If you’re not familiar with the vegan staple jackfruit, now is the time to get acquainted. The giant fruit (as in, up to 100 pounds!) is on the verge of blowing up on Pinterest this year because of its remarkable meat-like texture. For your next meatless Monday BBQ (or, you know, any night), try filling your vegetarian tacos to the brim with the stuff and you’ll soon understand the obsession. Keep reading to check out 20 ways that you can incorporate jackfruit into all your veggie meals and beyond.
Party plans at the 11th hour? We've got you covered with last-minute Halloween snacks that are easy to throw together! Spooky Halloween cookies call for tons of creativity, while make-ahead recipes require actually knowing that you're going to a party in the first place. While finding a last-minute costume that doesn't make your plan to stay in and watchHalloween movies alone in your jammies too obvious, cooking or baking a mysterious masterpiece seems out of the question – but it's not! Ahead, find some of the best last-minute Halloween snacks that are JUST the right amount of spooky.
Brit + Co
Monster Avocado Toasts
If you want to celebrate Halloween without eating a ton of junk, try our avocado toast faces. It's the perfect start to Halloween morning — before the Halloween partyprep begins! (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Deviled Egg Brains
These savory snack bites totally give us the creepy crawlies! Trust us, they're still yummy, though. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Spider Halloween Cookies
These sweet spideys should only take you about 40 minutes to finish! Once they're cooled, you'll be all set for your Halloween get-together. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Mummy Pizzas
These mummified pizza pies are made easy with store-bought ciabatta bread and some hearty toppings. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
The decorated pumpkin faces on these seasonal-flavored cookies provide the perfect amount of spooky! (via Brit + Co.)
Half Baked Harvest
Roasted Pumpkin Seed Hummus
Homemade hummus is SO much better than the store-bought stuff — and it's easy to make. In less than 30 minutes, you'll be ready to rock with a bright orange Halloween hummus. (Half Baked Harvest)
Chelsea's Messy Apron
Mummy Milanos
When you're in a pinch, there's nothing wrong with ripping open a bag of cookies and adding your own spooky twist. This recipe turns Milanos into mummies with the help of some melted white chocolate. (via Chelsea's Messy Apron)
Chopstick Chronicles
Sushi Balls, Halloween Style
We know what you're thinking — sushi isn't exactly easy to create — but hear us out. These eerie sushi balls are way easier to put together than sushi rolls and require a lot less skill and equipment. It's also mess-free! (via Chopstick Chronicles)
Gimme Some Oven
Brownie Spiders
These little cuties are the perfect last-minute snack to put together if you're less into gory-ness and more into adorably-ness. Feeling iffy over the commitment of baking? Don't sweat it — these are done in 35 minutes. (via Gimme Some Oven)
Simply Sated
Witch Finger Pretzels
As far as quick and simple snacks go, you can't compete with dipping already delicious pretzels into already delicious chocolate. The best part of these treats is that they come out look gruesome and amazing. (via Simply Sated)
A Spicy Perspective
Halloween Fruit Skewers
A healthy-ish treat, these fruit skewers get a little bit of Halloween when a few pieces of candy are in the mix. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Food Fanatic
Deviled Egg Eyeballs
Deviled eggs sound perfect for Halloween on their own. When you add a healthy helping of beet puree to the mix, this wholesome snack hits a whole new level of creepy, or take a different route by making spider web deviled eggs. (via Food Fanatic)
Well Plated
Graveyard Chocolate Cheesecake Dip
Having to whip up a themed snack at the last minute is a grave situation. It's a good thing THIS grave, topped with crunchy cookie dirt, only takes 20 minutes to put together. (via Well Plated)
Mitzy At Home
White Chocolate Ghosts and Mummies
It's hard to find anything cuter than ghost-themed desserts; it's those little eyes. These sweet boos are easy to make and need to chill for 30 minutes, so you can place them in the fridge while you get ready. (Mitzy At Home)
Baking Beauty
Pumpkin Cheese Ball
The flavors of cream cheese and sharp cheddar are scary good together. Also, you basically get to dunk chips into chips, so it's near impossible to disappoint a crowd with a snack like this. Did we mention it only takes 20 minutes to make? (via Baking Beauty)
Damn Delicious
Mummy Hot Dogs
Hot dogs wrapped in crescent rolls are fantastic any time of the year, but we're especially in love with them on Halloween. Wrapped up to look like mummies, these bites are great for adult and kid parties alike. (via Damn Delicious)
The Miniature Moose
Sweet and Salty Halloween Snack Mix
With no cooking required, this halloween snack is all ease and no fuss; just toss some sweet and savory snacks together and you're good to go. The frightening part is that they're incredibly addicting, so beware. (via The Miniature Moose)
A Zesty Bite
Oreo Spider Web Cookies
We're confident that Oreos are loved universally, so there is no way to go wrong with this snack because it is SO right. The best way to wash these spiders out? A tall glass of cold milk, of course. (via A Zesty Bite)
Stacey Homemaker
Halloween Graveyard Pizza
When doom hits, nothing saves the day quite like pizza; pizza fixes everything. In under 30 minutes, you too can save the day with this cheesy pizza — complete with eyeballs and tongues. (via Stacey Homemaker)
Chelsea's Messy Apron
Easy Spider Oreo Balls
If you're after that beloved Oreo flavor, but want to jazz things up in a most spine-chilling way, these spider Oreo balls will do the trick. In 30 minutes you can have these sweet and spooky critters on a platter, ready to go. (via Chelsea's Messy Apron)
Half Baked Harvest
Black Widow Peanut Butter Bars
Salty, sweet, and easier than you'd think, these peanut butter bars are made with pantry staples and candy. (via Half Baked Harvest)
A Spicy Perspective
Halloween Popcorn Mix
Coat dry, salted popcorn with a purple melted candy coating and add sprinkles and your favorite Halloween candy to make this snack mix. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Amanda Wilens
Halloween Rice Krispy Treats
Rice Krispy treats get a Halloween twist when you add festive sprinkles and a few eyeballs to mix. (via Amanda Wilens)
Salt & Lavender
Halloween Puppy Chow
Chocolate, peanut butter, and plenty of Halloween sprinkles give new life to Chex cereal, and it only takes 15 minutes to make. (via Salt & Lavender)
Halloween snacks are not only tasty, but they're fun to make, share and eat! With Halloween just around the corner, we're sure these spooky snacks will win over every guest at your Halloween bash!
