25 Crockpot Recipes That Are Anti-Inflammatory: The Complete Guide

In a world where chronic inflammation is increasingly linked to a host of health issues—from joint pain and digestive distress to heart disease and autoimmune disorders—many are turning to their kitchens for solutions. An anti-inflammatory diet, rich in whole foods, antioxidants, and healthy fats, has emerged as a powerful tool for promoting wellness. When you combine this healing way of eating with the set-it-and-forget-it convenience of a crockpot, you get a sustainable, delicious, and transformative approach to health.

This comprehensive guide provides 25 complete anti-inflammatory crockpot recipes, each with detailed ingredients and step-by-step instructions to make your wellness journey both easy and delicious.

Why Anti-Inflammatory Eating Matters

Chronic inflammation is a prolonged, low-level immune response that can silently damage tissues over time. Unlike acute inflammation, which is a healthy and necessary response to injury, chronic inflammation can persist for months or years. Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet can help mitigate these effects by reducing pain and stiffness, improving digestive health, boosting mental clarity, and supporting immune function. The slow cooker makes this lifestyle accessible, affordable, and effortless, breaking down barriers for those with busy schedules.

The Power Players: Top Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients

The recipes in this collection are built around superstar ingredients scientifically proven to fight inflammation, including turmeric and ginger (containing powerful anti-inflammatory compounds), fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, leafy greens packed with antioxidants, legumes high in fiber and plant-based protein, and colorful vegetables loaded with carotenoids and other protective nutrients.

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The Complete Recipe Collection

CHICKEN RECIPES (1-9)

Recipe 1: Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This vibrant and flavorful soup is packed with vegetables, lean protein, and anti-inflammatory spices that create a satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1½ cups frozen corn
• 2 bell peppers (any color), diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken breasts, black beans, tomatoes, corn, bell peppers, onion, garlic, and chicken broth into your slow cooker.
2. Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to combine well.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
5. Stir in the fresh cilantro and lime juice just before serving. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

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Recipe 2: Sweet Potato Chicken Chili

A hearty and slightly sweet chili that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with warming spices and lean protein for a nutrient-dense comfort food.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Combine the chicken breasts, sweet potato cubes, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, onion, and garlic in your slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and add all the spices. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
3. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the sweet potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the chili. Stir well and serve hot.

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Recipe 3: Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

This comforting soup delivers creamy richness without heavy dairy, using coconut milk and nutrient-dense wild rice for a satisfying and healing meal.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup wild rice blend (uncooked)
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the chicken breasts, wild rice, carrots, celery, onion, chicken broth, thyme, and garlic powder to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
3. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
4. Stir in the coconut milk and fresh spinach. Cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes, until the spinach wilts.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

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Recipe 4: Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken

A healthier take on classic BBQ chicken, naturally sweetened and perfect for serving over salads, in sandwiches, or alongside roasted vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1½ cups sugar-free BBQ sauce (look for brands with no added sugar)
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
5. Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the sauce and stir well. Serve warm.

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Recipe 5: Chicken Tikka Masala

A fragrant and flavorful Indian classic made easy in the crockpot, featuring turmeric and ginger for maximum anti-inflammatory benefits.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
• 2 tbsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp ground turmeric
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken cubes, onion, garlic, and ginger in the slow cooker.
2. Add the tomato sauce, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, paprika, and salt. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
4. Stir in the coconut milk and Greek yogurt (if using) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Serve over brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.

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Recipe 6: Honey Sriracha Chicken

A perfect balance of sweet and spicy with anti-inflammatory garlic and ginger, this dish is both flavorful and healing.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• ¼ cup raw honey
• 3 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
• 3 tbsp coconut aminos or low-sodium soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, coconut aminos, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
5. Shred the chicken or serve whole. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

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Recipe 7: Honey Garlic Chicken

Simple, flavorful, and packed with healing garlic, this dish is a family favorite that requires minimal prep.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ⅓ cup raw honey
• ¼ cup coconut aminos or low-sodium soy sauce
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, mix together honey, coconut aminos, garlic, vinegar, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
5. Shred or slice the chicken and serve with the sauce spooned over top.

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Recipe 8: Golden Curry Chicken Soup

A turmeric-rich golden soup with tender chicken and vegetables, perfect for boosting immunity and reducing inflammation.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (14 oz) can coconut milk
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tbsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp salt
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add chicken, sweet potatoes, carrots, onion, garlic, and chicken broth to the slow cooker.
2. Stir in curry powder, turmeric, ginger, and salt.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours.
4. Remove chicken, shred it, and return to the pot.
5. Stir in coconut milk and cook for 15 more minutes. Garnish with cilantro.

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Recipe 9: Teriyaki Chicken

A ginger-infused Asian-inspired dish that’s both delicious and anti-inflammatory.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• ½ cup coconut aminos or low-sodium soy sauce
• ¼ cup water
• 2 tbsp raw honey
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tsp arrowroot powder or cornstarch (for thickening)
• Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
2. Whisk together coconut aminos, water, honey, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Pour over chicken.
3. Cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3 hours.
4. Remove chicken and shred. Mix arrowroot powder with 2 tbsp water and stir into the sauce to thicken.
5. Return chicken to the pot, stir, and serve garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

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BEEF RECIPES (10-18)

Recipe 10: Sweet Potato Beef Stew

A classic beef stew with an anti-inflammatory twist, using sweet potatoes for extra nutrients and natural sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 2.5 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme (or 2 tsp dried)
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (or 2 tsp dried)
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season beef cubes with salt and pepper, then sear on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes). Transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add sweet potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, mushrooms, and garlic to the slow cooker.
3. Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Add thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, until beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
5. Remove bay leaves before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed.

