Life
6 Vegetarian Crock-Pot Recipes So Good, You'll Gladly Skip The Meat
A good dinner doesn't need meat to make a statement. It speaks for itself. And, if we're being honest, it's usually a hell of a lot easier to put together than a platter that requires deboning, browning, sautéing, or deveining. A vegetarian meal made in the Crock-Pot? That's a serious no-brainer.
A vegetarian dish packs as much — if not more — protein, vitamins, and grains than your average run-of-the-mill, meat-filled one, and takes just about half the cooking time. And eating vegetarian, whether by choice or just because, opens your tastebuds up to a whole new flavor palate.
They're full of fresh spices and combinations, like butternut squash and curry, and quinoa with poblanos. Vegetarian meals are exciting, bursting with color and spunk, full of personality. But what sets these heavenly mealtime menus apart from the rest isn't just the fact that they're meatless, it's the fact that they're the kind of recipes that I like to call dump-n-dash: Dump everything you need into the Crock-Pot, and dash to the office.
No matter what time you're back from work — whether you're on time or running late — dinner will be prepped, ready, and piping hot. And all you need to do is serve yourself a big, hearty bowl. (We won't tell if you go back for thirds.)
Image: The Fig Tree
Slow Cooker Quinoa White Chili With Roasted Poblanos
This fun take on traditional chili from Oh My Veggies packs a smoky, spicy punch, but we’re pretty sure you’ll love it. It’s thick, creamy, and filling (just like classic chili recipes), but much easier to prep — and to eat.
Image: Oh My Veggies
Crock-Pot Coconut Curry Baked Beans
This little number from Kitchen Treaty may not be exactly what you’re used to when it comes to baked beans, but the sweet flavors of the coconut mixed with the curry and finally, the beans will blow you away. Serve it over your favorite grain (we actually love farro for this one), and you’re ready to eat.
Image: Kitchen Treaty
Slow Cooker Mushroom Stroganoff
Amuse Your Bouche made it so easy to serve this funghi-filled dish with your favorite carb of choice (but we love it most with rice). The trick to adding texture and layers to the meal? Dice some mushrooms — and leave the other half cubed.
Image: Amuse Your Bouche
Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Coconut Chili
Never heard of chili with coconut milk? Neither had we — but The Fig Tree never lies, so we listened. Here’s a big spoiler alert: You’re going to freakin’ love this recipe.
Image: The Fig Tree
Madras Lentils
Lentils are cheap, they’ll keep you full for longer, and they’re the perfect Crock-Pot dish for those extra chilly fall nights. Peas and Crayons serves this over rice, but you can get creative with your sides.
Chipotle Black Bean and Quinoa Crock-Pot Stew
No matter how you make it, black bean soup is just bursting with flavor, so it was basically a no-brainer for this list. It’ll make your house smell dynamite, and your mouth will do cartwheels after every bite. The real kicker? This recipe by Tasty Yummies is gluten-free and vegan, too.
Image: Tasty Yummies
