4-Hour Quick Crock Pot Recipes

Cooking delicious meals doesn’t have to take all day. These 4-hour Crock-Pot recipes keep things simple and quick, giving you homemade comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen.

Perfect for a family dinner or a small get-together, they’re easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to satisfy. Just turn your slow cooker to high and you’ll have a warm, hearty meal ready fast.

1. Chuck Roast with Vegetables

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time (High): 4 hours | Serves: 6

Chuck roast with vegetables is a classic comfort meal. The beef becomes incredibly tender as it cooks, soaking up all the rich flavors of the broth and seasonings. The vegetables add the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. This dish is great for a hearty family dinner and pairs well with mashed potatoes or rice.

Ingredients

• 3 lb chuck roast
• 4 carrots, chopped
• 3 potatoes, cubed
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Place the chuck roast in the Crock-Pot.
2. Add the chopped carrots, potatoes, and sliced onion around the meat.
3. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Sprinkle the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme over the top.
5. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours.
6. Once done, shred the beef with a fork and serve with the vegetables.

2. Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time (High): 4 hours | Serves: 4

This Crock-Pot chicken and gravy is creamy, rich, and absolutely delicious. The chicken becomes so tender that it falls apart easily. The thick and savory gravy makes this dish perfect for serving over rice or mashed potatoes. It’s comfort food at its finest!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning
• 1 packet (1 oz) dry chicken gravy mix
• 1 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Place the chicken breasts in the Crock-Pot.
2. In a bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, ranch seasoning, and chicken gravy mix.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
4. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours.
5. Shred the chicken with two forks and mix well with the gravy.
6. Serve over mashed potatoes or rice.

3. Chicken and Dumplings

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time (High): 4 hours | Serves: 6

Chicken and dumplings is creamy, hearty, and packed with tender chicken and soft dumplings. It’s perfect for a chilly evening when you want something warm and filling. The dumplings cook right in the broth, soaking up all the delicious flavors. I love how easy it is to make in the crock pot—just toss in the ingredients and let it do the work. This recipe is a family favorite that always brings smiles to the table!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough, cut into quarters

Instructions

1. Place the chicken breasts, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, onion, carrots, celery, salt, pepper, and thyme into the Crock-Pot.
2. Cover and cook on high for 3.5 hours.
3. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the Crock-Pot.
4. Add the biscuit dough pieces, stir gently, and cook for another 30 minutes until dumplings are fully cooked.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!

4. Crock Pot Chili

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time (High): 4 hours | Serves: 6

This Crock-Pot chili is packed with bold flavors and a rich, hearty texture. It’s perfect for game nights, cold weather, or whenever you’re craving something comforting and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, then drain excess fat.
2. Add the cooked beef, onion, garlic, beans, tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth to the Crock-Pot.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours.
5. Serve hot with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.

5. Crockpot Mac and Cheese

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time (High): 4 hours | Serves: 6

Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food, and making it in a crock pot makes it even easier! This recipe creates creamy, cheesy pasta that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. I love how the cheese melts perfectly, creating a rich and delicious sauce. The best part? No need to boil the pasta separately—the slow cooker does all the work. This dish is great as a main meal or a side dish with your favorite protein. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to boxed mac and cheese!

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp mustard powder
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

Instructions

1. Add the uncooked macaroni, shredded cheeses, milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, mustard powder, and melted butter to the Crock-Pot.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve warm and enjoy!

6. Crock Pot Meatballs and Sauce

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time (High): 4 hours | Serves: 6

These tender meatballs simmer in a rich tomato sauce, making them perfect for serving over pasta or as a delicious appetizer.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, garlic powder, and oregano.
2. Form the mixture into small meatballs.
3. Place the meatballs in the Crock-Pot and pour the marinara sauce over them.
4. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours.
5. Serve over pasta or enjoy as is!

7. Crock Pot Chicken Tacos

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time (High): 4 hours | Serves: 6

These crock pot chicken tacos are one of my go-to meals when I need something easy and delicious. The chicken turns out so juicy and flavorful, absorbing all the spices and salsa as it cooks. You can use this shredded chicken for tacos, burritos, nachos, or even salads. The best part? It requires minimal prep—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. Serve with your favorite toppings like cheese, avocado, and sour cream for the perfect taco night!

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Soft tortillas for serving
• Toppings: shredded lettuce, cheese, sour cream, avocado, lime wedges

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken breasts in the crock pot.
2. Add salsa, taco seasoning, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, and salt.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and mix everything well.
4. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours until the chicken is tender.
5. Shred the chicken using two forks.
6. Serve in tortillas with your favorite toppings.

8. Honey Garlic Chicken

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time (High): 4 hours | Serves: 4

This honey garlic chicken is one of the easiest and tastiest crock pot meals you can make! The chicken turns out incredibly tender, and the sauce is packed with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. I love serving this dish over rice or steamed vegetables because the sauce is just too good to waste! You can even shred the chicken and use it in sandwiches or wraps. With just a few simple ingredients, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Place chicken thighs in the crock pot.
2. In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, ketchup, oregano, and black pepper.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken and cover.
4. Cook on high for 4 hours until the chicken is tender.
5. Remove the chicken and set aside. Mix cornstarch and water, then stir into the sauce to thicken.
6. Serve the chicken with the thickened sauce over rice or vegetables.