For more spooky Halloween snack ideas + treats, check us out on Pinterest!
This article has been updated from a previous post with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
Aside from Luke's coffee, the most iconic and consistent aspect of Gilmore Girls are Friday Night Dinners. Any GG fan knows the weekly dinner kicks off in the pilot, when Lorelai asks Emily and Richard to help pay for Rory's Chilton tuition. In addition to paying Rory's way through school, Emily also requests the weekly dinners be part of the deal (and while Lorelai assumes it's manipulation, I'm convinced Emily just wants to be in their lives!!).
But despite the fact the Friday Night Dinners are incredibly entertaining, I can't decide whether or not they're realistic for one reason: you're telling me Emily, Rory, and Lorelai had no Friday night plans for seven years straight?!
Warner Bros. Television
After a long week of work or school, Friday is always my night to relax and unwind. They're the night I crave time with friends, whether it be a movie night or going out to eat, or I just simply don't want to leave my apartment. TLDR; I've never had a standing commitment on Fridays. I have to admit I like the flexibility!
"Usually Fridays are for going out with friends and staying out late, and then Saturdays and Sundays are for the family," one Reddit user says of their own experience. "It [especially] rubbed me the wrong way because this may not be an issue with an older person, but Rory is 16 at the start of the show."
Warner Bros. Television
Rory might not have a packed social schedule, but I can't help but wonder if, after driving to Hartford every day for school, she'd rather just curl up on her couch with a book. But considering life in Stars Hollow is pretty chill, maybe it's nice to have some kind of weekly plan, and a change of scenery to boot.
Despite the time commitment, our favorite mother-daughter duo still has no problem maximizing their weekend. "The weirder part was that they had time for Friday night lingering social dinners in a different town and THEN went out on dates," another Reddit user jokes.
Overall, you might have to suspend your disbelief that Lorelai never had Friday night plans (or that she made double the plans — who has the energy?!) but it's one Gilmore Girls tradition we simply couldn't live without.
Warner Bros. Television
Even though Friday Night Dinners start off as an obligation, I firmly believe Lorelai ends up really enjoying them — and the fact they give her the chance to reconnect with her parents. I think she realizes she actually wants to be at the dinners (which is probably as surprising for her as it is for us), whether it be because she was finally replacing unhappy childhood memories with pleasant adult ones, or because she actually had fun going back-and-forth with Emily.
"Emily was the only person in Lorelai’s life who could keep up with her banter in a similar way. She may have channeled that in a different way, but Emily was just as witty as Lorelai," a third Reddit user says, while another agrees, "Oh, she definitely did. I think she always craved an intimate relationship and saw that her daughter could give her that [segue] into their lives."
And there's nothing that brings people closer together than sharing a meal. Pour me a glass of wine Lorelai!!
Is there a Friday Night Dinner in every episode of Gilmore Girls?
Warner Bros. Television
Out of 153 Gilmore Girls episodes, there are 71 Friday Night Dinners. Meaning there's a dinner for about every two episodes.
What episode is the chaotic Friday Night Dinner?
Warner Bros. Television
Given how chaotic Lorelai is (and Lorelai and Emily are together), I'm afraid you'll have to be more specific! But one especially chaotic Friday Night Dinner comes in season 6, episode 13, "Friday Night's Alright For Fighting." After Lorelai reveals Christopher is paying Rory's Yale tuition, she attempts to smooth things over by bringing Friday Night Dinners back. And as the title might suggest, things don't exactly go according to plan.
But if Luke, Christopher, or Trix is present for a Friday Night Dinner, you know it's going to be a memorable one.
Still thinking up a Halloween costume? DIY This Epic Gilmore Girls Group Costume for (Stars) Hallow-een!
There's nothing like the slow cooker to make easy dinners, but on weekdays, it can still be quite rough to get a tasty home-cooked meal on the table, especially when you're short on time. Luckily – with minimal prep time required – these easy crock pot recipes make cooking dinner on busy nights practically effortless. All crock pot meals require is that you dump your ingredients into one pot, cook them up, and a few hours later, you'll be dining in style. Yes, please!
What is good to cook in a crock pot?
Khanh Nguyen / PEXELS
Chicken pot pie, beef stew, baked ziti, taco filling, marinated meatballs, chili, and chicken noodle soup are all tasty and easy crock pot meals. Any dish you want some mega-marinated flavor in makes for a great crock pot recipe.
What's the difference between a slow cooker and a crock pot?
Karolina Kaboompics / PEXELS
A slow cooker and a crock pot are essentially the same thing. The Crockpot brand is a type of slow cooker – the appliance became popularized after their release in the 1970s. The terms are often used interchangeably, but refer to the same thing. They'll both make amazing crock pot recipes!
What is the best meat to slow cook in a crock pot?
Geraud Pfeiffer / PEXELS
Tougher meats like beef brisket, chicken thighs, pork shoulders, and short ribs are the best meats to slow cook in a crock pot because all of them become super tender. If you want to dig into a super soft, meaty bite, try out these types of meat. It's the perfect way to elevate crock pot meals!
Can you put raw meat in a crock pot?
Isaac Taylor / PEXELS
You can cook raw meat in a crock pot, but it’s important that you leave it in the pot long enough for the meat to fully cook. If you don’t feel comfortable eyeballing the process, using a meat thermometer can give you an easier, more accurate reading on whether your meat is done or not.
