Budget-Friendly Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes for Students

## Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili

For students seeking a hearty, budget-friendly meal, this vegetarian chili is a perfect choice. Filled with beans, vegetables, and a blend of spices, it’s a delicious and nutritious option that can feed a crowd (or provide plenty of leftovers). All you need is a slow cooker and a few simple ingredients, making it an effortless addition to your weekly meal plan.

**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups of dried mixed beans (e.g., kidney, black, pinto), soaked overnight
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 bell peppers (any color), diced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 28 oz (2 cans) of diced tomatoes
– 15 oz (1 can) of tomato sauce
– 1 cup of vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh cilantro, sour cream, cheese for serving

**Instructions:**

1. Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Combine all ingredients, except for the optional toppings, in your slow cooker.

2. Stir well, ensuring the beans are fully covered by the liquid.

3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The longer it cooks, the thicker and more flavorful the chili becomes.

4. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve with rice or in bowls, topped with cilantro, sour cream, cheese, or your favorite toppings.

**Tips:**
– Soaking beans overnight significantly reduces cooking time and makes them easier to digest.
– Feel free to add other veggies like carrots, corn, or zucchini to boost nutrition.

## Slow Cooker Veggie Curry

This vibrant slow cooker veggie curry is an excellent option for students craving something flavorful yet easy on the wallet. With a variety of veggies and aromatic spices, it’s a healthy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for sharing with roommates or freezing for future meals.

**Ingredients:**
– 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 large carrots, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup of green beans, trimmed
– 14 oz (1 can) of coconut milk
– 1 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp turmeric
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp ginger powder (or freshly grated ginger)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh coriander for serving

**Instructions:**

1. Place all vegetables in the slow cooker.

2. In a small bowl, mix coconut milk and spices, then pour over the vegetables. Stir well.

3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until vegetables are tender.

4. Serve over rice or quinoa, garnished with fresh coriander.

**Tip:**
– If you’re not a fan of sweet potatoes, replace them with white or regular potatoes.

## Slow Cooker Lentil Soup

Hearty and comforting, this slow cooker lentil soup is a fantastic option for students on a budget. Lentils are an affordable source of protein and fiber, keeping you full and energized. This soup is also highly customizable, allowing you to add in extra veggies or spices based on your preferences and what’s available in your pantry.

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 14 oz (1 can) of diced tomatoes
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon juice, parsley for serving

**Instructions:**

1. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, ensuring the lentils are covered by the broth.

2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until lentils are tender.

3. Remove the bay leaf and discard. Stir the soup and season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice and chopped parsley, if desired.

**Tip:**
– For a thicker soup, mash or blend a small portion of the lentils and return them to the slow cooker.

## Slow Cooker Bean and Butternut Squash Stew

Combining sweet, earthy, and spicy flavors, this bean and butternut squash stew is a delightful vegetarian dish. It’s an excellent way to introduce more vegetables into your diet while staying mindful of your budget. The slow cooker does most of the work, leaving you with a flavorful and filling meal.

**Ingredients:**
– 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 2 cups of dried black beans, soaked overnight
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), diced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 14 oz (1 can) of diced tomatoes
– 1 cup of vegetable broth
– 1 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado, fresh cilantro for serving

**Instructions:**

1. Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Place all ingredients, except for the optional toppings, in the slow cooker.

2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, until beans are tender.

3. Stir well before serving. Serve with avocado slices and fresh cilantro, if desired.

**Tip:**
– If the stew is too thick, add more vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

## Slow Cooker Veggie Lasagna

Who says lasagna isn’t a budget-friendly meal? With this slow cooker veggie lasagna, you can enjoy the flavors of a classic lasagna without the need for meat. Layers of vegetables, cheese, and tomato sauce create a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying over several meals.

**Ingredients:**
– 9-12 uncooked lasagna noodles (depending on your slow cooker size)
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 eggplant, sliced
– 1 red onion, sliced
– 28 oz (2 cans) of crushed tomatoes
– 2 cups of ricotta cheese
– 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Spread a thin layer of crushed tomatoes on the bottom of the slow cooker.

2. Layer 1/3 of the uncooked noodles, zucchini, eggplant, and onion, followed by 1/3 of the ricotta cheese and mozzarella.

3. Repeat the layers twice more, ending with a layer of crushed tomatoes. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.

4. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the noodles are tender.

5. Let the lasagna rest for about 15-20 minutes before serving, allowing it to firm up.

**Tip:**
– Feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

## Slow Cooker Spiced Apple Oatmeal

Breakfast is an essential meal for students, and this slow cooker spiced apple oatmeal is a delicious and healthy way to start your day. Prepared overnight, it’s ready when you wake up, making mornings easier and more enjoyable. This oatmeal is packed with nutrients and can easily be customized with your favorite toppings.

**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups of rolled oats
– 4 cups of water
– 2 apples, peeled and chopped
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Optional toppings: milk, nuts, dried fruit, brown sugar

**Instructions:**

1. Place all ingredients in the slow cooker, stirring to combine.

2. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or until the oatmeal is tender and creamy.

3. Serve with your choice of milk and toppings.

**Tip:**
– For a creamier oatmeal, stir in milk or additional water after cooking.

## Conclusion:
Creating delicious and budget-friendly vegetarian meals in a slow cooker is an excellent strategy for students looking to save time and money. These recipes offer a variety of flavors and nutrients, ensuring you stay satisfied and energized throughout the day. With a little planning and a slow cooker, you can enjoy tasty, homemade meals without breaking the bank. So, gather your ingredients, plug in your slow cooker, and get ready to savor the convenience and flavor of these vegetarian dishes!