Are you tired of the same old meals every day? Do your kids have picky eating habits that make mealtime a struggle? Look no further! Slow cookers are a game-changer when it comes to cooking for kids, as they allow for easy and convenient meal prep. And what’s better than a delicious, comforting meal that everyone will love?
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 kid-friendly slow cooker recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and chicken and rice, to creative twists like pizza pasta casserole and loaded baked potato soup, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? These recipes require minimal effort and can be made in advance, making them perfect for busy families.
In this article, we’ll be highlighting some of our favorite slow cooker recipes that are sure to become family favorites. So grab your slow cooker and let’s get started!
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic, this slow cooker mac and cheese recipe is perfect for a busy day or a cozy night in. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious dish ready to devour.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Add cooked macaroni to the slow cooker and stir until coated in the cheesy mixture.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
This comforting dish is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. It’s an easy and convenient meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and thyme.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in heavy cream.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This slow cooker version is easy to prepare and yields tender, flavorful beef and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 ounces sour cream
– 1 cup cooked egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
2. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and mushrooms to the slow cooker.
3. Place the beef strips on top of the vegetables.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, tomato paste, mustard, and paprika.
5. Pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.
6. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
7. Stir in the sour cream and serve over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your meal routine with this sweet and savory slow cooker recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. With minimal prep work, you’ll be rewarded with tender and flavorful chicken drumsticks smothered in a sticky honey garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken drumsticks
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together honey, garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken drumsticks to the slow cooker and toss to coat with the sauce.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and a side of your choice.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe
This slow cooker recipe is a crowd-pleaser! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with tender, juicy pork that’s perfect for sandwiches or served alongside your favorite sides.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Place the pork in a slow cooker and add BBQ sauce.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and serve on hamburger buns.
5. Top with coleslaw or pickles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Cheesy Slow Cooker Taco Pasta
Get ready for a comforting and flavorful twist on traditional pasta dishes! This Cheesy Slow Cooker Taco Pasta recipe combines the creaminess of melted cheese with the bold flavors of taco seasoning, all in one easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, elbow macaroni)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 packet (2.25 oz) taco seasoning
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, combine diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and shredded cheese. Stir until the cheese is well coated with the seasonings.
3. Add cooked pasta to the slow cooker and stir until combined with the tomato mixture.
4. Pour in half-and-half or heavy cream and stir gently to combine.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the pasta is well coated.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Slow Cooker Pizza Pasta Casserole
Slow Cooker Pizza Pasta Casserole Recipe
Get ready for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that combines the flavors of pizza and pasta in one delicious casserole. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy days or gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 pound ground beef or sausage, cooked and drained
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until tender.
3. Add marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, ground beef or sausage, oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the slow cooker; stir gently to combine.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Slow Cooker Mini Meatballs in Marinara
Elevate your weeknight meals with these tender and flavorful slow cooker mini meatballs smothered in rich marinara sauce. Perfect for a crowd, this recipe is easy to scale up or down depending on your needs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them in the slow cooker.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs and cover slow cooker.
6. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours, until meatballs are cooked through and tender.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or as a sub sandwich filling.
Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken and Veggies
Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken and Veggies: A Deliciously Easy Dinner Solution!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place chicken, teriyaki sauce, chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger in the slow cooker.
2. Add sliced onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper on top of the chicken mixture.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup
Get ready for a comforting twist on traditional soup! This Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup combines the flavors of juicy burgers, creamy cheese, and savory vegetables in one delicious pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Add the browned ground beef, chicken broth, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried oregano to the slow cooker.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up with this comforting classic! This slow cooker recipe is perfect for a cozy night in, and it’s easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of uncooked white rice
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz of egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, carrots, celery, and thyme in the slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and add the rice. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.
5. Add cooked noodles to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe
Get ready to sink your teeth into tender meatballs smothered in a tangy sweet and sour sauce, all made easy with the help of your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker 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 your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs in the slow cooker and pour in the sweet and sour sauce (ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and olive oil).
5. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 6-8 hours.
Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs!
Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Pork Chops
Elevate your mealtime with these tender and flavorful pork chops smothered in a rich, creamy ranch sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork chops
– 1/2 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together cream of chicken soup, heavy cream, and ranch seasoning.
4. Place the pork chops in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of India with this comforting slow cooker butter chicken recipe. Tender chicken, creamy sauce, and aromatic spices come together to create a dish perfect for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp garam masala
– 1/2 tsp ground coriander
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, butter, onion, garlic, cumin, garam masala, coriander, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Serve over basmati rice or with naan bread for a delightful meal.
Slow Cooker Spaghetti and Meat Sauce
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this comforting slow cooker spaghetti and meat sauce recipe, perfect for busy families or lazy Sundays. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, you’ll have a hearty, homemade pasta dish without the fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 lb spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
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 meat mixture to the slow cooker with the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Serve the meat sauce over the cooked spaghetti, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup
This creamy soup combines the flavors of a loaded baked potato with the convenience of a slow cooker. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a comforting treat on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Optional toppings: sour cream, diced bacon, chives, or broccoli
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine potatoes, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream.
4. Add 1/2 cup shredded cheese and stir until melted.
5. Serve hot, topped with remaining cheese and your choice of optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Sliders
Elevate your game-day gatherings with these tender, juicy, and flavorful slow-cooked chicken sliders smothered in sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for a crowd, these bite-sized morsels are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 slider buns
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced onions, pickles
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, shred the chicken with two forks.
4. Split slider buns and spoon shredded chicken onto each bun.
5. Add desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli
This recipe is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce. It’s easy to prepare and cooks all day while you’re busy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, and thyme in a slow cooker.
2. Mix the milk and shredded cheese in a bowl until smooth. Pour over the chicken mixture.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this easy and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a comforting side dish or main course. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with tender, cheesy potatoes infused with the richness of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine sliced potatoes, chicken broth, milk, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir to combine, then cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the potatoes and stir to combine.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Peanut Butter Chocolate Oatmeal
This Slow Cooker Peanut Butter Chocolate Oatmeal recipe is a delicious twist on traditional oatmeal, combining creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate with hearty oats. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack, it’s easy to prepare and can be enjoyed hot or cold.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup milk (or water)
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
3. Stir well before serving.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Enjoy your creamy, chocolatey oatmeal hot, topped with your favorite toppings such as sliced banana, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of honey. Or, let it cool and refrigerate for up to 3 days, perfect for grab-and-go snacks.
Summary
Are you tired of the same old recipes for picky eaters? Look no further! This collection of 20 delicious kid-friendly slow cooker recipes is sure to please even the most discerning palates. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and chicken noodle soup, to fun twists like pizza pasta casserole and BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, there’s something for everyone in this roundup. And the best part? Each recipe is easy to make and requires minimal fuss, making it perfect for busy parents on-the-go.