25 Cheap Crockpot Recipes (High-Protein and Low-Carb)

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In a world where time is a precious commodity and healthy eating often feels like a luxury, the humble crockpot emerges as a culinary hero. This versatile kitchen appliance, also known as a slow cooker, is the key to unlocking a world of delicious, nutritious, and budget-friendly meals. When combined with a high-protein, low-carbohydrate eating plan, the crockpot becomes an indispensable tool for anyone looking to improve their health, build lean muscle, and manage their weight without breaking the bank.

A high-protein, low-carb diet has been shown to offer a multitude of benefits, from enhanced satiety and reduced cravings to improved blood sugar control and accelerated fat loss. By prioritizing protein, you provide your body with the essential building blocks for muscle repair and growth, while limiting carbohydrates helps to stabilize energy levels and encourage the body to burn stored fat for fuel. However, preparing these meals can often be time-consuming and expensive. This is where the magic of the crockpot comes in.

Slow cooking allows you to transform tougher, more affordable cuts of meat into tender, flavorful masterpieces. It’s a “set it and forget it” method of cooking that requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy individuals and families. Simply toss your ingredients into the pot in the morning, and by evening, you’ll have a hot, delicious, and healthy meal waiting for you. This article will guide you through 25 cheap, high-protein, and low-carb crockpot recipes that are not only delicious but also designed to help you achieve your health and fitness goals without straining your wallet. From savory chicken and beef dishes to flavorful pork and turkey creations, you’ll find a wide variety of recipes to keep your taste buds excited and your body fueled for success.

Unlock Your Inner Saver: Budget-Friendly Crockpot Strategies

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be expensive. With a few smart strategies, you can enjoy delicious, high-protein, low-carb meals without breaking the bank. The crockpot is your secret weapon in this endeavor, allowing you to transform simple, affordable ingredients into culinary delights. Here are some practical tips to help you maximize your savings while enjoying the benefits of slow cooking:

Choose Your Protein Wisely

Protein is the cornerstone of this eating plan, but it can also be the most expensive component of your meals. The key is to select affordable cuts of meat that become tender and flavorful with slow cooking. Look for:

Tougher Cuts of Beef: Chuck roast, brisket, and beef stew meat are all excellent choices for the crockpot. These cuts are often cheaper than their more tender counterparts and become incredibly succulent after hours of slow cooking.
Chicken Thighs and Drumsticks: These are not only more flavorful than chicken breasts but also significantly cheaper. The slow cooking process makes the meat fall-off-the-bone tender.
Pork Shoulder (Boston Butt): This is the perfect cut for pulled pork and is one of the most economical choices for feeding a crowd.
Ground Meat: Ground turkey, chicken, and beef are all versatile and affordable protein sources for chilis, soups, and casseroles.

Embrace Bulk Buying and Meal Prep

Buying in bulk is a classic money-saving technique that pairs perfectly with crockpot cooking. Look for family-sized packs of meat, which often have a lower price per pound. You can then divide them into smaller portions for individual recipes. Cook a large batch of your favorite recipe over the weekend and portion it out for easy lunches and dinners throughout the week. This not only saves you money but also precious time on busy weekdays.

Befriend the Freezer

Your freezer is your best friend when it comes to budget-friendly meal prep. Most crockpot meals are freezer-friendly, allowing you to cook in large batches and save the extras for later. Simply let the meal cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers or bags. This is a great way to have a healthy, home-cooked meal on hand for those days when you’re too tired to cook.

Get Smart with Your Veggies

Vegetables are an essential part of a healthy diet, but they can also add to your grocery bill. To keep costs down, focus on seasonal vegetables, which are often cheaper and more flavorful. Hearty root vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery are all affordable and hold up well in the slow cooker. Don’t be afraid to use frozen vegetables, which are just as nutritious as fresh and can be significantly cheaper, especially for out-of-season produce.

By incorporating these simple strategies into your routine, you can enjoy all the benefits of a high-protein, low-carb diet without straining your budget. Now, let’s get to the delicious part – the recipes!

Crowd-Pleasing Chicken Recipes

Chicken is a versatile and affordable protein that shines in the slow cooker. From tangy and sweet to rich and creamy, these recipes will have you looking forward to dinner all day long.

