16 Easy Crockpot Recipes for Two

When I first started cooking for just the two of us, I realized how tricky it could be to find recipes that weren’t too big or too complicated.

That’s when I discovered Crockpot Recipes for Two—a game changer for simple, delicious meals. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a quick snack for a small gathering, the Crockpot makes everything easier.

One of my favorites is Beef Stroganoff, which always turns out juicy and tender. If you’re looking for something lighter or for a party, there are also fantastic Crockpot Appetizers that you can whip up with minimal effort. I love how these recipes let me enjoy tasty meals without a lot of fuss or leftovers.

1. Pulled Pork

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours | Serve: 2

Pulled pork is one of those recipes that makes your Crockpot the hero of the day just like the pork chop dishes. This dish is perfect for two people who want a tender, flavorful meal without much effort. When I make pulled pork, the pork roast just falls apart after hours of slow cooking, and the flavors soak in beautifully.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pork shoulder or butt roast
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the pork: Start by seasoning the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar. Rub the seasonings all over the meat.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth.
3. Slow cook the pork: Place the seasoned pork in the Crockpot. Pour the sauce mixture over the pork, ensuring it’s well coated.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds.
5. Shred the pork: Once the pork is cooked, use two forks to shred it into small pieces. Stir it in with the sauce.
6. Serve: Serve on a bun for a pulled pork sandwich or with some side dishes of your choice. Enjoy!

2. Beef Stew

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 7 hours | Serve: 2

A hearty beef stew is perfect for any chilly evening, and it’s so easy to make in your Crockpot. The beef becomes so tender, and the vegetables are infused with rich, savory flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound beef stew meat, cut into chunks
• 1 medium potato, diced
• 1 carrot, sliced
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the beef: Start by placing the beef stew meat in the Crockpot. Add the diced potato, sliced carrot, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
2. Add seasonings: Sprinkle in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth to cover the ingredients.
3. Cook: Stir everything together, cover, and cook on low for 7-8 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors are well combined.
4. Thicken (optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the flour with a little water and stir it into the stew about 30 minutes before serving.
5. Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy this comforting meal with some bread or crackers.

3. Potato Soup

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours | Serve: 2

Potato soup is a creamy and comforting dish that is perfect for two people. It’s so simple, and the slow cooking process makes the potatoes soft and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite type)
• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to your Crockpot.
2. Add the broth: Pour the chicken broth over the vegetables and stir everything together.
3. Cook: Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the potatoes are soft.
4. Make it creamy: About 30 minutes before serving, add the milk and shredded cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup becomes creamy.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy your creamy potato soup!

4. Split Pea Soup

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours | Serve: 2

Split pea soup is a hearty, filling dish that is perfect for two people. The split peas break down and create a creamy, satisfying soup.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried split peas, rinsed
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1/2 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Add the split peas, onion, carrot, celery, garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme to your Crockpot.
2. Add broth: Pour the vegetable broth over the ingredients, making sure the peas are covered.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, until the peas are soft and the soup has thickened.
4. Blend (optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy the comforting flavors!

5. Drip Beef Sandwiches

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 8 hours | Serve: 2

Drip beef sandwiches are so delicious and easy to make! The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the juices make the sandwich extra flavorful. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a hearty dinner for two.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef chuck roast
• 1 packet ranch dressing mix
• 1 packet au jus gravy mix
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 sandwich rolls
• Optional: cheese slices, for topping

Instructions:

1. Season the beef: Start by seasoning the beef chuck roast with the ranch dressing mix, au jus gravy mix, and garlic powder. Rub these seasonings into the meat.
2. Add broth: Place the seasoned beef into the Crockpot and pour in the beef broth.
3. Cook: Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours, until the beef is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
4. Shred the beef: Once cooked, shred the beef with two forks and stir it into the sauce.
5. Serve: Pile the shredded beef onto sandwich rolls and top with a slice of cheese if you like. Serve with chips or a salad on the side.

6. Broccoli Cheese Soup

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours | Serve: 2

Broccoli cheese soup is a warm, comforting meal that’s great for a cozy night in. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with healthy broccoli, making it a perfect option for two people to enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon flour (optional for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Add the broccoli florets, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the Crockpot.
2. Add the broth: Pour the chicken broth into the Crockpot and stir the ingredients together.
3. Cook: Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours, until the broccoli is tender.
4. Make it creamy: About 30 minutes before serving, add the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
5. Thicken (optional): If you like a thicker soup, mix a tablespoon of flour with a little water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy this cheesy, creamy dish!

7. Chicken Tikka Masala

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours | Serve: 2

If you’re craving something flavorful and aromatic, chicken tikka masala is a wonderful choice. The spices in the sauce blend together perfectly, and the chicken comes out tender and juicy. It’s a rich and satisfying dish for two people.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken: Add the chicken chunks, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the Crockpot.
2. Add spices and sauce: Sprinkle in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Pour in the tomato sauce and stir everything together.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Add cream: Stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes.
5. Serve: Serve the chicken tikka masala over rice and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy the flavorful meal!

8. Beef Stroganoff

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours | Serve: 2

Beef stroganoff is a creamy, savory dish that is rich in flavor. The beef becomes super tender in the Crockpot, and the creamy sauce is perfect to pour over egg noodles or rice. It’s an excellent choice for a dinner date or a cozy evening.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound beef stew meat
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the beef: Place the beef stew meat, chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper into the Crockpot.
2. Add broth: Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, until the beef is tender.
4. Make the sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the sour cream and flour to thicken the sauce. Add sliced mushrooms if desired.
5. Serve: Serve the beef stroganoff over egg noodles or rice for a complete meal.

