23 Slow Cooker and Air Fryer Recipes That Justify Buying a New Appliance

If you’ve ever wondered if a slow cooker or air fryer is really worth the counter space, these recipes will prove they are. From set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker meals to crispy, golden air fryer dishes, these easy recipes deliver big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re juggling hectic weeknights or just want a no-fuss way to cook, these tried-and-true favorites will have you loving your new appliance in no time.

Slow Cooker Beef Stew

This slow cooker beef stew is the definition of comfort food and exactly why slow cooker earns its spot on your counter. Tender beef, hearty veggies, and a rich broth cook low and slow, making this the kind of warm, hearty meal you’ll want on repeat. It’s one of those dishes that proves your slow cooker is worth every inch of space it takes up.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Apricot Chicken

Your slow cooker turns this apricot chicken into an absolute breeze. Tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory apricot glaze creates a dish that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to prepare. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you grateful for your slow cooker, as the hands-off cooking simplifies dinner without compromising on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Apricot Chicken

Slow Cooker Spinach and Artichoke Dip

This slow-cooker spinach and artichoke dip is the ultimate party MVP and a perfect example of why slow cookers are total game-changers. Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, this warm dip comes together with hardly any effort at all. It’s always a crowd-pleaser and will remind you why having a slow cooker on standby is never a decision you’ll regret.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Air Fryer Pork Chops

The air fryer takes these pork chops from simple to impressive in just 9 minutes. They cook to a perfect golden crisp on the outside while staying juicy and tender inside. This recipe alone makes it clear why an air fryer is a total game-changer and deserves a spot on your counter.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Chops

Slow Cooker Taco Soup

Packed with tender chicken, cabbage, and flavorful spices, this slow cooker taco soup is both hearty and effortless. It’s the kind of comforting, cozy meal that makes you appreciate your slow cooker even more. Simply toss everything in, and by dinner time, you’ll have a delicious, irresistible bowl of goodness ready to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Taco Soup

Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Chicken

This cheesy ranch chicken is a slow cooker favorite that’s sure to impress. Tender chicken, creamy ranch sauce, and gooey melted cheese come together effortlessly for a dish that feels indulgent yet requires almost no work. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a pro, all thanks to the magic of your slow cooker.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Chicken

Slow Cooker Mulled Wine

With fruity red wine, warm spices, and honey, this slow-cooker mulled wine will fill your house with a cozy, inviting aroma. Perfect for special ocassions, it’s the ultimate comfort drink with minimal work. This recipe is a reminder of how much the slow cooker enhances every special gathering.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mulled Wine

Salsa Chicken in Slow Cooker

This slow cooker salsa chicken is the perfect blend of ease and flavor. Tender chicken breasts simmer in your favorite salsa, creating a juicy, delicious dish ideal for tacos, salads, or nachos. This simple, flavorful recipe is proof that your slow cooker is worth it, turning effortless meals into crowd-pleasing favorites.
Get the Recipe: Salsa Chicken in Slow Cooker

Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

If you’re still wondering if an air fryer is worth it, these zucchini fries will seal the deal. Lightly seasoned and crisped to perfection, they’re the perfect way to enjoy that crunchy goodness without the guilt. They’re so good that you’ll wonder why you didn’t get an air fryer sooner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

Slow Cooker Pot Roast

This slow cooker pot roast is the ultimate hands-off comfort meal. The beef turns out melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the rich gravy brings everything together. Every time you make this, It will remind you why your slow cooker is the best dinner shortcut you’ve ever invested in.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Breakfast Sausage

Whether it’s a lazy Saturday or a hectic weekday morning, this method is simple, easy, and ensures perfectly crisp sausage every time. The air fryer makes cooking breakfast sausage a total breeze, one of those air fryer wins that makes mornings a whole lot better.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Sausage

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender broccoli, this slow-cooker broccoli cheddar soup is the ultimate comfort meal for chilly nights. It’s the cozy, delicious bowl you crave when the weather turns cold. If your slow cooker has been collecting dust, this recipe is the perfect excuse to bring it out again.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

This slow cooker beef and broccoli is so easy, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with takeout. Tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory ginger-garlic sauce come together effortlessly for a delicious, restaurant-quality meal. If you’re still on the fence about owning a slow cooker, this recipe will definitely convince you.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Your slow cooker is the secret weapon for creating crowd-pleasing snacks with almost no effort. This spinach artichoke dip is creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious every time. It’s the kind of recipe that keeps your slow cooker working overtime, making entertaining a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip

Apple Butter

Homemade apple butter in the slow cooker is a fall essential. With sweet apples, warm spices, and just the right amount of sweetness, it’s perfect for spreading on toast, stirring into oatmeal, or eating by the spoonful. It’s one of those treats that makes your slow cooker feel like the best kitchen investment ever.
Get the Recipe: Apple Butter

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

Looking for a reason to justify the space your slow cooker takes up? This beef stroganoff is a perfect example of its magic. Tender beef, savory mushrooms, and a creamy sauce come together effortlessly for a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, and so simple you’ll be making it on repeat for years.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

Slow Cooker Applesauce

This slow cooker applesauce is so delicious, you’ll forget store-bought versions even exist. Sweet, caramelized apples blended with cinnamon create the coziest, most comforting side dish. It’s the perfect example of why the slow cooker is an indispensable kitchen tool that makes homemade goodness effortless.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Applesauce

Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

These slow cooker mashed potatoes are a game-changer for busy holidays and weeknights. Creamy, fluffy, and packed with garlic, they come together without any stovetop hassle. This easy recipe is the perfect reminder of why your slow cooker is the ultimate tool for stress-free, delicious meals.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

Chicken Paprikash

Slow cooker chicken paprikash is my go-to comfort meal for chilly nights. Tender chicken, rich paprika sauce, and a creamy finish make this Hungarian-inspired dish an instant favorite. If you’re still wondering if a slow cooker is worth it, this recipe will convince you.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Beef Shank in the Slow Cooker

This slow cooker beef shank is a rich, hearty dish that’s perfect for cozy, comforting dinners. The slow cooking process makes the meat incredibly tender, practically falling off the bone, while the deep, savory flavor is truly mouthwatering. It’s one of those meals that will make you grateful your slow cooker does all the work for you.
Get the Recipe: Beef Shank in the Slow Cooker

Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie with Cauliflower Mash

Slow cooker shepherd’s pie is the ultimate weeknight winner. Packed with seasoned ground beef, hearty veggies, and a fluffy cauliflower mash topping, it’s both comforting and delicious. If you’re looking for a recipe that truly shows off the magic of your slow cooker, this is it.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie with Cauliflower Mash

Grandma’s Hearty Offal Stew

Grandma’s hearty offal stew is proof that old-school recipes are always a win. With tender beef heart, kidney, and a rich broth, this stew turns lesser-known cuts into a comforting and hearty dish. If you’re on the hunt for a traditional, no-fuss recipe that justifies your slow cooker purchase, this one’s a keeper.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Hearty Offal Stew

Sweet Potato Fries

These air fryer sweet potato fries are the perfect snack whenever you’re craving something crispy and full of flavor. Lightly tossed in olive oil and seasonings, they cook up perfectly golden and tender with hardly any oil. If you’re still on the fence about getting an air fryer, these fries will definitely convince you it’s worth it.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries