These cheap, slow-cooker recipes take everyday, inexpensive ingredients and make flavorful, budget-friendly dinners that do not compromise on taste.
You don’t need to buy expensive ingredients or spend hours in the kitchen to make delicious meals that everyone will love. These cheap slow-cooker recipes stretch everyday staples like canned beans and rice with affordable cuts of meat to create comforting, flavorful dishes. Along with tasting delicious, these cheap dinner ideas are great for weeknights when you need dinner to cook itself while tackling whatever is on the schedule for the day.
These budget-friendly, slow-cooker recipes include meals with and without meat that benefit from slowly simmering for hours. You’ll find go-to favorites like vegetarian chili with smoky spices, chicken tortilla soup topped with crunchy chips and fresh cilantro and chuck roast braised with brown sugar, mustard and garlic until it falls apart into tender bites. For something new, try our chicken stroganoff, which skips beef for more affordable chicken thighs and has a creamy mushroom sauce that’s perfect over egg noodles. You will also find all-day slow-cooker recipes that cook for a minimum of eight hours, so you can plan them around a busy day.
Round out your dinner with a crisp salad, mashed potatoes, garlic bread or whatever vegetable you have on hand, steamed, sauteed or roasted. These recipes are versatile enough to pair with a wide range of sides, so you don’t have to go out and buy anything extra. With a slow cooker and a few basic ingredients, you can create budget-friendly meals that are satisfying and low-stress.
1/43
Slow-Cooker Split Pea Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
When I have leftover ham in the fridge, I always like to make this soup. Just throw the ingredients in the slow-cooker, turn it on, and dinner is done. —Pamela Chambers, West Columbia, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 266 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 728mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 15g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2-1/2 starch, 2 lean meat.
When I have leftover ham in the fridge, I like to make this slow-cooker split pea soup. Just throw the ingredients in the slow cooker, turn it on and dinner is done. —Pamela Chambers, West Columbia, South Carolina
How do you save money on groceries? Share your tips with us!
2/43
Vegetarian Red Bean Chili
From the Recipe Creator:
For a vegetarian red bean chili that meat lovers would like, this recipe is healthy and tastes great. It takes just a few minutes to prepare, then the chili simmers in the slow cooker leaving me free to do something else. I top bowls with shredded cheddar cheese.—Connie Barnett, Athens, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups (calculated without sour cream and cheese): 201 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1035mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 9g fiber), 17g protein.
3/43
Slow-Cooker Beef and Broccoli
From the Recipe Creator:
I love introducing my kids to all kinds of flavors. This Asian-inspired slow-cooker meal is one of their favorites, so I serve it often. —Brandy Stansbury Edna, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 366 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 1696mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 2g fiber), 42g protein.
4/43
Buffalo Chicken Chili
From the Recipe Creator:
This Buffalo chicken chili is rich in the best way. The cream cheese, blue cheese and tangy hot sauce join forces for a dinner recipe everyone will love. —Peggy Woodward, Shullsburg, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 337 calories, 16g fat (8g saturated fat), 80mg cholesterol, 1586mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 5g fiber), 25g protein.
5/43
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
From the Recipe Creator:
The slow cooker not only makes this an easy meal, it keeps the pork tender, saucy and loaded with flavor. —Beki Kosydar-Krantz, Mayfield, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 402 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 1181mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 2g fiber), 29g protein.
6/43
Slow-Cooker Ranch Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a fabulous slow-cooker ranch chicken recipe that we have passed around to all our friends, especially those who have young children. It's wonderful for a cold winter night or a hot summer day when you don't want to turn on the oven. Serve it as a weeknight family dinner or for a large group. —Sonya Stark, West Jordan, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 267 calories, 15g fat (7g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 776mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 25g protein.
7/43
Slow-Cooker Chicken Tacos
From the Recipe Creator:
Our fun, simple recipe is perfect for taco Tuesdays or a relaxing dinner with friends. If we have any leftover filling, I toss it into a garden-fresh taco salad. —Tracy Gunter, Boise, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
2 tacos: 291 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 674mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2-1/2 starch.
8/43
Lipton Onion Soup Meat Loaf
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband and I really enjoy this delicious meat loaf made with onion soup mix. You only need five ingredients to assemble this easy entree before popping it in the slow cooker. —Rhonda Cowden, Quincy, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 276 calories, 15g fat (6g saturated fat), 117mg cholesterol, 579mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein.
