If you’re looking for easy and budget-friendly meals that you can set and forget, you’ve come to the right place! These 14 dump and go crockpot recipes take minimal effort, saving you time in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor. Just toss in the ingredients, turn on your crockpot, and let it do the work while you relax or tackle other tasks. Let’s dive into these hassle-free meals that cater to busy lifestyles!
Teriyaki Chicken Bowls

Looking for a simple and cheap meal that packs a punch? Teriyaki chicken bowls are just the ticket! The image shows a delicious mix of tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy white rice. Colorful veggies add that crunchy texture and a pop of color, making it not just tasty but also visually appealing.
This crockpot meal is perfect for busy days. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do its magic. You’ll come home to a warm, satisfying dinner without any fuss. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, so you won’t break the bank!
To make this meal, you’ll need boneless chicken, teriyaki sauce, rice, and your choice of vegetables like bell peppers and green onions. Simply combine the chicken and sauce in the crockpot, cook it on low for several hours, and serve it over rice. It’s that easy!
So, grab your crockpot and get ready to enjoy a delicious, no-stress dinner with these teriyaki chicken bowls. They’re perfect for meal prep, too!
Savory Beef Stroganoff

Beef stroganoff is a classic dish that warms the soul. This version is made in a crockpot, making it easy to prepare and deliciously tender. You just dump everything in, set it, and forget it!
The image shows a hearty serving of beef stroganoff over tender noodles. The creamy sauce and chunks of beef are perfectly melded, making it an inviting meal for any night. Just look at that rich texture and the way it glistens; it’s hard to resist!
To make this easy meal, here’s what you need: beef stew meat, onion, garlic, mushrooms, beef broth, sour cream, and egg noodles. Just toss these ingredients into your crockpot and let it do the work for you. After several hours, you’ll have a satisfying dish ready to enjoy.
The steps are simple. Start by browning the beef if you like, then add all the ingredients except for the sour cream and noodles into the crockpot. Set it on low for about 6 to 8 hours. When it’s almost time to serve, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Stir in the sour cream just before serving for that creamy finish!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that’s easy to whip up, creamy garlic parmesan risotto is a perfect choice. This dish is all about comfort, with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Plus, it’s made in a crockpot, so you can set it and forget it.
The image shows the risotto in the crockpot, looking warm and inviting. You can see the tender rice mixed with chunks of butter, ready to melt in and enhance the flavors. A sprinkle of garlic and parmesan will make this simple meal shine.
To make this crockpot meal, you’ll need just a few ingredients. Start with arborio rice, which is key for that creamy consistency. You’ll also need chicken broth, garlic, parmesan cheese, and a bit of butter. Optional add-ins like peas or mushrooms can add extra flavor.
Simply combine your ingredients in the crockpot, give it a stir, and let it do its thing. You’ll want to check it occasionally and stir to make sure it cooks evenly. In a few hours, you’ll have a delicious and cheap meal ready to enjoy.
Spicy Chicken Tacos

Spicy chicken tacos are a tasty way to enjoy a meal that’s both cheap and satisfying. The image shows shredded chicken nestled in warm tortillas, ready to be transformed into delicious tacos. This is a great example of a crockpot meal that requires minimal effort. Just dump the ingredients in, set it, and forget it!
To make these tacos, you’ll need a few basic ingredients: chicken breasts, taco seasoning, salsa, and your favorite tortillas. Simply place the chicken in your crockpot, sprinkle the seasoning over it, and pour in the salsa. Let it cook on low for about 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Once it’s done, shred the chicken with two forks and serve it in the tortillas.
Don’t forget to add your favorite toppings! Chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime juice can really enhance the flavor. These spicy chicken tacos are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The beauty of crockpot meals is that you can easily prepare them in advance and enjoy more time with your loved ones.
Italian Sausage and Peppers

