12 Slow Cooker Dinner Recipes for Effortless Cooking

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Slow cooker dinners are a lifesaver for effortless cooking! Picture hearty meals like savory beef stew, creamy chicken Alfredo, and nutritious vegetarian chili that simmer all day, filling your home with delicious aromas. Dishes like honey garlic chicken and spicy lentil curry are simple to prepare, letting you enjoy flavorful dinners with minimal effort. Plus, you can easily customize these recipes to fit your taste. Keep going, and you’ll discover even more delightful slow cooker recipes perfect for your next meal!

Savory Beef Stew

Savory beef stew is a timeless comfort food that warms the heart and soul. Slow-cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. The tenderness of the beef, combined with the medley of vegetables and herbs, makes this stew not just filling but also deeply satisfying. It’s an excellent way to use tougher cuts of meat, which transform into fork-tender bites as they braise in a fragrant broth over several hours.

Making beef stew in a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it. Just chop your ingredients, toss them in the pot, and let the cooker do the work. As the stew simmers, the aroma will fill your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the dinner table.

This recipe offers versatility; feel free to substitute vegetables based on the season or what you have on hand, ensuring it’s tailored to your family’s taste.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 bay leaf

Brown the beef in olive oil in a skillet over medium heat to develop deeper flavors, then transfer it to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients—potatoes, carrots, onion, garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, herbs, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper.

Pour in the beef broth, stir lightly, cover, and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the meat is tender and the flavors are well blended.

When preparing your beef stew, consider adjusting the thickness of the broth by using a cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker consistency. Alternatively, you can mash a few potatoes right in the stew towards the end of cooking to naturally thicken it.

Additionally, adding a splash of red wine can enhance the flavor even further. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving, as letting the stew sit will also allow the flavors to develop and improve.

Enjoy your delicious creation with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

Creamy Chicken Alfredo

Creamy Chicken Alfredo is a decadent dish that transforms your slow cooker into a culinary powerhouse. This creamy pasta meal not only fills the belly but comforts the soul, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. Using a slow cooker simplifies the process, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as the chicken cooks until tender. The rich Alfredo sauce, made from butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, elevates the dish to sheer indulgence.

To enhance the flavor, you might consider adding garlic, herbs, or vegetables to the mix, customizing the recipe to fit your family’s preferences. This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad, making it a well-rounded meal. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself after a long day, Creamy Chicken Alfredo in a slow cooker is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and season with salt, pepper, garlic, and Italian seasoning. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Pour the mixture over the chicken, adding the butter on top. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

About 30 minutes before serving, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions and then stir it into the slow cooker, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce.

When preparing Creamy Chicken Alfredo, be sure to adjust the seasoning to match your taste. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce mixture before cooking. You can also substitute grilled chicken for the slow-cooked version if you’re short on time. Finally, don’t forget to reserve a bit of extra pasta water; it’s perfect for adjusting the consistency of the sauce should it thicken too much during cooking. Enjoy!

Vegetarian Chili

Vegetarian chili is a hearty and nutritious dish that’s perfect for both cozy weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings. Packed with an abundance of vegetables and beans, this chili isn’t only filling but also bursting with flavor. The beauty of cooking this dish in a slow cooker is that it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully over time, creating a rich and satisfying meal that practically cooks itself.

This dish also offers versatility, as you can mix and match your favorite vegetables depending on what you have on hand. Whether it’s bell peppers, zucchini, or corn, you can customize your vegetarian chili to suit your taste. Additionally, serving it with toppings such as avocado, cilantro, or vegan cheese can elevate this comforting meal even further.

Ingredients:

• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or fresh)
• 1 bell pepper (diced)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, vegan cheese, sour cream

Combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker, ensuring that the beans, vegetables, and spices are well mixed. Set the slow cooker to low heat and allow the chili to cook for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible during cooking, and adjust seasoning before serving.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider sautéing the onion and garlic in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This can enhance their sweetness and depth in the final dish. Additionally, feel free to add more vegetables or a splash of hot sauce if you like a little spice; the longer it cooks, the tastier it will become!

To make leftovers even more exciting, use them as a topping for baked potatoes or mix them into grain bowls.

Honey Garlic Chicken

Honey Garlic Chicken is a delectable dish that promises to fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. This easy-to-make recipe combines the delightful sweetness of honey with the savory notes of garlic, resulting in chicken that’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor.

Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, the slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully over several hours.

To achieve the best results, it’s crucial to use high-quality ingredients, particularly honey and fresh garlic. This dish can be served over steamed rice, with a side of vegetables, or in warm, fluffy tortillas for a fun twist. Plus, with its ease of preparation, you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
• Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish (optional)

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, and in a separate bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ground ginger.

Pour the honey garlic mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

For an extra touch, you can thicken the sauce towards the end of cooking by combining cornstarch with water and stirring it into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving.

Keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks; if you’re in a hurry, the high setting will yield quicker results. Additionally, feel free to customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables in the last hour of cooking, or serve it with steamed broccoli or green beans for added nutrition and color.

