This post has been updated since it was originally published on September 8, 2019.
When you’re trying to lose weight, it’s important to eat plenty of protein-rich foods that provide energy without weighing you down in sugar and simple carbs. It’s also crucial to plan ahead and have meals ready to go so that you aren’t tempted to skip out on healthy food.
But hectic days don’t always allow for planning, which is why your crockpot can be your best friend and companion on your weight loss journey. The slow cooker lets you prep a meal and then leave it alone for hours to cook (while you do other things). And there are so many protein-filled crockpot recipes you can rely on—like these five high-protein metabolism-boosting crockpot recipes you should make this week to kickstart fat loss.
Quinoa contains all nine essential amino acids —;plus it’s a rich source of protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals. This healthy, hearty meat-less stew also happens to boasts amazing anti-inflammation properties, thanks to a generous heaping of turmeric.
Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
•Sweet potato
•Broccoli
•Chickpeas
•Diced tomatoes
•Yellow onion
•Garlic
•Grated ginger
•Turmeric
•Quinoa
•Coconut milk
•Water
It’s a little sweet, a bit tangy, and with just enough spice to give it a flavorful kick. This beef and broccoli meal takes just 10 minutes to prep and is an incredible source of iron, protein, and minerals.
You’ll need:
•Sirloin steak
•Beef broth
•Soy sauce
•Brown sugar
•Sesame oil
•Sriracha
•Garlic
•Green onions
•Cornstarch
•Broccoli florets
•Sesame seeds
Yep, you can even make eggs in your crockpot! Eggs are one of the best low-calorie sources of protein —and they’re practically free of carbs. Feel free to add or take away as many veggies as you want from this delish frittata recipe:
•Olive oil
•Free range eggs
•Milk of your choice
•Shredded parmesan cheese
•Dried oregano
•Zucchini
•Red onion
•Red bell pepper
•Mushrooms
Slow-Cooker Bean and Barley Soup
There’s nothing like a comforting soup to satisfy your rumbling stomach on a cold night. The key protein-rich ingredients in this meal are beans and barley — the latter a complex carb that will keep you fuller for longer periods of time.
The ingredients you’ll need include:
•Baked beans in tomato sauce
•Potatoes
•Celery
•Onion
•Carrots
•Beef or vegetable broth
•Pearl barley
•Nutmeg
A gluten-free lasagna that you can enjoy even if you’re following a low-carb diet, this veggie lasagna replaces pasta with zucchini and eggplant — but maintains the delicious flavors you love.
You’ll need:
•Zucchini
•Eggplant
•Kosher salt
•Pasta sauce
•Red onion
•Red bell pepper
•Low-fat cottage cheese
•Eggs
•Mozzarella cheese
•Parmesan cheese
