Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen preparing meals for your kids? Do you wish there was a way to make healthy, delicious meals with minimal effort and cleanup? Look no further than your trusty slow cooker! With just a few simple ingredients and some prep work ahead of time, you can create a wide variety of tasty dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. In this article, we’ll share 20 easy crock pot recipes for kids that are perfect for busy families on-the-go.
From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and chicken noodle soup, to fun twists on familiar favorites like tacos and pizza casserole, these recipes are sure to become a staple in your household. And the best part? They’re all easy to make and require minimal supervision, so you can focus on other things while your slow cooker does the work.
So why wait? Dive into our collection of 20 easy crock pot recipes for kids below and start serving up delicious meals that everyone will love!
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese: A Creamy Comfort Classic
This creamy macaroni and cheese recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. With minimal effort, you’ll have a warm, cheesy casserole ready to devour.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the butter, milk, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese until smooth.
3. Add the flour and stir until well combined.
4. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and 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
This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to prepare chicken tacos using your Crock Pot. The result is tender, juicy chicken that falls apart easily and is perfect for topping with your favorite taco fixings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/2 cup salsa
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 tacos shells
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in the Crock Pot.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes with green chilies, salsa, olive oil, and cumin.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken breasts.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Shred the chicken with two forks and warm the tacos shells according to package instructions.
7. Assemble the tacos by spooning the chicken mixture into the shells and topping with your desired toppings.
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Crock Pot Pizza Casserole
Easy Crock Pot Pizza Casserole
A delicious twist on traditional pizza, this casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party crowd-pleaser. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, you’ll have a hot and bubbly dish ready to serve in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 pizza dough balls (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet; drain excess fat.
2. Add onion, marinara sauce, oregano, and garlic powder. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. In the crock pot, create a layer of meat mixture, followed by a dough ball, then sprinkle with cheese (repeat).
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Top with additional mozzarella cheese and parsley, if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Kid-Friendly Crock Pot Meatballs
Get ready to serve a crowd-pleasing meal with this simple and delicious recipe! With minimal effort, you’ll have juicy meatballs that kids of all ages will love.
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 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your crock pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. 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. Place them in the crock pot.
4. Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs.
5. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as pasta, rice, or garlic bread.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders
Get ready for a finger-lickin’ good time with these tender and flavorful pulled chicken sliders, slow-cooked to perfection in your favorite BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw, pickle slices, and additional BBQ sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in BBQ sauce.
4. Shred chicken with two forks and stir to coat with BBQ sauce.
5. Split hamburger buns in half and toast.
6. Assemble sliders by placing shredded chicken on the buns and topping with coleslaw, pickle slices, and additional BBQ sauce (if using).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Cheesy Quesadilla Dip
Get ready for a party-perfect dip that’s as easy to make as it is delicious! This Crock Pot Cheesy Quesadilla Dip is a game-changer for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked chicken or beans (optional)
– 1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 tortilla chips for serving
Instructions:
1. In the Crock Pot, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, cooked chicken or beans (if using), black beans, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
2. Cook on Low for 2-3 hours or High for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Serve warm with tortilla chips.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (Low) or 1 hour (High)
Easy Crock Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup made easy with your crock pot! This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal on a busy day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked egg noodles
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, chicken broth, onion, and garlic in a crock pot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add the egg noodles and thyme.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Mini Corn Dogs
Perfect for game day gatherings or party snacks, these mini corn dogs are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini hot dogs (about 20-24 count)
– 1 cup of cornmeal
– 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder
– 1/2 cup of butter, melted
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to “low” setting.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cornmeal, flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Dip each mini hot dog into the cornmeal mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated hot dogs in the slow cooker lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
5. Pour melted butter over the hot dogs.
6. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until hot dogs are cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Crock Pot Spaghetti and Meat Sauce
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a staple for any busy household. With minimal prep work, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting to deliver a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 16 oz spaghetti
– 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 Crock Pot.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Serve with the meat sauce and top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Kid-Approved Crock Pot Sloppy Joes
A classic favorite that’s easy to make and always a hit with kids! This recipe is perfect for busy families or school lunches, and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Stir until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a crock pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve:
Sloppy Joes are best served on a bun, topped with your favorite condiments and toppings! Enjoy!
