11+ Easy Slow Cooker Recipes Under 3 Hours
I remember the first time I discovered slow cooker recipes under 3 hours. It was a rainy afternoon, and I was craving a warm, comforting meal that didn’t take forever to prepare.
I gathered simple ingredients and let my slow cooker work its magic. Since then, I have fallen in love with these quick slow cooker recipes.
They are perfect for busy days, making easy slow cooker meals that taste homemade and delicious. Every recipe brings a sense of comfort and nostalgia, perfect for family dinners.
Chicken Noodle Soup
I love how tender chicken blends with fresh carrots, celery, and onions in a savory broth. This recipe is my favorite on chilly evenings because it’s simple, nourishing, and full of heartwarming flavors.
Each spoonful reminds me of family gatherings and stress-free cooking moments, making it a perfect choice for a quick yet satisfying meal.
Serve: 4 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: Low: 2 hours, High: 1.5 hours | Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, and minced garlic.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth. Stir in dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cooking Options:
- On Low, cook for 2 hours.
- On High, cook for 1.5 hours.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
- Add Noodles: Stir in the egg noodles and let them cook for an additional 15 minutes on High or 20 minutes on Low until tender.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top if desired and serve warm.
Beef Stroganoff
This hearty dish, with tender strips of beef and mushrooms in a creamy sauce, reminds me of cozy family dinners.
I love how the flavors meld so beautifully in the slow cooker. It’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights when you crave a restaurant-style meal with minimal effort and maximum comfort.
Serve: 4 | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: Low: 2.5 hours, High: 2 hours | Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cut into strips
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions
- Layer the Ingredients: Place the beef, mushrooms, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker.
- Season and Add Liquids: Pour in the beef broth, add Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir gently.
- Cooking Options:
- On Low, cook for 2.5 hours.
- On High, cook for 2 hours.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with the flour. Stir into the slow cooker about 15 minutes before serving.
- Prepare Noodles: Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.
- Serve: Spoon the beef stroganoff over the noodles and enjoy a creamy, comforting meal.
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
The pork becomes incredibly tender and flavorful, soaking up a tangy barbecue sauce that is perfect on soft buns. Every bite brings memories of backyard barbecues and family get-togethers.
This recipe is simple enough for a busy day yet impressive enough to serve guests. It’s a delightful mix of savory and sweet that never disappoints.
Serve: 6 | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: Low: 2.75 hours, High: 2 hours | Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into large chunks
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 hamburger buns
- Coleslaw (optional topping)
Instructions
- Combine Pork and Sauce: Place pork chunks in the slow cooker. In a bowl, mix the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour over the pork.
- Cooking Options:
- On Low, cook for 2.75 hours.
- On High, cook for 2 hours.
- Shred the Pork: Remove the pork pieces and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix with the juices.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spoon the pulled pork onto hamburger buns. Top with coleslaw if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve hot for a satisfying and tangy meal.
Chicken Tacos
The slow cooker tenderizes the chicken, infusing it with zesty spices, making it incredibly juicy and easy to shred.
I love these tacos for their versatility – great for a quick dinner or a fun family taco night. The burst of flavors makes every bite a delight.
Serve: 4 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: Low: 2 hours, High: 1.5 hours | Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup salsa (mild or hot, as preferred)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
- 8 small tortillas
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, sour cream
Instructions
- Layer the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
- Add Flavors: Pour in the salsa and chicken broth, then sprinkle taco seasoning and a squeeze of lime juice over the chicken.
- Cooking Options:
- On Low, cook for 2 hours.
- On High, cook for 1.5 hours.
- Shred and Mix: Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and mix it back into the sauce.
- Serve: Warm the tortillas, fill with shredded chicken, and add your favorite toppings. Enjoy a fun, easy taco night!
Vegetarian Chili
This vegetarian chili is packed with beans, tomatoes, and spices that warm me from the inside out. I appreciate how simple it is to throw together, and its robust flavors make it a favorite during cooler days.
This dish is perfect for busy cooks who want a nutritious meal without sacrificing taste, and it brings a smile to every family dinner.
Serve: 5 | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: Low: 2.5 hours, High: 2 hours | Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup vegetable broth
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add all the beans, tomatoes, corn, onion, garlic, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker.
- Pour Broth: Stir in the vegetable broth to combine all ingredients well.
- Cooking Options:
- On Low, cook for 2.5 hours.
- On High, cook for 2 hours.
- Stir Occasionally: Give the chili a gentle stir during cooking to mix the flavors.
- Serve: Ladle the hearty chili into bowls and enjoy a comforting, healthy meal that warms the soul.
Italian Meatballs
My Italian meatballs are made from ground beef and pork, simmered in a tangy tomato sauce that infuses every bite with Italian goodness.
I love serving these meatballs with pasta or on a crusty roll. They remind me of family recipes passed down through generations and are perfect for busy nights when I want a comforting, homemade taste.
Serve: 6 | Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cook Time: Low: 2.5 hours, High: 2 hours | Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
Instructions
- Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs.
