Olivia Carter
When it comes to hosting a gathering, one of the main challenges is finding the time to prepare delicious and impressive meals while also being able to enjoy the company of your guests. This is where a slow cooker can be a game changer. With its ability to cook food slowly and evenly, a slow cooker allows you to prepare mouthwatering dishes with minimal effort.
Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party, a holiday feast, or a game day get-together, the slow cooker can be your best friend. From tender, fall-off-the-bone meats to rich and flavorful stews, there are countless recipes that are perfect for entertaining. Plus, the slow cooker’s gentle cooking method ensures that your dishes stay warm and ready to serve throughout the event, giving you more time to mingle with your guests.
So, if you’re looking to impress your friends and family with some amazing dishes at your next gathering, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll share some of the best slow cooker recipes for entertaining. From crowd-pleasing appetizers to hearty mains and decadent desserts, these recipes are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
Delicious Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
One of the most popular dishes for entertaining is slow cooker pulled pork. This tender and juicy meat is cooked low and slow in a crockpot, allowing the flavors to develop and the meat to become incredibly tender. It’s the perfect dish to serve at your next gathering or party, as it can be prepared ahead of time and requires minimal effort during the event.
To make this delicious slow cooker pulled pork, start by seasoning a pork shoulder with a blend of spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place the seasoned meat in the slow cooker and add a combination of barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar to create a flavorful sauce. Cook the pork on low heat for 8-10 hours, or on high heat for 4-6 hours, until it is fork-tender and easily falls apart.
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Toss the shredded meat in the remaining sauce from the slow cooker to ensure every bite is full of flavor. Serve the pulled pork on a toasted bun with your favorite coleslaw or pickles for added crunch and tanginess. This dish is sure to impress your guests with its tender texture and delicious taste.
Not only is slow cooker pulled pork incredibly delicious, but it is also versatile. It can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from classic pulled pork sandwiches to tacos, nachos, or even as a topping for pizza. The leftovers can also be used in other recipes, such as pulled pork sliders or quesadillas. With its rich and smoky flavors, this slow cooker pulled pork is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Mouthwatering Slow Cooker Beef Stew
One of the most comforting and delicious meals to make in a slow cooker is beef stew. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for entertaining. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just enjoying a cozy night in, this slow cooker beef stew is sure to impress.
To make this flavorful beef stew, start by searing cubes of beef in a hot pan until they’re browned on all sides. This step helps to lock in the juices and create a rich, caramelized flavor. Then, transfer the beef to the slow cooker and add in a medley of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions. These veggies will absorb the savory juices from the beef and create a hearty, well-balanced stew.
Once the beef and vegetables are in the slow cooker, it’s time to add the liquid. A mixture of beef broth and red wine adds depth and richness to the stew. The beef broth provides a savory base, while the red wine adds a subtle acidity that helps to tenderize the meat. Seasonings like garlic, thyme, and bay leaves round out the flavors and give the stew a delicious aromatic quality.
To ensure that the beef stew is tender and flavorful, it’s important to let it cook low and slow for several hours. This allows the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender and the flavors to fully develop. The aroma that fills your kitchen as the stew simmers is irresistible, making it a great option for entertaining guests.
When the stew is finished cooking, serve it piping hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish. The tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich sauce will have everyone coming back for seconds. This mouthwatering slow cooker beef stew is the perfect comfort food for any occasion, whether you’re entertaining a crowd or simply enjoying a cozy night in.
Flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken Curry
The slow cooker is a versatile tool for creating delicious and flavorful meals, and one dish that particularly shines in this appliance is chicken curry. With its rich and fragrant flavors, chicken curry is a crowd-pleasing option for entertaining guests. The slow cooker allows the chicken to simmer and absorb the spices, resulting in tender and succulent meat that is bursting with flavor.
When making chicken curry in a slow cooker, it’s important to use a variety of aromatic spices to enhance the dish. Common spices include turmeric, cumin, coriander, ginger, and garlic, which create a depth of flavor that is both warm and complex. The slow cooking process allows these spices to slowly infuse into the chicken, resulting in a heavenly aroma that fills the kitchen.
To make a flavorful slow cooker chicken curry, start by browning the chicken pieces in a skillet to seal in the juices. Then, transfer the chicken to the slow cooker and add the spices, along with coconut milk or yogurt for creaminess. For an extra kick, you can also add chili powder or red pepper flakes. Let the curry cook on low for several hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender.
Serve the chicken curry over steamed rice or with naan bread to soak up the rich sauce. This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as sautéed vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad. Whether you’re entertaining a crowd or simply want a delicious and comforting meal, a slow cooker chicken curry is a flavorful choice that is sure to impress.
Tasty Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili
If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty vegetarian dish to serve at your next gathering, look no further than this tasty slow cooker vegetarian chili recipe. Packed with flavorful ingredients and loaded with protein and nutrients, this chili is sure to satisfy even the most carnivorous of guests.