If you’re looking for an easy crockpot meal, Italian Sausage and Peppers is a tasty choice. This dish combines juicy sausage with colorful peppers for a satisfying meal that requires little effort.
The vibrant colors of the bell peppers—red, yellow, and green—bring a cheerful look to your crockpot. Each slice of sausage adds a hearty touch, making this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing.
To make this meal, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Grab some Italian sausage, assorted bell peppers, and your favorite spices. Toss everything into the crockpot, set it, and forget it!
The process is straightforward. Start by slicing the sausage into rounds. Then, chop the bell peppers into strips. Layer the sausage and peppers in the crockpot, season it, and let it cook for several hours on low. The result will be a savory dish that’s perfect for busy days.
This meal is not just cheap and easy; it also makes great leftovers. You can serve it over rice, in a sandwich, or alongside a salad. Enjoy this flavorful crockpot meal any day of the week!
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches are a classic favorite that fit perfectly into the category of cheap crockpot meals. These sandwiches are easy to prepare and are a hit with families and friends alike. Just picture the tender, juicy pulled pork topped with a generous drizzle of tangy barbecue sauce, all nestled in a soft bun. It’s a simple meal that packs a lot of flavor and can be enjoyed any day of the week.
To make these sandwiches, you’ll need just a few ingredients. Start with a pork shoulder, which is budget-friendly and perfect for slow cooking. Add some onion, garlic, and your favorite BBQ sauce for seasoning. Toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work while you go about your day. After several hours, the pork becomes tender enough to shred with a fork.
Once the pork is ready, pile it high on a bun and drizzle more barbecue sauce on top. Serve it with some coleslaw and fries for a complete meal. This dish is not only cheap but also incredibly satisfying. The crockpot makes it so easy; just dump in the ingredients, set the timer, and forget about it until dinner time!
Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup

This Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup is a simple and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week. It’s packed with nutrition and flavor, making it an ideal option for anyone looking for cheap crockpot meals.
The vibrant mix of vegetables, including bell peppers, carrots, and green onions, makes this soup visually appealing. The lentils add a hearty texture, while the broth ties everything together in a comforting embrace.
To make this soup, you’ll need ingredients like lentils, your favorite vegetables, vegetable broth, and spices. Just toss everything into the crockpot, let it cook, and enjoy the rich aroma filling your kitchen.
Here’s a quick guide on how to whip it up:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lentils (rinsed)
– 1 bell pepper (diced)
– 1 carrot (chopped)
– 1 potato (cubed)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion (chopped)
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– Spices (like cumin, salt, and pepper) to taste
Steps:
1. Combine all the ingredients in your crockpot.
2. Stir to mix everything well.
3. Set it on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
This soup is not only easy to make but also perfect for meal prep. You can enjoy leftovers for days, making it a smart choice for busy weeks.
Coconut Curry Chickpeas

If you’re on the hunt for cheap, satisfying meals, then this Coconut Curry Chickpeas recipe is a winner!
This dish is a lovely balance of creamy coconut milk, hearty chickpeas, and bright veggies that come together beautifully in the crockpot. Just imagine returning home to a warm, flavorful meal that practically cooked itself.
To whip this up, you’ll need some basic ingredients: canned chickpeas, diced tomatoes, coconut milk, sweet potatoes, and your favorite curry spices. Toss everything into your crockpot, give it a stir, and let it do its thing!
After a few hours, you will have a delicious, filling meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Serve it over rice or with some crusty bread to soak up that rich sauce. It’s an easy, budget-friendly option that will please both your taste buds and your wallet.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a colorful and healthy addition to your meals. Bursting with flavors and textures, it’s a dish you can prep in no time and let your crockpot do the work.
The salad features fluffy quinoa as its base, mixed with juicy tomatoes, black olives, and creamy feta cheese. Fresh herbs like parsley and mint add a lovely aroma, making it a delightful meal to enjoy.
To prepare this cheap and cheerful salad, simply combine cooked quinoa with chopped tomatoes, olives, feta, and herbs. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for an extra zing. Toss everything together and let it chill in the fridge before serving.
This dish is not only easy to make but also ideal for meal prepping. You can enjoy it as a side or a light main dish. Plus, it keeps well in the fridge, making it a great option for those busy days.
Tuscan White Bean Stew

This Tuscan White Bean Stew is a cozy, comforting dish that’s easy to make in your crockpot. With a mix of white beans, fresh spinach, and vibrant bell peppers, it’s full of flavor and nutrition. Just look at the image; the colors pop, and you can almost smell the rich broth simmering away.
The beauty of this recipe is that you can just dump all the ingredients into your crockpot and let it do the work. No fuss, no hassle! It’s a great way to enjoy a cheap and hearty meal any day of the week.

