If you're a crockpot-loving mom [1] bemoaning the end of slow-cooker season, don't put away your favorite appliance just yet! While they're most commonly associated with hearty stews and casseroles, crockpots can be just as useful in warmer weather. These 12 recipes take a lighter approach to slow cooking, all with a kid-friendly approach. Bon appétit!
Source: Budget Gourmet Mom [2]
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
In a fraction of the time that it would take to make on the grill, this slow-cooker pulled pork [3] is delicious on a bun with a green salad or coleslaw.
Source: Flour on My Face [4]
Chicken and Pasta Soup
Nothing beats the simplicity and comfort of chicken and pasta [5] soup. Full of veggies and soothing broth, it's just the thing for warding off those pesky sniffles.
Taco Skillet
If your family's a fan of Mexican food, consider prepping the ground beef (or turkey) for this yummy taco skillet [7] in your slow cooker for extra flavor.
Source: Desiree Hartkopf [8]
Slow-Cooker Squash Lasagna
Skip the ground meat and instead use squash or zucchini (whatever's fresh where you live) to whip up this slow-cooker squash lasagna [9]. It's a great meal to freeze, and you're guaranteed to have leftovers for days!
Source: Romulo Yanes for Real Simple [10]
White Bean Soup With Andouille and Collards
Take your family's taste buds on a ragin' Cajun adventure with this flavorful and delicious white bean soup with andouille and collards [11].
Crockpot Avocado Soup
Mexican meals can be satisfying without being too heavy. Case in point, this chicken avocado soup [13], which is brightened up with the addition of fresh lime juice, creamy avocado, and refreshing cilantro.
Source: The Intentional Mom [14]
Orange Chicken
Skip the Chinese takeout. This orange chicken [15] is supereasy and adds a bright and tangy option to your crockpot repertoire.
Source: Chelsee Bendtsen [16]
Tangy Sloppy Joes
With only a few ingredients, these flavorful sloppy joes [17] are on the table and ready for noshing after a day of cooking slow and low thanks to your crockpot. And leftovers do double duty as lunch the next day.
Source: Budget Gourmet Mom [18]
Honey Sesame Chicken
Yum! This honey sesame chicken [19] makes a bright addition to the dinner table.
Source: The Way to His Heart [20]
Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Sandwich
If your kids like a little kick in their dinner, whip up Food Fanatic's jalapeño popper chicken sandwich [21].
2-Ingredient Slow-Cooker Salsa Chicken
Seriously, there are two ingredients in this salsa chicken [23]. Serve it on its own, or turn it into tacos. Yum!
Source: Gimme Some Oven [24]
Asian Pork With Veggies and Soba Noodles
Buckwheat-based soba noodles are a healthy alternative to white flour pasta, and this Asian pork [25] is sure to please a crowd.
Source: Real Simple [26]