Easy & Fast Crock Pot Recipes You Can Make Today
Brit + Co
DIY Crock Pot Soup
The best thing about this soup recipe is that we provide you with a variety of options every step of the way, meaning that you can make it differently every time! Whether you go with cream of mushroom soup, sweet potatoes, or chicken, this is one recipe that is sure to taste good every single time — because you're in charge of what goes inside. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese
The only thing better than stovetop mac is this one that follows suit with other slow cooker recipes. It's hard to believe that our favorite comfort food could be even creamier, cheesier, and easier with a simple, no-stress recipe, where your crock pot does all the work. This household staple offers a bowl of comfort, and can be served as a main entree or a super easy side dish! (via Brit + Co)
Jennifer Blume
Mozzarella-Stuffed Chicken Meatballs
Cheese gives each bite of this easy crock pot recipe an ooey-gooey mouthfeel. Top spaghetti with these meatballs for a complete dinner! As one of the best slow cooker meals, this cheesy chicken meatball recipe is sure to delight every member of the family. (via 3-Step Slow Cooker Cookbook for Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff
Everything goes in the slow cooker except the egg noodles for this stroganoff recipe, which are made on the stovetop just before serving. As one of the easiest crock pot recipes, this simple meal is sure to shine as a regular go-to for a quick and effortless dinner. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Vegan Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
We know that this crock pot recipe isn't for dinner, but there's nothing like curling up with a mug of hot cocoa on a cold evening. Plus, with vegan ingredients and an edible glitter garnish, each sip of this bev is pure magic. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Slow Cooker Baked Beans
Rich, smokey, savory, and sweet, baked beans can be a whole meal in themselves. Just pair with some brown bread and you've got dinner! Jazz up this easy crock pot meal with the additional tips and ingredients listed at the end of the recipe for an extra-meaty infusion, or add a mustard kick to balance the sweetness and build a more complex flavor. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Beef Stroganoff
It doesn't get easier than a four — yes, four! — ingredient dinner. Just combine some egg noodles, a can of Campbell's cream of mushroom, some yogurt, and beef, and then let it stew in the crock pot! This globally popular beef crock pot dinner has truly stood the test of time compared to other 3 hour crock pot meals and slow cooker recipes, and this take on it can be made gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy a traditional hearty meal. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Slow Cooker Marsala Veggie Bowl Recipe
A little cooking wine can go a long way! This tasty (and very simple) crock pot recipe will keep you feeling healthy without the cooking stress. This simple crock pot meal offers excellent leftover options — serve with eggs in the morning, fruit at lunch, or dress with more veggies and avocado slices for a wholesome meal. We adore crock pot recipes that are as flavorful as this one. (via Brit + Co)
Isabella Martinez-Funcke
Mini Slow Cooker Lamb Tacos
Beer flavors and tenderizes the meat in these tacos. Skip the salsa recipe and opt for a store-bought jar to make this super easy slow cooker recipe even quicker. (via Fiestas: Tidbits, Margaritas & Morefor Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Only a little more complicated than opening a can of the condensed stuff, this slow cooker chicken noodle soup recipe gives you way more bang for your buck, as one of the best cheap crock pot meals. It's our nourishing go-to whenever we're feeling run down or when the temps are extra frosty. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Vegan Slow Cooker Chana Masala
Indian food is the perfect cuisine for crock pot recipes, because you can let the intricate flavors simmer and soak in all day long before digging into a hearty, healthy bowl. This easy crock pot meal is packed with protein-filled chickpeas so you can feel fully satisfied. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
These vibrant and zesty tacos make the best crock pot meals since you make make a whole lot, and save the rest for leftovers. Put the filling into taco shells, on top of salads, or even enjoy by itself. (via Brit + Co)
Well Plated
Asian Lettuce Wraps Crock Pot Recipe
This chicken, carrots, mushrooms, and sweet and salty sauce combo is just the quick, weeknight ticket to yummy you need. It's a tried-and-true option when it comes to easy crock pot meals! You don’t need extravagant ingredients to make this easy crock pot recipe shine. All ingredients can be found at most grocery stores. (via Well Plated)
A Spicy Perspective
Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
This dish takes comfort food to a whole new level. It's one of our fave slow cooker recipes! The hands-off nature makes it easy to get things done while your food is in the crock pot. Cook on low for seven hours or on high for four hours, depending on how much time you have. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Damn Delicious
Slow Cooker Enchilada Casserole
Need some fast crock pot recipes? This is one of the yummiest easy crock pot recipes that calls for eliminating those enchilada cravings! The enchiladas get stacked with delectable layers of cheese, beans, corn, and fresh veggies for a simple and very tasty dinner win. This foolproof crock pot meal is meaty and hearty — without tons of effort. (via Damn Delicious)
Salt & Lavender
Crock Pot Ragu
Let some ground beef and pork simmer with red wine, beef broth, and plenty of spices, and then pile it onto your favorite pasta shape. Fast crock pot recipes have nothing on this super quick pick! (via Salt & Lavender)
The Bossy Kitchen
Slow Cooker Potato & Leek Soup
This comforting soup packs in a ton of veggies from the leek, cabbage, and carrots, but you still get a good hearty bite from the crispy bacon it's topped with. (via The Bossy Kitchen)
Gimme Some Oven
Crock Pot Recipe for Tacos Al Pastor
Once you give these pork and pineapple tacos a try, you just may find yourself craving them over and over again. Good news for you, making the meat in a slow-cooker means they're practically effortless to whip up! With the basics in the crock pot, the versatile and “choose your own” topping options make these tacos one of the best slow cooker recipes with diverse flavors, and unending creativity that can bring a new layer of joy every time you try it. (via Gimme Some Oven)
