Crockpot meals for two work best in a small slow cooker. A 1.5 to 3-quart crock keeps smaller portions deep enough to cook evenly without drying out or scorching. Here are 5 slow cooker recipes sized for 2 people (with a little left for lunch), plus how to adjust any full-size recipe.
What Size Slow Cooker Do You Need for Two?
A 2 to 3-quart slow cooker is ideal for 2 people. A slow cooker works best when it’s 1/2 to 2/3 full. If you only have a 6-quart, cook these recipes anyway but start checking about 1 hour early, because a thin layer of food cooks faster. Our slow cooker size guide covers mini crockpots in more detail.
5 Easy Crockpot Recipes for Two
1. Beef Stew for Two
You need: 1 lb (450 g) beef chuck in 1-inch cubes tossed with 1 tbsp flour, 2 medium potatoes and 2 carrots in chunks, 1/2 diced onion, 1 1/2 cups beef broth, 1 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 tsp thyme, salt and pepper.
Cook: Vegetables on the bottom. LOW 7 to 8 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
2. Salsa Verde Chicken
You need: 2 boneless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g), 1 cup salsa verde, 1/2 tsp cumin.
Cook: LOW 3 hours or until 165°F (74°C). Shred and serve in tacos or over rice with avocado.
3. Honey Soy Chicken Thighs
You need: 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 1 1/4 lb / 570 g), 2 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 2 cloves garlic.
Cook: LOW 4 to 5 hours, until 165°F (74°C). Spoon the sauce over the top and serve with rice and steamed broccoli.
4. Chili for Two
You need: 1/2 lb (225 g) ground beef or turkey (browned), 1 can (15 oz) beans (drained), 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, 1/2 diced onion, 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp salt.
Cook: LOW 5 to 6 hours. Top with cheddar and sour cream.
5. Creamy Tuscan Chicken
You need: 2 boneless chicken breasts, 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 2 cloves garlic, 1 tsp Italian seasoning. To finish: 1/3 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup parmesan, 1 big handful of spinach.
Cook: LOW 3 hours. Stir in the cream, parmesan and spinach and cook 10 minutes on HIGH.
How to Halve Any Crockpot Recipe
- Halve the ingredients, not the cook time, if you also halve the crock size. The food depth stays about the same, so the time does too.
- If you keep the big crock, cut the time by about 25% and check early.
- Keep enough liquid to cover the bottom by about 1/2 inch so nothing scorches.
Setting a Table for Two
A slow-cooked dinner deserves a proper table. We serve stews in large ceramic pasta and soup bowls, and carve and slice on a wooden cutting board with handle that goes straight to the table. More ideas are in Kitchen and Table Ideas.
Crockpot Meals for Two FAQ
Can I use a 6-quart slow cooker for 2 people?
Yes, but food cooks faster in a shallow layer. Check 45 to 60 minutes early, and make sure there’s enough liquid to cover the bottom.
What is a good small slow cooker size?
2 to 3 quarts suits 2 people. 1.5-quart mini crockpots are best for dips and sides.
Can I double a crockpot recipe for two later?
Yes. Double the ingredients, use a 5 to 6-quart crock, and keep the cook time about the same.
More easy ideas: dump and go crockpot meals and crockpot pesto chicken.
