Olivia Carter
Looking for delicious and easy-to-prepare meals that the whole family will love? Look no further than these family friendly slow cooker recipes. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can save time in the kitchen and still serve up hearty and flavorful dishes that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or planning a cozy weekend dinner, these recipes are sure to become family favorites.
One of the best things about using a slow cooker is that you can simply set it and forget it. You can toss all the ingredients into the pot in the morning, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve. Plus, slow cooking allows flavors to develop and meld together, resulting in dishes that are incredibly flavorful and comforting.
From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and pot roast to international favorites like beef curry and chicken tikka masala, there’s a slow cooker recipe for every palate. And don’t forget about desserts! You can even make delectable treats like apple cobbler or chocolate lava cake in your slow cooker. So dust off that crockpot and get ready to create culinary masterpieces that will delight your entire household.
Slow Cooker Meatballs: An Easy and Delicious Family Meal
Looking for a simple and delicious meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than slow cooker meatballs. This classic dish is a crowd-pleaser and can be easily prepared in your slow cooker, making it a convenient option for busy families.
One of the best things about slow cooker meatballs is the flexibility in ingredients. You can use ground beef, turkey, or even a combination of meats for added flavor. Additionally, you can season the meatballs with various herbs and spices to suit your family’s taste preferences. Whether you prefer classic Italian flavors with oregano and garlic or something more adventurous like Thai-inspired spices, the choice is yours.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or a combination)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, or thyme)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jar of your favorite marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well-combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter.
- In a slow cooker, pour the marinara sauce and water. Stir to combine.
- Add the meatballs to the slow cooker, ensuring they are fully submerged in the sauce.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
- Serve the meatballs with your choice of pasta, rice, or crusty bread. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped herbs, if desired.
Slow cooker meatballs are a versatile and easy family meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in tender and juicy meatballs that are full of flavor. Get creative with your choice of seasonings and serve them with your family’s favorite side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Hearty Vegetable Stew
A hearty vegetable stew is a delicious and nutritious meal that the whole family will love. Packed with an array of colourful vegetables, this stew is not only visually appealing but also packed with vitamins, minerals and fibre, making it a healthy choice for everyone.
This recipe includes a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, celery, and onions, which are slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the flavours to meld together and create a rich and comforting stew. You can also add other vegetables of your choice, such as peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, to customize the recipe to your family’s tastes.
To add extra depth of flavour, you can sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker. This step helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the onions and garlic, adding a delicious caramelized note to the stew. Additionally, you can season the stew with herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves, to enhance the overall taste.
Once all the ingredients are in the slow cooker, you simply set it on low and let it cook for several hours. The long cooking time allows the vegetables to become tender and the flavours to meld together, resulting in a delicious and satisfying stew. Serve with crusty bread or rice for a complete meal that will warm your family’s hearts on a chilly day.
Not only is this hearty vegetable stew a great option for family dinners, but it also makes excellent leftovers for lunches throughout the week. Simply portion out the stew into individual containers and refrigerate or freeze for easy on-the-go meals. This stew is not only tasty and satisfying but it’s also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your family’s diet.
Creamy Chicken and Rice
If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal to feed your family, look no further than this creamy chicken and rice recipe. This dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike, thanks to its creamy texture and flavorful ingredients.
The key to this recipe is the slow cooker, which allows the chicken and rice to cook slowly and absorb all of the delicious flavors. Start by browning the chicken in a hot skillet, then transfer it to the slow cooker along with onions, garlic, and a combination of seasonings. Add in some creamy condensed soup, broth, and long-grain rice, and let the slow cooker do its magic.
After a few hours, you’ll be greeted with a creamy and comforting dish that your whole family will love. The chicken will be tender and juicy, the rice will be perfectly cooked, and the creamy sauce will tie everything together. Serve it with some fresh vegetables or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
This creamy chicken and rice recipe is not only delicious, but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can have a warm and comforting meal on the table without much effort. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, when you want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your family. So give this creamy chicken and rice recipe a try and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love.
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal the whole family will love, look no further than pulled pork sandwiches. This popular dish is made with tender and juicy slow-cooked pork that is shredded and served on a soft bun. The combination of smoky flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture makes it a favorite among adults and children alike.
One of the best things about pulled pork sandwiches is that they are incredibly versatile. You can customize the flavors by using different seasonings and sauces, making it a great option for picky eaters. Whether you prefer a tangy barbecue sauce, a sweet and spicy glaze, or a zesty mustard-based sauce, there is a pulled pork sandwich recipe out there for you.
To make pulled pork sandwiches, start with a boneless pork shoulder or pork butt roast. Rub the meat with your choice of seasonings, such as paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker, along with a flavorful liquid such as chicken broth, apple cider, or barbecue sauce. Cook on low heat for 8-10 hours, or on high heat for 4-6 hours, until the meat is fork-tender and easily shreds apart.
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Discard any excess fat. If desired, you can also mix in some of the cooking liquid or additional sauce to enhance the flavor and moistness of the meat. Serve the shredded pork on soft buns, and top with your favorite toppings such as coleslaw, pickles, or sliced onions. These pulled pork sandwiches are perfect for a quick weeknight meal or for feeding a crowd at a backyard barbecue.
