33 Easy Slow Cooker Recipes to Feed a Crowd
Introduction
Cooking for a crowd can be a daunting task, especially when you want to serve delicious and satisfying meals. Slow cookers have become a popular choice for hosting gatherings due to their convenience and ability to cook a variety of dishes. In this article, we will explore 33 easy slow cooker recipes that are perfect for feeding a crowd. These recipes range from appetizers to desserts, ensuring that everyone will find something to enjoy.
The Benefits of Slow Cookers
Slow cookers offer numerous benefits when it comes to cooking for a crowd. Firstly, they require minimal hands-on time, allowing you to multitask or enjoy the company of your guests. Secondly, slow cookers are energy-efficient, as they use low heat to cook food over an extended period. This not only saves money but also ensures that the food is tender and flavorful. Lastly, slow cookers can accommodate large quantities of ingredients, making them ideal for feeding a crowd.
Appetizers
1. Cheesy Garlic Bread
Start your gathering with a warm and inviting appetizer. This cheesy garlic bread recipe is simple to prepare and can be easily doubled or tripled to feed a crowd. Simply combine bread, butter, garlic, and shredded cheese in the slow cooker, and let it cook on low for a few hours. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
2. Buffalo Chicken Dip
Another crowd-pleaser is this buffalo chicken dip. Combine cooked chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce, and blue cheese dressing in the slow cooker. Cook on low for a few hours, and serve with crackers or celery sticks.
Main Dishes
3. Beef Stew
A classic beef stew is a comforting and satisfying dish that can be easily prepared in a slow cooker. Combine beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and beef broth in the slow cooker, and cook on low for 8-10 hours. Serve with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
4. Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings are a timeless comfort food that can be easily made in a slow cooker. Combine chicken, broth, carrots, celery, and onion in the slow cooker, and cook on low for a few hours. Add a mixture of flour, baking powder, and butter to the slow cooker, and stir until it forms dumplings. Cook for an additional hour, and serve with a side of gravy.
5. Pork Tenderloin with Apples
This pork tenderloin with apples recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. Combine pork tenderloin, apples, onions, and apple juice in the slow cooker, and cook on low for 6-7 hours. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Side Dishes
6. Cornbread
Cornbread is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Simply mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, milk, and eggs in the slow cooker, and cook on low for 1-2 hours. Serve with butter and honey.
7. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that can be easily made in a slow cooker. Combine potatoes, milk, butter, and salt in the slow cooker, and cook on low for 4-5 hours. Mash the potatoes with a fork or potato masher, and add additional milk or butter to reach your desired consistency.
Desserts
8. Apple Crisp
End your gathering with a warm and comforting apple crisp. Combine apples, sugar, cinnamon, and oats in the slow cooker, and cook on low for a few hours. Top with a mixture of butter, brown sugar, and oats, and cook for an additional hour. Serve with vanilla ice cream.
9. Chocolate Lava Cake
For a decadent dessert, try this chocolate lava cake recipe. Combine chocolate, butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract in the slow cooker, and cook on low for 1-2 hours. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Tips for Cooking for a Crowd
When cooking for a crowd, it’s important to plan ahead and prepare as much as possible in advance. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
– Double or triple recipes to ensure you have enough food for your guests.
– Use disposable serving dishes to make cleanup easier.
– Prepare side dishes and desserts in advance to save time during the event.
– Keep a close eye on the slow cooker to prevent overcooking or burning.
Conclusion
Cooking for a crowd can be a challenging task, but with the help of a slow cooker, it can be made much easier. The 33 easy slow cooker recipes provided in this article are perfect for feeding a crowd and can be easily adapted to suit your preferences. By planning ahead and following these tips, you can ensure that your guests enjoy a delicious and memorable meal.
