Spicy Beef Chili allows customization of spice levels, making it ideal for date nights while also offering great leftovers.
- Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is easy to make in smaller portions, with a rich flavor that pairs excellently with crusty bread.
- Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken delivers zesty flavors with minimal cleanup, ensuring a hassle-free cooking experience for couples.
- Vegetable Curry offers a warm, cozy dinner option filled with rich flavors, accommodating vegetarian preferences beautifully.
Chicken and Rice Delight
Cooking for two doesn't mean you have to sacrifice flavor or variety! The Crockpot is an excellent tool for creating meals that aren't only delicious but also effortless. The Chicken and Rice Delight is a perfect example of how you can transform simple ingredients into a warm and comforting dish.
With the slow cooking process, the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice that absorbs all the delicious juices. This recipe takes little prep time and is ideal for a busy weeknight dinner. Just set it and forget it while you focus on other tasks or enjoy some relaxation.
The beauty of using a Crockpot is that you can leave it unattended, making it a practical option for couples or individuals who want to come home to a hot meal without the fuss. Let's get started on this easy and satisfying Chicken and Rice Delight!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley or cilantro)
Cooking Instructions:
In your Crockpot, layer the uncooked rice evenly at the bottom. Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice, and then add the frozen mixed vegetables.
In a separate bowl, mix the chicken broth with the garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken and rice in the Crockpot. Cover with the lid and cook on low for about 4 to 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender. Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider browning the chicken breasts in a skillet before adding them to the Crockpot. This will add a delicious caramelized taste.
Additionally, you can easily customize this dish by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli based on your preferences. Be aware that if you substitute brown rice, you'll need to increase the cooking time, as it requires longer to cook than white rice. Enjoy your meal!
Spicy Beef Chili
Spicy Beef Chili is the perfect cozy meal for two, bringing a delightful warmth along with a kick of zest to any dinner table. This recipe is ideal for those chilly nights when you crave something hearty yet simple to prepare.
With its blend of spices and savory ingredients, each spoonful packs a punch that will satisfy your appetite and warm your soul. Plus, the beauty of using a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while you focus on other tasks.
Creating this comforting chili is as easy as gathering your ingredients and letting the crockpot do the work. This recipe is tailored for two, making it great for a date night, a small gathering with friends, or just a cozy evening at home.
Whether you enjoy it with cornbread, rice, or by itself, this spicy beef chili is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz.) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz.) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions
Instructions:
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, draining excess fat. Transfer the beef to the crockpot and add in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, and beef broth.
Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to blend together beautifully.
Extra Tips:
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of cinnamon to the chili.
Feel free to customize the spice level by adjusting the cayenne pepper or incorporating jalapeños. This chili can also be frozen, allowing you to enjoy the leftovers at a later date. If expected to last a couple of days in the fridge, it's even better the next day!
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful dish that encapsulates the joy of comfort food while being incredibly simple to prepare, especially in a crockpot. This soup is perfect for two and is brimming with flavor from the fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil. As it slowly cooks, the ingredients meld together beautifully, allowing you to enjoy rich and vibrant flavors without spending hours over the stove.
The best part about this recipe is how easy it's to customize. You can modify the thickness by adjusting the amount of broth you add, and you can even experiment with different herbs or add-ins, such as garlic or parmesan cheese, according to your taste preferences. This creamy tomato basil soup pairs well with a slice of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich, making it a perfect light meal for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
In your crockpot, combine the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
Once cooked, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and fresh chopped basil. Allow it to heat through for an additional 10-15 minutes before serving.
For best texture and flavor, consider adding a bit of parmesan cheese just before serving for a rich, savory twist. If you enjoy a spicier flavor, a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the soup's kick.
This soup keeps well in the refrigerator and can even be frozen for a quick meal later. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container for freezing. Enjoy your homemade comforting bowl of soup!
Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken
Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken is a delicious and fragrant dish that's perfect for a cozy dinner for two. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering flavor that infuses the chicken as it slow cooks. This comforting meal isn't only easy to prepare but also requires minimal cleanup — just toss the ingredients into the crockpot and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
This recipe is ideal for busy individuals or couples looking to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With its bright flavors and tender chicken, it's sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Serve it alongside a light salad or some steamed vegetables to round out your meal, and you'll be left feeling satisfied without any hassle.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to create a marinade. Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they're well-coated. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 4 to 6 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is tender and juicy.
