Healthy Slow Cooker Recipes for Weight Loss

Are you also searching for a “healthier lifestyle” this year? If yes, then it is possible that you came across the phrase “Healthy Eating” way too many times and it’s possible that an image of a bland chicken breast with a “side” of some boiled vegetable, seasoned with salt and pepper came to your mind.

Instead imagine healthy eating as a colorful collage, vibrant fruits and veggies, sturdy whole grains, and some source of protein, together forming a picture-perfect plate that will be both healthy and tasty.

We are here to tell you that eating healthy is not just buying tons of stuff and doing endless prep. It is also putting your ingredients in a pot and letting them cook themselves for a few hours while you catch up on your life. With the following 15 recipes, unlock a whole new world of less prep and lesser cooking efforts. 

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Solely focusing all your energy on counting and tracking each and every calorie intake is as exhausting as it sounds, and can, and should only be done for a short period of time. But if you want to develop a healthier lifestyle, keeping track of your macros might promote a better and healthier habit. We still don't mean accounting for each and every microgram of your carb intake. We mean striving for a well-balanced diet that consists of substantial protein, a well-needed source of carbohydrates, and a fiber-rich side.

Instead of focusing on the limitations of dieting, let's reframe it as a positive step towards a healthier and more fulfilling way of eating. Don't be discouraged by restrictive diets; instead, embrace sustainable changes that nourish your body and mind.

Packing your plate with nutrient-rich, low-calorie options keeps you fuller longer, naturally reducing cravings for calorie-dense indulgences. This approach promotes long-term wellness and a positive relationship with food. It also means that you won’t be sadly stabbing at your bland food while dreaming about a burger or steak.

Embracing a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains not only nourishes the body but also promotes fullness for longer and sustains energy levels throughout the day.

Integrating low-calorie options can encourage mindful eating and a focus on nutrient-rich choices. However, remember, a balanced diet includes moderation and variety, not just low-calorie restriction.

Remember, a sustainable, balanced approach incorporating low-calorie dishes alongside other healthy practices can significantly improve your overall health and well-being.

Also Read: One Meal a Day Recipes - Your Complete Month's Plan

A slow cooker crock pot or Instant pot is a wondrous device for someone who doesn’t have the patience to check on their cooking time and time again. You can just put all your ingredients in the pot, set the timer, and forget about it, that is till it is time to eat.

A countertop cooking device designed to slow cook your meals at low temperatures for a longer period; the slow cooker is hailed as a savior by many people. It doesn’t just do your normal cooking, it also bakes, boils, and fry. We believe it is the closest thing to having a personal magical chef in your kitchen.

By using a slow cooker you are only a few minutes of prep away from a healthy meal that basically cooks itself. And if you are a beginner to cooking, it is figuratively impossible to overcook your food in a slow cooker when it is being cooked low and slow.

Also Read: Low Calorie Side Dishes: Enhancing Your Fitness Journey

If you’re looking for slow-cooker recipes that are healthy and hearty, we have something for everyone.

Let’s Start!

Yes, you can easily make fluffy rice in your slow cooker and prep ahead for your week. So that you have a base for your meals.

INGREDIENTS:

1. Long grain Rice
2. Water
3. Salt (optional)

RECIPE:

• Rinse your rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
• Use a ratio of 1 rice: 1 ½ water while cooking rice in the slow cooker. Add salt if needed.
• Close the cooker lid, and cook on low for 2 hours. Once done, leave undisturbed for 10 minutes and fluff. 

Using chicken is a very healthy way to pack your meals with protein and it gives you a great base to experiment different recipes on.

