20 Easy 3 Ingredient Crock Pot Recipes for Busy Days

Busy days call for simple solutions—like these 20 easy 3-ingredient Crock Pot recipes that deliver big flavor with minimal effort! Whether you’re craving cozy comfort food, weeknight-friendly dinners, or seasonal favorites, we’ve got you covered. Just toss in a handful of ingredients, set it, and forget it. Hungry for hassle-free meals? Keep scrolling—your slow cooker is about to become your new best friend.

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken

This fuss-free BBQ chicken practically cooks itself, filling your kitchen with smoky-sweet aromas while you go about your day.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup BBQ sauce, 1/4 cup honey, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
2. Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker and pour sauce mixture over them, turning to coat evenly.
3. Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until chicken shreds easily with a fork.
4. Use two forks to shred chicken directly in the slow cooker, stirring to absorb all the sauce. Serve with extra BBQ sauce if desired.

The magic here is in the balance – tangy vinegar cuts through the rich sauce, while smoked paprika adds depth without overwhelming spice. Perfect for piling onto buns or loading onto nachos.

Tip: For caramelized edges, transfer shredded chicken to a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Crock Pot Ranch Pork Chops

These tender, flavor-packed pork chops practically cook themselves—just set your slow cooker and come home to a hearty meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Place pork chops in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the ranch seasoning, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth. Pour over the pork chops, flipping them once to coat.
3. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the pork is fork-tender.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

The ranch seasoning and creamy sauce create a punchy, savory glaze that clings to every bite—no dry chops here! Serve over mashed potatoes to soak up the extra goodness.

Tip: For extra depth, sear the chops in a skillet for 2 minutes per side before adding them to the slow cooker.

3-Ingredient Beef Stew

This cozy stew proves that big flavor doesn’t need a long ingredient list—just tender beef, savory broth, and a touch of sweetness to balance it all.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1/4 cup tomato paste

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the beef chuck in batches (no oil needed), about 5 minutes per batch, until deeply caramelized. Transfer to a plate.
2. Reduce heat to medium, add the 1/4 cup tomato paste to the pot, and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it darkens slightly and smells sweet.
3. Pour in the 4 cups beef broth, scraping up any browned bits. Return the beef to the pot, bring to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for 2.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the meat shreds easily with a fork.

The magic here? The tomato paste melts into the broth, creating a rich, silky sauce that clings to every bite of beef—no flour or roux required.

Tip: For extra depth, swap 1 cup of broth for red wine, or toss in a sprig of fresh thyme while simmering.

Easy Crock Pot Salsa Chicken

This fuss-free salsa chicken is a dump-and-go dream—tender, flavorful, and perfect for tacos, bowls, or meal prep!

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 (16 oz) jar mild or medium chunky salsa
• 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour salsa over the top, then sprinkle with 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/4 tsp salt. Stir gently to coat.
2. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, until chicken shreds easily with a fork.
3. Transfer chicken to a bowl and shred with two forks. Stir back into the salsa mixture in the slow cooker to soak up the juices.
4. Serve topped with 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (if using).

The magic here? The salsa doubles as a marinade and sauce, keeping the chicken juicy while infusing it with bold, tangy flavor.

Tip: For extra richness, stir in 1/4 cup sour cream after shredding—it turns the salsa into a creamy, dreamy sauce!

Simple Slow Cooker Pot Roast

This melt-in-your-mouth pot roast is the ultimate hands-off dinner—just set it and forget it while your slow cooker does all the work.

Ingredients:

• 3–4 lb chuck roast
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 lb baby potatoes (halved if large)
• 3 large carrots, cut into 2-inch chunks
• 1 yellow onion, sliced

Instructions:

1. Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sear the roast on all sides until deeply browned (about 4 minutes per side). Transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Sprinkle the roast evenly with 1 tsp kosher salt, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp onion powder. Drizzle with 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce.
3. Pour 1 cup beef broth around the roast (not over it to keep the crust intact). Scatter potatoes, carrots, and onion around the meat.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 8–9 hours or HIGH for 5–6 hours, until the meat shreds easily with a fork.