1. 5-Ingredient Garlic Balsamic Chicken

This recipe from Real Food Whole Life is the epitome of simple elegance. With just five ingredients, you can create a flavorful and tender chicken dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. The balsamic glaze creates a delicious sauce that pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or a simple side salad.

Protein: 33g
Carbohydrates: 2g

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup chicken broth
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions:

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, garlic, and oregano.
Pour the mixture over the chicken.
Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
Shred the chicken with two forks and toss with the remaining sauce.

2. Crockpot Crack Chicken

This addictive recipe from Wholesome Yum is a low-carb favorite for a reason. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch seasoning. Serve it in lettuce wraps, on a low-carb bun, or simply on its own.

Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 6g

Ingredients:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
Top with the cream cheese and ranch seasoning.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Shred the chicken with two forks and stir to combine with the cream cheese mixture.
Stir in the crumbled bacon and top with shredded cheddar cheese.

3. Chicken Enchilada Soup

This hearty and spicy soup from Hip2Keto is the perfect comfort food for a chilly day. It’s packed with tender chicken and zesty enchilada flavors, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Protein: 37g
Carbohydrates: 9g

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained (optional, for those not strictly low-carb)
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin

Instructions:

Place the chicken in the crockpot.
In a bowl, combine the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, black beans (if using), chicken broth, chili powder, and cumin.
Pour the mixture over the chicken.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Shred the chicken and stir back into the soup.
Serve with your favorite low-carb toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and avocado.

4. Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

This “dump-and-go” recipe from Real Food Whole Life is a lifesaver on busy days. With just five minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious and healthy meal waiting for you in the evening. It’s packed with juicy chicken, vibrant veggies, and hearty beans (which can be omitted for a lower-carb version).

Protein: High (exact amount varies by ingredients)
Carbohydrates: Low to moderate (depending on bean usage)

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained (optional)
1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
1 onion, chopped
4 cups chicken stock
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:

Add all ingredients to the slow cooker.
Stir to combine.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Shred the chicken and stir back into the soup.
Serve with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, cilantro, and crushed tortilla chips (for those not strictly low-carb).

5. Shredded Chicken Lettuce Wraps

For an ultra-low-carb meal that’s still packed with flavor, these shredded chicken lettuce wraps are a perfect choice. The slow cooker makes the chicken incredibly tender and easy to shred, and the lettuce wraps provide a fresh, crisp contrast.

Protein: High
Carbohydrates: Very Low

Ingredients:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup soy sauce or tamari
1/4 cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sesame oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated ginger
Large lettuce leaves (iceberg, butter, or romaine)

Instructions:

Place the chicken in the crockpot.
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
Pour the sauce over the chicken.
Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
Shred the chicken and toss with the sauce.
Serve the shredded chicken in lettuce leaves.

6. Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

This recipe offers a slightly higher carb count due to the sweet potatoes, but it’s a fantastic option for a post-workout meal or for those who are more active. The combination of spicy buffalo chicken and sweet, fluffy sweet potato is a match made in heaven.

Protein: High
Carbohydrates: Moderate

Ingredients:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup buffalo sauce
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
4 medium sweet potatoes

Instructions:

Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork and wrap them in foil.
Place the sweet potatoes in the bottom of the crockpot.
In a bowl, toss the chicken with the buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning.
Place the chicken on top of the sweet potatoes.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.
Shred the chicken and stuff it inside the sweet potatoes.

7. Chicken and Vegetable Curry

This fragrant and flavorful curry is packed with anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric and ginger. It’s a great way to get in your veggies and protein in one delicious meal.

Protein: High
Carbohydrates: Low

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
1/4 cup red curry paste
1 onion, chopped
2 bell peppers, chopped
1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
1 tablespoon grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

In the crockpot, whisk together the coconut milk and curry paste.
Stir in the onion, ginger, and garlic.
Add the chicken and stir to coat.
Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
Stir in the bell peppers and broccoli during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

8. Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs are a budget-friendly and flavorful alternative to chicken breasts. This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a dish that’s both elegant and easy to make.

Protein: High
Carbohydrates: Very Low

Ingredients:

2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 lemon, sliced
4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
4 cloves garlic, smashed
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Pat the chicken thighs dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
Place the lemon slices, rosemary sprigs, and garlic in the bottom of the crockpot.
Arrange the chicken thighs on top.
Drizzle with olive oil.
Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
For crispy skin, you can place the cooked chicken thighs under the broiler for a few minutes before serving.

