Skip to content

Top Navigation

Better Homes & Gardens
Better Homes & Gardens
  • Gardening
  • Home Improvement Ideas
  • Cleaning and Organizing
  • Recipes and Cooking
  • Decorating
  • Holidays
  • Rooms
  • Shopping

Profile Menu

Join Now

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
My Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
Login
Subscribe
Pin

Explore Better Homes & Gardens

Better Homes & Gardens
Better Homes & Gardens
  • Explore

    Explore

    • The Only Weed Identification Guide You'll Ever Need: 33 Common Weedy Plants to Watch For

      The Only Weed Identification Guide You'll Ever Need: 33 Common Weedy Plants to Watch For

      Don't let these pesky plants crash your garden party! The first step is to know your enemy. Then you'll know the best way to deal with your weed problem. Read More
    • 6 Small Steps You Can Take Today to Get Organized for Good

      6 Small Steps You Can Take Today to Get Organized for Good

      A professional organizer offers advice on how to tidy up your home without feeling overwhelmed. Read More
    • 5 Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients to Add to Your Smoothie for a Healthy Boost

      5 Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients to Add to Your Smoothie for a Healthy Boost

      Anti-inflammatory smoothies do exist! Instead of blending in boatloads of sugar and artificial ingredients, try these smoothies for inflammation that are packed with ingredients that may help lower your risk for chronic diseases including cancer, heart disease, depression, and more. Read More
  • Gardening

    Gardening

    See All Gardening
    4 DIY Seed-Starting Pots You Can Make With Items You Already Have

    4 DIY Seed-Starting Pots You Can Make With Items You Already Have

    Upcycle old newspapers, junk mail, and other waste paper to make these easy, eco-friendly containers you can use to sprout new plants for your garden.
    • Flowers
    • Houseplants
    • Plant Encyclopedia
    • Garden Pests
    • Trees, Shrubs & Vines
    • Caring for Your Yard
    • Edible Gardening
    • Garden Design
    • Gardening By Region
    • Landscaping
  • Home Improvement Ideas

    Home Improvement Ideas

    See All Home Improvement Ideas
    What Style Is Your House? The 10 Most Popular American House Styles

    What Style Is Your House? The 10 Most Popular American House Styles

    In a world full of so many different house styles, it can be a little challenging just to narrow down your own home's architectural style, let alone edit the list down to your favorite style or understand the distinctions characteristic to each house style. We'll show you the 10 most popular American house styles, including Cape Cod, French Country, Colonial, Victorian, Tudor, Craftsman, Cottage, Mediterranean, ranch-style, and Contemporary.
    • Home Exteriors
    • DIY Home Electrical Tips & Guides
    • Outdoor Structures
    • Home Remodeling
    • Plumbing Installations & Repairs
    • Remodeling Advice & Planning
    • Flooring
    • Lighting
    • Decks
    • Porches
  • Cleaning and Organizing

    Cleaning and Organizing

    See All Cleaning and Organizing
    A Whole-House Cleaning Schedule You'll Actually Stick To

    A Whole-House Cleaning Schedule You'll Actually Stick To

    Cleaning your home doesn't have to be a daunting, time-consuming chore. The key to managing household duties quickly and efficiently is to design an easy-to-follow routine that includes all the most important tasks. Follow these step-by-step instructions for creating a customized whole-home cleaning schedule.
    • House Cleaning
    • Laundry & Linens
    • Cleaning Tips
    • Closet Organization
    • Organization Tips
    • Kitchen Storage Organization
  • Recipes and Cooking

    Recipes and Cooking

    See All Recipes and Cooking
    21 Baking Essentials Every Home Cook Needs (Plus 16 Nice-to-Haves)

    21 Baking Essentials Every Home Cook Needs (Plus 16 Nice-to-Haves)

    Whether you're a beginning baker just starting out or a master chef looking to declutter, we'll help you set up a beginner's baking essentials kit with 21 tools. For anyone who already owns these handy baking tools, this list may finally provide the motivation you need to get rid of that soufflé dish you never use. Building your baking equipment inventory starts here.
    • How to Cook
    • Chicken Recipes
    • Desserts & Baking
    • Fish Recipes
    • Beef Recipes
    • Healthy Recipes
    • Breakfast and Brunch Recipes
    • Lunch
    • Dinner Recipes & Meal Ideas
    • Ethnic Food
  • Decorating

