It's Ree's "dream dinner!"
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Ree Drummond didn't grow up with a slow cooker in her house, so the concept of "set-it-and-forget-it" is something she's been experimenting with in more recent years. But that doesn't mean she isn't having fun with the handy appliance! In fact, Ree has grown to love and appreciate what she calls her "dream dinner" with these easy Crock-Pot recipes. 'You literally throw everything in, turn it on, then go live your life until it's done," she explains.
What's more? Many of these slow cooker recipes have minimal prep work and some don't even require any pre-cooking at all like with her slow cooker chicken tortilla soup. So, when life gets busy—or you're simply looking for a family-friendly meal—check out the Crock-Pot recipes on the list ahead.
Here, you'll learn that the Crock-Pot can be used for some truly creative ideas. For instance, have you ever made pork chops in a slow cooker? They come out perfectly tender and smothered in gravy. You can even use your slow-cooker to make easy Crock-Pot chicken recipes, holiday sides, and slow-cooker drinks like decadent hot chocolate or apple cider. Of course, you can whip up some comfort food favorites like Crock-Pot soups and stews, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and creamy mac and cheese. And don't forget appetizers like Crock-pot dips! Just set everything up in the morning or before you leave for work and let the Crock-Pot do its magic. (Don't worry, you can still take all the credit.) 😂
1
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken
Imagine the smoky, tangy flavor of BBQ chicken without actually needing a smoker at all! That's what you get when you make this meltingly tender recipe in your slow cooker. It's perfect for building BBQ chicken sandwiches throughout the week.
Get the Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken recipe.
2
Slow Cooker Bolognese
This hearty meat sauce makes an extra-large batch so it's perfect for meal prep. Serve some up for Sunday night dinner, then freeze the rest for busy weeknights.
Get the Slow Cooker Bolognese recipe.
3
Queso Dip
Using the slow cooker method, this cheesy queso dip is easier than ever. You can also keep it warm and gooey until your guests arrive! Just don't forget the chips.
Get the Queso Dip recipe.
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4
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This hearty, comforting dish makes the most tender beef you can imagine. And thanks to the addition of veggies, you can feel good about eating it too!
Get the Slow Cooker Beef Stew recipe.
5
Slow Cooker Green Beans
If you're looking for the perfect side dish, you've come to the right place! This green bean recipe is full of flavor, including bits of bacon that your whole family will love.
Get the Slow Cooker Green Beans recipe.
6
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
This recipe calls for bone-in pork shoulder which gets meltingly tender when cooked low and slow. All you have to do is shred up the pork and serve it with mustard and onions on pretzel buns.
Get the Slow Cooker Pulled Pork recipe.
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7
Crock-Pot Stuffing
The holidays are a busy time for most, so this easy recipe will come in handy. In fact, it has all the classic stuffing flavors you know and love without taking up any of that precious oven space!
Get the Crock-Pot Stuffing recipe.
8
co*cktail Meatballs
For a classic party starter that's easy to make, check out this recipe for sweet and spicy meatballs. You'll be surprised to learn that the sauce only requires 4 ingredients!
Get the co*cktail Meatballs recipe.
9
Crock-Pot Breakfast Casserole
Not just for dinnertime—the Crock-Pot will also make breakfast easy, too! You can put everything in the night before and wake up to a comforting egg casserole in the morning.
Get the Crock-Pot Breakfast Casserole recipe.
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10
Crock-Pot Mac and Cheese
Even picky eaters will ask for seconds of this homemade mac and cheese! It's made with a combo of cheeses for the ultimate flavor and extra gooey-ness.
Get the Crock-Pot Mac and Cheese recipe.
11
Crock-Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip
This game day favorite is creamy, spicy, and loaded with chicken! It's less fuss than making wings, but just as satisfying. Serve it up with tortilla chips or even veggie sticks for scooping.
Get the Crock-Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip recipe.
12
Slow Cooker Tortilla Soup
You can't go wrong with Ree's chicken tortilla soup. It's packed with veggies, beans, and a flavorful broth. All you need to do for serving is top it with your favorite fixings, like diced avocado, grated cheese, and sour cream.
Get Ree's Slow Cooker Tortilla Soup recipe.
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13
Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes
With layers of potatoes and a rich cream sauce, these scalloped potatoes will taste luxurious without all the work. We can't think of a better side dish for serving with steak!
Get the Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes recipe.
14
Crock-Pot Candy
Homemade candy is a fun way to get creative with your slow cooker! You can make the nutty chocolate treats for the holidays or use any color sprinkles for birthday parties or homemade food gifts throughout the year!
Get the Crock-Pot Candy recipe.
15
Slow Cooker Pot Roast
Wow your family with a comforting dinner that's big on flavor. Not only does it have tender chuck roast, but it's also loaded with potatoes, carrots, onions, and a savory sauce.
Get the Slow Cooker Pot Roast recipe.
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16
Crock-Pot Hot Chocolate
Craving a cup of something sweet? Try making this rich hot chocolate using your Crock-Pot! You can even add a dash of whiskey or Irish cream liquor to turn it into an adults-only drink.
Get the Crock-Pot Hot Chocolate recipe.
17
Slow Cooker Pork Chops
This method calls for searing the pork chops first to get a nice golden crust. Sure, it's an extra step, but it's totally worth it! And once you try the savory gravy, you'll never look back.
Get the Slow Cooker Pork Chops recipe.
18
Slow Cooker Chili
Beef chili is a family favorite but it often requires standing over a pot for hours stirring. Luckily, this recipe takes the work out of chili by making it completely hands-free. That means more time to spend with your family!
Get the Slow Cooker Chili recipe.
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19
Slow Cooker Applesauce
Yes, you can make your own homemade applesauce and it's incredibly easy, too! This is the perfect recipe to make when there's an abundance of fresh apples in season.
Get Ree's Slow Cooker Applesauce recipe.
20
Slow Cooker Potato Soup
Just like a loaded baked potato, this soup is topped with melty cheese and crispy bacon. It also has the comfort factor built right in!
Get the Slow Cooker Potato Soup recipe.
