Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen preparing meals for your little ones? Look no further! Crockpots are a busy parent’s best friend, and we’re excited to share our top 20 easy crockpot recipes that kids will love. From comforting classics like mac and cheese and chicken noodle soup, to kid-friendly twists on tacos and sliders, these recipes are sure to be a hit with your mini-meals.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal solution or a fun way to get the kids involved in cooking, our collection of crockpot recipes has got you covered. So go ahead, grab a slow cooker, and let the magic happen!
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese: A comforting classic gets a set-it-and-forget-it makeover!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Add cooked macaroni, butter, and stir until well combined.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
5. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Crockpot Chicken Tacos
This easy recipe yields tender and flavorful chicken tacos perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or party crowd-pleaser. Simply toss all the ingredients into your crockpot and let it do the work!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/2 cup salsa
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 taco-sized tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
2. Add diced tomatoes with green chilies, salsa, onion, bell pepper, cumin, and chili powder on top of the chicken.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Shred chicken with two forks and stir to combine with sauce.
6. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning chicken mixture onto tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Crockpot Spaghetti
Easy Crockpot Spaghetti: A Simple Twist on a Classic
This recipe takes the classic spaghetti dish and simplifies it by using a crockpot, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup spaghetti
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a pan over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the crockpot and add the marinara sauce. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, add the cooked spaghetti to the crockpot and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pizza Pasta
Transform your slow cooker into a pizza lover’s dream with this easy and satisfying recipe. This comforting dish combines the flavors of pizza, pasta, and melted mozzarella for a family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 cup frozen bell peppers and onions
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 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 olive oil, onion, and bell peppers. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
3. Add marinara sauce, cooked pasta, and mozzarella cheese to the slow cooker. Stir until combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with parsley and optional pizza toppings (such as pepperoni).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-6 hours
Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sliders
Get ready for a crowd-pleasing party with these tender and juicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sliders! With minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 slider buns
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced onions, pickle slices, cheese
Instructions:
1. Place chicken breasts in the Crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, chicken broth, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour mixture over chicken breasts in the Crockpot.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Shred chicken with two forks and stir to coat with sauce.
6. Assemble sliders by placing shredded chicken onto buns and adding optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Cheesy Crockpot Quesadillas
Looking for a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than these Cheesy Crockpot Quesadillas! This recipe is a game-changer, as it requires minimal effort but yields maximum flavor and satisfaction.
Ingredients:
– 6 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped cooked chicken (or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place a tortilla in the crockpot.
2. Sprinkle half of the cheese, chicken, onion, and bell pepper on top of the tortilla.
3. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 with remaining ingredients.
5. Pour enchilada sauce over the quesadillas.
6. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1-3 hours (depending on crockpot setting)
Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Cozy up with a warm and comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup, perfect for a chilly day or a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of noodles (such as egg noodles or rice noodles)
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken, chicken broth, noodles, and thyme to a slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Mini Meatballs
This recipe makes about 40-50 mini meatballs that are perfect for parties, snacks, or as a topping for your favorite pasta dish. Simply mix together ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, then cook them in a crockpot with your choice of sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Your favorite marinara or BBQ sauce (about 1 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the crockpot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form meat mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the mini meatballs in the crockpot.
4. Pour marinara or BBQ sauce over the meatballs.
5. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Serve: With toothpicks, skewers, or simply as is. Enjoy!
Easy Crockpot Hot Dogs
Easy Crockpot Hot Dogs Recipe
Ready in just a few hours, these slow-cooked hot dogs are perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 hot dogs
– 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup of water
– 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the hot dogs in a single layer at the bottom of a crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, water, brown sugar, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture over the hot dogs.
4. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as buns, condiments, and relish.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes
These creamy, cheesy potatoes are the perfect addition to any meal. Simply toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine sliced potatoes, shredded cheese, milk, and melted butter.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
This sweet and savory recipe is a perfect blend of flavors, with the richness of honey and garlic perfectly balanced. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the Crockpot, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil.
2. Add chicken breasts and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. When done, remove chicken from crockpot and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Taco Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you need something comforting and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 cups beef broth
– Shredded cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
4. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
5. Add diced tomatoes, black beans, corn kernels, cumin, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
6. Pour in beef broth; cover the slow cooker.
7. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Cheeseburger Pasta
Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this comforting, cheesy pasta dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This Crockpot Cheeseburger Pasta recipe is a crowd-pleaser for the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a skillet until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the Crockpot with the penne pasta, marinara sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches
Elevate your lunch game with this effortless recipe that yields tender, flavorful sandwiches and a rich au jus perfect for dipping. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef top round or rump roast
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of beef broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 4 slices Swiss cheese
– Optional: garlic butter, chives, and/or pickle slices for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Place the roast in the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together broth, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Pour mixture over the roast.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. Preheat oven to broil setting (high).
5. Slice the hoagie rolls in half lengthwise.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing a slice of cheese on each roll, then topping with sliced roast and au jus.
7. Place sandwiches under broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki chicken with this easy Crockpot recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in the Crockpot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken breasts.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Low setting: 6-8 hours
– High setting: 3-4 hours
Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes
Perfect for busy days or casual gatherings, this slow cooker sloppy joe recipe is an easy and delicious way to serve up flavorful sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Stir in the cooked ground beef.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot on hamburger buns.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Corn Dog Casserole
Elevate your snack game with this easy and delicious Crockpot recipe that combines the best of corn dogs and casserole. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen corn nuggets
– 1 can of cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of milk
– 1 tablespoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 hot dogs, sliced
– 1/2 cup of crushed crackers (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Crockpot to low.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together cream of chicken soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the mixture to the Crockpot with the frozen corn nuggets.
4. Place sliced hot dogs on top of the corn mixture.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hot dogs.
6. Cook for 2-3 hours or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
7. Garnish with crushed crackers, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo
Transform your weeknight dinner into a rich and creamy Italian-inspired feast with this easy Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup cooked fettuccine pasta
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, butter, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cooked pasta, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Beef and Cheese Nachos
Elevate your snack game with this simple recipe that combines the flavors of beef, cheese, and tortilla chips. Perfect for game day gatherings or family movie nights!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12-15 tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a crockpot and add the cream of mushroom soup and water. Stir until combined.
4. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
6. Serve with tortilla chips and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Slow Cooker Pancake Bites
Start your day with a delicious twist on traditional pancakes – soft, fluffy bites cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. These pancake bites are perfect for busy mornings or as a sweet treat any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Optional toppings: maple syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Grease the slow cooker with cooking spray or butter.
5. Pour batter into the slow cooker and cook on low for 1-2 hours or high for 30-45 minutes.
6. Serve warm, topped with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours (low) or 30-45 minutes (high)
Summary
Get ready to make mealtime easy with these 20 delicious and kid-friendly crockpot recipes! From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and spaghetti to tasty twists on tacos and BBQ, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, these slow cooker meals are perfect for busy families. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, these recipes are sure to become family favorites. So go ahead, grab your crockpot, and get cooking!