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Bites
Transform ordinary chicken into sweet and savory bites with this effortless slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 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, and thyme.
2. Add chicken pieces to the slow cooker and toss to coat with the honey mixture.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle 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)
Crock Pot Cheesy Potato Casserole
A comforting, creamy casserole that’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for your next gathering. This Crock Pot recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort, making it a great option for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or bacon bits for garnish
Instructions:
1. In the Crock Pot, combine sliced potatoes, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, milk, and butter.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Garnish with chopped scallions or bacon bits, if desired.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Easy Crock Pot Taco Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect solution for a busy day when you need something warm and comforting. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 (16 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– Optional: tortilla chips, shredded cheese, diced avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
2. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Transfer mixture to a crock pot; add remaining ingredients.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Slow Cooker Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate
Cozy up on a chilly day with this rich and creamy hot chocolate recipe infused with the nutty flavor of peanut butter. Perfect for a winter morning or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons creamy natural peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, peanut butter, sugar, and salt.
2. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Cook on Low for 2-3 hours or High for 1-2 hours.
4. Stir in vanilla extract just before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (Low) or 1-2 hours (High)
Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls
This recipe combines the flavors of Japan with the convenience of a Crock Pot, resulting in tender chicken and flavorful teriyaki sauce to serve over fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place chicken breasts in the Crock Pot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken.
4. Add uncooked rice and water to the Crock Pot.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve chicken and teriyaki sauce over cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Kid-Friendly Crock Pot French Toast Casserole
Start your day with a delicious and easy-to-make breakfast that’s sure to please the kids! This Crock Pot French toast casserole is perfect for busy mornings, as it cooks overnight and serves a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
2. Add the French bread cubes to the mixture and stir until they are evenly coated.
3. Pour the mixture into a 6-quart Crock Pot or slow cooker.
4. Cover the Crock Pot and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours.
5. Remove the casserole from the Crock Pot and sprinkle with powdered sugar (if desired).
6. Serve warm, topped with your favorite fruits or syrups.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (LOW) or 4-5 hours (HIGH)
Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup
A creamy, comforting soup that combines the flavors of cheeseburgers with the convenience of a slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen chopped bell peppers
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and Worcestershire sauce to the slow cooker.
3. Add the browned ground beef, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, milk, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
4. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day off right with this comforting and flavorful crock pot oatmeal recipe, infused with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon. Perfect for a chilly morning or as a satisfying snack any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or milk
– 1/2 cup diced apple (any variety)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Pinch of nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to the crock pot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir well before serving.
4. Top with your favorite toppings, such as chopped nuts, honey, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Enjoy your warm and comforting Crock Pot Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal!
Easy Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo
Easy Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo Recipe
In just a few hours, you can have a creamy and delicious chicken alfredo dish with minimal effort using your crock pot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in the crock pot.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken breasts.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions.
6. Serve the chicken alfredo with cooked fettuccine and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Slow Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake
Treat yourself to a rich and gooey chocolate cake without heating up your kitchen! This slow cooker recipe is perfect for a stress-free dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, chocolate chips, and sugar. Stir until smooth.
2. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
3. Add flour and salt (if using), stirring until just combined.
4. Pour batter into a 6-quart slow cooker lined with parchment paper.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to delight your little ones with these easy and delicious crock pot recipes! From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and chicken noodle soup, to fun twists on tacos and pizza, there’s something for every kid. Try slow cooker meatballs, cheesy quesadilla dip, or BBQ pulled chicken sliders – all are sure to be a hit. And with recipes ranging from mini corn dogs to spaghetti and meat sauce, you’ll never run out of ideas. Get cooking and make mealtime a breeze with these 20 easy crock pot recipes for kids!