    Decorating

    See All Decorating
    7 Interior Design Trends Everyone Will Be Trying in 2021, According to Experts

    7 Interior Design Trends Everyone Will Be Trying in 2021, According to Experts

    Designers weigh in on the most popular decorating styles, colors, and materials you can look forward to in the coming year.
    • Choosing Color
    • Expert Decorating Advice
    • Fireplace Design Ideas
    • Do It Yourself Magazine
    • Window Treatments
    • Styles & Decor
    • Interior Painting
    • Home Makeovers
    • Small-Space Decorating
    • Traditional Home
  • Holidays

    Holidays

    See All Holidays
    International Women's Day: The Powerful Story Behind This 111-Year-Old Tradition

    International Women's Day: The Powerful Story Behind This 111-Year-Old Tradition

    What began as a small movement, has grown into a global holiday dedicated to celebrating the strong women in our communities.
    • Valentine's Day
    • Mother's Day
    • Easter
    • Father's Day
    • Fourth of July/Memorial Day
    • Halloween
    • Thanksgiving
    • Christmas
    • New Year's
    • Juneteenth
    • Hanukkah
  • Rooms

    Rooms

    See All Rooms
    Living Room Furniture Layout Ideas

    Living Room Furniture Layout Ideas

    Get tips for arranging living room furniture in a way that creates a comfortable and welcoming environment and makes the most of your space.
    • Bedroom Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Bathroom Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Kitchen Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Living Room Decorating and Design
    • Dining Room
    • Home Office
    • Kid's Rooms
    • Baby Nursery
  • Shopping

Profile Menu

Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
Join Now

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
My Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

  1. BHG.com
  2. Recipes and Cooking
  3. Slow Cooker Meals
  4. 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Recipes That Make Home-Cooked Dinners a Breeze

5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Recipes That Make Home-Cooked Dinners a Breeze

Karla Walsh Headshot
By Karla Walsh Updated February 24, 2020
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Skip gallery slides
Save Pin FB
Tangy Molasses Barbecue Ribs
Credit: Blaine Moats
Not sure what to serve for dinner tonight? With these easy 5-ingredient slow cooker recipes, you're only a handful of items away from a delicious, hearty dinner. Ideas including 5-ingredient slow cooker pot roast, penne, ribs, and wraps. Make these meals the ultimate weeknight wins.
Start Slideshow

1 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Bean-and-Rice-Stuffed Peppers

Bean-and-Rice-Stuffed Peppers
Credit: Blaine Moats
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Number of Ingredients: Five

So hearty, no meat. Fill peppers with chili beans, rice, cheese, and tomato sauce, then set your slow cooker for six hours. Voilà! All that's left for this easy slow cooker meal is to prepare your belly for the delicious 300-calorie 5-ingredient slow cooker recipe.

Related: Satisfying Stuffed Pepper Recipes

1 of 18

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Spicy Spring Picnic Pork

Spicy Spring Picnic Pork
Credit: Andy Lyons
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Number of Ingredients: Five

A can of soda (yes really!) is the secret addition to this 5-ingredient slow cooker recipe. Its sweetness is a nice counterpoint to the hot and spicy barbecue sauce. Combine them both with savory shoulder roast and caramelized onions, and you have a picnic-perfect meal you can enjoy any day of the year.

Buy It: Crock-Pot 4-Qt Count Down Slow Cooker, $34.99, Bed Bath & Beyond

2 of 18

3 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Sausage and Bean Jambalaya

Sausage and Bean Jambalaya
Credit: Andy Lyons
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Number of Ingredients: Five

Here's a 5-ingredient slow cooker recipe that's as good straight from the pot as it is reheated the next day. The spice is right thanks to fire-roasted tomatoes, sweet peppers, and smoky kielbasa. This jambalaya needs just four hours on low before the quintessential flavors of New Orleans will be yours to devour.

Related: Must-Try Mardi Gras Recipes

3 of 18

Advertisement

4 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Five-Spice Chicken Wings

Five-Spice Chicken Wings
Credit: Jason Donnelly
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Number of Ingredients: Four

Don’t just wing it and fall back on purchased fried chicken wings. It sounds surprising, but the plum sauce on these DIY juicy wings imparts a sweetness that contrasts nicely with the five-spice powder you stir in. On game day or every day, this easy 5-ingredient slow cooker recipe (actually only 4-ingredient!) is a winner.

