10 Mouthwatering Frugal Crock Pot Recipes for the Budget-conscious Girls

Are you a budget-conscious girl looking for delicious and affordable meals? Look no further! In this article, we have gathered 10 mouthwatering frugal crock pot recipes that will satisfy your taste buds without breaking the bank. From hearty stews to flavorful soups and tender meats, these recipes are not only easy to make but also budget-friendly. With the convenience of a crock pot, you can save both time and money while still enjoying scrumptious homemade meals. So, grab your apron and get ready to explore these tasty recipes that are sure to impress your wallet and your palate.

1. Creamy Potato Soup

Ingredients:

• 5 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup of milk or cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: grated cheese, chopped green onions, crispy bacon

Instructions:

1. In a slow cooker, combine the diced potatoes, onion, garlic, and broth. Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 4-5 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
2. Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
3. Stir in the milk or cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as grated cheese, chopped green onions, or crispy bacon.

Tips:

• To make a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• For a chunkier soup, reserve a small portion of the cooked potatoes and onions before pureeing, and then mix them back into the soup.
• This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Serving suggestions:

• Serve the creamy potato soup as a main course with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.
• It also makes a delicious appetizer or starter for a dinner party. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an elegant touch.

2. Slow Cooker Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: grated cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft.
2. Transfer the beef mixture to a slow cooker and add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, tomato paste, beef broth or water, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as grated cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.

Tips:

• Feel free to customize the chili by adding additional vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.
• For a spicier chili, add a diced jalapeno or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
• Leftover chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Serving suggestions:

• Enjoy the slow cooker chili on its own or serve it over rice or with a side of cornbread for a hearty meal.
• It’s also a crowd-pleasing dish for parties. Set up a chili bar with various toppings and let guests build their own bowls.

3. Budget-friendly Beef Stew

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cubed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef stew meat on all sides, then remove from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until the onion is translucent.
3. Return the beef stew meat to the pot and add the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, water, tomato paste, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1.5-2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot with crusty bread or dinner rolls.

Tips:

• You can add additional vegetables like celery or peas to the stew for extra flavor and nutrition.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Serving suggestions:

• This budget-friendly beef stew is a comforting and filling meal on its own.
• Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner.

4. Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups cooked broccoli florets
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional topping: breadcrumbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a casserole dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to the casserole dish and spread it evenly.
4. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs if desired.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips:

• You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for this recipe.
• Add some cooked pasta, such as penne or macaroni, to turn this casserole into a complete one-dish meal.

Serving suggestions:

• Serve the cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole as a main course with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad.
• It’s also a great dish to bring to potlucks or family gatherings.

5. Vegetarian Quinoa and Black Bean Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: sour cream, grated cheese, chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the rinsed quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the flavors have blended together.
4. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
5. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, grated cheese, or chopped cilantro.

Tips:

• You can use any color of bell pepper for this chili. Feel free to add in additional vegetables like corn or zucchini for more variety.
• This chili is packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling and nutritious vegetarian option.

Serving suggestions:

• Enjoy the vegetarian quinoa and black bean chili on its own or serve it over rice or with a side of tortilla chips for dipping.
• Top it with avocado slices or a squeeze of lime juice for added freshness.

6. Savory Sausage and Potato Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a casserole dish.
2. In a skillet, cook the sliced sausage, onion, bell pepper, and garlic over medium heat until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are soft.
3. In the casserole dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, followed by half of the sausage mixture, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
4. Drizzle the melted butter over the top layer and season with salt and pepper.
5. Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 40-45 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the casserole before serving.

Tips:

• Feel free to use your favorite type of sausage for this recipe, such as Polish sausage or Italian sausage.
• You can add in additional vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for more flavor and nutrients.

Serving suggestions:

• Serve the savory sausage and potato casserole as a main course with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad.
• It’s also a great dish for brunch or breakfast gatherings.

7. Tangy BBQ Pulled Pork

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds pork shoulder or butt
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: hamburger buns, coleslaw

Instructions:

1. Season the pork shoulder or butt with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom, then add the seasoned pork on top.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the pork in the slow cooker, making sure it is well coated.
5. Cook on low heat for 8-10 hours or on high heat for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily falls apart.
6. Using two forks, shred the cooked pork in the slow cooker.
7. Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns with optional coleslaw as a topping.

Tips:

• You can use your favorite brand of barbecue sauce or make your own homemade version.
• Leftover pulled pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Serving suggestions:

• Enjoy the tangy BBQ pulled pork sandwiches on their own or serve them with a side of sweet potato fries or cornbread.
• It’s a perfect dish for casual gatherings or game day parties.

8. Easy and Affordable Beef Burritos

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) refried beans
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 8 flour tortillas
• Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, chopped tomatoes

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft.
2. Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then add the refried beans, cooked rice, shredded cheddar cheese, and salsa. Mix well and heat until the cheese is melted.
3. Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave or on a heated skillet for a few seconds to make them pliable.
4. Spoon the beef and bean mixture onto each tortilla and fold it into a burrito shape.
5. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, or chopped tomatoes.

Tips:

• For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables or a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein (TVP).
• If you want a spicier burrito, add some sliced jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.

Serving suggestions:

• Enjoy the easy and affordable beef burritos as a main course with a side of Mexican rice or a mixed green salad.
• They also make a convenient grab-and-go lunch or dinner when wrapped in foil and taken on-the-go.

