12 Budget-Friendly Crock Pot Recipes to Feed a Family of 4 for Under $10

Feeding a family of four can get pricey, but it doesn't have to be! With these budget-friendly crock pot recipes, you can whip up satisfying and delicious meals for under $10. Perfect for busy weeknights, these dishes are simple to prepare and will keep everyone at the table happy and full without breaking the bank.

Hearty Chili For A Cozy Family Dinner

Chili is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction, making it perfect for family dinners. This hearty chili is not just filling; it’s also budget-friendly, costing under $10 to make for a family of four. The image shows a steaming bowl of chili topped with fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes, served alongside fluffy cornbread. The rich colors and textures invite you to dig in and enjoy a cozy meal together.

Making chili in a crock pot is simple and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can throw in your favorite beans, ground meat, and spices, letting it simmer all day while you go about your routine. When dinner time rolls around, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• Fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes for garnish

Instructions

1. Brown the Meat: In a skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Add Ingredients: Transfer the meat to the crock pot. Add kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and broth.
3. Mix and Cook: Stir everything together until well combined. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve: Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes.
5. Enjoy: Serve with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.

Classic Beef Stew Packed With Flavor

Beef stew is a timeless dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. This classic recipe is perfect for families looking to enjoy a hearty meal without breaking the bank. The image shows a delicious bowl of beef stew, brimming with tender meat, vibrant carrots, and hearty potatoes, all swimming in a rich, savory broth. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness, making it not just tasty but also visually appealing.

Cooking this stew in a crock pot makes it easy and convenient. You can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time. It’s a great way to bring the family together at the dinner table, especially on chilly evenings.

Now, let’s get to the recipe so you can whip up this delightful dish!

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cut into cubes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 bay leaf
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Brown the Meat: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides. This step adds depth to the flavor.
2. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the browned beef to the crock pot. Add the potatoes, carrots, onion, garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
4. Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy with crusty bread!

Simple And Delicious Vegetable Soup

This vegetable soup is a fantastic way to feed a family of four without breaking the bank. Packed with colorful veggies, it’s not only healthy but also easy to make. The vibrant mix of green beans, corn, carrots, and tomatoes creates a comforting dish that everyone will love.

Using a crock pot makes this recipe even simpler. Just toss in your ingredients, set it, and let it do the work. The aroma of the soup cooking will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait for dinner!

Here’s how to whip up this delightful vegetable soup:

Ingredients

• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Chop all your veggies and set them aside.
2. Combine Ingredients: In your crock pot, add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, green beans, corn, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy! You can add some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese on top if you like.

GET 21 QUICK & EASY LOW-CALORIE MEAL PLANS

Sweet And Tangy Bbq Pulled Pork

Sweet and tangy BBQ pulled pork is a family favorite that’s easy to make and budget-friendly. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The image shows a delicious pulled pork sandwich, topped with rich BBQ sauce, served alongside a refreshing coleslaw. The vibrant colors of the slaw contrast beautifully with the warm, savory pork, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

To create this mouthwatering meal, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. Serve it on soft buns for a satisfying dinner that your family will love.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork shoulder
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 hamburger buns
• Coleslaw for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Place it in the slow cooker.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture over the pork in the slow cooker.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
4. Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce.
5. Serve: Spoon the pulled pork onto hamburger buns and top with coleslaw if desired. Enjoy your sweet and tangy BBQ pulled pork!

Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs

When you think of a simple yet delicious meal, Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs come to mind. This dish is perfect for a family of four and can be made for under $10. The image shows beautifully cooked chicken thighs garnished with fresh lemon slices and herbs, giving it a vibrant look that matches its flavor.

The combination of lemon and garlic adds a refreshing twist to the chicken. It’s an easy recipe that requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, using chicken thighs keeps the dish juicy and flavorful.

Let’s get into the ingredients and steps to whip up this delightful meal!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or bowl and pour the marinade over them. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for more flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs in your crock pot. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Serve: Once done, garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Enjoy your zesty chicken with rice or a fresh salad!

Tantalizing Beef And Broccoli Stir-Fry

Beef and broccoli stir-fry is a classic dish that brings together tender beef, fresh broccoli, and a savory sauce. This meal is not only delicious but also budget-friendly, making it perfect for a family of four. The vibrant colors of the broccoli and the rich brown of the beef create an inviting plate that’s hard to resist.

In this recipe, you’ll find simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. The beef is marinated to ensure it’s juicy and tender, while the broccoli adds a nice crunch. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Add the sliced beef and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the beef is marinating, wash and cut the broccoli, mushrooms, and bell pepper.
3. Cook the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger. Stir for about 30 seconds, then add broccoli, mushrooms, and bell pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Combine and Serve: Return the beef to the skillet, mix everything together, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Serve hot over cooked rice.

Classic Italian Meatballs In Marinara Sauce

Classic Italian meatballs in marinara sauce are a family favorite. They’re hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy dinner. The image shows a plate of spaghetti topped with juicy meatballs, smothered in rich marinara sauce, and garnished with fresh basil. On the side, you can see some grated cheese and a bowl of extra sauce, making it a complete meal.

