Olivia Carter
The slow cooker is an essential tool for busy families who still want to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals. With its set-it-and-forget-it cooking method, the slow cooker allows you to prepare dinner in the morning and have it ready by the time everyone comes home in the evening. Whether you’re a working parent or just prefer the ease and convenience of slow cooking, these best slow cooker recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family.
One classic slow cooker recipe that never fails to satisfy is the slow-cooked pot roast. Tender and juicy beef, cooked low and slow with potatoes, carrots, and onions, this dish is a comforting favorite for many families. Simply season your beef with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices, then let it cook on low for 8 hours until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender. Serve with your favorite side dishes for a hearty and filling meal.
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, look no further than the slow cooker vegetable curry. Packed with a variety of colorful vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, potatoes, and peas, this curry is full of flavor and nutrition. Simply sauté your onions, garlic, and spices, then add your vegetables, coconut milk, and vegetable stock to the slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours, and you’ll have a fragrant and delicious curry that the whole family will love.
For those with a sweet tooth, the slow cooker apple crisp is a must-try dessert. This recipe combines sweet and tart apples with a crunchy oat topping, resulting in a warm and comforting dessert that’s perfect for cooler evenings. Simply toss your sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and a squeeze of lemon juice, then combine your oats, flour, brown sugar, and butter for the crisp topping. Cook on low for 4 hours, and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
The Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker
Slow cookers have become a popular kitchen appliance for families due to their numerous benefits and convenience. These versatile devices can help simplify meal preparation and save time and energy in the kitchen.
1. Time-saving: Using a slow cooker allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your family. You can simply dump all the ingredients into the pot, set the cooking time, and let the slow cooker do the work. It slowly cooks the food over a long period, allowing you to multitask or go about your day without constantly monitoring the stove.
2. Tender and flavorful meals: Slow cooking allows the flavors of the ingredients to meld together and develop, resulting in delicious and tender meals. The low, gentle heat helps to break down tough cuts of meat, making them tender and juicy. You can also enhance the flavor by using herbs, spices, and marinades.
3. Economical: Using a slow cooker can help save money on your grocery bills. It allows you to make use of less expensive cuts of meat, which tend to be tougher but become tender with slow cooking. The slow cooker also uses less electricity compared to traditional stovetop and oven cooking methods, helping to lower your energy costs.
4. Healthier cooking: Slow cooking can be a healthier way to prepare meals. The long, slow cooking process retains more nutrients in the food compared to methods like boiling or frying. It also allows you to reduce the amount of added fats and oils since the slow cooker traps moisture, keeping the food moist without the need for excessive oil.
5. Meal planning and versatility: Slow cookers are a great tool for meal planning and batch cooking. You can prepare large quantities of food in advance and portion it out for easy meals throughout the week. Slow cookers are also versatile and can be used for a wide range of recipes, from soups and stews to roasts and desserts.
Hearty Slow Cooker Pot Roast
When it comes to satisfying family meals, a hearty slow cooker pot roast is always a crowd-pleaser. This classic comfort food dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re looking for a delicious and easy dinner option. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a mouthwatering pot roast ready to serve.
The key to a delicious slow cooker pot roast is low and slow cooking. This method allows the flavors to meld together and results in tender, juicy meat that falls apart with each bite. The slow cooker does all the work for you, tenderizing the meat and infusing it with rich flavors.
- Start by searing the beef roast in a hot skillet to seal in the juices and add a caramelized crust.
- Place the seared roast in the slow cooker and add in a mixture of beef broth, diced onions, carrots, and potatoes. Season with herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours until the meat is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the roast and vegetables from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- While the meat rests, you can thicken the cooking liquid to create a delicious gravy. Simply mix together cornstarch and water, then whisk it into the remaining cooking liquid in the slow cooker. Cook on high for a few minutes until the gravy thickens.
This hearty slow cooker pot roast is the ultimate comfort food that the whole family will love. Serve it with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. Leftovers can be used for delicious sandwiches or repurposed into other dishes like beef stew or shepherd’s pie. With its tender meat, flavorful vegetables, and rich gravy, this pot roast is sure to become a family favorite.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
For a comforting and satisfying family meal, try making this delicious creamy slow cooker chicken and dumplings recipe. With tender chunks of chicken, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, this dish is perfect for those chilly nights when you want something warm and hearty.