The slow cooking transforms the beef into buttery-soft perfection while the veggies soak up all the rich juices. Serve it straight from the pot for a no-fuss comfort meal.

Tip: For extra flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of broth after searing and add those browned bits to the slow cooker.

3-Ingredient Honey Garlic Chicken

This sticky-sweet chicken is proof that big flavor doesn’t need a long ingredient list—just three pantry staples and 20 minutes!

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• ⅓ cup honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tbsp)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chicken and sprinkle with ¼ tsp black pepper. Cook 5–6 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to a plate.
2. In the same skillet, add ⅓ cup honey, 3 cloves minced garlic, and 2 tbsp soy sauce. Simmer 1 minute, stirring, until bubbly.
3. Return chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat. Cook 2–3 more minutes until glaze thickens and chicken reaches 165°F internally.

The magic here? The garlic caramelizes in the honey, creating a glossy sauce that clings perfectly to every bite. Serve over rice to soak it all up!

Tip: For extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.

Crock Pot Teriyaki Pork

This sweet-savory pork simmers all day in your slow cooker, turning fork-tender and soaking up all that sticky teriyaki goodness.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch chunks
• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine pork, 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/3 cup honey, 1/4 cup rice vinegar, 3 cloves minced garlic, and 1 tbsp grated ginger. Toss to coat.
2. Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until pork shreds easily with a fork.
3. Whisk together 1 tbsp cornstarch and 1 tbsp water in a small bowl. Stir into the slow cooker, then cook uncovered on HIGH for 15 minutes until sauce thickens.
4. Serve over rice, garnished with 1 tbsp sesame seeds and 2 sliced green onions.

The magic here? That glossy, caramelized sauce clings to every nook of the pork, giving you restaurant-quality flavor with zero fuss.

Tip: For extra depth, add a splash of pineapple juice with the soy sauce!

Easy Slow Cooker Chili

This hearty chili practically cooks itself, filling your kitchen with rich, smoky aromas while you go about your day.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until no pink remains, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
2. Transfer the beef to a 6-quart slow cooker. Add the onion, bell pepper, garlic, kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth.
3. Sprinkle in the 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir well to combine.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.

The slow simmer melds the spices into a deep, complex flavor while keeping the beans perfectly tender. Serve with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream for the ultimate cozy bowl.

Tip: For a thicker chili, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

3-Ingredient Creamy Ranch Potatoes

These 3-Ingredient Creamy Ranch Potatoes are the ultimate shortcut side dish—packed with flavor and ready in a flash!

• 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved (or quartered if large)
• 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss potatoes with 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix and 1/2 cup heavy cream in a large bowl until evenly coated.
2. Spread in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 30-35 minutes, stirring once halfway, until potatoes are tender and edges are crispy.

The magic here? The cream reduces into a velvety sauce while the ranch seasoning forms a savory crust on the potatoes—no chopping herbs or measuring spices required!

Tip: For extra browning, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end (watch closely!).

Slow Cooker Italian Beef

This melt-in-your-mouth Italian beef simmers all day in a savory broth with garlic and herbs, making it perfect for sandwiches or piled over mashed potatoes.

Ingredients:

• 3–4 lb chuck roast (trimmed of excess fat)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup pepperoncini juice (from the jar)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 8–10 pepperoncini peppers (sliced)

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sear the chuck roast on all sides until browned (about 3–4 minutes per side). Transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Pour 1 cup beef broth and 1/2 cup pepperoncini juice over the roast. Sprinkle evenly with 1 tbsp Italian seasoning, 2 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Scatter sliced pepperoncini peppers on top.
3. Cover and cook on LOW for 8–9 hours or HIGH for 5–6 hours, until the beef shreds easily with a fork.
4. Remove the beef, shred it, and return it to the slow cooker to soak up the juices for 10 minutes before serving.

The tangy pepperoncini juice and slow simmer create a rich, zesty gravy that clings to every tender bite—no extra sauce needed!