Culinary Hill
Cowboy Casserole
You don't have to live on a ranch to enjoy this mix of beef, mushrooms, and cheese. Plus, there are tater tots. We will accept any and every crock pot recipe that features tater tots! (via Culinary Hill)
These Easy Crock Pot Meals Will Become Your New Go-Tos
A Spicy Perspective
Easy Loaded Baked Potato Soup in the Crock Pot
The 15-minute prep time on this recipe (plus the fact that it's loaded up with cheese, bacon, and sour cream) makes it a total no-brainer. We're pretty sure this is the perfect easy weeknight dinner, and all you have to do to make it non-dairy is swap the half-and-half for coconut cream. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Delish Knowledge
Slow Cooker Vegan Tikka Masala
Without meat to add a savory depth of flavor, lots of vegan dishes benefit from a low and slow cooking time. It gives the ingredients and spices an opportunity to meld together, creating a fully developed flavor profile that will make you forget about the meat altogether. With this staple crock pot dinner idea, you won’t have to call for take-out for your next Indian food craving! (via Delish Knowledge)
Clean Cuisine
Slow Cooker Thai Chicken Recipe with Peanut Sauce
Full-fat coconut milk helps make this crock pot recipe creamy, while the lime, ginger, and apple cider vinegar give it a kick. Aren't healthy crock pot recipes just the best?! We'll have a second bowl, please. (via Clean Cuisine)
Kathryn's Kitchen
Crock Pot Spaghetti Squash with Turkey Meatballs
Looking for low-carb crock pot recipes? You've found the ultimate dish. Spaghetti squash and turkey meatballs become super tender in the slow cooker, plus everything in the pot will soak up the flavors deliciously. Dinner for the whole fam is ready! (via Kathryn's Kitchen)
Barley & Sage
Creamy White Chicken Chili
Easy crock pot recipes may seem bland, but chili in all forms is a good idea. We're def putting this white chicken chili into our regular meal rotation. Not only is it flavorful and filling, but it's topped with a dreamy combo of avocado, lime, and white cheddar, which just happen to be three of our favorite things! (via Barley & Sage)
The Real Food Dietitians
Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken
This savory, succulent Hawaiian chicken recipe goes great on top of salads, in rolls, and on sandwiches! Easy crock pot meals have never been tastier, TBH. (via The Real Food Dietitians)
The Endless Meal
The Best Crock Pot Thai Chicken Soup
Next time you want some Thai takeout, keep this easy crock pot chicken soup at the top of mind. It's full of spicy flavors and hearty chicken to keep you satisfied. It's our favorite of the many crock pot recipes in this post. Now, you'll never tire of crock pot meals. (via The Endless Meal)
A Spicy Perspective
Crock Pot Pulled Pork Brisket Sandwich Recipe
Plan to prep a big batch of this pulled pork brisket, because it's the perfect slow cooker meal for next year's epic Super Bowl party. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Vanilla and Bean
Hearty Crock Pot Vegetarian Chili
Nothing warms us down to our toes, or fills up our tummies like chili. This vegetarian option means that everyone can take part in the cozy! Easy crock pot recipes FTW. (via Vanilla and Bean)
A Spicy Perspective
Easy Swedish Meatballs
Ikea, you've met your match with this tasty recipe. To make this crock pot dish even easier, use frozen meatballs that are prepared ahead of time. Mixing in dried onion soup mix adds a whole new layer of flavor to this crock pot meal that you'll be obsessed with! (via A Spicy Perspective)
The Real Food Dietitians
Easy Crock Pot Pork Roast
You'll be stuck with plenty of leftovers with this easy crock pot recipe. It's especially yummy to eat in the dead of winter, since every bite is super warm and comforting. (via The Real Food Dietitians)
Save Time & Effort With These Easy Crock Pot Recipes For Dinner
Barley & Sage
Slow Cooker Chili
All you need to do to make this crock pot recipe is sauté beef, onions, and garlic, mix up all of the ingredients in your cooker, and then leave it alone until dinnertime. Fast crock pot recipes are amazing! What could be easier than that?! (via Barley & Sage)
Culinary Hill
Slow Cooker Pot Roast
You don't need to be a professional to create a pot roast dinner full of hearty and robust flavors. Just follow this easy crock pot recipe the next time you want to impress guests or the family! (via Culinary Hill)
Vikalinka
Gochujang Short Ribs in the Slow Cooker
When you want a fancy dinner, but don't want to lift a single finger, this short ribs crock pot recipe lays things out super simply – resulting in a fantastic fare for dinner and beyond. (via Vikalinka)
Half Baked Harvest
Carnitas Chilaquiles with Whipped Jalapeño Cream
If you're wondering what whipped jalapeño cream is, you're in for a pleasant surprise. The mix of Greek yogurt and cream cheese with the jalapeños and honey is a dreamy sweet + spicy combo. This is an easy crock pot recipe for sure. The cream goes perfectly with the savory chilaquiles from the slow cooker, but we wouldn't blame you if you paired it with everything from here on out. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Culinary Hill
Stuffed Artichokes
Adding water and olive oil to your crock pot meals will make these stuffed artichokes nice and soft, which will make the crunchy breadcrumb topping stand out even more! We'll take these with extra Parmesan cheese, please. This has gotta be one of the simplest crock pot dinner ideas out there. (via Culinary Hill)
Half Baked Harvest
Cheesy Mashed Potatoes with Caramelized Onions
Cheese! Potatoes! Onions! Oooh! Now that we've got you locked into a cheesy-carby trance, you now are required to try your hand at this super fast crock pot recipe. Trust us, you won't regret it. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Spicy Southern Kitchen
Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs
You don't need a grill to enjoy barbecue. The slow cooker simmers ribs in a tangy sauce until they're falling off the bone. The fresh ginger and pineapple brighten up the traditional barbecue flavor in this crock pot recipe. Blast them under the broiler right before serving to add irresistible caramelized notes to your meal. (via Spicy Southern Kitchen)
The Edgy Veg
Easy Vegan Crock Pot Lasagna Soup
Like your fave Italian pasta dish, this dish soup-ifies lasagna for a totally warm and comforting crock pot meal. (via The Edgy Veg)