This vegetarian chili recipe swaps out the traditional meat for a combination of kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans, providing a rich and satisfying texture. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together slowly, resulting in a perfectly balanced and robust chili.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cans of kidney beans
- 1 can of black beans
- 1 can of pinto beans
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 cups of vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
To prepare this delicious slow cooker vegetarian chili, simply combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro. This chili is perfect for entertaining, as it can be made ahead of time and kept warm in the slow cooker until ready to serve.
Whether you’re hosting a vegetarian gathering or simply looking for a healthier alternative to traditional chili, this tasty slow cooker vegetarian chili is sure to impress. The rich flavors, hearty texture, and ease of preparation make it a winning dish for any occasion.
Savory Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs
One of the all-time classic comfort food dishes, slow cooker BBQ ribs are a crowd-pleasing option for entertaining. The slow cooking process allows the ribs to become tender and juicy, while the BBQ sauce infuses them with a delicious flavor. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a cozy dinner party, these savory ribs are sure to impress your guests.
To make slow cooker BBQ ribs, start by seasoning the ribs with a dry rub consisting of spices like paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. This will add depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Next, place the ribs in the slow cooker and pour your favorite BBQ sauce over them. You can choose a sweet and tangy sauce or go for a spicier option, depending on your preference.
Cook the ribs on low heat for several hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender. The long cooking time ensures that the ribs are infused with the rich BBQ flavor and are easily pulled apart with a fork. Once the ribs are cooked, you can brush them with more BBQ sauce and broil them in the oven for a few minutes to get a nice caramelized crust. Serve the ribs hot with a side of coleslaw and cornbread to complete the meal.
Creamy Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
If you’re looking for a delicious and hassle-free dish to serve at your next gathering, look no further than this creamy slow cooker mac and cheese recipe. Made with tender pasta shells and a rich cheese sauce, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
To make this creamy mac and cheese, start by combining cooked pasta, butter, milk, and a variety of shredded cheeses in your slow cooker. Let the mixture cook on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together and the cheese to melt into a velvety sauce.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it requires minimal effort on your part. Simply prepare the ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let it do all the work while you focus on entertaining your guests. The end result is a comforting and creamy mac and cheese that will leave everyone satisfied.
This slow cooker mac and cheese is perfect for large gatherings or potlucks, as it can easily be doubled or even tripled to feed a crowd. The dish also reheats well, so any leftovers can be enjoyed the next day.
So if you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make dish that will impress your guests, give this creamy slow cooker mac and cheese a try. Its rich and cheesy flavor is sure to make it a hit at your next event.
Decadent Slow Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake
Looking for the ultimate indulgence for your next gathering? Look no further than this decadent slow cooker chocolate lava cake. This rich and gooey dessert is sure to impress your guests and satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.
To make this heavenly dessert, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 1/4 cups boiling water
Simply mix together the flour, cocoa powder, 1/2 cup of sugar, and salt in a bowl. Then, stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips. Pour the batter into a greased slow cooker.
In a separate bowl, combine the remaining 1 cup of sugar and boiling water. Carefully pour this mixture over the batter in the slow cooker. Do not stir.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, or until the cake is set around the edges but still slightly gooey in the center. Serve the warm cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
This slow cooker chocolate lava cake is the perfect ending to any dinner party or special occasion. Its rich chocolate flavor and gooey center will have your guests raving and coming back for seconds. Plus, the convenience of the slow cooker makes it easy to prepare ahead of time and frees up your oven for other dishes.
So go ahead and treat yourself and your loved ones to this decadent dessert. Your taste buds will thank you!
10 Best Slow Cooker Recipes For Entertaining
Cuisinart MSC-600 3-In-1 Cook Central 6-Quart Multi-Cooker: Slow Cooker, Brown/Saute, Steamer, Silver
Features
| Part Number | Msc-600 |
| Model | MSC-600 |
| Warranty | 3 Year limited warranty |
| Color | Silver |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 6 Quarts |
| Language | English |
- One touch switches modes when recipe calls for combination cooking
- Extra-large blue backlit LCD display with easy-to-read time and temperature settings
- Removable 6-quart nonstick aluminum cooking pot
- Glass lid with cool-touch handle for clear view and comfortable handling
- Dishwasher-safe removable parts for effortless cleanup, Steaming rack included, Limited 3-year warranty.Steam for up to 90 minutes
- Ships in Certified Frustration-Free Packaging
Dyna-Living Chocolate Melting Pot Dual Chocolate Tempering Machine for Melting Chocolate, 80W Chocolate Melting Machine Electric Chocolate Melter Pot for...
Features
| Size | Double |
- Energy-Efficient & Fast Melting: Dyna-Living 80W chocolate melting pot is designed for rapid and efficient melting. With high-power heating elements, this double chocolate melting machine melts chocolate up to 50% faster than standard stainless steel pots. Featuring an energy-saving PTC mode, it conserves electricity while ensuring your chocolate melts quickly and evenly.
