As a busy mom, I completely understand the nightly struggle of figuring out what to make for dinner.

The search for easy, kid-approved meals can feel endless.

That’s where crockpot recipes come to the rescue, turning simple ingredients into comforting dishes that your little ones will love.

From cheesy mac and cheese to mouthwatering chicken tacos, these meals bring smiles to the dinner table.

Let’s explore some delicious crockpot recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters!

Creamy Mac and Cheese

Creamy Mac and Cheese is a delightful dish that kids love for its rich, cheesy flavor and comforting texture. Preparing this classic favorite in a crockpot makes it even more convenient, allowing busy parents to focus on other tasks while dinner cooks itself. This method yields a creamy, indulgent mac and cheese that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Using a crockpot to make mac and cheese guarantees that the pasta absorbs all the cheesy goodness, resulting in a dish that’s flavorful and satisfying. This recipe is designed for 4-6 servings, making it ideal for feeding a family or a small group of hungry children. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can have this delicious meal ready with little effort.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

16 oz elbow macaroni
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups whole milk
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

Prepare the Crockpot: Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the mac and cheese from sticking.
Combine Ingredients: In the crockpot, combine the uncooked elbow macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, whole milk, evaporated milk, melted butter, salt, pepper, and ground mustard. Stir the ingredients until well mixed.
Cook the Mac and Cheese: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to low heat. Let the mac and cheese cook for 2 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally to guarantee that the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the cheese sauce.
Check for Doneness: After 2 hours, check the pasta for doneness. The pasta should be tender, and the cheese sauce should be thick and creamy. If needed, continue to cook for another 30 minutes, checking frequently to prevent overcooking.
Serve: Once the mac and cheese is fully cooked, give it a final stir to ensure everything is well combined. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or a sprinkle of ground black pepper if desired.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor of your mac and cheese, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a handful of crispy bacon bits for a smoky touch.

For a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the cheddar cheese with Velveeta or another processed cheese.

If you prefer a crispy topping, transfer the cooked mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and broil in the oven for a few minutes until golden brown.

Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks, especially towards the end, to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Savory Chicken Tacos

Savory Chicken Tacos are a delicious and easy dish to prepare using a crockpot, making them perfect for busy parents who want to serve a nutritious meal that kids will love. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors of the seasonings, resulting in tender, juicy meat that’s perfect for tacos. This dish isn’t only delightful but also customizable, so your kids can enjoy them just the way they like!

This recipe serves 4-6 people and is ideal for a family dinner or a fun weekend meal. Using a crockpot means minimal prep work and cleanup, giving you more time to spend with your family. Plus, the aroma of the chicken cooking throughout the day will surely make everyone look forward to dinner time.

Ingredients:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 packet taco seasoning mix
1 cup chicken broth
1 onion, finely chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
8-12 corn or flour tortillas
Toppings: shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, avocado slices, salsa

Cooking Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Finely chop the onion and bell pepper, and mince the garlic to guarantee they blend well with the chicken during cooking.
Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Sprinkle the taco seasoning, cumin, salt, and pepper over the chicken, ensuring they’re evenly coated with the spices.
Add Vegetables and Broth: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic on top of the chicken. Pour the chicken broth over the mixture. This will keep the chicken moist and flavorful during cooking.
Cook the Chicken: Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat. Cook for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours.
Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it to mix with the juices.
Add Lime Juice: Stir in the lime juice and let the mixture cook for another 10-15 minutes on low. This will add a fresh zing to the chicken.
Assemble the Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Spoon the shredded chicken mixture onto each tortilla and add your favorite toppings like cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and avocado slices.

Extra Tips:

For an added kick, consider including a dash of chili powder or jalapeños in the crockpot with the chicken. If your kids prefer milder flavors, stick to the basic recipe and let them add spicier toppings at the table.

You can also prepare the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a quick heat-and-eat option for busy weeknights. Don’t forget to involve your kids in the taco assembly process – it’s a fun way to encourage them to try new toppings and flavors!

Cheesy Sloppy Joes

Cheesy Sloppy Joes are a delightful twist on the classic comfort food that kids are sure to love. This recipe combines the savory goodness of traditional Sloppy Joes with a cheesy twist that makes it irresistible for the little ones and adults alike.

By using a crockpot, you can easily prepare this dish with minimal effort, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully over time. It’s a perfect meal for busy weekdays or a cozy weekend lunch.

The slow-cooked beef filling is rich and flavorful, made even better with the addition of melted cheese. Served on soft hamburger buns, these Cheesy Sloppy Joes offer a satisfying and hearty meal that can be paired with a side salad or some crispy fries.