9/43
Slow-Cooker Chicken and Rice
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 419 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 87mg cholesterol, 692mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 6g fiber), 32g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 2-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
10/43
Carolina-Style Vinegar BBQ Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
I live in Georgia, but I appreciate the tangy, sweet and slightly spicy taste of Carolina vinegar chicken. I make my version in the slow cooker. After the tempting aroma
fills the house, your family is sure to be at the dinner table on time! —Ramona Parris, Canton, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup (calculated without buns): 134 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 228mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat.
11/43
Slow-Cooked Beef Vegetable Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
Convenient frozen veggies and hash browns make this meaty soup a snap to make. Simply brown the ground beef, then stir everything together to simmer all day. It's wonderful served with bread and a salad. —Carol Calhoun, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 139 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 766mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 11g protein.
12/43
Beef and Barley
From the Recipe Creator:
I like to serve this to company. I'm not sure where the recipe originated for this country-style dish, but I have had it for years and rely on it when I'm hosting a meal for a group. —Linda Ronk, Melbourne, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 409 calories, 18g fat (9g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 990mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 7g fiber), 28g protein.
13/43
Slow-Cooker Stuffed Peppers
From the Recipe Creator:
My favorite kitchen appliance is the slow cooker, and I use mine more than anyone else I know. It does a great job with this good-for-you dish. —Michelle Gurnsey, Lincoln, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed pepper: 317 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 565mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 8g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 vegetable, 2 lean meat, 1 fat.
14/43
Poor Man’s Steak
From the Recipe Creator:
These flavorful "steaks" fit into everybody's budget. A special friend shared the recipe, and I think of her each time I make it. - Susan Wright, Mineral Wells, West Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 292 calories, 18g fat (6g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 372mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 22g protein.
For all your slow-cooker groceries, here’s what experts recommend about grocery shopping on a budget.
15/43
Soy Garlic Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
Because I’m a full-time mom and I help my husband on our ranch, I’m always looking for simple yet hearty meals for the slow cooker. My family really likes this one. —Colleen Faber, Buffalo, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken leg quarter: 246 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 90mg cholesterol, 1022mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 1g fiber), 29g protein.
16/43
Slow-Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs
From the Recipe Creator:
For a meal on busy days, I pop ready-made meatballs in the slow cooker to make this tantalizing Asian-style specialty. Nothing is more convenient than walking in the door to dinner. —Lisa Stepanski, Munnsville, New York
Nutrition Facts:
8 meatballs: 794 calories, 29g fat (10g saturated fat), 186mg cholesterol, 582mg sodium, 94g carbohydrate (63g sugars, 2g fiber), 39g protein.
17/43
California Tamale Pie
From the Recipe Creator:
When I serve California Tamale Pie, I know I’ll see smiles on the faces of everyone at the table. With this recipe, you’ll enjoy the taste and texture of classic tamales, without the time and hassle. —Patricia Nieh, Portola Valley, California
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 455 calories, 16g fat (6g saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 1112mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 7g fiber), 27g protein.
18/43
Kielbasa and Sauerkraut
From the Recipe Creator:
My family loves this hearty meal on cold winter nights. The tender apples, kraut and smoked sausage give it a heartwarming old-world flavor. I like making it because the prep time is very short. —Caren Markee, Cary, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 546 calories, 31g fat (12g saturated fat), 81mg cholesterol, 1630mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (43g sugars, 4g fiber), 15g protein.
19/43
Cabbage Barley Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
My neighbor had an abundance of cabbage, so a group of us had a contest to see who could come up with the best cabbage dish. My vegetarian soup was the clear winner. —Lorraine Caland, Shuniah, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 197 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 678mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 9g fiber), 11g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2-1/2 starch, 1 lean meat.
20/43
Pork Tenderloin with Mushrooms
From the Recipe Creator:
This juicy pork tenderloin in a savory gravy is the best you'll ever taste. Prepared with canned soups, it couldn't be easier. —Donna Hughes, Rochester, New Hampshire
Nutrition Facts:
4 ounces cooked pork with 2/3 cup sauce: 269 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 89mg cholesterol, 951mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 32g protein.
21/43
Sweet Orange Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
This orange chicken recipe with orange marmalade is a family favorite. It's sure to be a hit at your next get together!—Louise Gilbert, Quesnel, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving (calculated without rice or noodles): 379 calories, 15g fat (4g saturated fat), 88mg cholesterol, 962mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (25g sugars, 1g fiber), 30g protein.