For the best results, consider using fresh herbs if available, as they improve the flavor profile of the dish considerably. If you're pressed for time, you can also cut the chicken into smaller pieces to reduce cooking time.
Additionally, pairing this dish with sides like rice or quinoa can help soak up the delicious lemony sauce. Feel free to experiment with the herbs according to your taste, and don't hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your liking!
Vegetable Curry
Vegetable Curry
Cooking a warm and hearty vegetable curry in a crockpot isn't only convenient but also allows the flavors to develop beautifully over time. This dish is perfect for two people, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner or a comforting meal after a long day.
The slow cooking process melds the spices and vegetables together, creating a rich and aromatic dish that's both satisfying and nutritious. In addition to being delicious, this vegetable curry is flexible and can be tailored to your preferences.
You can easily swap out vegetables or adjust the spice levels to match your taste. Whether you're a culinary newbie or an experienced cook, this dish offers an effortless approach to preparing a delightful meal with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions
In your crockpot, combine the diced carrots, chopped bell peppers, cauliflower florets, and green beans. Stir in the chickpeas, coconut milk, curry powder, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper.
Mix well to guarantee that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the spices. Set the crockpot on low and cook for about 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
Extra Tips
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the spices in a small pan with a bit of oil before adding them to the crockpot. This technique can help to release the essential oils from the spices, making the dish even more aromatic.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as sweet potatoes or zucchini, and adjust the spice level by adding chili powder or fresh chilies if you like heat. Serve the curry over rice or with naan for a satisfying meal!
Beef Stroganoff
Beef Stroganoff is a classic dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table, and it can easily be modified for two servings in a crockpot. This creamy, savory meal features tender beef strips and earthy mushrooms, all enveloped in a rich sauce that's excellent when served over noodles or rice. The crockpot method guarantees that the beef becomes incredibly tender, melding all the flavors together beautifully without requiring constant attention.
Cooking Beef Stroganoff in a crockpot not only simplifies the process but also allows the ingredients to mingle and develop deeper flavors throughout the cooking time. Perfect for busy days, this dish can cook low and slow while you attend to other tasks, meaning you can come home to a delicious meal ready to enjoy. Let's get started with the ingredients you'll need!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sirloin or tenderloin, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
To cook the Beef Stroganoff, begin by heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the sliced beef for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned, then transfer it to the crockpot.
In the same skillet, sauté the onions, mushrooms, and garlic until they're soft, about 5 minutes. Next, add them to the crockpot along with the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Near the end of the cooking time, stir in the sour cream and let it heat through before serving it over cooked egg noodles.
For the best results, try to slice the beef against the grain to guarantee tenderness. You can also opt for a more robust flavor by adding a splash of red wine to the mixture before cooking.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Don't forget to garnish your Stroganoff with freshly chopped parsley before serving for an appealing touch!
BBQ Pulled Pork
When it comes to easy and delicious meals, BBQ pulled pork in the crockpot is a standout option, especially for two people. This dish isn't only incredibly flavorful, but it also allows you to set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy days or laid-back weekends. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that feels like a special treat.
Cooking pulled pork in a crockpot guarantees that the meat becomes tender and infused with wonderful smoky flavors as it slow-cooks. It's a great dish to serve on its own, or you can pile it on soft buns with coleslaw for a classic barbecue experience. The best part is that leftover pulled pork can be stored in the fridge and enjoyed in sandwiches, wraps, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pork shoulder (or pork butt)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Buns (for serving, optional)
- Coleslaw (for serving, optional)
To cook the BBQ pulled pork, start by placing the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of your crockpot. Rub the pork shoulder with the smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
Lay the seasoned pork on top of the onion and garlic mixture. Pour the BBQ sauce over the meat, covering it well. Set the crockpot to low and cook for about 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Once done, remove the pork, shred it using two forks, and mix it back into the sauce before serving on buns or with coleslaw.
For the best results, try to select a well-marbled pork shoulder as it will give you the moistest pulled pork. You can also customize the level of sweetness or tanginess in your BBQ sauce by using different brands or adding extra ingredients like honey, apple cider vinegar, or mustard.