INGREDIENTS:

1. Cooking spray
2. Brown sugar - 2 tbsp
3. Chili powder - 1 ½ tsp
4. Smoked paprika - 1 tsp
5. Fresh thyme - 1 tsp
6. Whole chicken - cleaned
7. Salt and pepper - accordingly

RECIPE:

• Spray the crock pot with cooking spray and use aluminum foil balls to create a rack for your chicken.
• In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and seasonings.
• Rub the mix on the chicken and put it in the cooker, breast side up.
• Cook on high for 2 ½ to 3 ½ hours, until the juices run clear.
• To crisp up the skin, Broil in the oven for 3-4 minutes.
• Rest for 10 minutes and serve. 

Yes, you read that right you can make bread in your slow cooker!

INGREDIENTS:

1. Active dry yeast - 1 envelope
2. Sugar - 1 tbsp
3. Lukewarm water - 1 ½ cups
4. Olive oil - 2 tbsp
5. Salt - 1 tsp

RECIPE:

• Line the slow cooker with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl combine your yeast and sugar, add water and stir until combined.
• Add flour, salt, and oil until combined.
• Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and soft.
• Roll the dough into a ball and place it in the cooker.
• Cook on high for 2 hours or until golden on the bottom and cooked through.
• To crisp up the crust, transfer onto a baking sheet and broil until golden (2-3 minutes).
• Let it cool for at least 20 minutes, and enjoy! 

Easy veggie curry with coconut sauce to eat with your rice.

INGREDIENTS:

1. Coconut milk (light) - 1 can (400 ml)
2. Curry Paste - 3 tbsp
3. Chili (deseeded) - 1
4. Ginger (finely chopped) - 1 tbsp
5. Garlic (minced) - 3 cloves
6. Any squash or Pumpkin (peeled and cut into chunks) - 1 ½ cups
7. Red Pepper (chopped) - 1
8. Eggplant (chopped) - 1
9. Fresh herbs (finely chopped) - 4 tbsp
10. Peas (frozen) - 1 cup
11. Lemon/ Lime - juice
12. Salt and pepper - accordingly

RECIPE:

• Put everything in the slow cooker, except the lemon juice, peas, and chopped herbs.
• Stir properly, and Cover the lid.
• Cook on low for 6 hours or until the veggies are tender.
• Then stir in the peas and chopped herbs, and cover again for 10 minutes.
• Add a good squeeze of lemon/lime on top and enjoy with a slice of bread or with rice.

Also Read: 23 Low Sodium Snacks that You Must Add to Your Day

The perfect “set and forget” recipe for a busy weeknight.

INGREDIENTS:

1. Butternut squash - 1 medium (peeled and cubed)
2. Onion - 1 large (chopped)
3. Carrot - 2 (peeled and chopped)
4. Garlic - 3 cloves (minced)
5. Dried thyme - 1 tsp
6. Dried sage - 1 tsp
7. Broth (Veg.) - 1 ½ cups
8. Salt and pepper - accordingly
9. Cayenne - pinch
10. Fresh chopped herbs - 1 tbsp

RECIPE:

• Put everything in the crockpot.
• Cook on low for 8 hours.
• Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth.
• Garnish and serve hot!

Use canned or overnight soaked chickpeas for this hearty and plant-protein packed stew.

INGREDIENTS:

1. OIL - 1 tbsp
2. Onion (sliced) - 1 large
3. Tomatoes (crushed/chopped) - 2 medium
4. Garlic (crushed) - 3 cloves
5. Potatoes (cubed) - 2 large
6. Ground cumin - 1 tsp
7. Ground ginger - ½ tsp
8. Smoked paprika - ½ tsp
9. Ground coriander - 1 tsp
10. Ground turmeric - 1 tsp
11. Chickpeas - 1 can/ 400gms
12. Vegetable stock or water - 2 ½ cups
13. Fresh parsley/coriander - for garnish

RECIPE:

• Heat oil in a saucepan over medium-low. Fry the onion until golden brown.
• Add garlic and saute until aromatic.
• Add tomatoes and cook off the rawness.
• Add potatoes to soften a little bit, and add all the seasonings.
• Empty out everything from the pan into the crock pot.
• Add your liquid, and mix well.
• Close the lid and cook on low for 5 hours or on high for 3 hours.
• Serve alongside Rice or Naan, with the parsley garnish. 