The crockpot method not only saves you time but also keeps the kitchen clean, making it a convenient choice for family dinners. Here’s how you can make Cheesy Sloppy Joes for 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

1 ½ pounds ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 hamburger buns

Cooking Instructions:

Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to the crockpot.
Prepare the Vegetables: Add chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the crockpot with the beef. Stir to combine.
Add the Sauces: Pour in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and yellow mustard. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.
Season the Mixture: Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the mixture. Stir once more to guarantee everything is evenly distributed.
Cook in the Crockpot: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and the beef to become tender.
Add the Cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Allow it to melt completely, combining with the beef mixture to create a cheesy texture.
Prepare the Buns: While the cheese is melting, lightly toast the hamburger buns if desired. This will add a nice crunch to the Sloppy Joes.
Assemble and Serve: Spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.

Extra Tips:

For a healthier version, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.

To add more vegetables, consider including finely chopped carrots or zucchini to the mixture.

If you want to spice things up a bit, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.

To prevent soggy buns, you can serve the sloppy joe mixture on open-faced buns or use a slotted spoon to help drain excess sauce before assembling.

Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Sweet and Sour Meatballs are a delightful dish that combines the tangy flavors of sweet and sour sauce with tender, juicy meatballs. This crockpot version of the classic recipe is perfect for busy families looking for a delicious, kid-friendly meal that requires minimal effort.

Hearty Vegetable Soup

Hearty Vegetable Soup is a delightful and nourishing dish that’s perfect for feeding a family, especially when you’re looking to introduce more vegetables into your kids’ meals. This crockpot recipe is designed with young taste buds in mind, utilizing a mix of colorful, vitamin-rich vegetables that blend into a flavorful broth. The slow cooking process allows the natural flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting soup that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it’s also a fantastic way to guarantee your kids are getting a healthy meal.

The beauty of this Hearty Vegetable Soup lies in its simplicity and flexibility. You can easily adapt the recipe to include your family’s favorite vegetables or those that are in season. As the soup simmers in the crockpot, the aroma will fill your home, building anticipation for a warm and satisfying meal. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or for preparing a batch that can be enjoyed over a couple of days.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 carrots, peeled and sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
6 cups vegetable broth
2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup frozen peas
2 cups fresh spinach leaves

Cooking Instructions:

Prepare the Crockpot: Start by setting your crockpot to the low setting. This will allow the vegetables to cook slowly and release their flavors into the broth.
Saute the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of the soup by caramelizing the onions.
Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the crockpot. Add the carrots, celery, potatoes, zucchini, green beans, and diced tomatoes. Pour in the vegetable broth and sprinkle the dried Italian herbs over the top. Season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
Cook: Cover the crockpot and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or until all the vegetables are tender. If you prefer a quicker cooking time, set the crockpot to high and cook for 3-4 hours.
Add Final Ingredients: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas and spinach leaves. This guarantees the peas remain vibrant and the spinach retains its nutrients without becoming overly wilted.
Serve: Once the soup is ready, give it a good stir, taste, and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and serve warm.

Extra Tips:

For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or a standard blender before serving. If your kids are resistant to certain vegetables, try chopping them into smaller pieces or pureeing them into the broth.

This soup also freezes well, so consider making a double batch to store for quick, healthy meals on busy days. Feel free to add some cooked pasta or rice for a heartier meal, and serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Cheddar Broccoli Rice

Cheddar Broccoli Rice is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the creamy goodness of cheddar cheese with the wholesome taste of broccoli and rice. This crockpot recipe is perfect for kids and adults alike, offering a nutritious and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side. The slow-cooking process enhances the flavors, making it an appealing choice for busy families looking for a simple yet satisfying meal.

Preparing this dish in a crockpot not only saves time but also makes it incredibly easy to serve a large group. With minimal prep work and a short list of ingredients, Cheddar Broccoli Rice can be set up in the morning and be ready by dinner time, filling your home with the delightful aroma of cheddar cheese and broccoli. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it an ideal option for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 ½ cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon butter
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Instructions:

Prepare the Crockpot: Begin by lightly greasing the inside of your crockpot with butter. This helps prevent the ingredients from sticking and makes for easier cleaning later on.
Mix Ingredients: In the crockpot, combine the uncooked rice, broccoli florets, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic. Stir to distribute the ingredients evenly.
Add Liquids and Cheese: Pour in the chicken broth and milk over the dry ingredients. Stir the mixture again to guarantee the rice is covered with liquid. Reserve one cup of cheddar cheese for later use, and add the remaining cheese to the crockpot.
Seasoning: Add the salt and black pepper to the mixture. Stir everything together one last time, making sure all ingredients are well-combined.
Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 2 ½ to 3 hours. Check the rice occasionally to assure it’s cooking evenly and absorbing the liquid properly.
Add Remaining Cheese: About 15 minutes before the cooking time ends, stir in the remaining cup of cheddar cheese. This will melt into the rice, making it creamier and adding a rich flavor.
Serve: Once the cooking time is complete, fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot. The dish should be creamy and the rice tender, with the broccoli cooked to perfection.