Tip: For extra flavor, toast hoagie rolls with provolone cheese under the broiler before loading them up with beef.

Simple Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

This creamy, hands-off mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp dry mustard
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Grease the inside of a 4-6 quart slow cooker with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Add the elbow macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, evaporated milk, whole milk, and melted butter to the crock pot. Stir gently to combine.
3. Sprinkle in the garlic powder (1/2 tsp), onion powder (1/2 tsp), dry mustard (1/2 tsp), salt (1/2 tsp), and black pepper (1/4 tsp). Stir again.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 2 hours, stirring once halfway through. The pasta should be tender and the sauce velvety.
5. Turn off the heat and let sit for 5 minutes (the sauce will thicken slightly). Stir before serving.

The evaporated milk keeps this mac and cheese extra creamy without grainy flour—no roux required!

Tip: For a crispy topping, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and broil for 2-3 minutes.

3-Ingredient Sweet and Sour Meatballs

These 3-ingredient sweet and sour meatballs are the ultimate weeknight lifesaver—packed with bold flavor and ready in under 30 minutes!

• 1 lb frozen fully cooked meatballs (homestyle or Italian)
• 1 cup grape jelly
• 1 cup chili sauce (like Heinz)

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, combine 1 cup grape jelly and 1 cup chili sauce. Stir until the jelly melts into a smooth glaze, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the frozen meatballs, stirring to coat evenly. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Uncover and simmer for another 5 minutes to let the sauce cling to the meatballs. Serve warm, with toothpicks for easy grabbing!

The magic here? The jelly and chili sauce caramelize into a glossy, sticky-sweet glaze that clings perfectly to every bite.

Tip: For a touch of heat, swap in spicy chili sauce or add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the jelly.

Crock Pot Garlic Butter Chicken

This Crock Pot Garlic Butter Chicken is the ultimate hands-off dinner—tender, juicy, and swimming in a rich, garlicky sauce that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

1. Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour melted butter and chicken broth evenly over the chicken.
2. Sprinkle minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper on top. Toss lightly to coat.
3. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until chicken reaches 165°F internally and is fork-tender.
4. Shred or slice chicken, then drizzle with the buttery sauce from the pot. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

The magic here? The slow cooker turns basic pantry staples into a luxuriously silky sauce that clings to every bite. Serve over mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak it all up!

Tip: For extra depth, add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes before cooking.

Easy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

This fuss-free pulled pork cooks low and slow until it’s fall-apart tender, with just 10 minutes of prep—perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or piled high on nachos.

Ingredients

• 4 lbs boneless pork shoulder (trimmed of excess fat)
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for serving)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 2 tsp garlic powder, 2 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over the pork shoulder.
2. Place the pork in a 6-quart slow cooker. Pour 1 cup chicken broth around the sides (not over the meat to keep the rub intact). Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 5 hours, until the meat shreds easily with a fork.
3. Transfer the pork to a large bowl, discarding any excess liquid. Shred the meat with two forks, then stir in 1/2 cup barbecue sauce.
4. Serve warm with extra barbecue sauce on the side.

The magic here? The dry rub caramelizes into a smoky-sweet crust while the pork cooks, adding depth without searing.

Tip: For crispy edges, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes before saucing.

3-Ingredient Creamy Mushroom Chicken

This cozy one-pan wonder proves that big flavor doesn’t need a long ingredient list—just juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety sauce that clings to every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Season chicken thighs with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper, then cook for 6 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to a plate.
2. In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and turn golden.
3. Pour in 1 cup heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over it. Cook for 2 more minutes to warm through.

The magic here? The cream reduces into a luscious pan sauce while keeping the chicken tender—no flour or broth needed.

Tip: For extra depth, add a splash of white wine to the mushrooms before the cream.

Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp

This fuss-free shrimp dish is bursting with bright lemon and savory garlic—perfect for busy weeknights when you want a meal that practically cooks itself.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. In a 4-qt crock pot, whisk together the melted butter, broth, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the shrimp, tossing gently to coat. Cover and cook on LOW for 1–1.5 hours or until shrimp are opaque and just cooked through (avoid overcooking).
3. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

The slow cooker keeps the shrimp tender while infusing them with a buttery, citrusy sauce that’s irresistible over pasta or crusty bread.

Tip: For extra richness, stir in 2 tbsp heavy cream during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Simple Slow Cooker Corn on the Cob

Let your slow cooker do the work with this fuss-free corn on the cob—tender, buttery, and packed with flavor without heating up the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of corn, husks removed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Rub each ear of corn evenly with 1 tbsp of butter, then sprinkle with 1/4 tsp salt, 1/8 tsp black pepper, and 1/8 tsp garlic powder.
2. Pour 1/4 cup water into the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker, then arrange the corn in a single layer (stacking slightly if needed).
3. Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 hours or LOW for 4 hours, until the kernels are plump and tender when pierced with a fork.

The slow cooker locks in moisture, giving the corn an almost steamed-and-grilled texture—rich buttery flavor in every bite!

Tip: For a smoky twist, swap garlic powder with 1/2 tsp smoked paprika.

3-Ingredient Cranberry Turkey Breast

This fuss-free turkey breast gets a sweet-tart kick from cranberry sauce, making it a weeknight hero or a stress-free holiday centerpiece.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3–4 lb) boneless, skin-on turkey breast
• 1 cup jellied cranberry sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Pat turkey breast dry with paper towels, then rub all over with 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tsp kosher salt.
2. Place turkey skin-side up in a roasting pan. Spread 1 cup cranberry sauce evenly over the top, letting some drip down the sides.
3. Roast for 50–60 minutes, until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F and the cranberry glaze is sticky and caramelized.
4. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. The cranberry layer forms a glossy, crackly crust that locks in juicy tenderness.

Tip: For extra flavor, stir 1 tsp orange zest into the cranberry sauce before spreading.

Crock Pot Maple Glazed Ham

This slow-cooked ham is fall-off-the-bone tender with a sticky-sweet maple glaze that caramelizes beautifully—perfect for holidays or Sunday supper.

Ingredients

• 1 (5–6 lb) bone-in fully cooked ham
• 1 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves

Instructions

1. Place the ham in a 6-quart slow cooker, flat side down.
2. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup maple syrup, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp cloves. Pour evenly over the ham.
3. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours, basting with glaze every hour, until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
4. Transfer the ham to a cutting board, tent with foil, and rest for 10 minutes. Pour the remaining glaze from the slow cooker into a saucepan and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Slice the ham and serve with the reduced glaze.

The magic here? The glaze doubles as a basting sauce and a finishing drizzle, layering flavor into every bite.

Tip: For extra caramelization, broil the sliced ham on a baking sheet for 2–3 minutes after glazing.

Easy Slow Cooker Apple Butter

This hands-off apple butter is packed with warm spices and caramelized sweetness—just set it and forget it!

Ingredients:

• 4 lbs apples (any sweet-tart variety like Honeycrisp or Gala), peeled, cored, and roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Combine apples, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt in a 6-quart slow cooker. Stir well to coat.
2. Cover and cook on LOW for 10 hours, stirring once halfway through. The apples should collapse into a thick, dark sauce.
3. Uncover and stir in vanilla extract. Use an immersion blender to puree until smooth (or transfer carefully to a blender in batches).
4. Cook uncovered on HIGH for 1–2 more hours, stirring occasionally, until the mixture mounds on a spoon without dripping.

The slow roasting deepens the apple flavor into something almost jammy, while the maple adds a subtle richness you won’t get from sugar alone.

Tip: For extra depth, add a tablespoon of bourbon with the vanilla in step 3.

Conclusion

With these 20 easy 3-ingredient crock pot recipes, busy days just got a whole lot tastier! Whether you’re craving comfort food or a quick fix, these fuss-free meals are sure to save time without sacrificing flavor. Give them a try, and don’t forget to share your favorites in the comments or pin this article for later—happy slow cooking!