Secretly Healthy Slow Cooker Recipes

By Katie Webster
August 17, 2014
These slow-cooker recipes may seem like traditional family classics, but actually they're hiding something: fruits, veggies, or even protein-rich tofu that virtually disappear into the finished dish. Let your family in on the secret if you want. We won't tell.
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BBQ Slow-Cooker Meatloaf

Credit: Katie Webster
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You may have never thought of making a meatloaf in your slow-cooker, but you should. Our stealth ingredient here is finely-chopped mushrooms. They blend in perfectly with the beef and add a nutritious veggie boost. A layer of barbecue sauce on top adds a smoky sweetness. Serving a bigger crowd? Just double the recipe!

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Slow-Cooker Ricotta & Spinach Lasagna

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Slow Cooker Basil, Mozzarella and Ricotta Lasagna

Credit: Katie Webster
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Mum's the word that there is pureed spinach in the tomato sauce. Everyone will love the fresh basil layered right in, and you'll love that you don't even have to turn on the stove or oven to make this recipe. We've found that this lasagna works best in an oval-shaped slow cooker. If yours is tall and cylindrical, simply divide the ingredients to make more layers. Once you get the hang of this technique, try layering in browned turkey sausage or sautéed mushrooms or whatever veggies your family likes.

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Slow Cooker Sloppy Josés

Credit: Katie Webster
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Slipping lentils into lean ground beef adds a boost of healthy fiber to these sloppy joes (and saves you some dough at the grocery store). Don't worry; these sandwiches aren't too spicy for the little ones. They get their South of the Border flavor from a bit of cumin and a can of chopped mild green chilies. Just add chili powder to taste.

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Stealthy Slow-Cooker Chilaquiles Casserole

Credit: Katie Webster
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Corn, mild Mexican spices and tomato enchilada sauce are layered with shredded cheese between corn tortillas. We promise no one will notice the crumbled tofu layered in with the corn. Top this crowd-pleasing casserole with more cheese and green onions.

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Secretly Healthy Slow-Cooker Molten Chocolate Pudding Cake

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Molten Chocolate Pudding Cake

Credit: Katie Webster
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Shh, this scoopable chocolate pudding cake has pureed prunes in it for moisture and natural sweetness. It is very soft and is even a little molten in the center. We love it served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Copyright © 2014 Meredith Corporation.

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