As a busy mom, finding time to cook while juggling a hectic schedule can be a challenge. But with the trusty crock pot, you can whip up delicious, hearty meals without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen. Here are ten budget-friendly crock pot recipes that you and your family will love.

1. Classic Chicken and Vegetable Stew

Ingredients: Chicken thighs or breast, carrots, celery, potatoes, onion, chicken broth, and seasonings.
Why it’s great: Affordable ingredients and packed with nutrients. Toss everything in the crock pot, and by dinner, you’ll have a savory, filling meal.

2. Slow-Cooked Spaghetti Sauce

Ingredients: Canned tomatoes, tomato paste, ground beef or turkey, garlic, onion, and Italian seasonings.
Why it’s great: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for another meal. Serve over pasta for a classic family dinner.

3. Vegetable Beef Soup

Ingredients: Ground Meat or beef leftovers, potatoes, mixed veggies (canned), carrots, celery, onion, vegetable or chicken broth, and spices.
Why it’s great: A protein-packed, delicious meal that’s easy on the wallet and perfect for a chilly evening.

4. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Ingredients: Pork shoulder, BBQ sauce, onion, and sandwich rolls.
Why it’s great: Cook the pork all day for tender, flavorful meat that’s perfect for sandwiches. Add a side of coleslaw for an extra treat.

5. Creamy Chicken and Rice

Ingredients: Chicken breasts, cream of mushroom soup, rice, and frozen peas.
Why it’s great: A one-pot meal that’s comforting, creamy, and kid-approved.

6. Taco Soup

Ingredients: Ground beef, kidney beans, black beans corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and beef broth.
Why it’s great: Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips for a fun twist on taco night.

7. Savory Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff

Ingredients: Beef stew meat, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, onion, garlic, and egg noodles.
Why it’s great: A hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and tastes like it took hours.

8. Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Ingredients: Frozen meatballs, pineapple chunks, bell peppers, soy sauce, vinegar, and brown sugar.
Why it’s great: Serve over rice for a quick, flavorful dinner that kids and adults will enjoy.

9. Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Ingredients: Potatoes, chicken broth, cheddar cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions.
Why it’s great: Creamy, comforting, and perfect for stretching your grocery budget.

10. Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Ingredients: Rice, frozen broccoli, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, and milk.
Why it’s great: A vegetarian-friendly meal that’s simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

Tips for Crock Pot Success

1. Plan Ahead: Prep ingredients the night before to save time in the morning.
2. Shopping List: Make your list out for the entire week so that you can make your meal without worry.
3. Batch Cook: Double recipes to freeze portions for later.
4. Shop Smart: Use store sales and bulk items to keep costs low.
5. Dump Ingredients: in crock pot by 8am. Cook on low. Arrive home for supper ready and waiting for you!

NOTE: These recipes are not specifically gluten-free but can easily be adapted. Just replace the item in question with the same ingredient from your pantry that you know is gluten-free.

These crock pot recipes are not only easy and delicious but also light on the budget. Whether it’s a hearty stew, a comforting soup, or a kid-approved casserole, there’s something here for everyone. Happy cooking!

Let me know in the comments what your favorite crock pot recipe is!⬇️