Averie Cooks
Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Every minute this soup sits in the the slow cooker adds another complex level of flavor, which makes it oh-so deliciously addicting. It's gonna become your go-to when looking for crock pot recipes! (via Averie Cooks)
The Recipe Critic
Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken
Peanut butter makes this Thai chicken rich and saucy while the “hidden” vegetables make this crock pot recipe a full course — especially great for kiddos who tend to avoid veggies! This is one of those easy crock pot meals that's practically begging to be dished out over a bowl of noodles or fluffy white rice. (via The Recipe Critic)
Vanilla and Bean
Slow Cooker Vegetable Curry
Get ready for an amazing collection of flavors, thanks to this crock pot recipe. With ginger, garlic, onion, and diced tomatoes, this dish can't be beat! It's one of the most delicious fast crock pot recipes we've seen! (via Vanilla and Bean)
Half Baked Harvest
Healthier Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Vegetable Soup
15 minutes of prep time is all you need to make this easy, creamy tortellini soup filled with kale, carrots, and celery. It's topped with a healthy amount of tortellini and Parmesan cheese. Hot, steamy, and easy crock pot meals? We need it now! (via Half Baked Harvest)
Salt & Lavender
Crock Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Lemony flavors really brighten up this easy crock pot recipe, so you can get a complex, flavorful bite each time. (via Salt & Lavender)
The Diary of a Real Housewife
Slow Cooker Asian Meatballs
The secret to these meatballs? They're not made from scratch — shhh. The ridiculously flavorful, ginger-honey sauce makes up for it. This versatile easy crock pot recipe can be dressed up or down with additional sides. It's also a great option for party appetizers and snacks. (via The Diary of a Real Housewife)
Recipe Tin Eats
Red Wine-Braised Beef Short Ribs
After just 15 minutes of prep (and eight hours on low heat), this elegant dinner party-worthy meal can be all yours. The rich red wine sauce in this amazing crock pot recipe will make your family and guests question if you plan to become a fine-dining chef. Dress it up with sides, or keep it simple for a rustic approach. (via Recipe Tin Eats)
Completely Delicious
Chicken Coconut Korma in the Crock Pot
Healthy crock pot recipes don't get much better than this. Each bite of this easy crock pot meal carries savory and sweet flavors in its wake – it'll soon become a total dinnertime staple! It takes almost no prep time, too, and you'll find that this is one of the best fast crock pot recipes you've ever eaten. (via Completely Delicious)
Half Baked Harvest
Slow Cooker Chipotle Orange Street Tacos
Citrusy, smoky, and spicy slow-cooked chicken forms the backbone of these delish tacos. Easily play with the sweet and spicy flavors in the peppers and orange juice for a tantalizing taco treat! Spoon this crock pot recipe into warmed corn tortillas, then add your favorite toppings. The spicy pineapple slaw included as garnish brings out the best of this easy crock pot dinner recipe. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Salt & Lavender
Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy
You won't be able to get enough of this tender, fall-apart in your mouth chicken and gravy meal. It's the perfect easy crock pot recipe for colder winter nights, so you can warm up amongst the weather. (via Salt & Lavender)
You Won't Want To Cook Any Other Way After Using The Crock Pot
Food Lovin' Family
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This traditional crock pot dinner boasts tender chunks of beef, a complex broth, and loads of savory veggies. This stew is about to become a crock pot staple in your house as a fundamental dish that doesn’t require hours of labor to satisfy. (via Food Lovin' Family)
The Life Jolie
Slow-Cooker Sausage and Peppers
We love how versatile this dish is, and it doesn’t get easier than this fast crock pot recipe, TBH. Add the sausage and peppers to hoagie rolls for lunch, mix with marinara for an Italian dinner, or chop up the leftovers to add to your breakfast omelet the next morning! (via The Life Jolie)
The Roasted Root
Slow Cooker Ropa Vieja
Cuban-style shredded beef swimming in a sauce of chiles, tomato, cumin, and oregano is flavorful enough to stand on its own. If you have a little extra time, this easy crock pot recipe is even better when added to a bowl of beans, rice, and plantains. We have to admit, this is one of the best crock pot recipes if you are looking for a complex Caribbean dish filled with flavor, without the excess labor and preparation. (via The Roasted Root)
Diethood
Slow-Cooker Salmon with Creamy Lemon Sauce
Salmon needs something to brighten it up. In this case, it's a zingy lemon sauce that clings to each bite! Trust us – this pick is prime when it comes to healthy crock pot recipes. This pescatarian crock pot meal is big on flavor, healthy, and low carb, making it a great option for the Keto diet as well. (via Diethood)
The Girl on Bloor
Creamiest Crock Pot Beef Stroganoff
When it comes to pasta, the creamier the better. Thanks to this crock pot recipe, every ingredient and flavor has the time to melt together to create something incredible. (via The Girl on Bloor)
Well Plated
Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Utterly indulgent baked potato soup is one of our fave hands-off easy slow cooker meals. Top your bowl with crispy bacon, sour cream, chives, and (of course) a healthy handful of cheese. This crock pot dinner recipe offers a fantastic and cozy warm-up bite in the fall and winter seasons. (via Well Plated)
Barley & Sage
Crock Pot White Queso Dip
Elevate weeknight nachos with this easy queso dip made that's with white American and pepper jack cheese, along with green chilies and pickled jalapeños. You'll want to add this to your list of easy crock pot recipes to share with the whole fam! (via Barley & Sage)
Half Baked Harvest
Crock Pot Cider Braised Short Ribs with Sage Butter Mashed Potatoes
Need more crock pot dinner ideas? This easy gourmet crock pot recipe is as simple as throwing everything in a pot, forgetting about it for a whole day, then scooping a delicious and hearty dinner straight out of the slow cooker. Easy crock pot meals are a true savior. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Hello Little Home
Crock Pot Spicy 3-Bean Chili
This easy slow cooker chili recipe keeps weeknights so simple, and makes for a hearty, comforting bowl during the winter months. (via Hello Little Home)