To make this stew, you’ll need white beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, fresh spinach, and a mix of your favorite herbs. Start by adding the beans, tomatoes, and broth to the crockpot. Then, toss in the chopped peppers and spinach. Season it up, set your crockpot on low, and forget about it for a few hours!
Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

This Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a delightful addition to your list of cheap crockpot meals. It’s comforting, creamy, and packed with flavors that everyone will love. The vibrant green broccoli adds a pop of color, while the cheesy orzo brings a satisfying texture. Just imagine coming home to the delightful aroma of this dish after a long day!
To make this easy meal, gather your ingredients: orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, cheese, and some basic seasonings. Simply combine everything in your crockpot and let it do the work! In just a few hours, you’ll have a delicious casserole that’s ready to serve. It’s the kind of meal that warms you up and fills you up.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or even as a side for gatherings. Plus, it’s super easy to customize. Want to add some chicken or a different veggie? Go for it! The possibilities are endless, making this a versatile choice for your dinner table.
Minestrone Soup Delight

Looking at this cozy minestrone soup, it’s hard not to feel warm and satisfied. This dish is packed with colorful veggies, hearty pasta, and beans, making it a wholesome option for a cheap and filling meal. The vibrant colors alone are inviting, suggesting a burst of flavors in every spoonful.
Making this minestrone soup is a breeze. Simply toss in your favorite ingredients into the crockpot, set it, and let it do its magic while you carry on with your day. You’ll come home to a delicious, homemade meal waiting for you!
To prepare it, gather ingredients like diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, assorted beans, pasta, and fresh herbs. You can also throw in carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers for added nutrition. Just chop everything up, add them to your crockpot, and let it simmer.
This minestrone soup is not only a delightful option for dinner but also perfect for meal prep. You can enjoy it for days, making it an excellent choice for busy weeks. It’s a simple, affordable meal that satisfies without the hassle!
Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Sweet and Sour Meatballs are a delicious addition to any crockpot meal lineup. These little bites of flavor are swimming in a vibrant sauce that balances sweetness with a tangy kick. The glossy, red sauce clings to each meatball, making them look inviting and tasty.
To make this dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Gather up frozen meatballs, bell peppers, and a mix for the sweet and sour sauce. You can use store-bought sauce or whip up your own with ketchup, vinegar, and brown sugar.
Cooking is easy. Just dump the meatballs into the crockpot, add the sauce and chopped bell peppers, and set it to low. Let it simmer for a few hours until everything is heated through. The result? Tender meatballs in a sauce that everyone will love.
This meal is not just cheap but incredibly convenient. It’s the kind of dish you can prepare in the morning and forget about until dinner time. Perfect for busy days!
Classic Chili with Beans

Chili is one of those meals that warms you up from the inside out. This crockpot classic brings together hearty beans, flavorful spices, and a rich tomato base. It’s a simple dish that you can set and forget while going about your day.
In the image, you can see a delicious pot of chili ready to be served. The vibrant colors of the beans and fresh toppings like jalapeños and cheese make it visually appealing. It’s a meal that not only tastes good but also looks inviting on your table.
To make this cheap and easy chili, you’ll need ingredients like kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, and some spices such as cumin and chili powder. Just toss everything into the crockpot, set it to cook, and you’ll have a satisfying meal waiting for you later. This is perfect for busy days!
Try serving it with some cornbread or over rice for a complete plate. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this classic chili is sure to hit the spot.