4 of 18

5 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Beef and Carrot Ragu

Beef and Carrot Ragu
Credit: Andy Lyons
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Number of Ingredients: Five

Basil and roma tomatoes are the secret to the fresh Italian flavor in this simple dinner. But the real stars of this easy slow cooker meal are the short ribs that become extra tender as everything simmers together. The 5-ingredient slow cooker recipe tastes remarkably complex if you add the optional splash of red wine to the blend, too.

5 of 18

6 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Sesame-Ginger Turkey Wraps

Sesame-Ginger Turkey Wraps
Credit: Andy Lyons
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Number of Ingredients: Five

Why decide between Asian takeout and classic American entrée when you can have both in one 5-ingredient slow cooker dish? These healthy 200-calorie wrap sandwiches don't require a lot of prep, thanks to shortcut ingredients like purchased shredded veggies. The sesame-ginger sauce lends bold flavor to the turkey, and green onions add a bit of fresh onion flavor.

Buy It: P.F. Chang’s Sesame Sauce, $3.69, Target

6 of 18

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Cowboy Beef

Cowboy Beef
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Number of Ingredients: Five

Chipotle peppers and chili beans give this 5-ingredient slow cooker pot roast recipe an irresistible Old West makeover, while canned vegetables cut down on prep time. You'd never guess that this satisfying recipe is also healthy, too, coming in at less than 400 calories per serving. 

Related: Classic Beef Recipes You Need to Know How to Cook

7 of 18

8 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Mexican Meatball Stew

Mexican Meatball Stew
Credit: Jason Donnelly
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Number of Ingredients: Five

Next time you’re in the mood for south-of-the-border fare, think beyond enchiladas and quesadillas. With veggies, black beans, and lean turkey meatballs, this 5-ingredient slow cooker recipe proves easy dinners don't have to be bland or boring. Finish the stew on a fresh note with a sprig of fresh oregano.

8 of 18

9 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Corned Beef and Cabbage

Corned Beef and Cabbage
Credit: Jason Donnelly
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Number of Ingredients: Five

Make this Irish classic for St. Patrick's Day or anytime you're in the mood for the irresistible combo of corned beef and cabbage. Carrots, onions, and potatoes round out the stick-to-your-ribs line-up. This easy 5-ingredient slow cooker recipe simmers to tender perfection in five hours on high or 10 hours on low (so you can start it before you head to the office).

9 of 18

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Tangy Molasses Barbecue Ribs

Tangy Molasses Barbecue Ribs
Credit: Blaine Moats
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Number of Ingredients: Five

Yes you can dig into a saucy rack of ribs on a weeknight! This easy 5-ingredient slow cooker recipe calls for 15 minutes of prep time prior to your workday, then it cooks for up to 10 hours while you go about your business. When it’s time to roll up your sleeves and devour, just broil for three minutes to get that just-like-slow-smoked-ribs texture.

10 of 18

11 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Turkey Shepherd's Pie

Turkey Shepherd's Pie
Credit: Blaine Moats
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Number of Ingredients: Five

Traditionally made with lamb, shepherd's pie is also delicious when slow-cooked with turkey and frozen vegetables. Start with store-bought refrigerated mashed potatoes and frozen mixed vegetables. That way, the easy 5-ingredient slow cooker recipe is, well, easy as pie.

Related: Savory Pies Totally Appropriate to Eat for Dinner

11 of 18

12 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Cajun-Seasoned Vegetarian Gumbo

Cajun-Seasoned Vegetarian Gumbo
Credit: Jason Donnelly
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Number of Ingredients: Five

Easy slow cooker recipes aren't boring! Case in point: With just a few ingredients and 10 minutes of prep time, you can stir up a batch of this bold, Southern-inspired gumbo in your slow cooker. The 5-ingredient slow cooker gumbo is especially delicious (and filling) when served over hot rice.

12 of 18

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

13 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Easy Shredded Pork Tacos

Easy Shredded Pork Tacos
Credit: Andy Lyons
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Number of Ingredients: Four

Skip the purchased seasoning mix and simmer your way to irresistibly tender pork tacos with this less-than-5-ingredient slow cooker recipe. Chicken broth and enchilada sauce add bold Mexican-inspired flavor to each bite. Not so fond of pork? Try the same sauce fixings with chicken thighs or breasts.