Budget-Friendly Beef Recipes

Beef is a hearty and satisfying protein that becomes incredibly tender in the slow cooker. These recipes utilize cheaper cuts of beef, transforming them into delicious and flavorful meals that are perfect for a high-protein, low-carb lifestyle.

9. Mississippi Pot Roast

This internet-famous recipe from I Breathe I’m Hungry is a must-try. It’s incredibly easy to make and results in a fall-apart tender pot roast with a tangy and savory flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 1g

Ingredients:

3-4 lb chuck roast
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
1 packet (1 oz) au jus gravy mix
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
4-5 pepperoncini peppers

Instructions:

Place the chuck roast in the crockpot.
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mix over the roast.
Place the stick of butter on top.
Arrange the pepperoncini peppers around the roast.
Cook on low for 8 hours, until the roast is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

10. Shredded Beef Lettuce Wraps

Similar to the chicken version, these shredded beef lettuce wraps from Keto Karma are a fantastic low-carb meal. The beef is slow-cooked in a savory and slightly sweet sauce until it’s incredibly tender and flavorful.

Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 1g

Ingredients:

3 lb chuck roast
1/2 cup beef broth
1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari
2 tablespoons brown sugar substitute (e.g., erythritol)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated ginger
Large lettuce leaves for serving

Instructions:

Place the chuck roast in the crockpot.
In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar substitute, garlic, and ginger.
Pour the sauce over the beef.
Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
Shred the beef and serve in lettuce wraps.

11. Slow Cooker Beef Stew (Low-Carb)

A classic comfort food, this low-carb beef stew is perfect for a cold day. By omitting the traditional potatoes and using other low-carb vegetables, you can enjoy all the rich and savory flavors of a traditional beef stew without the extra carbs.

Protein: High
Carbohydrates: Low

Ingredients:

2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into chunks
1 onion, chopped
4 carrots, chopped
4 celery stalks, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
4 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 bay leaves

Instructions:

Place the beef stew meat in the crockpot.
Add the onion, carrots, celery, and mushrooms.
In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme.
Pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables.
Add the bay leaves.
Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.

12. Easy Taco Soup

This flavorful taco soup from Fit To Serve is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. It’s packed with seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and spices, and it can be customized with your favorite low-carb toppings.

Protein: 27g
Carbohydrates: 7g

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (10 oz) Ro-Tel diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained
1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
4 cups beef broth

Instructions:

In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the onion. Drain off any excess grease.
Transfer the beef and onion mixture to the crockpot.
Add the diced tomatoes, Ro-Tel, taco seasoning, and beef broth.
Stir to combine.
Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

13. Slow Cooker No-Bean Chili

This hearty and flavorful chili from Sugar Free Mom is perfect for those following a strict low-carb or keto diet. By omitting the beans, you can enjoy all the rich and savory flavors of a traditional chili without the extra carbs.

Protein: 21g
Carbohydrates: 9g

Ingredients:

2 lbs ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cans (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions:

In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the onion and bell pepper. Drain off any excess grease.
Transfer the mixture to the crockpot.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

14. Beef and Broccoli

This Asian-inspired dish is a healthier and more affordable alternative to takeout. The beef becomes incredibly tender in the slow cooker, and the broccoli is added at the end to ensure it stays crisp-tender.

Protein: High
Carbohydrates: Low

Ingredients:

2 lbs flank steak, thinly sliced
1/2 cup beef broth
1/2 cup soy sauce or tamari
1/4 cup brown sugar substitute
2 tablespoons sesame oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 head of broccoli, cut into florets

Instructions:

Place the sliced flank steak in the crockpot.
In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar substitute, sesame oil, and garlic.
Pour the sauce over the beef.
Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
Stir in the broccoli florets during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

15. Italian Beef with Peppers

This flavorful and juicy Italian beef is perfect for sandwiches (on low-carb bread, of course) or served over a bed of cauliflower rice. The combination of tender beef, sweet peppers, and zesty Italian seasonings is a winner.

