Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen preparing meals for your family? Do you wish you had more time to relax and enjoy quality time with your loved ones? Look no further! Crock pots are a busy parent’s best friend, allowing you to prepare delicious, easy-to-make meals that the whole family will love. And who says crock pot recipes have to be boring or bland? In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering and kid-friendly crock pot recipes that are perfect for a family dinner or snack.
From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and chicken nuggets, to international flavors like tacos and teriyaki chicken, these slow cooker recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. And the best part? Most of these recipes require minimal effort and can be prepared in just a few minutes – leaving you more time to focus on what really matters.
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
Transform a classic comfort food into an effortless slow-cooked masterpiece with this simple recipe. Perfect for busy days, this macaroni and cheese will satisfy your cravings without breaking a sweat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, butter, flour, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Add the grated cheese to the milk mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Place the cooked macaroni in the slow cooker. Pour the cheese mixture over the pasta.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Crock Pot Chicken Tacos
Elevate your taco Tuesday with this easy and flavorful Crock Pot Chicken Tacos recipe! Tender chicken, savory spices, and a hint of lime make for a deliciously simple meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 lime, juiced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Place chicken breasts in the Crock Pot.
2. Add diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, taco seasoning, onion, bell pepper, and lime juice on top of the chicken.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir to combine with the sauce.
5. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the chicken mixture onto a tortilla, followed by desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Get ready for a flavorful and tender pulled pork experience with this simple recipe! These sliders are perfect for parties, game days, or just a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season pork shoulder with brown sugar, smoked paprika, and salt.
3. Place pork in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot. Add BBQ sauce and cover.
4. Braise for 6-8 hours or overnight until tender and easily shredded.
5. Shred pork with two forks and stir to combine with remaining BBQ sauce.
6. Assemble sliders by placing pulled pork onto buns, topping with coleslaw and pickle slices (if using).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Cheesy Slow Cooker Pizza Pasta
Transform your pasta into a cheesy pizza-inspired delight with this slow cooker recipe! With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: pepperoni slices or other pizza toppings
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In the slow cooker, combine marinara sauce, olive oil, oregano, and garlic powder.
3. Add cooked pasta to the slow cooker, tossing to coat with the sauce mixture.
4. Top with mozzarella and cheddar cheese; stir until well combined.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If using pepperoni or other toppings, add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Homestyle Crock Pot Meatballs
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer. This easy-to-make dish is a staple of many homestyle meals, and with the help of your trusty crock pot, it’s a breeze to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your crock pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs in the crock pot, leaving a little space between each one.
5. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low), 1-2 hours (high)
Kid-Friendly Slow Cooker Chili
A warm, comforting bowl of chili is just what the family needs on a chilly day. This recipe is easy to make and customizable to your little ones’ tastes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, diced tomatoes, or crushed tortilla chips for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
3. Transfer mixture to slow cooker; add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, and beef broth.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot with optional toppings!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo
This classic comfort food dish gets a slow cooker twist, resulting in tender chicken and a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in the crock pot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and basil.
3. Pour the cream mixture over the chicken.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, add the penne pasta to the crock pot and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with butter if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
A sweet and savory slow-cooked chicken dish that’s perfect for a busy day. This recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort, yet yields tender and flavorful results.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together honey, garlic, and thyme.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker and brush with olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering. This easy-to-make dish combines the creaminess of cheese with the crunch of broccoli and the simplicity of cooked rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 head of broccoli, steamed and chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and shredded cheese.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk, salt, and pepper; stir until smooth.
4. Pour the milk mixture over the rice mixture and mix well.
5. Transfer the casserole to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Crock Pot Spaghetti and Meat Sauce
This classic comfort food recipe is a crowd-pleaser, requiring minimal effort and maximum flavor. Perfect for busy days or weeknight dinners, this slow-cooked spaghetti dish is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 12 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to a 6-quart crock pot.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, salt, and pepper to the crock pot; stir to combine.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks
This recipe yields tender and flavorful chicken drumsticks with a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze, perfect for a stress-free dinner or party. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying deliciously glazed chicken in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the chicken drumsticks to the slow cooker, making sure they’re coated in the teriyaki mixture.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove the drumsticks from the slow cooker and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Kid-Approved Crock Pot Corn Dog Casserole
This creamy casserole combines the classic campfire treat with the ease of a crock pot, making it a fun and easy meal for kids and adults alike. With a rich cornbread-inspired sauce and crispy hot dogs, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next family gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound hot dogs
– 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz or saltines)
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place hot dogs in the crock pot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, and shredded cheese until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture over the hot dogs.