This is a versatile recipe that can use any lentil to make a warm and comforting soup.

INGREDIENTS:

1. Split peas (uncooked) - 1 cups
2. Onion (diced) - 1 large
3. Carrots (peeled and chopped) - 2 medium
4. Celery (chopped) - 2 stalks
5. Garlic (minced) - 2 cloves
6. Crushed red pepper flakes - 1 tsp
7. Ground ginger ½ tsp
8. Salt and Pepper - accordingly
9. Parmesan (shredded) - 2 tbsp

RECIPE:

• This recipe only has one step. Put everything in the cooker, close the lid, and cook for 5 hours on high or 7 hours on low.
• Once done add the cheese on top and enjoy.

Also Read: How to Meal Plan for Weight Loss

This low-calorie recipe uses cauliflower rice instead of normal white rice to make a satiating and warm dish.

INGREDIENTS:

1. Cauliflower (shredded) - 1 head
2. Ginger-garlic puree - 2 tbsp
3. Vegetable broth/ Water - ¼ cup
4. Vegetable mix (your favs) - 1 cup
5. Green onions (sliced) - ¼ cup
6. Cilantro (chopped) - 2 tbsp
7. Soy sauce - 2 tbsp
8. Salt and pepper - accordingly

RECIPE:

• In the crockpot add the shredded cauliflower rice, ginger-garlic puree and broth and season well.
• Close and cook on low for 2 hours.
• 30 minutes before serving, open the crockpot, add the soy sauce and veggies, and cook again for 30 minutes.
• Garnish and serve hot. 

INGREDIENTS:

1. Eggplants - 1 large (sliced into coins)
2. Bread crumbs - 1 cup
3. Garlic powder - 1 tsp
4. Marinara Sauce - 1 cup
5. Mozzarella (sliced) - as much as you like
6. Parmesan (grated) - ½ cup
7. Fresh basil - for garnish
8. Salt and pepper - accordingly

RECIPES:

• Sprinkle salt on eggplant and put it to rest on a lined baking sheet.
• Pat dry after 15-20 minutes.
• Spread about a third of marinara sauce at the bottom of the cooker.
• If you want to use eggs in this step, whisk an egg with salt and pepper in one bowl (or use a flour-water combo); And bread crumbs mixed with seasonings in another.
• Coat the eggplant coins in wet and then dry coating. Then lay them evenly in the slow cooker. Top with the remaining sauce and mozzarella.
• Cook on high for 3-4 hours.
• Sprinkle it with parmesan and basil. 

INGREDIENTS:

1. Coconut oil - 1 tbsp
2. Boneless and skinless chicken breasts cubed - 2
3. Garlic cloves finely chopped - 2
4. Salt and pepper - accordingly
5. Vegetable broth
6. Lemon juiced and zested - 1
7. Soy sauce - 1 tsp
8. Cornstarch - ½ tsp
9. Honey - 1 ½ tsp
10. Sesame seeds - ½ tsp
11. Green onions diced - 4 tbsp

RECIPE:

• Heat up coconut oil in a pan over high heat.
• Add chicken and brown quickly
• Place in a crockpot.
• Season well and add the broth
• Close the lid and cook on low for 5 hours
• 40 minutes before serving:
• Whisk together the remaining vegetable broth with lemon juice and zest, soy sauce, cornstarch, and honey.
• Pour this mixture into the crockpot, and stir well.
• Cook at high for 30 minutes.
• Sprinkle it with sesame seeds and green onions.
• Serve hot and enjoy! 