If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you could even marinate the pork overnight with the seasoning and BBQ sauce, making sure that the flavors penetrate the meat beautifully before cooking. Enjoy your tasty treat!
Mushroom Risotto
Mushroom risotto is a rich and creamy Italian dish that's surprisingly easy to make, especially when prepared in a crockpot. This comforting meal is perfect for two and highlights the earthy flavors of mushrooms, complemented by the luxurious texture of Arborio rice.
Cooking it in a crockpot allows the rice to absorb all the flavors slowly, resulting in a luscious risotto that fills your home with a delightful aroma.
To achieve the perfect consistency, it's essential to balance the cooking time and the amount of liquid used. The heat from the crockpot will work its magic, creating a creamy texture without the need for constant stirring. This makes it a perfect dish for a cozy date night or a simple dinner for two, allowing you to enjoy your evening rather than hover over the stove.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
To cook the mushroom risotto, start by adding Arborio rice, sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, vegetable broth, white wine (if using), garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and olive oil into the crockpot.
Stir to combine all the ingredients and make sure the rice is submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook on low heat for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese before serving, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Extra Tips: For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the mushrooms and onions in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot, which improves their taste.
If you prefer a creamier risotto, add a splash more broth towards the end of the cooking time. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, as the flavors can vary based on the broth used.
Enjoy your delicious mushroom risotto straight from the slow cooker for a cozy, fulfilling meal!
Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potato casserole is a comforting dish that perfectly marries sweet and savory flavors, making it an ideal choice for two. This delightful recipe can be prepared easily in a crockpot, allowing the aromatic, buttery essence of sweet potatoes to fill your kitchen.
With minimal effort, you'll have a warm and hearty casserole ready to enjoy, whether for a small gathering or a cozy dinner for two.
Using the crockpot means you can set it and forget it, allowing the sweet potatoes to cook slowly and absorb all the flavors of the added ingredients. Combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a crunchy topping creates a pleasing contrast in texture.
Plus, it's a wonderfully colorful dish that not only tastes good but also looks beautiful on the plate.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
To prepare the sweet potato casserole, start by placing the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in your crockpot.
In a mixing bowl, combine the milk, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Pour this mixture over the sweet potatoes and stir until they're well coated.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 4 hours or until the sweet potatoes are tender. If desired, sprinkle pecans and mini marshmallows on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking to achieve a crunchy and gooey topping.
When making sweet potato casserole in a crockpot, keep an eye on the liquid content. Since crockpots retain moisture, you may need to adjust the amount of milk if you prefer a thicker consistency.
If the sweet potatoes aren't uniformly tender after the cooking time, simply mash or stir them a bit to help break them down.
Also, feel free to experiment with toppings—think of adding crushed graham crackers or oats mixed with butter for added crunch.
Enjoy your deliciously warm sweet potato casserole!
Chocolate Lava Cake
If you're seeking a delightful dessert that's both easy to make and impressively decadent, search no further than a Crockpot Chocolate Lava Cake. Perfect for two, this recipe combines rich chocolate cake with a gooey, molten center that will satisfy your sweet tooth after any meal.
The beauty of using a crockpot is that it allows you to set it and forget it while you enjoy your time together, and the clean-up is a breeze. Plus, with the heavenly aroma wafting through your home, anticipation will make the dessert even more special.
To serve this warm chocolate treat, simply scoop out individual portions and pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrasting temperatures and textures will enhance your experience, making every bite irresistible.
As you treat your taste buds to this delicious lava cake, you'll understand why it's a go-to recipe for date nights, anniversaries, or any occasion that calls for something sweet and comforting.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup boiling water
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until blended smoothly.
Fold in the chocolate chips. Pour the batter into a greased mini crockpot. Carefully add the boiling water over the batter (do not stir). Cover and cook on high for about 2 hours, or until the edges are set while the center remains soft.
Extra Tips: For an extra indulgent experience, try adding a tablespoon of peanut butter or Nutella in the center of the batter before cooking for a rich twist.
Make sure to keep an eye on the cake towards the end of cooking time, as slow cookers can vary in temperature. Also, let the cake cool for a few minutes before serving, as the center will be very hot and the molten chocolate can be quite runny. Enjoy your delicious dessert!