The slow cooker is a busy person’s best friend, and it’s time to put this handy kitchen appliance to work! With just a bit of preparation, you can have a delicious, comforting meal ready and waiting for you at the end of a busy day. So, here are five fantastic slow cooker recipes that will become your go-to staples when you’re short on time but crave a hearty, homemade dinner.

First up is a classic: savory pot roast. Simply season a chuck roast with salt and pepper, sear it in a hot skillet, and then place it in your slow cooker. Add in some chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, along with a bay leaf and a splash of red wine. Let it cook low and slow for 8–10 hours, and you’ll have tender, flavorful meat that falls apart at the touch of a fork. Serve it with mashed potatoes and gravy made from the delicious juices in the slow cooker, and you’ve got a winning weeknight dinner.

Chicken tortilla soup is another great option for your slow cooker repertoire. This recipe couldn’t be easier—just add boneless, skinless chicken breasts, canned diced tomatoes, chopped onions, garlic, black beans, corn, and chicken broth to your slow cooker. Season with chili powder, cumin, and a hint of cayenne for a kick. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, and then shred the chicken with a fork before serving. Top with crispy tortilla strips, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream for a tasty, satisfying meal.

Who doesn’t love a good old-fashioned macaroni and cheese? This comfort food favorite can also be made in your slow cooker! Simply combine uncooked macaroni, shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, evaporated milk, butter, flour, and seasonings in your slow cooker, and let it cook on low for 3–4 hours. You’ll be greeted with a creamy, dreamy mac and cheese that’s perfect for busy days when you need a quick and easy dinner solution.

For a healthier option, try making pulled BBQ chicken sandwiches in your slow cooker. Place boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the cooker, and cover with your favorite BBQ sauce, a bit of ketchup, mustard, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Add in some diced onions and garlic for extra flavor. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, and then use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the sauce. Serve on toasted buns with coleslaw and crispy fries for a delicious, family-friendly meal.

Lastly, warm up chilly evenings with a hearty beef stew. Cut beef chuck into cubes and sear in a skillet before adding to your slow cooker. Toss in chopped potatoes, carrots, onions, celery, and garlic, along with a bay leaf and some fresh thyme. Pour in enough beef broth to cover everything, and then let it simmer away for 8–10 hours until the meat is tender. Thicken the stew with a cornstarch slurry if needed, and serve with a crusty loaf of bread for a cozy, comforting meal.

So, there you have it—five fantastic slow cooker recipes to save the day when you’re short on time. With just a bit of advance preparation, you can enjoy delicious, homemade meals that will fuel you through your busy schedule. Happy cooking!

Remember to adapt the seasoning and ingredients to your taste preferences, and feel free to add or omit ingredients to cater to your dietary needs or preferences. Slow cookers are incredibly versatile, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find your signature slow cooker recipes!