- Precise Temperature Control: Achieve perfect chocolate melting with Dyna-Living chocolate melter pot's precise temperature control. The fast heat conduction of this chocolate warmer ensures that your chocolate melts in just 10 to 15 minutes. Ideal for chocolate tempering and perfect for professional use in cafes, restaurants, bakeries or at home.
- Multiple Security Settings: Safety is a priority with our chocolate melter machine. The chocolate melting pot includes anti-leakage and power-off protection features. It also comes with a replaceable fuse; if you encounter issues such as the pot not heating or tripping, replacing the fuse can resolve the problem, ensuring your chocolate melting process remains uninterrupted.
- Premium Materials: Crafted from high-quality food-grade aluminum, the chocolate tempering pot offers superior heat conduction, rust-resistance, heat-resistant, corrosion-resistant, safety and health, and durability. Its heat-resistant, non-slip handle makes pouring melted chocolate, cheese, butter, or heated milk easily.
- Convenient Cleaning- The chocolate tempering machine comes with two removable electric hot pots and a melting stove, making it incredibly convenient to use and clean.This chocolate fountain or chocolate tempering machine is perfect for melting chocolate or heating milk or coffee.
- Versatile Applications: The Dyna-Living chocolate tempering machine is your go-to appliance for a range of culinary needs. Whether you're melting chocolate for dipping, making chocolate melts for desserts, heating cream or milk, or using it as a chocolate fountain machine, this melting pot delivers versatility and convenience for home use, cafes, restaurants, and bakeries.
Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer, Stainless Steel (CPSCVC60LL-S), pack of 1
Features
| Part Number | B004P2NG0K1 |
| Model | CPSCVC60LL-S |
| Warranty | 1yr |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2020-09-08T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 6 Quarts |
| Language | English |
- Programmable Digital Timer: Control cooking times from 30 minutes up to 20 hours
- Serve a Crowd: 6 quart Cook & Carry Slow Cooker serves 7 plus people
- Locking Lid: Lid gasket provides extra seal for less mess during transport
- Interactive Cooking: Safe for use in oven up to 400 degree F, and microwave
- Worry-free Travel: Secure locking lid and rubber gasket prevent spills
- Material: Contains Aluminum, Stainless Steel (Iron, Chromium, Nickel, Manganese, Copper, Phosphorus)
- Environmentally Friendly: Energy efficient at 240 Watts at 120V A.C; and 60Hz
Presto 06017 8-Quart Nomad Traveling Slow Cooker, Blue
Features
| Part Number | 06017 |
| Model | 06017 |
| Warranty | Warranty |
| Color | BLUE |
| Release Date | 2023-10-17T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 8 Quart |
- Extra-large 8-quart slow cooker, contemporary blue
- Locking lid seals tight for spill-proof transportation
- Cool-touch exterior and swing-up handle
- Rugged, wide-profile design helps prevent tip-overs when traveling
- Silicone cord secures a utensil in transit
- Detachable utensil holder doubles as a spoon rest
- Removable porcelain enameled cooking pot—PFAS-free
- Dry erase board and marker
- Slow cook settings for high, low, and warm
- Condensation cup collects moisture
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.
FAQ
What is a slow cooker chocolate lava cake?
A slow cooker chocolate lava cake is a decadent dessert made by slow cooking a rich chocolate cake batter until the edges are set and the center is still gooey, creating a lava-like texture.
How do you make a slow cooker chocolate lava cake?
To make a slow cooker chocolate lava cake, you’ll need to combine ingredients for the cake batter, such as flour, sugar, cocoa powder, eggs, milk, and butter. Pour the batter into the greased slow cooker and then prepare a mixture of brown sugar and cocoa powder for the topping. Sprinkle the topping over the batter and pour hot water over everything. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or until the cake edges are set but the center is still soft and gooey.
Can I use a regular oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make a chocolate lava cake in a regular oven as well. Simply prepare the batter as mentioned and pour it into greased ramekins or a baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at around 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is still soft and oozing.
What should I serve with a slow cooker chocolate lava cake?
A slow cooker chocolate lava cake tastes great on its own, but you can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. You can also garnish it with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Can I store leftover slow cooker chocolate lava cake?
Yes, you can store any leftover slow cooker chocolate lava cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy it warm again.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Decadent Slow Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake is a mouthwatering dessert that can easily be made with the convenience of a slow cooker. This rich and indulgent cake has a moist and gooey center, surrounded by a warm and chocolatey exterior. It is the perfect treat for chocolate lovers, especially during the colder months when a warm dessert is needed. The slow cooker method allows for easy preparation and a stress-free baking experience. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, anyone can enjoy this heavenly dessert. So, why not give this recipe a try and indulge in a slice of pure chocolate perfection?
