As a mom, “crockpot season” is all year round. Whether you’re in a busy season of life or not—and if you’re a mom, you surely are—I’ve never regretted adding crockpot recipes into my family’s meal plan for the week. It’s easy to do. It’s also quite therapeutic throwing everything into one pot—my toddler loves helping me do this, too.
Every Sunday morning, I sip on my coffee and review the family calendar for the upcoming week. It helps me decide what to add to my grocery list. And now that we’re nearing the fall season, it’s even more reason to let the crockpot do all the hard work so I can sit back and relax after a long day of school pick-up and after-school activities. Especially if my calendar screams, “WE’RE BUSY,” I know the way to go is to add a slow cooker meal (or two) into our rotation to get everyone happy and fed. Plus, when I’ve got a big dinner group for family get-togethers, a lot of my go-to crockpot picks make the menu!
What’s really great about meals in the crockpot is that my whole house smells like I’ve been cooking for hours (well, it does cook for hours, but I don’t have to stand there watching it). They always taste delicious, and one recipe usually carries well for leftovers. If you need ideas for crockpot recipes, I’ve curated a list sorted by protein (chicken, beef, turkey, and pork), vegetarian meals, soups, kid-approved dishes, dump-and-go recipes, and desserts, of course. Pro tip: If you have more than one crockpot, as I do, you’ll be thanking yourself later for using them for multiple meals throughout the day. Bon appétit!
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How We Chose the Best Crockpot Recipes
For moms, it can be difficult to find those go-to recipes that stand the test of time in your kitchen. Here’s how we selected these crockpot recipes, and why they check the (many) boxes required for a kid-approved, family-friendly dish.
Ease and hands-off cooking
When I’m looking for family-friendly recipes, the first thing I make note of is cook time and number of ingredients. Whatever is going to give me the most forgiving cook window during the weeknight craziness shoots to the top of the list—and these recipes couldn’t be quicker and easier to make. Many of them are “dump and pour,” meaning you just have to toss the ingredients in and watch the slow cooker work its magic.
Variety across diets
Dietary needs vary widely from family to family, but this list has got you covered, whether your family loves chicken and pork or recently made the switch to a vegan diet. We also included recipes for soups and stews, breakfast, and desserts.
Meal prep and leftover friendly
If you’re anything like me, your Saturdays and Sundays are all about meal prep—and crockpot recipes are great candidates for batch cooking and freezing. You can even have multiple crockpots running at a time, if you have several. It’s a great hack for busy weeknights.
Editor (and kid) approved
Most importantly, these are recipes that multiple editors on our team have tried and loved—and that their kids have tried and loved! Moms know all too well that just because a recipe looks good on paper doesn’t mean it’ll work for the little mouths they have to feed. Luckily, these picks have already been vetted by our families.
Patty’s Top 5 Kid-Approved Crockpot Dishes
While all of the dishes on this list are great for the entire family, I’m noting my top five picks for crockpot recipes. And, most importantly, they’re my top five dishes to make on “crockpot night” because they’re kid-approved. They get the two thumbs up from me (and my kiddos) because I know their plates will be cleared when these meals are in front of them—sometimes they even ask for seconds!
1. Creamy Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a staple in my household. The cheesy and creamy noodles make my tastebuds happy. Adding smoked paprika is optional, but it will add the extra flavor you need. Serve it as a side or serve it as a main dish.
2. Meatballs with Grape Jelly
This simple appetizer recipe is a family favorite. Your family will be shocked that the secret ingredient to this delicious side is, in fact, jelly.
3. Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan
There’s something about the crunchy parmesan coating of this chicken that just melts in your mouth as the tomato flavors marry with the cheese. I think I could eat this every night of the week.
4. Easy Crockpot Italian Meatballs and Marinara Sauce
These crockpot Italian meatballs are yummy with or without the noodles. It can be an appetizer, too!
5. Slow Cooker Apple BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
With a crunchy apple slaw, these sandwiches couldn’t be easier to prep and will become a household favorite. The meat simmers in the slow cooker for six to eight hours. Then, load the shredded chicken into the buns with all the toppings, and it’s ready to be enjoyed.
Chicken Crockpot Recipes
6. Greek Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken and Potatoes
This recipe guarantees fall-off-the-bone chicken. With the potatoes added to the crockpot, you don’t have to worry about making any extra sides.