Kitchen Sanctuary
Butter Chicken Crock Pot Recipe
It takes less time to throw together this chicken dish than it would to head to your local takeout joint. This savory chicken-focused crock pot meal will melt in your mouth with tender chicken breasts and a creamy sauce that is sure to delight. (via Kitchen Sanctuary)
Family Food on the Table
Crock Pot Recipe For Honey Garlic Chicken
Skip the delivery fees, and make a big batch of this honey garlic slow cooker chicken this weekend instead. With only five ingredients and a few simple steps, this recipe hits all of the marks as one of the easiest and best slow cooker recipes. By the time you get back from drinks with the girls, you'll have an effortless and super crave-able dinner waiting for you in your crock pot. (via Family Food on the Table)
Diethood
Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup
If you are craving chicken enchiladas, but want to avoid unnecessary steps and fuss, this slow cooker recipe is perfect for you! After the crock pot is done doing its thing, you will have eight full servings of chicken enchilada soup to eat or save for later. Let's hear it for easy crock pot meals! (via Diethood)
A Spicy Perspective
Mom's Best Beef Pot Roast
Did someone say comfort food? This simple crock pot dish (another great pick when it comes to easy crock pot meals) gives you the perfect setup for a family gathering, or if you just want to go off in the kitchen! (via A Spicy Perspective)
Super Easy Slow Cooker Recipes The Whole Family Will Love
Little Spice Jar
Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
Need crock pot recipes that won't be too hard to make? A lazy Sunday *always* calls for a protein-packed and very vegan spin on a classic, and this one is totally worth sharing with someone special. This slow-cooked dish, full of ideal veggies and proteins, is a fantastic fall or winter recipe that will warm you up in the chilliest of seasons. It's one of the best easy crock pot meals for warming up a bit. (via Little Spice Jar)
Simply Whisked
Crock Pot Meal with Lentil Bolognese
Looking for a meat-free alternativeto this hearty, slow-cooked sauce? Lentils are just the protein-packed and substantial answer you've been looking for! This hearty and full-flavored crock pot recipe is meatless, fiscally responsible, and can be made gluten-free, making it a healthy and guilt-free option for anyone and everyone. (via Simply Whisked)
The Girl on Bloor
Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Dal
Summer or winter squash work well in this Indian dal dish that's as just as eclectic as it is easy. This healthy and easy crock pot meal saves and reheats well, making multiple dinners a true one-and-done. Play with adding your favorite veggies, lentils, and spices each time you make it for unique options every time you make it. We love easy crock pot recipes that get creative! (via The Girl on Bloor)
Amanda Wilens
White Turkey Chili
Great for leftover turkey (and chicken, too), this white chili is topped with a flavorful combo of lime juice, cilantro, and Monterey jack cheese. It's the best of the best when it comes to savory, hearty crock pot meals! (via Amanda Wilens)
Culinary Hill
Boursin Mashed Potatoes
Make this mashed potato recipe so much easier by popping everything in a crock pot. This recipe leverages baby potatoes, so there's no peeling required in the process, but this dish still holds all the good flavor. (via Culinary Hill)
Crock Pot Meals & Slow Cooker Recipes Take The Stress Out Of Scrumptious Dinner Faves
Navada Ra / PEXELS
These crock pot recipes are perfect for your next weeknight dinner! We love how they take advantage of easy, seasonal ingredients that make your crock pot a part of your cooking routine, year-round. Plus, they'll keep you warm on chilly evenings. You'll also find some truly healthy crock pot recipes in our list, too!
Many of these amazing easy crock pot recipes can be modified to the delights and special dietary needs of you and your family. These recipes often yield enough delectable goodness and keep leftovers well, so you can save the excess for a quick lunch, or freeze it for even easier future meals. Crock pot and slow cooker meals take the stress out of the kitchen, so you don’t have to sacrifice time, labor, and effort to eat well, and feel full.
Follow us on Pinterest for more easy crock pot recipes and join our newsletter for more inspiration, ideas, DIYs, and new online cooking classes!
This article has been updated from a previous post.
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There are a lot of celebrity couples we love (Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce! Katy Perry & Orlando Bloom!), but if you ask me, nobody handles having a relationship in the spotlight like Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds. This hilarious duo protects their kids, but they're also always down for a good time.
The couple first met in 2010 while filming Green Lantern, which has quickly become regarded as Ryan Reynolds' worst movie (the actor said he'd "genuinely rather watch just a f—ing 24-hour marathon of PAW Patrol). But, in addition to the fact I didn't think the movie was all that bad, it also gave the world the gift of Ryan & Blake's relationship. The couple quickly fell in love, tying the knot in 2010. Since then, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have had four children (James, Inez, Betty, and Olin), launched a variety of brands like Betty Buzz, Aviation Gin, and Blake Brown Beauty, and given Hollywood some of its most iconic movies — all while supporting and praising one another. Keep reading for their full relationship timeline.
Blake Lively And Ryan Reynolds' Full Relationship Timeline
François Duhamel/DC Comics/Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.
How did Blake and Ryan meet?2010 — Blake Lively And Ryan Reynolds Meet While Filming Green Lantern
Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds met on the Green Lantern set. After they filmed the movie, they ended up going out with other people, but hitting it off with each other.
"We were buddies for a long time, which I think is the best way to have a relationship, to start as friends," Ryan Reynolds said in an interview with SiriusXM's Entertainment Weekly Radio in 2016. "About a year after Green Lantern had come and gone and we were both single, we went on a double date — she was on a date with another guy, and I was on a date with another girl — and it was like the most awkward date for the respective parties because we were just like fireworks coming across."
