5-Ingredient Dump and Go Slow Cooker Meals

Got a busy schedule but still want to whip up something delicious for dinner? Say hello to dump and go crockpot recipes! These meals are a lifesaver when you just want to throw a few ingredients into the slow cooker and forget about it. Perfect for those hectic weeknights when time is short and patience is even shorter. With just five ingredients, you can have a tasty meal ready by the time you get home. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these recipes are so easy, anyone can make them.

Key Takeaways

• Slow Cooker BBQ Shredded Chicken is simple and versatile, perfect for sandwiches or tacos.
• Buffalo Chicken in the slow cooker is a spicy, no-fuss meal for game days or casual dinners.
• Cheesy Spinach Tortellini offers a creamy, veggie-packed pasta dish with minimal prep.
• Baked Ziti in the slow cooker combines pasta and cheese for a comforting, hands-off meal.
• Salsa Pulled Chicken is a quick, flavorful option for tacos or salads with just a few ingredients.

1. Slow Cooker BBQ Shredded Chicken

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both simple and delicious, this Slow Cooker BBQ Shredded Chicken is a great choice. With just five ingredients, you can create a dish that’s perfect for sandwiches, salads, or even tacos. Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients

• 2 lbs of chicken breast or thighs
• 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure it’s evenly spread out for consistent cooking.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Combine and Cook: Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return it to the slow cooker to soak up more flavor.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the shredded chicken on buns for sandwiches or over a salad.

This dish is a lifesaver on busy days. Just dump everything in the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner time, you have a meal that’s bursting with flavor.

For a flavorful pulled barbecue chicken, this recipe combines the tanginess of vinegar with the sweetness of brown sugar, creating a perfect balance that enhances the BBQ sauce. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the rich taste it offers!

2. Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken

Looking for a meal that’s as easy as it is tasty? Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken is your answer. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish that will be the star of your dinner table.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup of your favorite buffalo wing sauce
• 1 packet of ranch dressing mix
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 1 tablespoon of garlic powder

Instructions

1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, mix together the buffalo wing sauce, ranch dressing mix, and garlic powder.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken.
4. Add the butter on top.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is tender.
6. Once done, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it well with the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve on a bun for a spicy sandwich.
• Use as a topping for nachos.
• Pair with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for a classic combo.

Tip: This dish is perfect for game day or any casual gathering. It’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.

Buffalo Chicken in the slow cooker is a game-changer. It’s simple, delicious, and versatile enough to use in various meals. Enjoy the spicy, tangy goodness with your favorite sides or as a main dish!

3. Cheesy Spinach Slow Cooker Tortellini

If you’re in the mood for something comforting yet simple, this Cheesy Spinach Slow Cooker Tortellini is the way to go. It’s a dish that promises a hearty meal with minimal fuss—just what busy days call for.

Ingredients

• 1 package (20 ounces) of refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 2 cups of fresh spinach
• 2 cups of marinara sauce
• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Layer the Ingredients: In your slow cooker, start by spreading a layer of marinara sauce. Add half of the tortellini, followed by fresh spinach and half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
2. Cook: Cover and set your slow cooker to low. Let it cook for about 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tortellini is tender.
3. Serve: Give it a gentle stir before serving to mix the layers slightly. Dish it out hot, and enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness!

“This tortellini dish is like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those evenings when you crave something easy yet satisfying.”

Tips

• Feel free to add your favorite herbs, like basil or oregano, for an extra burst of flavor.
• You can substitute the spinach with kale if you prefer a bit more texture.

This recipe is a delightful addition to any meal plan and proves that simplicity can lead to delicious results. It’s perfect for those who want a no-fuss dinner that still feels special. If you’re a fan of slow cooker meals, don’t miss out on exploring more delicious slow cooker chili recipes that are equally comforting and easy to make.

4. Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

Who doesn’t love a comforting plate of baked ziti? Now imagine it simmering all day in your slow cooker, ready to greet you with a warm hug of cheesy goodness when you walk in the door. This recipe is perfect for those busy days when you want a hearty meal without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of ziti pasta
• 24 oz jar of marinara sauce
• 2 cups of ricotta cheese
• 2 cups of mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup of Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Start by boiling the ziti for about half the time recommended on the package. This ensures it won’t turn to mush in the slow cooker.
2. Layer it up: In the slow cooker, layer half of the cooked ziti, half of the marinara sauce, and half of each cheese. Repeat the layers.
3. Set and forget: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips

• Use a good quality marinara sauce to enhance the flavor.
• For added spice, sprinkle red pepper flakes between the layers.

Nothing beats coming home to the smell of a delicious meal that’s been cooking all day. Slow cooker baked ziti is the definition of comfort food made easy.

For more cozy slow cooker ideas, check out our savory slow cooker pot roast recipes that cater to every taste, from classic to Italian flavors.

5. Slow Cooker Salsa Pulled Chicken

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both simple and packed with flavor, this Slow Cooker Salsa Pulled Chicken is the way to go. With just two ingredients, it’s almost too easy to make. All you need is some chicken and your favorite salsa. Toss them in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts or thighs
• Jar of salsa

Instructions

1. Place the chicken in the slow cooker.
2. Pour the salsa over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-covered.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
4. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks.
5. Serve in tacos, burritos, or over rice for a delicious meal.

The beauty of this dish is its versatility. You can use the chicken in various meals throughout the week. It’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or even a salad topping.

For those who love experimenting with flavors, try using different types of salsa. A smoky chipotle salsa or a tangy tomatillo salsa can transform the dish and give it a unique twist. This recipe is a great addition to your crockpot taco recipes collection, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.

Wrapping It Up

So there you have it, folks! With these 5-ingredient slow cooker meals, dinner doesn’t have to be a hassle. Just toss everything in, let it do its thing, and enjoy a tasty meal without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re juggling work, kids, or just want a no-fuss dinner, these recipes have got your back. Give them a try and see how easy dinner can be. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a dump dinner?

A dump dinner is a meal where you toss all the ingredients into a pot, like a slow cooker, and let it cook without much prep work.

How many ingredients do these recipes use?

Each recipe uses only five ingredients or less, making them simple and quick to prepare.

Can I prepare these meals in advance?

Yes, you can prep the meals ahead of time by putting all the ingredients in a bag and storing it in the fridge or freezer.

Do I need to brown meat before adding it to the slow cooker?

No, for these dump dinners, you don’t need to brown the meat beforehand. Just add everything to the slow cooker.

Are these recipes suitable for busy weeknights?

Absolutely! These recipes are perfect for busy nights because you just dump the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work.

What types of meals can I make with these recipes?

You can make a variety of meals, including sandwiches, tacos, soups, and salads, all with just five ingredients.