4. Sprinkle crushed crackers on top.
5. Dot with melted butter.
6. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Cheesy Slow Cooker Queso Dip
Elevate your gathering with this creamy, cheesy dip that’s sure to please. Perfect for parties or casual get-togethers, this slow cooker queso recipe is easy to make and requires minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 ounce) block of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the softened cream cheese, half-and-half or heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the dip is smooth and creamy.
3. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies.
Cooking Time: 2-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings
Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Cozy up with this comforting and effortless crock pot recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal. This easy-to-make dish combines tender chicken, creamy broth, and fluffy dumplings for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups of water
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp of dried thyme
– 1 tsp of paprika
– 1/2 tsp of black pepper
– 2 tbsp of butter, melted
– 4 dumpling mix (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken in the crock pot and add the water.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, thyme, paprika, and black pepper. Sprinkle over the chicken.
3. Add the melted butter to the crock pot.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About an hour before serving, prepare the dumplings by mixing with water according to package instructions.
6. Add the dumplings to the crock pot and cover until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Easy Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings!
Slow Cooker Pizza-Stuffed Peppers
Transform classic stuffed peppers into a deliciously cheesy, pizza-inspired dish with this easy slow cooker recipe!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to Low.
2. Cut tops off peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place in the slow cooker.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef or turkey until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, and oregano to the skillet; stir until combined.
5. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, topping each with a spoonful of shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Sweet and Tangy Crock Pot BBQ Chicken
This recipe brings together the flavors of sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, smoky chicken, and tender vegetables for a deliciously easy meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup Sweet and Tangy BBQ Sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can of pineapple rings (8 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Place the chicken in the crock pot.
3. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
4. Arrange the bell pepper slices around the chicken.
5. Pour the Sweet and Tangy BBQ Sauce over the ingredients.
6. Top with pineapple rings.
7. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious casserole! This Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole recipe is a twist on traditional potato dishes, featuring crispy tater tots smothered in a rich and tangy cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (32 oz) bag of tater tots
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread half of the tater tots in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, combine butter, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour the cheese sauce over the tater tots.
5. Top with remaining tater tots.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Mini Meatloaves
These mini meatloaves are a fun twist on the classic dish, perfect for a crowd or a quick weeknight dinner. Simply mix and match ingredients to suit your taste!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size.
4. Shape each portion into a mini meatloaf and place in slow cooker.
5. Drizzle with cooking spray or oil and top with chopped onion and shredded cheese (if using).
6. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve: With mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or crusty bread!
Kid-Friendly Crock Pot French Toast Casserole
Start your day with a delicious and easy breakfast casserole that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
Ingredients:
– 12 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Add the bread slices to the mixture and stir until they’re evenly coated.
3. Pour the mixture into a crock pot and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
4. If using maple syrup, drizzle it over the casserole during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Nuggets
Transform your favorite childhood snack into a convenient and delicious meal with this simple recipe. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a tasty and satisfying meal ready for the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into nugget-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Your favorite dipping sauce (ketchup, mustard, or honey mustard work well)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg and breadcrumbs until well combined.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Place the coated chicken in the slow cooker and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the nuggets during the last hour of cooking.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours (depending on slow cooker setting)
Summary
Get ready to please even the pickiest eaters with these 20 delicious and easy-to-make kid-friendly crock pot recipes! From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and chicken tacos, to fun twists on traditional dishes like BBQ pulled pork sliders and cheesy slow cooker pizza pasta, there’s something for every young palate. And don’t worry about cooking skills – all of these recipes are simple and require minimal effort. Perfect for busy parents or caregivers, these meals are sure to become family favorites.
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