Are you tired of sacrificing taste for ease when it comes to mealtime? Do you wish you had more time to focus on work, play, or simply relax while still serving up delicious and satisfying meals to your family? Look no further than the humble crock pot! With its ability to cook a variety of dishes slowly and effortlessly, this kitchen staple is a parent’s best friend. And with these 20 easy kid-friendly crock pot recipes, you’ll be able to please even the pickiest eaters without breaking a sweat.
From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and sloppy joes, to international-inspired flavors like teriyaki chicken and tater tot casserole, we’ve got a recipe for every family’s taste buds. So why not give your slow cooker a try and discover the joy of having healthy, home-cooked meals waiting for you at the end of the day? In this article, we’ll share our top 20 kid-friendly crock pot recipes that are sure to become new family favorites.
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic gets a slow-cooked twist! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the cooked macaroni to the slow cooker and stir until well combined.
4. Dot the top of the mac and cheese with butter.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low), 1-2 hours (high)
Crock Pot Chicken Tacos
Transform your weeknight dinner into a flavorful fiesta with this easy and delicious Crock Pot Chicken Tacos recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in the Crock Pot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, olive oil, and taco seasoning. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir to combine with the sauce.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the chicken mixture onto a tortilla and topping with cheese, sour cream, and any other desired toppings.
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional sliders with this easy recipe that combines tender pulled pork, sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, and crunchy coleslaw. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 8 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices and chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season pork shoulder with brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Place pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker and cover with foil.
4. Cook for 6-8 hours or until tender, shredding with two forks when done.
5. Stir in BBQ sauce and let it simmer for 10 minutes to thicken.
6. Split hamburger buns and toast.
7. Assemble sliders by spooning pulled pork onto toasted buns, topping with coleslaw and garnishing with pickle slices and cilantro (if using).
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker) or 2-3 hours (oven)
Cheesy Slow Cooker Queso Dip
Satisfy your cravings with this creamy, cheesy dip that’s perfect for gatherings and parties.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: diced jalapeños or red bell peppers for added spice
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, half-and-half or heavy cream, paprika, and cumin. Mix until smooth.
2. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
4. Stir in optional jalapeños or red bell peppers, if using.
5. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Homestyle Crock Pot Meatballs
Savor the comfort of homemade meatballs without the hassle of constant monitoring – this recipe lets you set it and forget it! With a rich, tangy sauce and tender meatballs, this classic dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat the crock pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined – do not overmix.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them in the crock pot.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, sliced onion, and minced garlic on top of the meatballs.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve: With your favorite pasta, rice, or as a sandwich filling. Enjoy!
Kid-Friendly Slow Cooker Chili
This hearty slow cooker chili recipe is a family favorite that’s easy to make and perfect for a busy day. With its rich flavor and tender texture, your kids will love it!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker.
4. Add the canned tomatoes, beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this rich and creamy crock pot chicken alfredo recipe, packed with tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Place chicken breasts in the crock pot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, thyme, and pepper. Pour mixture over chicken.
3. Add fettuccine pasta on top of the chicken.
4. Dot the surface with unsalted butter.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Stir in any remaining sauce and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) / 3-4 hours (high)
Sweet and Tangy Crock Pot BBQ Chicken
Sweet and Tangy Crock Pot BBQ Chicken
Get ready to fall in love with this mouthwatering crock pot recipe that combines the sweetness of brown sugar, the tanginess of BBQ sauce, and the tender juiciness of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Place the chicken in the crock pot and pour the sweet and tangy mixture over it.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, brush the BBQ sauce all over the chicken.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Pizza Pasta
Transform a classic pasta dish into a flavorful pizza-inspired meal with this easy slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 jar pizza sauce (28 oz)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped pepperoni slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, combine pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, parsley, and pepperoni. Stir until well combined.
3. Add cooked pasta to the slow cooker and stir gently to combine.
4. Cover slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Cheesy Crock Pot Cornbread Casserole
Transform your comfort food game with this creamy and crispy casserole that combines the best of cornbread and cheesy goodness, all made easy in a slow cooker!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream of corn
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients (cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt).