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Recipe 11: Cowboy Soup

A robust and hearty soup with beans, vegetables, and ground beef in a flavorful tomato-based broth.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 bell peppers, diced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat and transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add all remaining ingredients to the slow cooker and stir well.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

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Recipe 12: Paleo Chili

A grain-free, nutrient-dense chili that’s perfect for those following a paleo or Whole30 lifestyle.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 2 bell peppers, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 3 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain. Transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add all remaining ingredients and stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve with compliant toppings like avocado and cilantro.

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Recipe 13: Steak Chili

A protein-rich chili featuring chunks of tender steak, tomatoes, and peppers for a hearty meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 2 bell peppers, diced
• 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 3 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season steak cubes with salt and pepper. Sear in a hot skillet until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add all remaining ingredients and stir.
3. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
4. Serve hot.

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Recipe 14: Korean Shredded Beef Tacos

A fusion of flavors featuring ginger and garlic-infused beef, perfect for tacos or rice bowls.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast
• ½ cup coconut aminos
• ¼ cup rice vinegar
• 3 tbsp raw honey
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions:

1. Place beef roast in the slow cooker.
2. Whisk together coconut aminos, vinegar, honey, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Pour over beef.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 5 hours.
4. Shred beef and stir into the sauce. Garnish with green onions.

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Recipe 15: Sweet & Spicy Chili

A well-balanced chili with anti-inflammatory peppers and a hint of sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans
• 2 bell peppers, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tbsp raw honey
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown beef and drain. Add to slow cooker.
2. Add all remaining ingredients and stir.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
4. Serve with your favorite toppings.

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Recipe 16: Healthy Sloppy Joes

A wholesome, family-friendly twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp coconut aminos
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown beef in a skillet and drain. Transfer to slow cooker.
2. Add all remaining ingredients and stir.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours.
4. Serve on whole grain buns or lettuce wraps.

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Recipe 17: Beef Ragu

A slow-simmered Italian sauce with tomatoes and herbs, perfect over zucchini noodles or whole-grain pasta.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tsp dried basil
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place all ingredients in the slow cooker and stir.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours.
3. Remove bay leaf. Shred beef with forks and stir into sauce.
4. Serve over pasta or vegetables.

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Recipe 18: Beef & Broccoli

A simple and satisfying combination of lean protein and cruciferous vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs flank steak, sliced thin
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• ½ cup coconut aminos
• ¼ cup beef broth
• 3 tbsp raw honey
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tsp arrowroot powder

Instructions:

1. Place sliced beef in the slow cooker.
2. Whisk together coconut aminos, broth, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Pour over beef.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours.
4. Add broccoli during the last hour. Mix arrowroot with water and stir in to thicken.
5. Serve over rice or cauliflower rice.

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TURKEY & PORK RECIPES (19-25)

Recipe 19: Black Bean Pumpkin Turkey Chili

A seasonal and savory chili that’s both comforting and packed with beta-carotene and fiber.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground turkey
• 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
• 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, rinsed
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown ground turkey in a skillet and drain. Transfer to slow cooker.
2. Add all remaining ingredients and stir well.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve with avocado and cilantro.

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Recipe 20: Turkey Pumpkin Chili

A beta-carotene-rich comfort food that’s perfect for fall and winter.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground turkey
• 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can white beans
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp cumin
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown turkey and add to slow cooker.
2. Add all other ingredients and stir.
3. Cook on low for 6-7 hours.
4. Serve hot.

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Recipe 21: Simple Healthy Turkey Chili

A classic preparation with anti-inflammatory spices and lean protein.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground turkey
• 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 bell peppers, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 3 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown turkey and drain. Add to slow cooker.
2. Add remaining ingredients and stir.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
4. Serve with toppings of choice.

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Recipe 22: Turkey Meatballs

Versatile protein perfect for meal prepping and serving over zucchini noodles or in marinara sauce.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground turkey
• 1 egg
• ½ cup almond flour
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce

Instructions:

1. Mix turkey, egg, almond flour, garlic, and seasonings. Form into meatballs.
2. Place meatballs in slow cooker and pour marinara over top.
3. Cook on low for 5-6 hours.
4. Serve over pasta or vegetables.

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Recipe 23: Zuppa Toscana

A hearty Italian soup with sausage, kale, and potatoes in a creamy broth.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 4 cups kale, chopped
• 3 large potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup coconut milk
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown sausage in a skillet and crumble. Add to slow cooker.
2. Add potatoes, onion, garlic, broth, and red pepper flakes.
3. Cook on low for 6-7 hours.
4. Stir in kale and coconut milk during the last 30 minutes.
5. Serve hot.

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Recipe 24: Sausage & Peppers

A colorful and flavorful dish with bell peppers and savory sausage.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs Italian sausage links
• 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place sausage links in the slow cooker.
2. Top with peppers, onion, and garlic.
3. Pour marinara sauce over everything and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
4. Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve over rice, pasta, or in hoagie rolls.

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Recipe 25: Sausage Lentil Soup

A protein and fiber powerhouse featuring healing herbs and nutrient-dense lentils.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1½ cups dried lentils, rinsed
• 4 carrots, diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach

Instructions:

1. Brown sausage in a skillet and crumble. Add to slow cooker.
2. Add lentils, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, broth, tomatoes, and herbs.
3. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
4. Stir in spinach during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
5. Remove bay leaves before serving.

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Your Path to Wellness

Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet doesn’t require a complete life overhaul. Start by choosing two or three recipes from this collection that appeal to you. Make a shopping list, pick a day to start, and pay attention to how you feel after eating. Notice your energy levels, digestion, and overall sense of well-being. Every anti-inflammatory meal you consume is a positive step on your journey to better health. The crockpot makes it easy, affordable, and delicious. Your body will thank you for nourishing it with these healing, wholesome recipes—one crockpot meal at a time.