- Layer in Slow Cooker: Place the chopped onion at the bottom, add the meatballs, and pour the marinara sauce over them.
- Cooking Options:
- On Low, cook for 2.5 hours.
- On High, cook for 2 hours.
- Gently Stir: Carefully stir the meatballs in the sauce halfway through cooking.
- Serve: Enjoy the meatballs with spaghetti or as a delicious sub sandwich filling. Each bite brings a taste of Italy to your home.
Lemon Garlic Chicken
The combination of zesty lemon and rich garlic creates a vibrant flavor that I love serving with rice or vegetables. It’s a light yet satisfying dish, perfect for a quick weekday dinner.
Every bite is a reminder of the simple joys of home cooking and the delightful flavors that can be created with minimal effort.
Serve: 4 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: Low: 2 hours, High: 1.5 hours | Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and let them marinate for 10 minutes.
- Layer in Slow Cooker: Place the marinated chicken in the slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth.
- Cooking Options:
- On Low, cook for 2 hours.
- On High, cook for 1.5 hours.
- Finish and Garnish: Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve: Enjoy the tangy, garlicky flavors with your favorite side dish for a refreshing meal.
BBQ Ribs
I have a soft spot for slow cooker recipes under 3 hours, and BBQ ribs are a true crowd-pleaser. The ribs become fall-off-the-bone tender in a smoky barbecue sauce that I love to serve at family gatherings. Every time I make these, my home fills with the enticing aroma of slow-cooked meat and sweet spices.
They are my secret to a hearty meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Serve: 4 | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: Low: 2.75 hours, High: 2 hours | Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby back ribs, cut into sections
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup apple juice or apple cider
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ribs: Season the ribs with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Place them in the slow cooker.
- Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, apple juice, and brown sugar. Pour over the ribs.
- Cooking Options:
- On Low, cook for 2.75 hours.
- On High, cook for 2 hours.
- Baste and Check: Occasionally baste the ribs with the sauce during cooking.
- Finish: Once tender, remove the ribs and brush with extra BBQ sauce if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Beef and Broccoli
Beef and broccoli is one of my favorite meals because the beef turns tender and flavorful while the broccoli absorbs the savory sauce. I love how this dish comes together effortlessly, making it ideal for busy days.
Each serving is a delicious reminder that you can enjoy gourmet flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
Serve: 4 | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: Low: 2 hours, High: 1.5 hours | Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds beef sirloin, sliced thinly
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Layer Beef and Onion: Place the beef slices and sliced onion in the slow cooker.
- Add Garlic and Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the beef broth, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir gently.
- Cooking Options:
- On Low, cook for 2 hours.
- On High, cook for 1.5 hours.
- Add Broccoli: Add broccoli florets during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
- Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve: Toss everything together and serve hot over rice.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
I adore slow cooker recipes under 3 hours, and creamy tomato basil soup is one dish that always delights me. The rich, velvety tomato flavor paired with fresh basil makes this soup both comforting and elegant.
I enjoy making it on cool evenings when I want something hearty yet light. It’s an easy recipe that fills my home with a delicious aroma and reminds me of cozy family meals.
Serve: 4 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: Low: 2 hours, High: 1.5 hours | Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cans (28 oz each) whole peeled tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Combine Tomatoes and Vegetables: Add the whole tomatoes (with juices), chopped onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Stir in the vegetable broth, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
- Cooking Options:
- On Low, cook for 2 hours.
- On High, cook for 1.5 hours.
- Blend Smooth: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth.
- Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and let it heat through for 5 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy the creamy, comforting soup.
Chicken Curry
The slow cooker infuses tender chicken with aromatic spices, creating a curry that is both bold and comforting.
I love how easy it is to prepare, making it an ideal dish for busy days when I crave a taste of something exotic yet familiar. Every spoonful is a burst of flavor and warmth that comforts my soul.
Serve: 4 | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: Low: 2.5 hours, High: 2 hours | Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics (Optional): For extra flavor, lightly sauté onion, garlic, and ginger in vegetable oil before transferring to the slow cooker.
- Combine Ingredients: Add chicken cubes, diced tomatoes, coconut milk, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
- Cooking Options:
- On Low, cook for 2.5 hours.
- On High, cook for 2 hours.
- Stir Occasionally: Give the curry a stir during cooking to blend the spices.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve with rice or naan for a satisfying meal.
Sweet and Sour Pork
The pork becomes tender and absorbs a tangy, sweet, and savory sauce that makes every bite a delight.
I love how this dish balances flavors perfectly, making it an excellent choice for family dinners. It’s an easy recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Serve: 4 | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: Low: 2.5 hours, High: 2 hours | Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, cut into wedges
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Layer the Pork and Vegetables: Place the pork pieces, bell peppers, onion, and pineapple chunks in the slow cooker.
- Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the pork and vegetables.
- Cooking Options:
- On Low, cook for 2.5 hours.
- On High, cook for 2 hours.
- Stir and Check: Stir the ingredients halfway through cooking to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Serve: Once the pork is tender and the flavors are well blended, serve your sweet and sour pork hot with steamed rice or noodles.