This dish is not just delicious; it’s budget-friendly too. You can whip up a satisfying meal for four without breaking the bank. The ingredients are simple and often found in your pantry. Plus, cooking in a crock pot makes it easy. Just mix everything, let it simmer, and enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• Spaghetti, for serving

Instructions

1. Mix the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Cook in the Crock Pot: Place the meatballs in the crock pot and pour marinara sauce over them. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Cook the Spaghetti: About 30 minutes before serving, cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
5. Serve: Plate the spaghetti, top with meatballs and sauce, and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

GET 8-WEEKS OF WORKOUTS TO LOSE INCHES

Nutritious Quinoa And Black Bean Salad

This quinoa and black bean salad is a colorful and healthy option for families looking to eat well on a budget. Packed with fresh ingredients like tomatoes, corn, and avocado, it’s not only nutritious but also visually appealing. The combination of quinoa and black beans provides a great source of protein, making it a filling meal for everyone.

The salad is easy to prepare and can be made in advance, perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s versatile! You can add or substitute any veggies you have on hand. Serve it as a main dish or a side, and it’s sure to please.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium pot, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until water is absorbed.
2. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro.
4. Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later. Enjoy your healthy meal!

Delicious Chicken And Rice Casserole

This Chicken and Rice Casserole is a perfect meal for families looking to keep their budget in check. It’s simple to make, filling, and packed with flavor. The creamy texture and tender chicken make it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, which means less cleanup for you!

The image shows a beautifully baked casserole, golden on top with hints of herbs sprinkled throughout. The warm, inviting look makes it hard to resist. It’s served in a rustic dish, surrounded by fresh herbs and soft lighting, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for family dinners.

Gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up this easy recipe. It’s not just budget-friendly; it’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken or rice!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Fold in the frozen peas and half of the cheese.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Spread it evenly and top with the remaining cheese.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired before serving.

Spicy Sausage And Peppers For A Flavor Burst

Spicy sausage and peppers is a dish that brings a delightful kick to your dinner table. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and the juicy sausages create a feast for both the eyes and the palate. This recipe is not only budget-friendly but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy families.

The combination of sweet bell peppers and spicy sausage creates a wonderful balance of flavors. The peppers soften and release their sweetness as they cook, while the sausage adds a hearty element. Serve this dish with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Ingredients

• 1 pound spicy Italian sausage
• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Crusty bread for serving

Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add sliced bell peppers and onion. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Return the sausage to the skillet and mix well.
4. Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with crusty bread.

Classic Tuna Casserole For A Family Favorite

Tuna casserole is a classic dish that many families love. It's warm, comforting, and easy to make. The image shows a beautifully baked tuna casserole, golden and bubbly, ready to be served. The cozy kitchen setting adds to the inviting feel of this meal.

This dish is not only budget-friendly but also packed with flavor. It combines tuna, pasta, and a creamy sauce, making it a filling option for dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to use pantry staples, keeping costs low while feeding a family of four.

Gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 cups egg noodles
• 1 can (15 oz) tuna, drained
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles: Boil the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, frozen peas, milk, garlic powder, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir in the cooked noodles.
3. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. If you like a crunchy topping, add breadcrumbs as well.
5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 25-30 minutes until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
6. Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious tuna casserole!

Sweet And Spicy Honey Garlic Meatballs

Sweet and spicy honey garlic meatballs are a delicious way to feed your family without breaking the bank. These meatballs are packed with flavor, combining the sweetness of honey with a hint of spice. They make a perfect meal for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.

The image shows a beautiful bowl of meatballs, glistening with a sticky sauce and topped with fresh green onions and sesame seeds. The warm colors and inviting presentation make them look irresistible. Served with chopsticks, they bring a fun twist to your dinner table.

Making these meatballs is simple and budget-friendly. You can whip them up in your crock pot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Plus, they are sure to please both kids and adults!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, and soy sauce. Mix until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and sesame oil.
4. Place the meatballs in the crock pot and pour the honey garlic sauce over them.
5. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until meatballs are cooked through.
6. Before serving, sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a fresh touch.

Struggling to Stay on Track with Your Eating?

You’re not alone. One of the biggest obstacles I see people face is not knowing what to eat. Between busy schedules, endless diet advice online, and trying to cook healthy meals that actually taste good—it’s easy to feel stuck or overwhelmed.

That’s why I created my 21 Quick & Easy Custom Low-Calorie Meal Plans Program. These plans are built specifically for you—your goals, your lifestyle, and your food preferences. You won’t find any cookie-cutter diets here. Just real, satisfying meals that help you stay full, energized, and on track without the stress.

✅ No more guessing.
✅ No more skipping meals or eating “diet food” you hate.
✅ Just a clear, doable plan that fits your life.

👉 Ready to eat better, feel better, and finally make progress? [Click here to get your custom meal plans today.]

---

Not Seeing the Inches Drop No Matter What You Do?

If you’re working out but still not seeing the results in the mirror, I hear you. So many people come to me after months of doing cardio or random workouts—and still struggling to lose inches or tone up. The truth is, your body needs more than just movement. It needs a proven strategy.

My 8-Week Workout Program to Lose Inches is designed to do just that—burn fat, tighten up, and give you visible results. These workouts are fun, effective, and designed for real people with real lives. Whether you’re getting back into fitness or ready to take it to the next level, this program gives you a clear path to success.

✅ Just 8 weeks to build strength, confidence, and a fitter shape.
✅ No endless cardio.
✅ No gym required (unless you want it).

👉 If you're ready to drop inches and feel amazing in your own skin, [click here to start the 8-Week Workout Program].