25 Vegetarian Slow-Cooker Recipes to Make on Repeat

Most people associate their slow cooker with meaty mains, like pulled pork or braised short ribs. However, this handy gadget is just as useful when cooking up vegetarian recipes, too. It can whip up everything from veggie soups to meatless lasagnas with ease. And you can even use your slow cooker to make dessert. With so many delicious options, where do you start? Minestrone is one of the heartiest vegetarian meals you can make and, luckily for us, it’s even better when made in the slow cooker. Cooking the beans low and slow lets them soften up and become perfectly tender, without turning to mush.

One of the best things about grits is that they can be enjoyed savory or sweet, as long as they’re prepared properly. We love this recipe that takes the guesswork out of the prep process—just toss grits, milk, butter and salt into the slow cooker and set it on low. Make sure to have your favorite toppings prepped, grits make the perfect base for cheddar cheese or warm maple syrup.

Soup is extra delicious when it’s cooked low and slow, giving flavors time to develop and expand. Your slow cooker is sure to come in handy for any soup recipe, and it’s particularly great for this bean and barley option. It’s packed with hearty vegetables like spinach, carrots and mushrooms, which makes it a filling and nourishing meal, any day of the week.

Braised artichokes are an elegant appetizer that make it look like you’ve been fussing over them all day. That’s hardly the case with this simple recipe—just stuff with the breadcrumb mixture and place in your slow cooker. Guests will love peeling away each crunchy, garlicky layer.