Cheesy Mexican Casserole: A Delicious Family-Friendly Slow Cooker Recipe
If you’re in search of a flavourful and easy-to-make dish that the whole family will love, look no further than this Cheesy Mexican Casserole. Packed with traditional Mexican ingredients and topped with gooey cheese, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
To make this cheesy casserole, start by browning ground beef in a skillet, then mix it with cooked rice, black beans, diced tomatoes, and a blend of Mexican spices. Layer the mixture in your slow cooker and let it cook on low heat for a few hours, allowing all the flavors to meld together. The result is a rich and hearty casserole that will make your taste buds dance with delight.
To take the Cheesy Mexican Casserole to the next level, add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will create a golden and bubbly cheese crust that adds an irresistible touch to the dish. Serve the casserole with a dollop of sour cream and a side of warm tortillas, and you’ve got a complete Mexican-inspired meal that will have your family asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream, for serving
- Warm tortillas, for serving
Instructions:
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, then drain the excess fat.
- In a bowl, mix together the cooked ground beef, cooked rice, black beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Layer the mixture in a slow cooker, spreading it evenly.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the flavors have melded together.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.
- Cover again and let the cheese melt and become bubbly.
- Serve the Cheesy Mexican Casserole with a dollop of sour cream and warm tortillas on the side.
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a classic dish that is loved by both kids and adults. However, making it from scratch can be time-consuming and requires constant attention. That’s where the slow cooker comes in! This recipe for slow cooker mac and cheese is not only easy to make, but it also results in a creamy and delicious dish that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions:
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter and flour until smooth.
- Place the cooked macaroni, cheese, milk, butter and flour mixture, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker. Stir until well combined.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the cheese is melted and the mixture is heated through.
- Stir the mac and cheese before serving to ensure that the cheese is evenly distributed.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
This slow cooker mac and cheese recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious and comforting meal without all the fuss. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra calcium and protein for your little ones. Give it a try and see how simple and tasty homemade mac and cheese can be!
10 Best Family Friendly Slow Cooker Recipes
TRU Triple Buffet Server, Three 2-1/2-Quart Removable Inserts
Features
| Part Number | 189212 |
| Model | BS-325LR |
| Color | Black and Silver |
| Size | 7.5 quart |
- Triple Slow Cooker: With the TRU triple slow cooker, meal planning and party prepping is less stressful when hosting or entertaining
- Buffet Servers & Warmers: The three separate crock inserts of this triple slow cooker buffet server have individual heat control so preparing multiple dishes for your next party is a breeze
- Triple Buffet Server Features: This triple slow cooker has lid rests and removable inserts that are dishwasher safe; it also comes with 3 serving spoons so you're ready to go
- About TRU: TRU is all about community, which is why we create kitchen appliances and accessories you can use to create delicious home-cooked meals and drinks that will bring your community together
- 120V, 420 watts, 2 blade polarized plug, household use only
Double Slow Cooker, Buffet Servers and Warmers, Dual 2 Pot Slow Cooker Food Warmer, Adjustable Temp Dishwasher Safe Removable Ceramic Pot Glass Lid, 2 x 1.25...
Features
| Part Number | Slow Cooker |
| Model | Dual 2 Pot Slow Cooker Buffet Server |
| Warranty | 1 Year warranty |
| Color | Stainless |
| Size | 2X1.25 QT |
- HEYNEMO ELECTRIC SLOW COOKER FOOD WARMER - HEYNEMO 2×1.25QT dual pot slow cooker will keep food warm, fresh and delicious at any time. Our slow cooker buffet server can cook different dishes directly in the server and keep food warm for hours. It is ideal for office parties, family functions, and other social events, compact design perfect for camping, outdoors, etc
- STAINLESS STEEL SLOW COOKER WITH 2 REMOVABLE CERAMIC POTS - There are 2 separate ceramic pots, you can cook 2 different dishes at the same time. And the ceramic pots are removable, it is easy for cleaning. With this slow cooker, it will help you save much time on holidays and parties. Each pot is a 1.25 quart capacity that equals a total of 2.5 quarts
- SLOW COOKER WITH THREE COOKING SETTINGS - There are 3 cook settings: Low, High and Warm, giving you the flexibility to cook whatever you want and keep food warm for hours, ensure your food cooked in the best cooking condition. And each crock cooker has their own individual controls to adjust the temperature for cooking and keep warm
- SLOW COOKER WITH GLASS LID FOR EASY VIEWING - The transparent heat-resistant glass cover is easy for viewing, letting you know how much your food has been cooked at any time. Non-skid rubber feet keeps slow cooker in place safely and convenient cord storage. Anti-scald cool-touch handle on the lid can protect your hands
- HEYNEMO SLOW COOKER SERVICE - Not only slow cooker, but also food warmer. HEYNEMO 2×1.25QT dual pot slow cooker crock buffet server is the best to use at home or on the go. Before using for the first time, PLEASE READ THE INSTRUCTIONS CLEARLY. If you have any questions about our slow cooker, please do not hesitate to contact us firstly, we will solve your problem quickly and efficiently
WESTON 2-in-1 Programmable Slow Cooker & Electric Indoor Smoker, 6 Quart, 3-Tier Smoking Rack for Meat, Cheese and More, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Temperature...