9. Budget-friendly Chicken Tikka Masala

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent.
2. Season the chicken cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, plain yogurt, heavy cream or coconut milk, tomato paste, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Pour the tomato and yogurt mixture into the skillet with the chicken. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.

Tips:

• Feel free to adjust the spice levels by adding more or less garam masala and ground cumin.
• You can substitute the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs if preferred.

Serving suggestions:

• Enjoy the budget-friendly chicken tikka masala as a main course with a side of basmati rice or naan bread.
• It’s a crowd-pleasing dish for dinner parties or when you want to impress guests with a flavorful and aromatic meal.

10. Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Stew

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the diced carrots, celery, bell pepper, diced tomatoes (with their juices), dried lentils, vegetable broth, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
3. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
4. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
5. Serve hot with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley.

Tips:

• Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber. Feel free to add in additional vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
• This stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Serving suggestions:

• Enjoy the hearty lentil and vegetable stew as a comforting and nutritious main course.
• Serve it with a slice of crusty bread or a side of quinoa for a complete meal.

These ten frugal crock pot recipes are perfect for budget-conscious individuals who want to enjoy delicious and economical meals. Whether you’re craving a creamy potato soup, a hearty beef stew, or a flavorful chicken tikka masala, there’s a recipe here for everyone. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, these dishes will not only satisfy your taste buds but also help you save money on groceries.

1. Creamy Potato Soup:

• This comforting soup is made with just a few basic ingredients, including potatoes, onion, garlic, broth, and milk or cream. It can be easily customized with your favorite toppings like grated cheese, chopped green onions, or crispy bacon.
• The slow cooker method ensures that the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together. It’s a perfect meal for a cold winter day or when you’re in need of some comfort food.

2. Slow Cooker Chili:

• This classic chili recipe is packed with flavor and can be made with ground beef, onion, garlic, tomatoes, beans, and spices. It’s a one-pot wonder that can be easily adjusted to your preferred level of spiciness.
• The slow cooker allows the flavors to develop and intensify over time, resulting in a rich and hearty chili. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that can be served at parties or enjoyed as a comforting meal.

3. Budget-friendly Beef Stew:

• This beef stew is a filling and budget-friendly option that combines tender beef, carrots, potatoes, onion, and a flavorful broth. It’s a complete meal in itself and can be easily modified to include additional vegetables or spices.
• The slow simmering process ensures that the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together. It’s a perfect dish for a busy weeknight or when you’re in the mood for some homemade comfort food.

4. Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole:

• This cheesy and creamy casserole is loaded with chicken, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, cheese, and spices. It’s a simple yet delicious dish that can be made ahead of time and reheated for a quick and easy meal.
• The combination of flavors and textures makes this casserole a crowd-pleaser, especially for those who love cheesy comfort food. It’s a great option for family dinners or potluck gatherings.

5. Vegetarian Quinoa and Black Bean Chili:

• This vegetarian chili recipe is packed with plant-based protein and fiber, thanks to the combination of quinoa and black beans. It’s a healthy and filling option that can be enjoyed by vegetarians and meat lovers alike.
• The mixture of quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, and spices creates a hearty and flavorful chili. It’s perfect for those who want to add more meatless meals to their diet without sacrificing taste.

6. Savory Sausage and Potato Casserole:

• This savory casserole combines smoked sausage, potatoes, onion, bell pepper, garlic, and cheese for a comforting and delicious meal. It’s a great option for those who enjoy the combination of flavors and textures in a one-dish meal.
• The slow baking process allows the flavors to meld together and the cheese to become golden and bubbly. It’s a perfect dish for brunch or when you want to impress guests with a homemade casserole.

7. Tangy BBQ Pulled Pork:

• This tangy and flavorful pulled pork is made with a combination of pork shoulder or butt, onion, garlic, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and spices. It’s a versatile dish that can be served on its own or used as a filling for sandwiches or tacos.
• The slow cooking process ensures that the pork becomes tender and easily falls apart. The tangy and smoky flavors make it a crowd favorite for summer gatherings or game day parties.

8. Easy and Affordable Beef Burritos:

• These easy and affordable beef burritos are made with ground beef, onion, garlic, refried beans, rice, cheese, salsa, and tortillas. They’re a convenient and delicious option for busy individuals or families on a budget.
• The combination of ingredients creates a flavorful and filling burrito that can be customized with your favorite toppings. It’s a great dish for meal prepping or when you want to enjoy a homemade Mexican-inspired meal.

9. Budget-friendly Chicken Tikka Masala:

• This budget-friendly version of the classic Indian dish is made with boneless chicken, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, yogurt, cream, spices, and served over rice or with naan bread. It’s a flavorful and aromatic meal that can be easily prepared in a slow cooker.
• The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and the chicken to become tender. It’s a perfect dish for those who want to enjoy Indian cuisine without breaking the bank.

10. Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Stew:

• This hearty stew combines lentils, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and spices for a nutritious and satisfying meal. It’s a great option for those who want to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.
• The simmering process allows the lentils and vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld together. It’s a perfect dish for a meatless Monday or when you’re in need of a healthy and budget-friendly meal.

In conclusion, these frugal crock pot recipes offer a variety of options for budget-conscious individuals who want to enjoy delicious and affordable meals. From creamy potato soup to tangy BBQ pulled pork, these recipes provide flavorful and satisfying dishes that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat lover, there’s a recipe here for everyone to enjoy. So dust off your slow cooker and get ready to indulge in these mouthwatering frugal crock pot recipes!