To make this recipe, start by seasoning boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and your choice of dried herbs. Brown the chicken in a skillet until it’s golden on all sides, then transfer it to the slow cooker. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the skillet and cook until they’re slightly softened. Transfer the vegetables to the slow cooker as well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, and thyme until well combined.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, prepare the dumplings by combining flour, baking powder, salt, and parsley in a mixing bowl.
- Stir in milk and melted butter until a sticky dough forms.
- Spoon the dumpling mixture onto the chicken and broth in the slow cooker, using a tablespoon or cookie scoop.
- Cover and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
This creamy slow cooker chicken and dumplings recipe is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and fluffy dumplings creates a comforting and satisfying dish that everyone will love. Serve it alongside a green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Flavorful Slow Cooker Chili
When it comes to comforting and hearty meals for the whole family, slow cooker chili is definitely a winner. This classic dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious and satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. The best part? It’s packed with flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.
With the slow cooker doing all the work, you can simply toss in the ingredients and let it simmer away, creating a rich and flavorful chili that is sure to impress. Start by browning some ground beef or turkey in a skillet, adding onions, garlic, and your choice of spices. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and add in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and a flavorful combination of chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Let it cook on low for several hours to allow all the flavors to meld together.
To take your slow cooker chili to the next level, consider adding some additional ingredients to amp up the flavor. This could include ingredients such as sweet bell peppers, corn, or even a touch of cocoa powder for a hint of richness. Feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings to customize the chili to your family’s taste.
Serve your flavorful slow cooker chili with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or even some crushed tortilla chips for added texture. This hearty dish is perfect on its own, but can also be served alongside some warm cornbread or rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Easy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Pulled pork is a classic family-favorite dish that is perfect for gatherings and weeknight dinners. Making pulled pork in a slow cooker is an easy and convenient way to achieve tender, juicy meat with minimal effort.
To start, you will need a pork shoulder or pork butt, which are both ideal cuts for slow cooking. The meat is seasoned with a combination of spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar, which add a flavorful and aromatic touch to the dish.
The slow cooker does all the work, as you simply place the seasoned pork into the cooker along with some liquid, such as barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, or chicken broth. The pork is then cooked low and slow for several hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the meat to become fork-tender.
Once the pork is done cooking, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. The meat will be incredibly tender and easily fall apart. You can then mix in some additional barbecue sauce or other seasonings to enhance the flavor.
Serve the pulled pork on a bun for a classic pulled pork sandwich, or enjoy it alongside your favorite sides such as coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated for future meals.
With just a few simple ingredients and a trusty slow cooker, you can enjoy delicious homemade pulled pork that will be a hit with the whole family.
Comforting Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that is loved by both kids and adults. The combination of creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta is hard to resist. While traditional mac and cheese recipes require constant stirring and attention on the stovetop, using a slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare this comforting dish.
The slow cooker method allows the mac and cheese to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in a rich and velvety texture. It also frees up your time, so you can focus on other tasks while the slow cooker does all the work. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or hosting a potluck, slow cooker mac and cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, milk, evaporated milk, melted butter, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the slow cooker and pour the cheese mixture over it. Stir until well combined.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the mac and cheese is hot and the cheese sauce is thick and creamy.
- Before serving, give the mac and cheese a good stir to incorporate the sauce evenly. If desired, you can sprinkle some extra shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Serve the comforting slow cooker mac and cheese hot and enjoy!
Slow cooker mac and cheese is a fantastic option for busy families who want a hearty and satisfying meal without the fuss. It’s a great way to feed a crowd or have leftovers for the next day. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this comforting dish will surely become a family favorite. Give it a try and indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience!
10 Best Slow Cooker Recipes For Families
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 ingredients do I need for Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese?
You will need macaroni, cheddar cheese, milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
Can I use a different type of pasta for Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, but macaroni is traditional for mac and cheese.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese?
It takes about 2-3 hours on high or 4-6 hours on low to cook the mac and cheese in a slow cooker.
Conclusion
In conclusion, slow cooker mac and cheese is a comforting and delicious dish that is easy to make. The slow cooking process allows for the flavors to meld together, resulting in a creamy and cheesy pasta. The addition of milk and different types of cheese creates a rich and indulgent sauce that coats the macaroni perfectly. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or for serving a crowd at a gathering. So grab your slow cooker and give this comforting mac and cheese recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!