9. Crock Pot Beef Stew with Red Wine

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time (High): 4 hours | Serves: 6

This hearty beef stew with red wine is perfect for a cozy meal. The beef becomes incredibly tender as it slow cooks in a rich, flavorful broth. The red wine adds depth and richness, making this dish feel extra special. It’s packed with carrots, potatoes, and herbs, creating a well-balanced meal. I love making this stew when I want something filling and satisfying without much effort. Serve it with crusty bread for the perfect comforting dinner!

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 1 cup red wine
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf

Instructions:

1. Toss the beef in flour to coat.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan and brown the beef on all sides.
3. Transfer the beef to the crock pot.
4. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes.
5. Pour in red wine and beef broth.
6. Add thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
7. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours until beef is tender.
8. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
9. Serve hot with crusty bread.

10. Crock Pot Ribs

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time (High): 4 hours | Serves: 4

I love making these crock pot ribs because they turn out so tender and full of flavor. The slow cooking process makes the meat juicy, and the spices give it the perfect balance of smoky and sweet. The best part? No need to babysit them while they cook. Just set it and forget it! When they’re done, brush them with barbecue sauce for a delicious finishing touch.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork baby back ribs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 cup barbecue sauce

Instructions:

1. Cut the ribs into smaller sections to fit in the crock pot.
2. Rub the ribs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and chili powder.
3. Place the ribs in the crock pot, meat side up.
4. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours.
5. Brush the ribs with barbecue sauce and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

11. Crockpot Sausage and Peppers

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time (High): 4 hours | Serves: 4

Sausage and peppers is one of my favorite easy meals. It’s simple, flavorful, and pairs well with pasta, rice, or a crusty roll. The slow cooker makes the sausage juicy and allows the flavors of the peppers, onions, and spices to mix perfectly. You’ll love how effortless it is to prepare this dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 Italian sausages
• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Place sausages in the crock pot.
2. Add sliced bell peppers, onions, and garlic.
3. Pour diced tomatoes over the top and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
4. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours.
5. Serve warm over pasta or in a sub roll.

12. Crock Pot Lentil Soup

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time (High): 4 hours | Serves: 6

This lentil soup is warm, hearty, and perfect for a healthy meal. It’s packed with protein and nutrients while being easy to make. I love how the flavors come together as it simmers, making it rich and satisfying. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and great for meal prep!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to the crock pot.
2. Stir well, cover, and cook on high for 4 hours.
3. Stir and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Serve warm with bread.

13. Chicken and Wild Rice

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time (High): 4 hours | Serves: 4

Chicken and wild rice is one of my favorite comfort meals. It’s creamy, flavorful, and super easy to make. The slow cooker does all the work while the rice soaks up the delicious flavors. This dish is filling and perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup wild rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme

Instructions:

1. Place chicken, rice, and broth in the crock pot.
2. Add seasonings and stir well.
3. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours.
4. Stir in heavy cream before serving.

14. Crock Pot Apple Crisp

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time (High): 4 hours | Serves: 6

Apple crisp is one of my go-to desserts because it’s so easy and comforting. The apples become soft and sweet, while the oat topping turns golden and crunchy. It’s the perfect treat to enjoy with a scoop of ice cream!

Ingredients:

• 4 apples, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup oats
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Place apples in the crock pot.
2. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over apples.
3. Combine oats, flour, and melted butter to form a crumble.
4. Sprinkle the topping over apples.
5. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours.
6. Serve warm with ice cream.

15. Beef and Broccoli

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time (High): 4 hours | Serves: 4

Beef and broccoli is an easy way to enjoy a restaurant-style meal at home. The beef gets super tender in the crock pot, and the sauce is rich and flavorful. It pairs perfectly with rice for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef, sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. Place beef, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger in the crock pot.
2. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours.
3. Stir in broccoli and cook for 10 more minutes.
4. Mix cornstarch with water and stir into the sauce.
5. Serve over rice.

16. Crockpot Creamy Potato Soup

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time (High): 4 hours | Serves: 6

This creamy potato soup is pure comfort in a bowl. It’s warm, rich, and packed with flavors that make every bite irresistible. I love making this on cold nights when I want something filling yet simple. With tender potatoes, creamy broth, and just the right amount of seasoning, this soup is a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
• Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Place diced potatoes, onion, and garlic into the crock pot.
2. Pour in the broth and add salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours until the potatoes are soft.
4. Use a hand blender to puree the soup for a smoother texture or leave it chunky.
5. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese, mixing until melted.
6. Serve hot, topped with crumbled bacon and green onions.

17. Crock Pot Ham and Beans

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time (High): 4 hours | Serves: 6

This crock pot ham and beans recipe is a comforting and hearty meal that always reminds me of home. It’s packed with protein and full of smoky, savory flavors. The beans cook until they are soft and creamy, and the ham adds an extra layer of deliciousness. This dish is perfect for using up leftover ham and makes for a satisfying, budget-friendly meal. Serve it with cornbread for the ultimate comfort food experience!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried great northern beans, rinsed
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• 1 bay leaf

Instructions:

1. Rinse and drain the beans.
2. Place beans, ham, onion, and garlic into the crock pot.
3. Pour in water or chicken broth and add salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf.
4. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours until beans are tender.
5. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
6. Serve hot with cornbread or over rice.

Conclusion

Cooking at home can sometimes feel tough, but these 4-hour Crock-Pot recipes make it super easy. You get yummy food like juicy roast, gooey mac and cheese, or tasty chili without much work. The slow cooker does it all while you relax or play. These meals are simple yet amazing, making basic stuff taste awesome.

We hope you try these recipes soon and love them. Tell us how it went, and follow us on Pinterest for more fun ideas to keep your kitchen exciting!