Extra Tips:

For added nutrition, you can include other vegetables such as carrots or peas. Simply chop them into small pieces and add them along with the broccoli.
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can reduce the amount of liquid by a half cup.
To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Leftover Cheddar Broccoli Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore its creamy texture.

Tender Pulled Pork

Tender Pulled Pork is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. It’s a versatile meal that can be served in a variety of ways, such as in sandwiches, tacos, or alongside a simple side salad. The slow cooking process allows the pork to become incredibly tender, making it easy for little ones to enjoy.

Plus, using a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, freeing up your day for other activities while the delicious aroma fills your home.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family dinner or small gathering. The ingredient list includes a few staple items that you might already have in your pantry, along with a couple of fresh ingredients to enhance the flavor. This Tender Pulled Pork is both kid-friendly and adaptable, allowing you to adjust the seasoning or add toppings to suit your family’s taste preferences.

Ingredients:

3 pounds boneless pork shoulder or butt
1 cup barbecue sauce
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)

Cooking Instructions:

Prepare the Pork: Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder or butt. This will help in making the dish less greasy and more kid-friendly.
Season the Pork: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub this spice mixture all over the pork, making sure it’s evenly coated.
Place in Crockpot: Place the seasoned pork into the crockpot. Pour the barbecue sauce, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar over the pork. These liquids will help cook the pork to tender perfection and infuse it with flavor.
Cook the Pork: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The slow cooking process is essential for breaking down the meat fibers, resulting in tender pulled pork.
Shred the Pork: Once the pork is done cooking, use two forks to shred the meat directly in the crockpot. Stir to mix the shredded pork with the sauce, making sure it’s well coated.
Serve: Serve the pulled pork in buns, over rice, or in tacos. Add your favorite toppings like coleslaw, pickles, or cheese, and enjoy!

Extra Tips:

When making Tender Pulled Pork, it’s important to choose a cut of meat with some marbling, as this will guarantee the pork remains juicy and flavorful.

If you prefer a smokier flavor, you can add a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the crockpot before cooking. For a sweeter taste, increase the amount of brown sugar or try using a honey-based barbecue sauce.

Finally, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, making this dish as convenient as it’s delicious.

Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a classic dish that combines tender pieces of chicken with creamy Alfredo sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, and using a crockpot makes it even easier.

The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a deliciously rich and satisfying dish that kids and adults alike will love. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people and can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient option for family dinners.

This crockpot version of Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a great way to introduce kids to cooking, as it involves simple steps and minimal supervision. You can even involve them in the preparation by letting them help measure ingredients or stir the sauce.

The result is a creamy, cheesy, and savory dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With this recipe, you’ll have a wholesome meal on the table with minimal effort, and your kids will enjoy the delicious flavors of homemade Alfredo sauce combined with juicy chicken and al dente pasta.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 ounces fettuccine pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
Add Liquids: Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth over the seasoned chicken. Stir gently to combine the liquids and spices.
Cook the Chicken: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Cook the Pasta: About 30 minutes before the chicken is done, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
Add Cheese and Pasta: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the Alfredo sauce.
Final Touches: Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the pasta mixture and stir to incorporate. This will add a nice sheen to the dish and enhance its flavor.
Serve: Serve the Chicken Alfredo Pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Extra Tips

To enhance the flavor of your Chicken Alfredo Pasta, consider browning the chicken breasts in a skillet with a little olive oil before placing them in the crockpot. This step will add a deeper, richer flavor to the dish.

Additionally, you can customize the creaminess of the sauce by adjusting the amount of Parmesan cheese or adding a little more chicken broth if the sauce becomes too thick. For a complete meal, serve this pasta with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. Enjoy!

BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a delicious and easy meal option perfect for kids and the whole family. These sandwiches are bursting with flavor and are ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or a fun weekend lunch. Using a crockpot guarantees the chicken is tender and juicy, while the BBQ sauce adds a sweet and tangy taste that kids will love.

This meal isn’t only simple to prepare but also allows you to set it and forget it, making it easy to manage your day while dinner is cooking.

The great thing about BBQ Chicken Sandwiches is their versatility. You can serve them on toasted buns, alongside a fresh salad, or with a side of coleslaw for a complete meal. Plus, the leftovers can easily be reheated for lunch the next day. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it perfect for families or small gatherings.

With minimal ingredients and effort, this crockpot recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup BBQ sauce
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
4-6 hamburger buns
Optional: coleslaw for topping

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
Mix the Sauce: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until the sugar is dissolved, and all ingredients are well combined.
Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken, guaranteeing that each piece is well coated.
Cover and Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred with a fork.
Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and mix it with the sauce to guarantee it’s fully coated.
Serve: Toast the hamburger buns if desired, and spoon the shredded BBQ chicken onto each bun. Top with coleslaw if using, and serve immediately.