7. Slow Cooker Chicken Fajitas
We have Fajita nights all the time at my home. It’s kind of become a weekly tradition! Throw everything into one pot, and all you have to do is place the contents in a tortilla once they’re cooked to perfection.
8. Crockpot Stuffed Peppers
Use bell peppers as your vessel for chicken quinoa stuffed peppers. With only 15 minutes of meal prep, you won’t be disappointed with the flavors this dish has to offer.
9. Easy Mexican Shredded Chicken
We’re not lying when we say this recipe is easy. It only has four ingredients, and you can use it for anything your heart desires. Tacos or enchiladas, anyone?
10. Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are perfect when you’re making any type of Asian-inspired meal, but you can substitute them with chicken breasts if you prefer. The honey garlic sauce makes the flavor in this recipe burst, and it tastes even better the next day.
11. Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala
If anyone in your family likes mushrooms, whip this slow cooker chicken marsala up and serve it with a bed of fettuccine noodles. It is hearty and a great choice for dinner any night of the week.
12. Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Have you ever planned on making a crockpot recipe but forgot about starting it until the end of the day? I know I have. If you find yourself in this predicament quite often, this meal can be ready within an hour and a half.
13. Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken and Veggies
The ratings prove that this dish is one you have to add to your weekly meal rotation. It’s a whole meal all in one pot—creamy chicken, potatoes, and broccoli.
14. Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Tacos
This slow cooker BBQ chicken tacos tastes so fresh with its homemade slaw. It’s easy to make and delicious!
15. Crockpot Apricot Chicken
Use apricot jam for a sweet and savory-flavored chicken. The author of this recipe swears you’ll be licking your plate. In that case, let’s make enough to last the whole week.
Beef Crockpot Recipes
16. Slow Cooker Ribs
I know I said crockpot recipes are great for leftovers, but these don’t usually last long in my house. They’re “melt-in-your-mouth” ribs, so you’ll understand.
17. Slow Cooker Mississippi Pot Roast
According to legend, Mississippi Pot Roast was an accidental invention by a mom who was trying to make a copycat pot roast dish from her aunt that was less spicy for her kids. Luckily, for her kids and everyone else, it’s become a deliciously viral sensation.
18. Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
Pro tip: use fresh broccoli and thinly cut the beef so it’s nice and tender out of the crockpot.
19. Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich
If you’re making the french onion soup in this roundup, don’t forget to make this sandwich, too.
20. Slow Cooker Taco Dip
For your next backyard gathering or family dinner, this crockpot taco dip is just the side dish you’ll need. It’s cheesy and delicious, but with the some added vegetables, is also just a bit healthier than it appears.
Turkey Crockpot Recipes
21. Slow Cooker Healthy Maple Turkey Bacon Baked Beans
If you’re making crockpot pulled pork sandwiches or slow cooker ribs, why not add maple bacon baked beans as a side?
22. Overnight Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole
If you’re needing to feed multiple families, this breakfast casserole is a go-to. It is packed with protein, and you can top it with shredded cheese, salsa, sour cream, avocado, and more.
23. Turkey Chickpea Chili
With ground turkey, chickpeas, veggies and chili spices, this is one of those dinner that has so much flavor (and nutrients) to offer, without stealing hours of your time.
Pork Crockpot Recipes
24. Pork Carnitas
Need an easy and delicious meal to serve? Try this slow cooker pork carnitas recipe that’s so flavorful, you’ll want to eat it several ways. Make a rice bowl meal or eat them as a taco.
25. Pork Adobo Burritos
OK, this burrito takes any burrito to a whole new level. By the looks of it, you’d think you would be spending hours in the kitchen—however, that isn’t the case. Rub the adobo sauce over the pork, and cook it on low for 8-10 hours. Then assemble the tortillas to make the burrito!
26. Breakfast Casserole with Ham, Cheese, and Spinach
Whether it’s making a dish for busy school mornings or prepping for a day with the family, this breakfast casserole with ham, cheese, and spinach is just what you need. Serve it with crispy hash browns and a side of coffee—milk for the kids!
27. Crockpot Breakfast Casserole
Mornings can be hectic, but you can start cooking this dish seven hours ahead of time—just enough time for you to sneak in a good night’s sleep. This recipe will start everyone’s day on the right foot.
28. Crockpot Honey Mustard Pork Chops
I recommend using sweet yellow mustard for this recipe. Because pork chops are lean meat, it can be easy to overcook them. However, this crockpot recipe makes the pork chops tender and fall apart perfectly.