Tasty Taco Soup

Tasty Taco Soup is a delightful and hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends. This easy slow cooker recipe brings together the zesty flavors of traditional tacos in a warm, comforting soup form.

With minimal prep time, it allows you to throw in your ingredients, set it, and enjoy the aromas filling your kitchen as it cooks. Packed with protein and vegetables, this taco soup isn’t only satisfying but also a nutritious option for a cozy meal.

The beauty of Taco Soup lies in its versatility; you can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Whether you prefer a spicier kick or a milder flavor, you can easily adjust the seasoning and toppings.

Top it off with your favorite garnishes, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado, to take it to the next level. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeño pepper, diced (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortilla chips (for serving)
• Shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped cilantro (for garnish)

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey with diced onion until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, transfer the meat and onion mixture to the slow cooker.

Add in black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes (including juice), taco seasoning, beef or vegetable broth, bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using). Stir well to combine all the ingredients, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

For the best flavor, let the soup rest for a few minutes after turning off the slow cooker before serving. This allows the spices to meld together beautifully.

When ready to serve, dish out the soup into bowls, topping with tortilla chips, shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for added flavor and texture.

BBQ Pulled Pork

BBQ pulled pork is a timeless classic that brings a hearty and comforting touch to any dinner table. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its rich flavor but also in its simplicity, allowing you to whip up a crowd-pleasing meal with minimal effort using a slow cooker.

The slow cooking process allows the meat to become tender and absorb the flavorful barbecue sauce, resulting in a juicy and satisfying dish that can be served on buns, in tacos, or simply on its own with a side of coleslaw.

To start your BBQ pulled pork adventure, select a good cut of pork shoulder, also known as pork butt. This cut contains enough fat and marbling to keep the meat moist while it cooks for several hours. The secret to great pulled pork is allowing it to cook low and slow, which can take anywhere from 8 to 10 hours.

The result? Shredded pork that practically falls apart with the slightest touch, ready to be mixed with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, savory delight.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (also called pork butt)
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for serving)
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4-6 hamburger buns (for serving)
• Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, jalapeños

Rub the pork shoulder with the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper, ensuring an even coat. Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker and lay the pork on top.

Pour the apple cider vinegar and BBQ sauce over the pork, then cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender. Once cooked, shred the pork using two forks and mix it with the sauce in the slow cooker.

Serve on hamburger buns with additional BBQ sauce and any desired toppings.

For even better flavor, consider marinating the pork shoulder in the spice rub and some BBQ sauce overnight before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of BBQ sauce, whether it’s sweet, tangy, or spicy, to create your unique flavor profile. Leftovers can be great too; just store the pulled pork in an airtight container and reheat for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week!

Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl

Slow Cooker Dinner Recipes are a great way to prepare nutritious and delicious meals with minimal effort. The Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl is a perfect example, bringing together a harmonious mix of flavors that aren’t only satisfying but also packed with health benefits. This dish combines protein-rich quinoa with fresh vegetables, herbs, and Mediterranean-inspired ingredients, making it a hearty option for both lunch and dinner.

With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while you go about your day. This recipe is incredibly versatile; you can easily substitute different vegetables or add your favorite proteins. Chickpeas, feta cheese, or roasted red peppers are excellent additions that can elevate this bowl even further.

Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that saves on cleanup, letting you enjoy more time with family or friends. Whether you’re following a vegetarian diet or simply looking to incorporate more wholesome meals into your routine, this Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl will soon become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

In your slow cooker, combine the rinsed quinoa and broth, then add in the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and parsley. Drizzle the olive oil over the ingredients and season with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Gently stir everything together to mix, ensuring the quinoa is submerged in the broth. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the quinoa is fluffy and the vegetables are tender. For the best flavor, let the bowl sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow the ingredients to meld together.

Adjust the seasoning as needed before serving, and feel free to top each bowl with crumbled feta cheese or a dollop of hummus for extra creaminess. If you’re looking for additional crunch, consider adding toasted pine nuts or seeds as a garnish. This dish not only tastes great but also makes for excellent leftovers, improving in flavor the next day!

Classic Chicken and Rice

Classic Chicken and Rice is a comforting and soul-satisfying dish that many families cherish. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of herbs and spices creates a flavorful meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Cooking this dish in a slow cooker allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, infusing each bite with savory goodness, while you can attend to other activities throughout the day.

One of the best aspects of slow cooker chicken and rice is its versatility. You can easily customize the flavors by changing the seasonings or adding different vegetables. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or an easy Sunday family dinner, providing ample leftovers for lunches throughout the week.

Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal that everyone will love.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

In a slow cooker, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the diced onion, cooking until translucent.

Layer the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by the rice, chicken broth, minced garlic, frozen peas and carrots, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently stir to distribute the ingredients evenly.

Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is fluffy and tender.

For best results, avoid lifting the lid of the slow cooker during cooking, as this can release heat and extend the cooking time.

If you prefer a creamier dish, you can add a splash of cream or a can of cream of chicken soup toward the end of the cooking time.

Feel free to experiment with adding chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick!

