10 High-Protein Crockpot Recipes for Easy Meal Prep

High protein crockpot recipes are the perfect solution for those looking to make mealtime easier and healthier. With minimal prep and hours of slow cooking, you can whip up tasty dishes packed with protein to fuel your day. From savory stews to hearty chili, these recipes keep your taste buds happy without compromising on nutrition. Let’s jump into some delicious ideas that make meal planning a breeze!

Turkey and Black Bean Chili

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This Turkey and Black Bean Chili is a deliciously hearty dish packed with protein and flavor. The combination of ground turkey and black beans creates a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this chili will warm you up from the inside out!

The taste is a delightful blend of spices, tomatoes, and tender beans, resulting in a chili that’s not only filling but also bursting with flavor. Plus, using the crockpot means you can set it and forget it, making meal prep a breeze!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Avocado slices for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Transfer the turkey to a crockpot. Add black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, corn, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, topped with fresh cilantro and avocado slices if desired.

Teriyaki Salmon with Broccoli

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This Teriyaki Salmon with Broccoli recipe is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy a high-protein meal. The salmon is marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, giving it a wonderful glaze that pairs beautifully with tender steamed broccoli. It’s simple to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and packed with flavor!

The combination of the flaky salmon and crisp broccoli creates a satisfying dish that is both nutritious and filling. Cooked in a crockpot, this recipe requires minimal effort, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully. Serve it over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in the crockpot and pour the teriyaki sauce over them. Make sure the fillets are well coated.
2. Add the Broccoli: Place the broccoli florets on top of the salmon in the crockpot.
3. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 2-3 hours, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Serve: Serve the salmon and broccoli over a bed of rice or quinoa. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before enjoying!

Mediterranean Chickpea and Spinach Soup

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This Mediterranean Chickpea and Spinach Soup is a hearty and nutritious choice for anyone looking to boost their protein intake while enjoying a comforting meal. With a delightful combination of chickpeas, fresh spinach, and vibrant spices, this soup is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch, and you can whip it up in your slow cooker with minimal effort.

The taste of this soup is a lovely balance of savory and slightly tangy, thanks to the addition of lemon juice and fresh herbs. The tenderness of the chickpeas adds a satisfying texture, while the spinach provides a pop of color and nutrients. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder that makes cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. In a slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
2. Add in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring to mix well.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach and lemon juice. Allow to wilt.
5. Serve hot, garnished with extra lemon slices if desired.

Slow Cooker Chicken and Quinoa

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This Slow Cooker Chicken and Quinoa dish is a hearty and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. The chicken turns out tender and juicy while the quinoa absorbs all the flavors from the spices and veggies, making every bite satisfying. It’s super easy to prepare—just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work!

The combination of protein-packed chicken and quinoa, alongside vibrant vegetables, creates a comforting and wholesome dish. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a delicious high-protein meal that’s not only filling but also packed with essential nutrients.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: In the slow cooker, add the rinsed quinoa, chicken broth, diced carrots, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes.
2. Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on top of the vegetable and quinoa mixture. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the quinoa is fluffy.
4. Shred and Mix: Once done, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it back into the quinoa and vegetables.
5. Garnish: Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.

Pork Carnitas with Beans

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Pork Carnitas with beans is a hearty dish that’s packed with flavor and high in protein. The slow-cooked pork becomes tender and succulent, absorbing all the spices and seasonings. It’s a simple recipe that allows you to set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

This dish is not only comforting but also versatile. Serve it in tacos, on rice, or even as a filling for burritos. The addition of beans boosts the protein content, making it a satisfying meal that keeps you full. Enjoy the savory flavors balanced with a hint of lime and fresh herbs for a delightful experience!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into chunks
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• Juice of 2 limes
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the Pork: In a bowl, mix the cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mix all over the pork chunks.
2. Cook the Pork: Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours until the pork is tender.
3. Shred the Meat: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir in the black beans and lime juice. Let it heat through for another 10-15 minutes.
4. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy in tacos, over rice, or however you like!

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole

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This Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for a busy day. Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from wild rice, it’s nutritious without sacrificing flavor. The creamy texture and hints of herbs make it a family favorite that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Making this casserole is a breeze! Just toss all the ingredients into your crockpot, set it, and let it do the work. With minimal prep time, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without all the fuss. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot and season with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the rinsed wild rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and frozen corn into the crockpot. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
4. Once cooked, shred the chicken in the pot and stir everything together to combine well.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry

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This Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry is a delicious and hearty dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. It’s packed with protein from the lentils and brings a warm and comforting flavor thanks to the spices and sweet potatoes. You’ll find that it’s easy to throw together in your crockpot, making it an ideal option for busy nights.

The combination of tender lentils and sweet potatoes creates a lovely texture, while the spices add depth and richness. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. In the crockpot, combine lentils, sweet potatoes, onion, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add coconut milk, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Spicy Beef and Lentil Stew

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This spicy beef and lentil stew is a hearty meal that packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. Combining tender beef with earthy lentils and vibrant vegetables, it’s a cozy dish perfect for any occasion. The warm spices bring a delightful heat that balances beautifully with the savory broth, making it satisfying and comforting.

Making this stew is straightforward, as it comes together easily in a crockpot. Just toss in your ingredients, set it and forget it! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to please.

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into cubes
• 1 cup lentils, rinsed
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the beef cubes on all sides. Transfer to the crockpot.
2. Add Ingredients: In the crockpot, combine lentils, onion, carrots, garlic, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook: Set the crockpot to low and cook for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender and the lentils are fully cooked.
4. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious and spicy beef and lentil stew!

Vegetable and Tofu Stir-Fry

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This vegetable and tofu stir-fry is a delightful and healthy option for those looking to boost their protein intake. With its colorful mix of veggies and the satisfying texture of tofu, it’s a dish that pleases both the eyes and the palate. Not only is it packed with nutrients, but it’s also super simple to whip up in the crockpot, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The combination of crisp vegetables and tender tofu creates a wonderful harmony of flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe will guide you through the steps effortlessly. The best part? You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand!

Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu: Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut it into cubes and set aside.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the broccoli, bell peppers, sweet potatoes, cubed tofu, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Transfer to Crockpot: Pour the mixture into the crockpot and spread it evenly.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, stir gently and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Savory Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff

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This Savory Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff is a comforting dish that delivers rich flavors and high protein, making it a great choice for any meal. The tender beef combined with earthy mushrooms creates a hearty sauce that pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta or rice.

What’s great about this recipe is how simple it is to make. Just toss all the ingredients into your crockpot and let it do the work for you. In a few hours, you’ll have a warm, satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds beef stew meat
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 ounces egg noodles
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: In your crockpot, combine the beef stew meat, mushrooms, onion, garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
3. Finish the Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the sour cream. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions while the sauce is finishing.
4. Serve: Once the noodles are cooked, combine them with the beef and mushroom mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.