Their relationship quickly evolved to the one we know and love today!
Kevin Winter/Getty Images
October 22, 2011 — Blake Lively And Ryan Reynolds Reportedly Start Dating
After Blake and Ryan (along with their dogs) were spotted outside a Boston apartment, a source told People: “They are very much a couple. They’re really happy together.”
Blake Lively revealed that at the start of their relationship, Ryan gave her a bouquet every single week. "When my husband and I first got together, he would send me a bouquet of flowers every week, but he would always send a card and it would just be a sentence of something that had happened that week," the actress tells People. "Something funny or emotional that one of us said."
Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images
September 9, 2012 — Blake Lively And Ryan Reynolds Get Married
Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds said "I do" in September of 2012. The wedding had a children's choir & a Florence Welch performance, paper lanterns, and a sour cream wedding cake with peach-apricot preserves, according to People. But the planning didn't go as smoothly as one might hope.
"Our wedding was becoming a disaster, and we didn't know what to do, so we called Martha!" BlakeLively told Vogue in 2014. "She said, 'Don't worry. I'll handle it.' She sent her team down to save us."
The wedding took place at Boone Hall Plantation, a former slave plantation in South Carolina, a location the couple is "unreservedly sorry for," Reynolds told Fast Company in 2020.
Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images
May 5, 2014 — Blake Lively And Ryan Reynolds Make Their Red Carpet Debut
At the 2014 "Charles James: Beyond Fashion" Met Gala, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds looked glamorous and sophisticated with Blake's Gucci Première gown with rose gold details and Ryan's dark blue velvet tux.
Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Gabrielle's Angel Foundation
December 16, 2014 — Blake Lively Gives Birth To Her First Child
Blake first announced her pregnancy on her since-closed website Preserve. She told Vogue in July 2014 how excited she was to start a family with Ryan. “He’s going to be a great father and leader and patriarch—he’s so meant to be all of those things," she said. "The fact that he lived so much before we got together, he’s the exact realized person that he should be.”
"They are absolutely ecstatic and just so ready for this. It is the perfect time in their lives to start this new chapter; they are so in love and are going to be amazing parents," a Peoplesource said at the time.
Ryan Reynolds confirmed their first daughter James' birthday on December 16, 2015, when he tweeted, "Happy birthday to my baby girl! Sad I lost my virginity. But thankful I have a daughter."
Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for Target
September 30, 2016 — Blake Lively And Ryan Reynolds Welcome Their Second Child
Two years after giving birth to James, US Weekly confirmed Blake Lively (who was filming The Shallows at the time) was pregnant with baby number 2! “Blake is absolutely thrilled and so is Ryan,” the source told People.
Blake Lively gave birth to Inez on September 30, 2016.
Steven Ferdman/Getty Images
May 2, 2019 — Blake Lively And Ryan Reynolds Walk Detective Pikachu Red Carpet, And Announce Baby Number 3
At the New York premiere for Detective Pikachu, Blake Lively surprised fans by showing off a baby bump and announcing her third pregnancy! Their daughter Betty was born on October 4, 2019.
Ryan Reynolds confirmed the baby was a girl in an October 16 tweet, while Taylor Swift revealed the baby's name in "Betty" from her 2020 album Folklore.
Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue
May 2, 2022 — Blake Lively And Ryan Reynolds Stun At The 2022 Met Gala
As Met Gala co-chairs, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds pulled out all the stops for their iconic looks. Blake's art deco gown was the perfect nod to New York, and represented Grand Central Station and the Statue of Liberty. Ryan looked very handsome in a black velvet tux.
February 2023 — Blake Lively Gives Birth To Her Fourth Child With Ryan Reynolds
After showing up to the 10th Annual Forbes Power Women's Summit with a baby bump in September, Blake unofficially announced the birth of their fourth baby (whom we now know is named Olin) with an Instagram post that shows the actress without a baby bump.
"Puppy Bowl Sunday 2023🥘 🍲 🥧 been busy," she says in the February 12 post.
July 26, 2024 — Blake Lively And Her Kids Make A Deadpool 3 Cameo
After fan speculation that Deadpool & Wolverine would either include Blake Lively or Taylor Swift, we were over the moon to see Blake make a (masked) cameo, along with Inez and Olin!
"In 2010, @robliefeld drew an unmasked Lady Deadpool for the first time," she says on Instagram. "@deadpoolmovie wasn’t real. And Rob had no idea I was working with @vancityreynolds. 12 years later I read Rob’s post. A year after that, @deadpoolmovie 3 was filmed. And today it’s in theaters. The universe has such a magical sense of humor sometimes."
Blake Lively & BFF Gigi Hadid also revealed that Ryan Reynolds loves a girls' night, which is information I didn't know I needed.
Cindy Ord/Getty Images
August 6, 2024 — Blake Lively And Ryan Reynolds Attends It Ends With Us Premiere
Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds love to support each other at their movie premieres, but it goes way deeper than that. "He works on everything I do, I work on everything he does. So his wins, his celebrations are mine and mine are his," Blake told E! News. "The iconic rooftop scene [in It Ends With Us], my husband actually wrote it."
At the New York premiere for the new Blake Lively movie, Blake and Ryan shared a moment that proves they belong together. While heading to talk to People on the carpet, Blake Lively leans over and grabs Ryan Reynolds' butt. And the funniest part is that Ryan doesn't even turn around.
"He didn’t even react because It happens so often," one user jokes in the comments, while another says, "I love the respect that they have for each other - with love! Yes that her man!"
Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images For Entertainment Weekly
September 9, 2024 — Blake Lively And Ryan Reynolds Celebrate Their 12th Wedding Anniversary
Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively have been married for 14 years as of September 9, 2024. And the couple remains closer than ever. "Blake and Ryan are a great team when it comes to both their family and work," a source told People. "They're super supportive of each other. He's very proud of her. They have a great marriage and love to celebrate everything they created together."