29. Crockpot Pork Ragu
Despite beef being the go-to meat for ragu sauce, pork is another solid option that gets plenty of protein into your family’s diet. The sauce is pretty standard with onions, carrot, celery, garlic, broth, tomato paste, and crushed tomatoes. Let it simmer in your slow cooker all day, and you’ll have a delicious dinner ready to serve.
30. Pork Roast
This recipe results in tender, juicy pork that the whole family will love! Plus, the potatoes and carrots make for an easy, well-rounded dinner.
Vegetarian Crockpot Recipes
31. Slow Cooker Brussels Sprouts
I love roasted Brussels sprouts, but this crockpot version will still do the trick. With the cranberries, feta, and maple syrup, it will surely satisfy all the Brussels sprouts lovers in the family.
32. Crockpot Carrots
There’s minimal prep in these crockpot carrots. The orange zest, honey, and butter makes it kid approved. And I’m not going to complain about all the veggie intake they’ll be getting.
33. Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes is one of my favorite sides, and my family loves it, too. After peeling the potatoes, throw them in the crockpot. Add chicken broth, onion powder, garlic powder, butter, and milk. My mouth is watering already!
34. Slow Cooker Mexican Grilled Corn Dip
Sometimes, you need a little appetizer before the ‘real’ meal. I could eat this all day, but it would pair perfectly with slow cooked tacos or a slow cooked burrito.
35. Slow Cooker Maple Pumpkin Granola
The pumpkin flavor is naturally suitable for the colder months, but that doesn’t mean you have to wait to make this. It’s great all year round. Make granola for breakfast with a side of yogurt or as an after-school snack.
Crockpot Soups, Stews & Chilis
36. Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup
A crockpot classic, chicken wild rice soup is a comfy-cozy meal to whip up for the whole family. Serve it with a French baguette and creamy butter.
37. Caramelized Pork Ramen
If you’re a ramen lover, you’ll have to try your very own homemade version with Half Baked Harvest’s crockpot crispy caramelized pork ramen with curry roasted acorn squash. All the flavors married together are the perfect combination.
38. Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Tortellini soup with sausage is a family favorite, and it’s a meal I often make for new moms. There’s so much flavor, and the cheesy tortellini puts me in my happy place. Yum!
39. Crockpot Chipotle Chicken Soup
I love the smokiness from the chipotle in this soup. Add or dial back on the spice depending on how your family likes it.
40. Crockpot French Onion Soup
The caramelized onions aren’t the only ingredients that make this soup. The bread and the melted cheese are a *chef’s kiss*.
41. Crockpot Lasagna Soup
A take on a classic lasagna. When you don’t have the time to layer the lasagna, it’s so easy to throw everything in a crockpot and call it a day. Luckily, it still looks pretty and tastes amazing.
42. Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Soup
This recipe has me favoring enchiladas in its soup form. It has chicken, beans, and, according to Erin Clarke, the author of this recipe, it has “robust spices” with a “little kick to clear your sinuses.”
43. Easy Slow Cooker Beef Stew
When I think of crockpot recipes, a slow cooker beef stew is what comes to mind. If you’re not sure what type of meat to get, chuck steak is affordable. The slow cooker method makes it tender—just right for your dinner experience.
44. Cheesy Potato Soup
You had me at “cheese,” but adding thyme and bacon has me wanting to make this soup. It’s perfect for a cool, rainy day.
45. Slow Cooker Lemon Orzo Soup
I’m immediately drawn to any dish that has orzo in it. It’s so versatile—it tastes great in pasta, soup, or salads. In this case, a lemon orzo soup. Senior Editor of The Everymom, Kathy Sisson, can vouch that it tastes delicious.
46. Easy Slow Cooker Chili
Whether you’re having a chili cook-off on a summer day or if you’re needing something to warm you up, chili works for any day—hot or cold.
47. Hearty 13-Bean Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
This minestrone soup consists of 13 beans. From lima beans to garbanzo beans to kidney beans, you won’t be missing out on any fiber. Don’t forget to make a side of breadsticks to complete the meal.
48. Roasted Broccoli and Cheddar Soup
Creamy broccoli and cheddar soup is one of those comfort foods I’ll never stop enjoying. It’s easy to make yet bursting with flavor—for the picky kiddos, this is an especially good pick.