Protein: High
Carbohydrates: Low

Ingredients:

3-4 lb chuck roast
1 packet (1 oz) Italian dressing mix
1 cup beef broth
2 bell peppers, sliced
1 onion, sliced

Instructions:

Place the chuck roast in the crockpot.
Sprinkle the Italian dressing mix over the roast.
Pour the beef broth around the roast.
Top with the sliced peppers and onion.
Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
Shred the beef and serve with the peppers and onions.

Flavorful Pork Recipes

Pork is another budget-friendly protein that works wonders in the slow cooker. From tender pulled pork to savory pork chops, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.

16. Pork Carnitas

This recipe from Low Carb With Jennifer creates the most delicious and authentic-tasting carnitas. The pork is slow-cooked until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender, then crisped up in a skillet for the perfect texture.

Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 3g

Ingredients:

4 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt)
1 onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, smashed
1 orange, halved
1 lime, halved
1 tablespoon oregano
2 teaspoons cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Rub the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, oregano, and cumin.
Place the onion, garlic, orange, and lime in the bottom of the crockpot.
Place the pork shoulder on top.
Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
Remove the pork from the crockpot and shred it with two forks.
For crispy carnitas, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes until the edges are golden brown.

17. Apple Dijon Pork Chops

This recipe from Keto Summit is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can create a truly elegant dish. The sweet and tangy apple Dijon sauce pairs perfectly with the savory pork chops.

Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 2g

Ingredients:

4 bone-in pork chops
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions:

Place the pork chops in the crockpot.
In a bowl, whisk together the applesauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and thyme.
Pour the sauce over the pork chops.
Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the pork chops are tender and cooked through.

18. Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Pulled pork is a classic crockpot recipe for a reason. It’s incredibly easy to make, feeds a crowd, and is extremely versatile. Serve it on its own, in lettuce wraps, or on a low-carb bun.

Protein: High
Carbohydrates: Low (depending on the BBQ sauce)

Ingredients:

4-5 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt)
1 cup of your favorite low-carb BBQ sauce
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar substitute
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

Place the pork shoulder in the crockpot.
In a bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar substitute, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
Pour the sauce over the pork.
Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
Shred the pork and toss with the sauce.

19. Pork and Cabbage Stew

This hearty and comforting stew is inspired by Eastern European cuisine. It’s packed with flavor and is a great way to use up leftover cabbage.

Protein: High
Carbohydrates: Low

Ingredients:

2 lbs pork stew meat, cut into chunks
1 head of cabbage, chopped
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
4 cups chicken or beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon caraway seeds
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Place the pork stew meat in the crockpot.
Add the cabbage, onion, and carrots.
In a bowl, whisk together the broth, tomato paste, and caraway seeds.
Pour the mixture over the pork and vegetables.
Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.

Turkey & Ground Meat Recipes

Ground meat is a budget-friendly and versatile protein that cooks up quickly in the slow cooker. These recipes are perfect for a weeknight meal and are packed with flavor.

20. Turkey Meatballs in Marinara

This recipe from Real Food Whole Life is a lighter alternative to traditional beef meatballs. They are incredibly tender and flavorful, and the slow cooker does all the work for you.

Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 5g

Ingredients:

1 lb ground turkey
1/4 cup almond flour
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 jar (24 oz) of your favorite low-carb marinara sauce

Instructions:

In a bowl, combine the ground turkey, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, and oregano.
Form the mixture into meatballs.
Pour half of the marinara sauce into the bottom of the crockpot.
Arrange the meatballs on top of the sauce.
Pour the remaining sauce over the meatballs.
Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

21. Ground Turkey Chili

This ground turkey chili is a leaner alternative to the classic beef chili. It’s packed with flavor and is a great way to get in your protein and veggies.

Protein: High
Carbohydrates: Low

Ingredients:

2 lbs ground turkey
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cans (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions:

In a skillet, brown the ground turkey with the onion and bell pepper. Drain off any excess grease.
Transfer the mixture to the crockpot.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

22. Meatball Casserole

This meatball casserole from All Day I Dream About Food is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with protein, making it a satisfying and delicious meal.

