7 slow cooker stews that make weeknights feel taken care of

Slow cooker stews make weeknights feel taken care of because they’re the kind of meals that come together with almost no effort and still taste great. You can walk in after a long day and have something hearty, comforting, and ready to eat without standing over the stove. These recipes are simple, satisfying, and perfect for when you want dinner that feels like it was made with care—even if you didn’t spend hours in the kitchen.

Ratatouille

Fresh vegetables and herbs come together in this slow cooker stew, creating a rich vegetable mix that simmers evenly over time. Using the slow cooker takes the effort out of constant monitoring, making preparation simple and hands-off.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille

Poor Man’s Stew

Budget-friendly ground beef transforms into a rich slow cooker stew with very little hands-on time. As it simmers, it gradually fills the kitchen with tempting aromas that make dinner easy to plan.
Get the Recipe: Poor Man’s Stew

Vegetable Stew

Hearty vegetables develop deep flavors in this slow cooker stew, creating a satisfying meatless option. It’s practical for a simple dinner with minimal effort, while still feeling complete.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stew

Beef Stew

This slow cooker stew features tender beef with hearty vegetables in a rich broth. Minimal prep is needed, letting the flavors develop while you go about your day, making it practical for busy schedules.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew

Lamb Stew

Lamb, mushrooms, white beans, and kale come together in this slow cooker stew for a filling one-pot meal. The long, slow cooking ensures the meat is tender and the vegetables are perfectly cooked.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Stew

Chicken Stew

Tender chicken is combined with a creamy sauce and a variety of vegetables and spices in this slow cooker stew. It’s easy to prepare and works well for a comforting evening meal alongside a slice of bread.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stew

Grandma's Hearty Offal Stew

Using offal like heart and kidney, this slow cooker stew turns lesser-known cuts into a rich, nourishing meal. Long cooking softens the meat and melds the flavors, making it a resourceful choice for the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Grandma's Hearty Offal Stew