22/43
Shredded Buffalo Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
This slow cooker dump dinner is one of my go-to's. The lighter chicken is a nice alternative to pulled pork. —Kim Ciepluch, Kenosha, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup chicken mixture: 147 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 1288mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein.
23/43
Zippy Bean Stew
From the Recipe Creator:
This bean stew is a staple for my co-workers and me once the weather turns cool. Although this is a low-fat dish, it definitely doesn't taste like it! —Debbie Matthews, Bluefield, West Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 208 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 816mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 10g fiber), 11g protein.
24/43
Sweet Potato Lentil Stew
From the Recipe Creator:
I fell in love with the spicy aromas in this sweet potato lentil stew. Add whatever ingredients you have on hand, like zucchini, spinach, kale and corn. —Heather Gray, Little Rock, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 290 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 662mg sodium, 58g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 15g fiber), 15g protein.
25/43
Slow-Cooker Stuffed Shells
From the Recipe Creator:
There's no need to precook the shells in this simple pasta dish. It's almost like magic when you open the lid and find the deliciousness waiting in the slow cooker. Add garlic bread and you're golden! —Sherry Day, Pinckney, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
4 stuffed shells: 303 calories, 10g fat (6g saturated fat), 34mg cholesterol, 377mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 17g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 medium-fat meat.
26/43
Slow-Cooker Chicken Stroganoff
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe is creamy, warm, satisfying and fairly inexpensive—and it needs just a few ingredients! Who could ask for more on a cold winter evening? I will admit, though, that I have been known to make it during summer, too. —Jason Kretzer, Grants Pass, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 447 calories, 29g fat (12g saturated fat), 133mg cholesterol, 877mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 36g protein.
27/43
Chicken Tostadas
From the Recipe Creator:
These flavorful tostadas are super easy and family friendly. You won't believe how tender and juicy the chicken comes out. Just load up the tostadas with your favorite fresh toppings, and you have one simple, sensational meal. —Lisa Kenny, Houston, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
2 tostadas: 378 calories, 17g fat (7g saturated fat), 103mg cholesterol, 858mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 36g protein.
28/43
Tortellini and Meatballs
From the Recipe Creator:
I combined some favorite staples from our freezer and pantry to come up with this easy dish. It has few ingredients and little preparation. —Tracie Bergeron, Chauvin, Louisiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 408 calories, 23g fat (10g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 1592mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 6g fiber), 16g protein.
29/43
Slow-Cooker Ham and Potato Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
In our house, this recipe is a win-win. It's easy for me to whip up and easy for my family to devour...the crusty bread for dipping doesn't hurt, either. —Linda Haglund, Buffalo, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 257 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 1053mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 12g protein.
30/43
Slow-Cooker Mushroom Chicken & Peas
From the Recipe Creator:
Some amazingly fresh mushrooms I found at our local farmers market inspired this recipe. When you start with the best ingredients, you can't go wrong. —Jenn Tidwell, Fair Oaks, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half with 3/4 cup vegetable mixture: 292 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 566mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 5g fiber), 41g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable.
31/43
Citrus-Herb Pork Roast
From the Recipe Creator:
The genius combination of seasonings and citrus in this tender roast reminds us why we cherish tasty recipes. It's nice to serve with hot noodles to soak up any extra citrus gravy. —Laura Brodine, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
5 ounces cooked pork with 2 tablespoons gravy (calculated without egg noodles): 289 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 102mg cholesterol, 326mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 35g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 starch.
32/43
Slow-Cooker Chuck Roast
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband and I like chuck roast recipes, so this slow-cooker chuck roast recipe is terrific. You'll also love how flavorful and tender this comforting beef chuck roast turns out. —Bette McCumber, Schenectady, New York
Nutrition Facts:
4 ounces cooked beef with 1/3 cup gravy: 365 calories, 15g fat (6g saturated fat), 98mg cholesterol, 787mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 2g fiber), 31g protein.
33/43
Conga Lime Pork
From the Recipe Creator:
Dinner guests won’t be too shy to get in line when this yummy chipotle pork moves to the buffet table. —Janice Elder, Charlotte, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup pork mixture with 1 muffin and 1/2 cup slaw: 514 calories, 23g fat (7g saturated fat), 135mg cholesterol, 877mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (21g sugars, 3g fiber), 31g protein.