& Juliet On Broadway
October 23, 2024 — Blake Lively Celebrates Ryan Reynolds' Birthday
Ryan Reynolds turned 48 on October 23, and to celebrate, Blake took him and the kids to see a matinee showing of & Juliet! "I don't know what to get him for his birthday? What do you get him for his birthday? I know he loves musicals, I love musicals, the kids love musicals. So it felt like the right choice!" Blake told the cast, according to a People source. "They were just raving about how good it was."
Bringing Ryan and the kids to the show (which features songs like Britney Spears' "Baby One More Time"), just proves how much Blake knows her family!
What is the age difference between Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds?
Richard Harbaugh/Disneyland Resort via Getty Images
Blake Lively was born on August 25, 1987, meaning she just turned 37. Ryan Reynolds, who was born on October 23, 1976, is 47. They have a 9-year age gap.
Was Blake Lively married before Ryan Reynolds?
Neilson Barnard/Getty Images
Ryan Reynolds is Blake Lively's first husband, but before they got married, the actress dated her Gossip Girl costar Penn Badgley and also reportedly dated Leonardo DiCaprio. Ryan Reynolds was married to MCU & Jurassic World: Rebirth star Scarlett Johansson from 2008 to 2010.
Is Blake Lively in any of Ryan Reynolds' movies?
Paramount Pictures
Yes, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have been in the same movies! After meeting during the production of Green Lantern, Blake Lively has a role as an imaginary friend in Ryan Reynolds' IF. This spring movie follows Ryan Reynolds' character and his neighbor Bea, who set out to save all the imaginary friends. The movie also stars director John Krasinski, Cailey Fleming, Fiona Shaw, Alan Kim, Liza Colón-Zayas, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Louis Gossett Jr., and Steve Carell.
Blake Lively, Inez, and Olin also had roles in Deadpool & Wolverine as Ladypool, Kidpool, and Babypool. Blake's appearance in the movie had been a fan theory for such a long time, and I was so excited to see it come to life!
Who is Blake Lively's half sister?
Christopher Polk/Getty Images for People's Choice Awards
Blake Lively's half-sister is Robyn Lively. Robyn also works in Hollywood, just like Blake's brother Eric Lively and brother-in-law Bart Johnson. Robyn and Blake have also acted together — Robyn made a cameo in It Ends With Us during one of the opening scenes!
Check back here for the latest news on this lovable celebrity couple. Check out Blake Lively's Daughters Had The Cutest Reaction To Taylor Swift Singing Their Names Onstage for more.
Lead image via Cindy Ord/Getty Images
A Shirtless Chad Michael Murray In 'The Merry Gentlemen' Trailer Is All We Need For Christmas
Oct 24, 2024
Channing Tatum may have to hang up his sexy dancing skills because it looks like Chad Michael Murray is the new reigning champ in his new film, The Merry Gentlemen. You can tell it's going to be a Christmas movie, but we're not talking about Home Alone or Jingle All the Way here. This spicy film feels more like Magic Mike going on a sexy and romantic journey through a small town — which sounds like something we'd watch more than once.
We love watching Chad Michael Murray in Sullivan's Crossing, but we're excited we get to see him prance around our screens without a shirt in the new trailer for The Merry Gentlemen, TBH. Here's everything we know about the upcoming film and what we can expect to see!
What's 'The Merry Gentlemen' about?
Katrina Marcinowski/Netflix
Written by Marla Sokoloff, The Merry Gentlemen is set to follow one former dancer's (Ashley played by Britt Robertson) journey to making sure the Rhythm Room — a "performing arts venue" — doesn't go defunct. It's owned by her parents, so she has personal ties to this small-town source of entertainment, coming up with the bright idea to surprise the community with an "all-male Christmas-theme revue."
Who's starring in 'The Merry Gentlemen'?
Katrina Marcinowski/Netflix
According to Netflix, The Merry Gentlemenwill feature a host of other faces! We'll see the following:
- Chad Michael Murray as Luke
- Britt Robertson as Ashley
- Michael Gross as Stan
- Marla Sokoloff as Marie
- Maxwell Caulfield as Danny
- Beth Broderick as Lily
- Marc Anthony Samuel as Roger
- Hector Rivera, Jr. as Ricky
- Colt Prattes as Troy
When can we watch 'The Merry Gentlemen' on Netflix?
Katrina Marcinowski/Netflix
We'll be able to see Chad Michael Murray and more sexy shirtless men give us a show on November 20. We're not sure what it is, but there's nothing like watching Christmas movies right before Thanksgiving to get us in the winter spirit.
What have Chad Michael Murray and Britt Robertson said about starring in 'The Merry Gentlemen?'
Katrina Marcinowski/Netflix
We didn't think it was possible, but Chad Michael Murray was a little nervous about playing Luke. "I'd never danced professionally or trained by any means," he said (via PEOPLE). Though he has a thing for "going out and dancing," he's never done anything "to this level."
As to why he chose this role, Chad seems to enjoy a challenge. "When I see something and it scares the crap out of me, something in me says, 'Alright, well let's see what we can do.'" He has two thoughts — "'I'm going to fall flat on my face or have a lot of fun doing.'" If you ask us, that's the right spirit to have for a fun Christmas movie.
Britt Robertson was immediately drawn to the script and her role as Ashley. "When I read the script, I was like, ‘This is my kind of Christmas movie,'" she said (via Netflix). She also teased why she can't get enough of the cowboy appeal in the movie. "...I'm Southern...the hats, the boots. There's so much you can work with."
Watch The Full Trailer For 'The Merry Gentlemen'
We're slightly ashamed to say how many times we've watched this funny and sexy trailer for The Merry Gentlemen. We've always thought Chad Michael Murray was everything a dream boyfriend should be, but now we have proof he's raising the bar!
In the meantime, follow us on Facebook to make sure you don't miss updates about this sexy Christmas movie!
This post has been updated.