Extra Tips:

For an added layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a squeeze of lime juice to the BBQ sauce mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, a bit of hot sauce or cayenne pepper can be added as well.

Additionally, you can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier texture. Remember, the key to this recipe is to guarantee the chicken is fully cooked and easily shreddable, so be sure to check for doneness before serving.

Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Sandwiches with your favorite sides for a delightful meal!

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is a delightful and nutritious breakfast option that can be easily prepared in a crockpot. This dish combines the comforting flavors of apples and cinnamon, creating a warm and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. Perfect for busy mornings, this recipe allows you to put all the ingredients together overnight, so you can wake up to a hearty and satisfying meal that’s ready to serve.

This recipe isn’t only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for kids. The oats provide a good source of fiber and energy, while the apples offer a natural sweetness and vitamin boost. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a wholesome breakfast that the whole family will love. This recipe serves 4-6 people, perfect for a family breakfast or for making ahead to enjoy throughout the week.

Turkey Chili Delight

Turkey Chili Delight is a hearty and nutritious dish that’s perfect for introducing young taste buds to the delicious world of chili. This kid-friendly version of chili uses lean ground turkey as the main protein, offering a healthier alternative to traditional beef chili. The slow-cooking process in the crockpot allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying.

With a blend of mild spices, beans, and vegetables, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between taste and nutrition, making it a hit for both kids and adults alike.

One of the greatest benefits of using a crockpot for Turkey Chili Delight is the convenience it offers. With minimal prep work and the ability to let it cook for hours, you can easily fit this recipe into a busy day. Simply prepare the ingredients, set the crockpot, and let it do the work while you attend to other tasks.

By the end of the day, you’ll have a warm, delicious meal ready to enjoy. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for the kids without them even noticing!

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

1 pound ground turkey
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

Brown the Turkey: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
Prepare the Vegetables: While the turkey is browning, chop the onion, bell pepper, and mince the garlic. This will save time and allow for smoother cooking.
Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Add the browned turkey, chopped onion, green bell pepper, minced garlic, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper into the crockpot. Stir everything together to combine well.
Cook the Chili: Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking on low will help the flavors meld together more thoroughly.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the chili is cooked, give it a final stir. Serve hot in bowls. You can garnish with toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped fresh cilantro if desired.

Extra Tips:

For a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder and skip the black pepper. If you want to add a touch of sweetness, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to the mix.

This dish can also be easily customized by adding more vegetables such as corn or carrots, or by using different types of beans. To save time, you can chop the vegetables and brown the turkey the night before, storing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the chili in the crockpot.

For leftovers, this chili stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Spaghetti and Meat Sauce

Spaghetti and meat sauce is a classic dish that brings comfort to the table and is loved by kids and adults alike. Using a crockpot to prepare this meal not only simplifies the cooking process but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time. It’s an excellent way to create a hearty meal with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy families.

This crockpot spaghetti and meat sauce recipe provides a rich, savory sauce that coats the pasta perfectly, creating a delightful dining experience for everyone. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, and it’s an excellent choice for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering. The slow cooking method enhances the flavors of the sauce, while the pasta remains tender and delicious.

By preparing the dish in a crockpot, you can set it and forget it, freeing up time for other activities. Plus, kids will love the fun of slurping up spaghetti noodles coated in the delicious meat sauce!

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon sugar
1 cup water
12 ounces spaghetti noodles
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the onion and mince the garlic to have them ready for cooking. This will guarantee your prep work is done before you start cooking.
Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Transfer the browned beef to the crockpot. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, sugar, and water. Stir well to combine.
Cook the Sauce: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process will allow the flavors to develop and meld together beautifully.
Cook the Spaghetti: About 30 minutes before the sauce is done, cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Combine and Serve: Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked spaghetti noodles to the crockpot. Stir until the noodles are well coated with the sauce. Serve hot, with grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired.

Extra Tips:

For an added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce before cooking. You can also experiment by adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce.

If you prefer a spicier sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes can provide a nice kick. When serving, keep extra grated Parmesan and fresh basil on the table for additional garnishes that enhance the dish.

Keep an eye on the pasta’s cooking time to guarantee it remains al dente for the best texture.

Tiffany Christensen

Hi there! I'm Tiffany Christensen, and I have a passion for all the stories and lessons the Bible has to offer. Ever since I was little, I've been drawn to the way these ancient texts still resonate today. I've devoted my studies to Christian theology and enjoy translating that into everyday language that’s easy to connect with. My goal is to bring the pages of the Bible to life in a way that's both informative and engaging. I'm thrilled to share this journey with you through my writing on Biblical Pathway.

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