13 of 18

14 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

In-Your-Sleep Chili

In-Your-Sleep Chili
Credit: Scott Little
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Number of Ingredients: Five

This ground beef chili is a breeze to prepare—just brown beef, mix with veggies, then add it to your slow cooker for a filling meal that's ready when you get home. If you have a little ingredient wiggle room in your menu, pair the easy 5-ingredient slow cooker recipe with a side of buttery cornbread.

14 of 18

15 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Pot Roast with Fruit and Chipotle Sauce

Pot Roast with Fruit and Chipotle Sauce
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Number of Ingredients: Five

This is no ordinary pot roast recipe. Dried fruit and chipotle peppers give this fork-tender meal an appetizing sweet-spicy punch. After just one bite of the 5-ingredient slow cooker pot roast, it will become one of your go-to simple slow cooker meals.

15 of 18

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

16 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Simple Peachy Barbecue Chicken

Simple Peachy Barbecue Chicken
Credit: Jason Donnelly
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Number of Ingredients: Four

Think bold, saucy barbecue from your slow cooker is too good to be true? It's real, and the finished product of this 5-ingredient slow cooker recipe is irresistible proof. The barbecue sauce and apricot preserves infuse the chicken with smoky sweetness, and a dash of yellow mustard adds a hint of spice.

Related: Our Best Barbecue Chicken Recipes

16 of 18

17 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Nacho Cheese Chicken Chowder

Nacho Cheese Chicken Chowder
Credit: Blaine Moats
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Number of Ingredients: Five

Craving comfort food? Cozy flavors and a thick texture make this cheesy chowder a good choice any night of the week. This easy 5-ingredient slow cooker recipe is like queso with a protein boost to keep you satisfied all night.

17 of 18

18 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Taco Chili

Taco Chili
Credit: Blaine Moats
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Number of Ingredients: Five

Taco night, done light…on ingredients and prep time that is. You'll adore this 5-ingredient slow cooker recipe because of its 20-minutes of prep time. Your kids will eat it up because it's like having a bowlful of taco filling (optional sour cream and cheese toppers work in more of the kid-favorite ingredients).

18 of 18

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

By Karla Walsh

    Share the Gallery

    Pinterest Facebook
    Trending Videos
    Advertisement
    Skip slide summaries

    Everything in This Slideshow

    Advertisement

    View All

    1 of 18 Bean-and-Rice-Stuffed Peppers
    2 of 18 Spicy Spring Picnic Pork
    3 of 18 Sausage and Bean Jambalaya
    4 of 18 Five-Spice Chicken Wings
    5 of 18 Beef and Carrot Ragu
    6 of 18 Sesame-Ginger Turkey Wraps
    7 of 18 Cowboy Beef
    8 of 18 Mexican Meatball Stew
    9 of 18 Corned Beef and Cabbage
    10 of 18 Tangy Molasses Barbecue Ribs
    11 of 18 Turkey Shepherd's Pie
    12 of 18 Cajun-Seasoned Vegetarian Gumbo
    13 of 18 Easy Shredded Pork Tacos
    14 of 18 In-Your-Sleep Chili
    15 of 18 Pot Roast with Fruit and Chipotle Sauce
    16 of 18 Simple Peachy Barbecue Chicken
    17 of 18 Nacho Cheese Chicken Chowder
    18 of 18 Taco Chili

    Share & More

    Tweet Email Send Text Message
    • Better Homes & Gardens BHG Logo Products at Walmart
    • Better Homes & Gardens BHG Real Estate Real Estate Services
    Better Homes & Gardens

    Magazines & More

    Learn More

    • About Us
    • Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
    • Books from Better Homes & Gardens
    • Help
    • Advertise
    • Content Licensing
    • Accolades this link opens in a new tab

    Connect

    Subscribe to Our Newsletter
    Sign Up
    MeredithBH&G is part of the Meredith Home Group. © Copyright 2022 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
    © Copyright Better Homes & Gardens. All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.bhg.com

    Sign in

    View image

    5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Recipes That Make Home-Cooked Dinners a Breeze
    this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.