34/43
Creamy Slow-Cooker White Chicken Chili
From the Recipe Creator:
My friend Caroline Gray and I came up with this creamy slow-cooker white chicken chili. It's unusual because it calls for Alfredo sauce. —Cindi Mitchell, St. Marys, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 336 calories, 15g fat (9g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 772mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 7g fiber), 24g protein.
35/43
Slow-Cooked Caribbean Pot Roast
From the Recipe Creator:
This dish is definitely a year-round recipe. Sweet potatoes, orange zest and baking cocoa are my surprise ingredients. —Jenn Tidwell, Fair Oaks, California
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked beef with 1/2 cup vegetable mixture : 278 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 453mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
36/43
Italian Beef Sandwiches
From the Recipe Creator:
With only a few ingredients, this roast beef is a snap to throw together. And after cooking all day, the meat is wonderfully tender. —Lauren Adamson, Layton, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 278 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 735mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch.
37/43
Coney Island Hot Dogs
From the Recipe Creator:
From the youngest kids to the oldest adults, everyone in our family loves these hot dogs. Inspired by the classic Coney dog, they’re so easy to throw together in the morning or even the night before. —Michele Harris, Vicksburg, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 chili dog: 371 calories, 20g fat (8g saturated fat), 53mg cholesterol, 992mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 21g protein.
38/43
Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
From the Recipe Creator:
Here’s a real sensation: Asian-style slow-cooker chicken thighs and rice. They always go over big with my family. —Gigi Miller, Stoughton, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
5 ounces cooked chicken with 1/3 cup sauce: 342 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 113mg cholesterol, 958mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 0 fiber), 33g protein.
39/43
Slow-Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
Don’t be shy about loading up the spices and shredded chicken into your slow cooker. Chicken tortilla soup tastes amazing as leftovers the next day. Your family will thank you for this one! — Karen Kelly, Germantown, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 176 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 725mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 17g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
40/43
Slow-Cooker Beef Stew
From the Recipe Creator:
When there's a chill in the air, nothing beats this beef stew. Seasoned with thyme and dry mustard, the hearty slow-cooker beef stew is chock-full of tender carrots, potatoes and meat. —Earnestine Wilson, Waco, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 272 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 53mg cholesterol, 541mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
41/43
Country Rib Sandwiches
From the Recipe Creator:
Perfect for a weekday dinner or cozy weekend meal, this recipe makes fall-off-the-bone tender meat with delicious flavor. —Margaret Luchsinger, Jupiter, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 405 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 713mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 2g fiber), 26g protein.
42/43
Sweet-and-Sour Beef Stew
From the Recipe Creator:
This chunky meal in a bowl makes terrific use of nutrient-packed vegetables. It has a deliciously sweet and tangy taste. —Frances Conklin, Cottonwood, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 290 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 465mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 3g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
43/43
Shredded Beef au Jus
From the Recipe Creator:
My mom found this recipe in a farm journal soon after she and my dad got married. The tender beef has been a family favorite for years, and my dad often requests it. —Danielle Brandt, Ruthton, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich with 1/4 cup cooking liquid: 411 calories, 18g fat (7g saturated fat), 111mg cholesterol, 889mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 37g protein.
Cheap Slow-Cooker Recipes FAQ
What is the best meat to use for budget family dinners?
The best meats for budget family dinners are inexpensive and versatile, like chicken thighs, ground beef and large roasts of tough meat, like pork shoulder. Even within these categories, there will be ways to save a little more, like choosing bone-in meat over boneless or buying a whole chicken and cutting it up yourself. Compare the price across different ground meats, since leaner grinds can cost more per pound. If there is a sale on your favorite cut of meat, buy some extra and freeze it to use another time.
What cost-saving, slow-cooked dishes are easy enough for a beginner?
Chili, pulled pork and chicken with rice are all cost-saving, slow-cooked dishes that are easy enough for beginners. These types of recipes need minimal prep or chopping, and the ingredients are easy to find at any supermarket. If you’re new to using a slow cooker, remember a few helpful slow-cooker tips: keep the lid on, don’t overfill it and layer the ingredients properly for even cooking.
What easy slow cooker ideas are good for freezing?
Soups, stews, shredded meats and casseroles are excellent slow cooker meals to make and freeze for later. These dishes thaw and reheat easily on busy nights and only need a simple side, like a steamed vegetable or some crusty bread, to make a complete dinner. For best results when freezing food, portion the cooled dish into airtight containers or freezer bags and label with the date. To save on freezer space, lay bags flat until frozen and then stack on top of each other or side by side, like books on a shelf.