Features
| Part Number | 03-2540-W |
| Model | 03-2540-W |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Size | 6 Quarts |
- QUICKLY SMOKES FOOD INDOORS: With this indoor electric smoker/slow cooker, you'll smoke your favorite foods quickly and easily year-round right in your kitchen. It infuses meat, cheese and vegetables with authentic smokehouse flavor without the long wait.
- INDOOR SMOKER DOUBLES AS A 6 QUART SLOW COOKER: Besides smoking foods with the cooking vessel removed, you can easily slow cook a variety of foods in the nonstick cooking vessel. It holds up to 6 quarts and fits a 6 lb. chicken or a 4 lb. roast.
- SMOKES FOOD 3 WAYS: Hot smoke is perfect for smaller cuts of meat. Cold smoke adds smoky flavor (without cooking) to foods like cheese and nuts. Combo mode is great for large cuts of meat — it cold smokes food first, then cooks with hot smoke.
- INCLUDES PARTY DIPPER FOOD WARMER WITH LID: This party-size 16 oz. food warmer is perfect for cheese, dips and sauces. It's easy to clean with a dishwasher safe ceramic crock and lid.
- EASY TO USE: The digital controls are simple to use. Choose from 3 smoke settings or slow cook your meal on Low or High. Just set the timer, and the slow cooker automatically switches to Warm when cooking is complete, or it turns off when cold smoking.
Hamilton Beach 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Three Temperature Settings, Dishwasher Safe Crock and Lid, Silver (33480)
Features
| Part Number | 33480 |
| Model | 33480 |
| Warranty | One(1) Year Warranty |
| Color | Silver |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 8 Quarts |
- Perfect for Family Meals, Potlucks & Parties. The 8 quart, large capacity slow cooker has a stoneware crock that can fit everything from lasagna and desserts to large cuts of meat. It will hold an 8 lb. chicken or a 6 lb. roast. Serves 10+ people.
- Flexible Programming with Countdown Timer. Mix and match warm, low or high heat settings with adjustable programming times from 30 minutes to 18 hours. The convenient countdown timer on the LED display shows you how long until food is ready.
- Set & Forget. The slow cooker automatically switches to the warm heat setting after cooking is complete. No watching or stirring needed. You can set it and forget it.
- Easy to Carry. This slow cooker has full-grip handles that make it easy to carry.
- Easy to Clean. The removable stoneware crock and glass lid are dishwasher safe, and the touchpad easily wipes clean.
- Make Delicious One-Pot Meals. Slow cooking is a convenient way to make delicious one-pot meals like lasagna, homemade chili, beef stew, barbecue and macaroni and cheese.
West Bend 87906R Slow Cooker, Large-Capacity Non-Stick Crockpot with Variable Temperature Control, Travel Lid and Thermal Carrying Case, 6 Qt, Red
Features
| Part Number | 87906R |
| Model | 87906R |
| Warranty | 1 Year limited warranty |
| Color | Red |
| Size | 6 Quarts |
- Versatile Crockpot: 6-quart slow cooker can handle almost any sized meal, whether making dinner for 2 or entertaining a crowd
- Large Capacity: 6-quart crock pot crock features a non-stick interior and is safe for use in the oven, on the stove top, in the freezer or refrigerator, and is top-rack dishwasher safe
- Griddle Base: Our crock pots/slow cookers aren't just for slow cooking - use the included griddle base to make pancakes, grilled cheese, and more
- Glass Cover: This portable crock pot comes with a transparent, heat-resistant glass cover that makes it easy to keep an eye on your meal
- On-the-Go Convenience: Complete with an insulated tote and cover, this travel crockpot makes it simple to transport delicious meals from one house to the next
FAQ
What is a slow cooker?
A slow cooker is a kitchen appliance that allows food to be cooked at a low temperature for a long period of time.
How long does it take to cook mac and cheese in a slow cooker?
It usually takes about 2-3 hours to cook mac and cheese in a slow cooker on high heat, or 4-6 hours on low heat.
Can you put uncooked pasta in a slow cooker for mac and cheese?
Yes, you can put uncooked pasta in a slow cooker for mac and cheese. Just make sure to add enough liquid (such as milk or broth) to fully cook the pasta.
Can you use any type of cheese for slow cooker mac and cheese?
Yes, you can use any type of cheese for slow cooker mac and cheese. Some popular choices include cheddar, mozzarella, and Gouda.
Can you add vegetables or meat to slow cooker mac and cheese?
Yes, you can add vegetables or meat to slow cooker mac and cheese. Some common additions include cooked bacon, diced ham, or steamed broccoli.
Conclusion
To conclude, Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese is a convenient and delicious dish that can be easily prepared using a slow cooker. With its creamy and cheesy texture, it is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a mouthwatering mac and cheese that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish. This recipe is perfect for busy individuals who want to enjoy a homemade comfort food meal without the hassle of slaving over a stove. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese is a definite crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