3. Add the melted butter, buttermilk, and shredded cheese; stir until just combined.
4. Pour in the cream of corn and mix until smooth.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared slow cooker.
6. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Easy Crock Pot Sloppy Joes
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a crowd or a busy day. This easy crock pot sloppy joes recipe is simple, flavorful, and can be ready in just a few hours.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 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 chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the crock pot and add the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and ground mustard. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve the sloppy joes on hamburger buns and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
This slow cooker recipe combines sweet honey with savory garlic and tender chicken for a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together honey, garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the mixture and coat evenly with the sauce.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup
Satisfy your cravings with this comforting and flavorful Crock Pot soup, packed with the essence of cheeseburgers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet; drain excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the Crock Pot.
4. Add the frozen peas and carrots, canned diced tomatoes, chicken broth, milk, tomato paste, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Cover the Crock Pot and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, topped with additional shredded cheddar cheese (if desired) and garnished with chopped parsley (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (LOW), 3-4 hours (HIGH)
Kid-Approved Slow Cooker Hot Dogs
A fun twist on classic hot dogs, these slow cooker hot dogs are perfect for a quick and easy meal that the whole family will love. With minimal effort, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing snack in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 hot dogs
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon mustard powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Buns and condiments, for serving
Instructions:
1. Place the hot dogs in a slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture over the hot dogs.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
5. Serve hot dogs with buns and your favorite condiments.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Simple Crock Pot Beef Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that’s perfect for a busy day, this simple recipe is easy to prepare and cooks all day while you’re away. With tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth, it’s a meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped onion at the bottom of a 6-quart crock pot.
2. Add the beef stew meat on top of the onion.
3. Sprinkle the garlic over the beef.
4. Add the cubed potatoes and sliced carrot around the edges of the pot.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and thyme.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
Savor the flavors of Asia with this easy and delicious slow cooker recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and ginger.
2. Pour in the water, making sure the chicken is covered.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About an hour before serving, stir to ensure the chicken is coated with the sauce.
5. Serve hot over your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables or Japanese-style rice.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Tater Tot Casserole
A comforting twist on the classic tater tot casserole, this slow-cooked recipe combines crispy tater tots with savory ground beef and creamy cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (32 oz) bag of Tater Tots
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through.
2. In the Crock Pot, combine the cooked ground beef, diced onion, and paprika.
3. Arrange half of the Tater Tots on top of the meat mixture.
4. Pour the milk over the Tater Tots.
5. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Top with remaining Tater Tots.
7. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
A comforting and easy-to-make soup perfect for a busy day or a cozy night in. With minimal prep work, this slow cooker recipe is a great way to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal without much fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup uncooked noodles (such as egg noodles or rice noodles)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken, chicken broth, noodles, and thyme.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time:
– Low setting: 6-8 hours
– High setting: 3-4 hours
Crock Pot Peanut Butter Chocolate Oatmeal
Start your day with a deliciously creamy and indulgent oatmeal that combines the richness of peanut butter and chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a 6-quart Crock Pot, combine oats, milk, peanut butter, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir until smooth.
2. Cook on Low for 2-3 hours or High for 1-2 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in honey and chocolate chips.
4. Continue cooking for the remaining time.
5. Serve warm, topped with your favorite toppings such as sliced banana, whipped cream, or chopped nuts.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (Low) or 1-2 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Mini Meatloaves
Simplify your mealtime with these adorable mini meatloaves that cook to perfection in a slow cooker. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun twist on a classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, oats, ketchup, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and shape each portion into a mini meatloaf.
4. Place the mini meatloaves in the slow cooker and top each with chopped onion and a beaten egg.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready for a delicious journey with these 20 easy and kid-friendly crock pot recipes! From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese to tasty twists like BBQ pulled pork sliders, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy creamy chicken alfredo, sweet and tangy BBQ chicken, and cheesy quesadillas. Kids will love the homemade sloppy joes, hot dogs, and mini meatloaves. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking for an easy meal solution, these slow cooker recipes are perfect for a family gathering or everyday dinner. Try them out and enjoy the convenience of cooking with ease!
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