Also Read: Lose Weight in 8 Weeks

INGREDIENTS:

1. Sirloin Steak (thinly sliced) - ½ pound
2. Broth - ½ cup
3. Soy sauce - ¼ cup
4. Brown sugar - 2 tbsp
5. Sesame oil - 1 tbsp
6. Sriracha - ½ tbsp
7. Garlic (minced) - 2 cloves
8. Green onions (chopped) - 2
9. Cornstarch - 1 tbsp
10. Broccoli florets - 1 cup

RECIPE:

• Add the steak to the slow cooker with the broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, sriracha, garlic, and green onions.
• Close the lid and cook for 4 hours on low.
• When the steak is tender, use the broth from the cooker to whisk the cornstarch and mix it back in.
• Add broccoli and cook again for 20 minutes.
• Garnish and serve with rice.

Salmon with citrus fruit is a great combination. Try this recipe with different citrus if you like.

INGREDIENTS:

1. Salmon filet (with skin)
2. Salt and pepper - accordingly
3. Lemon (cut into rounds) - 1
4. Lemon (juiced) - ½
5. Broth - 1 cup
6. Freshly chopped dill - 2 tbsp

RECIPE:

• Line the cooker with a large parchment paper, almost making a well.
• Add a layer of lemon slices, and lay the salmon on top.
• Season generously, and add the broth mixed with the lemon juice.
• Slow cook for 2 hours on low. 

INGREDIENTS:

1. Flank steak (cut into strips) - ½ pound
2. Salt and pepper - accordingly
3. Different color bell peppers (sliced) - 1 cup
4. Onion (sliced) - 1 large
5. Ginger (thinly sliced) - ½ inch piece
6. Garlic (crushed) - 3 slices
7. Beef stock - ½ cup
8. Soy sauce - 1 tbsp
9. Brown sugar - 2 tbsp
10. Rice wine vinegar - 1 tbsp
11. Sesame oil - 1 tbsp
12. Cornstarch (optional)
13. Sesame seeds and green onion for garnish

RECIPE:

• Add well-seasoned steak into the pot, with everything.
• Cover and cook for 3 ½ hours on high or 5 hours on low.
• If you want to thicken the sauce add cornstarch at this point, and cook again for 15 minutes.
• Garnish and serve with rice. 

INGREDIENTS:

1. Boneless skinless chicken breasts - 1 pound
2. Black beans (rinsed and drained) - ½ cup
3. Corn (frozen) - ⅓ cup
4. Bell pepper (chopped) - 1
5. Onion (chopped) - 1
6. Fire-roasted tomatoes - ½ can
7. Freshly chopped cilantro - 5 tbsp
8. Garlic (minced) - 2 cloves
9. Ground cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper - accordingly
10. Chicken broth - 1 ½ cup
11. Cheese (Shredded) - ⅓ cup
12. Olive oil - 1 tsp
13. Corn tortilla (cut into strips) - 1
14. Lime wedges, for serving

RECIPE:

• In the slow cooker, add chicken, veggies, broth, and seasonings.
• Cover and cook for 6 hours on low.
• Before serving, Heat a pan, add oil, and toast the tortilla strips until crispy. Season with salt.
• Top the soup with cheese and serve with lemon wedge and tortilla strips.

INGREDIENTS:

1. Olive oil - 1 tbsp
2. Onion (chopped) - ½
3. Garlic (minced) - 2 cloves
4. Dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper - accordingly
5. White Rice - ½ cup
6. Chicken broth/ water - ⅔ cups
7. Carrots (diced) - 2
8. Bell pepper (chopped) - 1
9. Boneless and skinless chicken breasts - 1 ½
10. Fresh herbs - for garnish

RECIPE:

• Saute onion, and garlic with seasonings until fragrant (either in a pan or on the “saute” setting)
• Empty out in the slow cooker, add rice and broth along with the veggies and chicken, and season well.
• Cover and cook for 2 hours. Check to see if the chicken is tender, shred the chicken, fluff the rice.
• Garnish and enjoy! 

Also Read:

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• 11 Low Calorie Fruits to Add to Your Diet Plan
• 11 Steps to Achieve a Toned Woman's Body

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