Protein: 40g
Carbohydrates: 7g

Ingredients:

2 lbs of your favorite low-carb meatballs (store-bought or homemade)
1 jar (24 oz) of your favorite low-carb marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

Pour half of the marinara sauce into the bottom of the crockpot.
Arrange the meatballs on top of the sauce.
Pour the remaining sauce over the meatballs.
Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
Top with the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Seafood & Alternative Protein Recipes

Don’t forget about seafood and plant-based proteins! These recipes offer a delicious change of pace and are packed with nutrients.

23. Slow Cooker Salmon with Vegetables

Salmon is a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein. This recipe is a simple and elegant way to cook salmon, and the slow cooker ensures that it stays moist and flavorful.

Protein: High
Carbohydrates: Low

Ingredients:

4 (6 oz) salmon fillets
1 lb asparagus, trimmed
1 lemon, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Place the asparagus in the bottom of the crockpot.
Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Place the salmon fillets on top of the asparagus.
Top each fillet with a slice of lemon.
Cook on low for 1-2 hours, until the salmon is cooked through.

24. Crockpot Shrimp and Cauliflower Grits

This low-carb version of the Southern classic is a real treat. The cauliflower grits are creamy and delicious, and the shrimp are cooked to perfection in a savory sauce.

Protein: High
Carbohydrates: Low

Ingredients:

1 head of cauliflower, riced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

In the crockpot, combine the riced cauliflower, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
Cook on low for 2-3 hours, until the cauliflower is tender.
In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and crumble it, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute.
Add the shrimp and cook until pink.
Stir in the chicken broth and crumbled bacon.
Serve the shrimp mixture over the cauliflower grits.

25. Vegetarian Lentil and Vegetable Stew

For a plant-based option that’s still packed with protein, this lentil and vegetable stew is a perfect choice. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly budget-friendly.

Protein: High (for a vegetarian dish)
Carbohydrates: Moderate

Ingredients:

1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
6 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf

Instructions:

Add all ingredients to the crockpot.
Stir to combine.
Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the lentils are tender.

Nutritional Information and Meal Prep

Each recipe in this article is designed to be high in protein and low in carbohydrates, but the exact nutritional information will vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use. The provided protein and carbohydrate counts are estimates to give you a general idea of the macronutrient profile of each dish. For precise tracking, it’s always best to use a nutritional calculator with your exact ingredients.

Meal Prep and Storage

Most of these recipes are perfect for meal prep. You can cook a large batch over the weekend and portion it out for easy lunches and dinners throughout the week. Here are some general storage guidelines:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Most of these meals freeze well. Allow the food to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Adopting a high-protein, low-carb lifestyle doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With the help of your trusty crockpot, you can create a wide variety of delicious, nutritious, and budget-friendly meals that will help you reach your health and fitness goals. From savory chicken and beef dishes to flavorful pork and turkey creations, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 25 cheap crockpot recipes. So, dust off your slow cooker, stock up on some affordable ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the convenience and satisfaction of having a healthy, home-cooked meal waiting for you at the end of the day.

References

Real Food Whole Life. (2023, June 1). 60+ Effortless High Protein Slow Cooker Recipes. https://realfoodwholelife.com/recipes/high-protein-slow-cooker-recipes/
Wyles, O. (2024, August 20). 10 Easy High Protein Low Carb Crockpot Recipes You’ll Want to Make on Repeat. https://oliviawyles.com/high-protein-low-carb-crockpot-recipes/
Wholesome Yum. (2025, May 6). Crack Chicken (Crock Pot Recipe). https://www.wholesomeyum.com/crock-pot-slow-cooker-crack-chicken-recipe/
Hip2Keto. Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Soup. (Link not available)
Keto Summit. Apple Dijon Pork Chops. (Link not available)
Low Carb With Jennifer. Pork Carnitas. (Link not available)
Keto Karma. Shredded Beef Lettuce Wraps. (Link not available)
All Day I Dream About Food. Meatball Casserole. (Link not available)
I Breathe I’m Hungry. Mississippi Pot Roast. (Link not available)
Fit To Serve. Easy Taco Soup. (Link not available)
Sugar Free Mom. Slow Cooker Low Carb No Bean Chili. (Link not available)
Taste of Home. (2024, September 12). 29 Low-Carb Slow Cooker Recipes. https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/low-carb-slow-cooker-recipes/
Budget Bytes. Slow Cooker Recipes. https://www.budgetbytes.com/category/recipes/slow-cooker/