49. Curried Butternut Squash Soup
This soup recipe has all the fall flavors you and your family will love. Its Thai-inspired ingredients make it a great pick for a busy weeknight where you want something a little different, without the extra effort.
50. Cabbage Soup
The best part about this recipe? All you have to do is dump it in the crockpot and let the slow cooker work its magic. Plus, it’s hearty and healthy, packed full of vegetables (which means it’s a great source of fiber).
Dump-and-Go Crockpot Recipes
51. Easy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Make life easy for dinner time. With this recipe, all you have to do is place the pork in the slow cooker, season it with salt, and walk away. No complaints here.
52. Crockpot Little Smokies
Make an appetizer fave by tossing in little smokies into your slow cooker. This three-ingredient dish goes quickly, so be sure to make plenty if you have a large dinner group.
53. Crockpot Queso Dip
If you’re looking for an easy dip to go with pretzel bites or tortilla chips, try this dump-and-go crockpot queso dip.
54. Creamy Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
The noodles don’t even have to be cooked beforehand, which is a big win for a busy night. The entire family will be asking for this dish every week!
55. Fig Apple Cinnamon Slow Cooker Steel Cut Oats
The name of this recipe just sounds delicious. Not only is it nutritious, but you will wake up to your house smelling like fall.
Crockpot Desserts
56. Slow Cooker Pumpkin Apple Crisp
Crockpots are wonderful for desserts. Make a pumpkin apple crisp with old-fashioned oats, cinnamon, butter, and maple syrup.
57. Slow Cooker Pear-Quince Butter
Your whole family will want to spread this on every breakfast item. Waffles, pancakes, muffins, or toast? It’s yummy on everything.
58. Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
There’s nothing like a cup of hot chocolate (with all the toppings), especially if you’re going for the camping vibes (without the s’mores) on a cool night. With this crockpot recipe, you can make hot chocolate to serve at all of your dinner parties and family gatherings.
59. Rocky Road Peanut Clusters
This is the easiest candy recipe of all time. All you need is chocolate, nuts, and marshmallows, and you’ll have yourself the perfect treat—or even an edible gift for the holiday season.
60. Crockpot Blueberry Cobbler
The aroma of blueberry cobbler makes me want to eat it for breakfast and dinner, which is totally OK in my book. The reason why I love it so much is that it’s sweet, crunchy, and warms my heart all in one bite. The best part? Serve it with ice cream!
FAQs About Crockpot Recipes
What is the difference between a Crockpot and a slow cooker?
A Crockpot is actually a brand name for one type of slow cooker. All Crockpots are slow cookers, but not all slow cookers are Crockpots. Both cook food low and slow, making them perfect for hands-off meals.
Can you put raw meat in a Crockpot?
Yes! You can safely put raw meat in a Crockpot as long as it cooks to the proper internal temperature. Most recipes are designed for this, but you can also brown meat first if you want extra flavor or texture.
What size Crockpot is best for a family?
For most families, a 5 to 6-quart Crockpot is the sweet spot—it’s big enough to cook a full meal for four to six people but not so large it takes up all your counter space.
How long can food stay warm in a Crockpot?
Most Crockpots have a “warm” setting that keeps food at a safe temperature for up to four hours. After that, it’s best to refrigerate or freeze leftovers.
Are Crockpot recipes healthy?
They can be! Many slow cooker meals are made with lean proteins, beans, and veggies. If you’re being mindful of certain ingredients, just keep an eye on cream or cheese-heavy recipes and try balancing them with lighter meals throughout the week.
Can I freeze Crockpot meals for later?
Definitely. Many Crockpot recipes can be prepped in freezer bags ahead of time—just dump them in the slow cooker when you’re ready. It’s a great way to save time on busy nights!
Patty Schepel, Associate Editor
As the Associate Editor, Patty works with The Everymom’s team on pitches, creating original articles, updating existing content, photo sourcing, writing shopping product descriptions, editing freelance articles, and more. With Patty’s passion for writing, experience as a mother of two, and expertise as a pediatric nurse, she brings a thoughtful and informative perspective to The Everymom.
Rebecca Smith, Editorial Assistant
As an Editorial Assistant, Rebecca works with The Everymom team on updating existing content, photo sourcing, pitching original articles, and more. She’s passionate about creating authentic and diverse online content and is thrilled to help women of all ages feel represented.