Spicy Lentil Curry

Spicy Lentil Curry is a hearty and nutritious dish that perfectly combines the delightful flavors of spices and lentils. This wonderful recipe is ideal for those looking to enjoy a healthy meal without sacrificing taste. The slow cooker method allows the lentils to absorb the rich spices, resulting in a comforting and aromatic curry that will warm you from the inside out.

This dish isn’t only vegan-friendly but also packed with protein, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or a family dinner. The beauty of this Spicy Lentil Curry lies in its versatility. You can customize the spice level according to your preference, making it as mild or as fiery as you like. Pair it with rice, naan, or enjoy it on its own as a filling dish.

Plus, with minimal prep work needed, you can set it and forget it until dinner time! Let’s explore the ingredients and cooking process to bring this flavorful dish to life.

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust for spice level)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

In your slow cooker, combine the rinsed lentils, diced onion, minced garlic, minced ginger, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, coconut milk, and all the spices. Stir everything together until well mixed, then cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.

The lentils should be tender and the flavors nicely melded by the end of the cooking time. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro. For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of lime juice just before serving to enhance the flavors.

You can also incorporate additional vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition and texture. If you find the curry too thick, feel free to adjust the consistency by adding more vegetable broth or water.

This dish can also be frozen for later use—just make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to an airtight container. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delicious Spicy Lentil Curry!

Teriyaki Salmon

Teriyaki salmon is a flavorful and nutritious dish that can be effortlessly prepared using a slow cooker. This method not only enhances the taste of the salmon but also guarantees it remains moist and tender.

Combining the savory and slightly sweet teriyaki sauce infuses the fish with a delightful blend of flavors, making it a perfect dish for family dinners or gatherings. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, so you end up with a deliciously rich meal with minimal effort.

Cooking salmon in a slow cooker is also an excellent way to control the overall cooking time, making sure it doesn’t become dry or overcooked. The method is straightforward: simply prepare the teriyaki sauce, place the salmon into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you attend to other tasks.

Serve it with steamed rice and your favorite vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1 tablespoon water (if using cornstarch)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Place the salmon fillets in the slow cooker. In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil until fully combined.

Pour the mixture over the salmon, making sure all pieces are well-coated. If desired, mix cornstarch with water and add to the sauce for a thicker consistency. Cover and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

When making teriyaki salmon, consider marinating the fish in the sauce for a couple of hours before cooking to enhance the flavor even further. You can also experiment with adding vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to the slow cooker, which will absorb the remaining sauce and create a more wholesome meal.

Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it can dry out, so check for doneness towards the end of the cooking time. Enjoy!

Italian Sausage and Peppers

Italian sausage and peppers is a hearty and flavorful dish that warms the soul. Prepared in a slow cooker, this recipe allows the ingredients to simmer together beautifully, creating a rich sauce that’s perfect for serving over pasta, on a sub, or alongside a simple salad. The combination of sweet bell peppers, zesty Italian sausage, and spices creates a delightful harmony of flavors that’s sure to please.

This dish isn’t only delicious but also easy to prepare. With minimal effort, you can throw your ingredients in the slow cooker and let them develop their flavors over the hours. It’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to enjoy something comforting without spending all day in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
• 3 bell peppers (red, green, and yellow), sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Combine the Italian sausage, sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker. Pour the diced tomatoes over the top, followed by the olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Stir everything together to coat the sausage and vegetables, then cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

When cooking Italian sausage and peppers, you have the option to brown the sausage in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker for an extra layer of flavor.

Also, feel free to customize the dish with your favorite peppers or add additional spices for a personalized touch. This dish can easily be served as leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep.

Enjoy it over rice, pasta, or in a warm sub for versatile dining options!

Ratatouille With Polenta

Ratatouille with polenta is a delightful and comforting dish that beautifully melds the flavors of summer vegetables with a creamy, hearty base. Originating from Provence, France, ratatouille highlights the bounty of vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, which are slow-cooked to create a robust sauce. The addition of polenta adds a wonderful texture and creaminess to the dish, making it a perfect option for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Cooking ratatouille in a slow cooker allows the flavors to develop over time, resulting in a rich and savory sauce that clings to each bite. The polenta acts as a bed for the ratatouille, soaking up the juices and creating a fulfilling meal. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner, and it can be prepared ahead of time to suit the busy lifestyle.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium eggplant, diced
• 2 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup polenta
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

In a slow cooker, combine the eggplant, zucchini, bell pepper, onion, garlic, and tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle in the dried thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine everything evenly. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.

In the last hour of cooking, prepare the polenta by bringing the vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually stir in the polenta, reduce heat, and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Serve the ratatouille over the polenta, and if desired, top with grated Parmesan and fresh basil.

When making this dish, feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have available or what’s in season. Other great additions could include carrots, squash, or even mushrooms for added depth.

Additionally, you can adjust the consistency of the polenta by using more or less vegetable broth—just be sure to stir constantly to avoid lumps. Enjoy the flavors that intensify through slow cooking, and don’t hesitate to make a larger batch for delightful leftovers that can be reheated just as easily!