9. Vegetarian Chili

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours | Serve: 2

This vegetarian chili is packed with beans, vegetables, and spices, making it a hearty and flavorful meal. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a meatless dish that still fills them up and tastes amazing.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1/2 bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth

Instructions:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to your Crockpot.
2. Add broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and stir everything together.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
4. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and enjoy with some cornbread or tortilla chips on the side.

10. Lemon Garlic Chicken

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours | Serve: 2

Lemon garlic chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish. The tangy lemon pairs wonderfully with the savory garlic and herbs. The Crockpot ensures the chicken comes out tender and juicy, making it an easy go-to for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Place them in the Crockpot.
2. Add garlic and lemon: Sprinkle the minced garlic over the chicken, then zest and juice the lemon and add it to the Crockpot.
3. Add broth: Pour in the chicken broth to keep the chicken moist.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
5. Serve: Serve the lemon garlic chicken with some rice, potatoes, or a side salad for a complete meal.

11. Tuscan White Bean and Lemon Soup

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours | Serve: 2

Tuscan white bean and lemon soup is fresh, light, and full of flavor. The beans are creamy, and the lemon adds a bright, zesty touch. This soup is perfect for a healthy yet satisfying meal for two.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 ounces) white beans (such as cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 carrot, sliced
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Add the white beans, onion, carrot, celery, and garlic to the Crockpot.
2. Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth, add thyme, and sprinkle with pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add lemon: About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the lemon juice for a fresh, zesty flavor.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

12. Salmon with Honey, Garlic, and Lemon

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 2 hours | Serve: 2

This salmon recipe is easy, light, and full of flavor. The honey and garlic sauce create a perfect balance of sweetness and savory goodness, while the lemon adds a refreshing touch. It’s perfect for a healthy, quick meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the salmon: Place the salmon fillets in the Crockpot.
2. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the honey, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the salmon: Pour the honey garlic sauce over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 2 hours, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Serve the salmon with some steamed vegetables or a side salad for a light, healthy meal.

13. Stuffed Peppers

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 4 hours | Serve: 2

Stuffed peppers are an easy and healthy meal that packs a lot of flavor. The peppers are filled with a mixture of ground beef, rice, and seasonings, then slow-cooked to perfection.

Ingredients:

• 2 large bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), tops cut off and seeds removed
• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the filling: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat. Mix the beef with the cooked rice, onion, diced tomatoes, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Stuff the peppers: Carefully stuff each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, pressing it in to fit.
3. Cook: Place the stuffed peppers in the Crockpot. Pour any remaining diced tomatoes and juices over the top of the peppers.
4. Cover and cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, until the peppers are tender.
5. Optional topping: If you like, top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese during the last 15 minutes of cooking, then cover to melt.
6. Serve: Serve the stuffed peppers with a side of steamed vegetables or a small salad.

14. Potato Leek Soup

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours | Serve: 2

Potato leek soup is creamy and comforting. The leeks add a mild onion-like flavor that perfectly complements the potatoes. It’s a simple yet satisfying soup that’s ideal for a cozy dinner for two.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced (use only the white and light green parts)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Add the diced potatoes, sliced leeks, and minced garlic to the Crockpot.
2. Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth, then season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
4. Blend: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth, or leave it chunky if you prefer.
5. Add cream: Stir in the milk or heavy cream for a creamy texture.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chives. Enjoy with some crusty bread.

15. BBQ Chicken

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours | Serve: 2

BBQ chicken made in the Crockpot is tender, juicy, and full of smoky, tangy flavors. This recipe is so simple to make, and the chicken turns out perfectly cooked, falling apart with just a fork. It’s ideal for a casual meal, and you can enjoy it with sides like coleslaw or cornbread.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional for extra sweetness)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the Crockpot.
2. Season the chicken: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
3. Add sauce: Pour the barbecue sauce and honey (if using) over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Shred the chicken: Once the chicken is done, shred it using two forks and mix it with the BBQ sauce in the Crockpot.
6. Serve: Serve the BBQ chicken on sandwich rolls, in tacos, or over rice. Enjoy!

16. Mushroom Risotto

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 4 hours | Serve: 2

Mushroom risotto is creamy, flavorful, and packed with earthy mushroom goodness. This Crockpot recipe makes it easy to enjoy a comforting, gourmet meal without all the stirring and attention that traditional risotto requires.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup Arborio rice
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or button mushrooms)
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Add the Arborio rice, sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, and vegetable broth to the Crockpot.
2. Add wine (optional): Pour in the white wine if using, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Finish the risotto: Stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.
5. Serve: Serve the mushroom risotto as a side dish or with a salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Cooking for two can be simple and delicious with these Crockpot recipes. From comforting Beef Stew to light Lemon Garlic Chicken, each dish is easy to prepare and full of flavor. The Crockpot makes cooking effortless, allowing you to enjoy tender, flavorful meals with minimal effort.

These beginner-friendly recipes ensure that even new cooks can create perfect dishes every time. Next time you want a hassle-free meal, just reach for your Crockpot and try one of these recipes—you won’t be disappointed!