Summer is the season of sunshine, lazy days by the pool, and backyard barbecues. But who says you can't enjoy the convenience of a crock pot during this time of year? While it may be more commonly associated with hearty winter stews, the crock pot can be your best friend in the summer too.
Imagine coming home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal after a long day of fun in the sun. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best summer crock pot recipes that will save you time in the kitchen and keep you cool all season long. Get ready to be inspired and discover a whole new world of summer cooking possibilities!
1. Crockpot Low Country Boil
Crockpot Low Country Boil is a summer classic that brings the convenience of the crockpot to a fun and delicious meal. This recipe combines corn, shrimp, potatoes, and sausage for a unique and flavorful dish.
Perfect for a group gathering, this recipe is easy to prepare and allows for a hands-on dining experience. Serve it on a newspaper-covered table for easy cleanup and enjoy with cocktail sauce, fresh lemon, and Cajun seasoning.
2. Crock-Pot Barbecue Beef
Crock-Pot Barbecue Beef is a delicious and easy summer recipe that can be enjoyed any time of year. The beef is cooked in a flavorful barbecue sauce made with bacon, onion, garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, and spices.
The slow cooker does all the work, resulting in tender and juicy beef that can be served on rolls with coleslaw or over mashed potatoes. It's a versatile dish that satisfies barbecue cravings without the need for a grill.
3. Crock Pot BBQ Beef
Crock Pot BBQ Beef is a delicious and easy summer recipe that is perfect for potlucks and barbecues. The slow cooking process makes the beef tender and juicy, while the BBQ sauce adds a flavorful kick.
It can be made with different cuts of meat and served in various ways, such as on sandwiches or over rice. This recipe is great for busy families, as it can be prepared in advance and reheated when needed. Overall, Crock Pot BBQ Beef is a crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to impress.
4. Sausage and Peppers with Onions
Sausage and Peppers with Onions is a delicious and flavorful summer crock pot recipe. It features Italian sausages cooked with colorful bell peppers, sweet red onions, marinara sauce, and a blend of Italian seasoning and spices.
The result is juicy and flavorful sausages that can be served in toasted hoagie rolls for a satisfying meal. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for summer gatherings or lazy weeknight dinners.
5. Crock Pot Baked Potatoes
Crock Pot Baked Potatoes is a convenient and easy summer recipe that allows you to enjoy the taste of oven-baked potatoes without heating up the kitchen. Simply wrap washed and pricked potatoes in foil, place them in the slow cooker, and let them cook throughout the day.
The result is perfectly baked potatoes that can be loaded with your favorite toppings. This recipe is a great option for a hassle-free dinner or for serving a crowd at a summer gathering.
6. Crock Pot Corn Casserole
The Crock Pot Corn Casserole is a classic potluck side dish that can be made in a slow cooker or oven. It's a simple and comforting dish that pairs well with any main course.
The slow cooker method allows for easy preparation and keeps the casserole moist and fluffy. A great option for busy summer days or holiday gatherings when oven space is limited.
7. Easy Crock Pot Lasagna
Easy Crock Pot Lasagna is a perfect summer recipe for those hot days when you don't want to turn on the oven. It's a simple and delicious dish that the whole family will enjoy. With layers of ground beef or turkey, spaghetti sauce, cottage cheese, and mozzarella, it's a comforting and satisfying meal.
You can customize it by adding your favorite Italian spices and extra cheese. The best part is that it cooks in the crock pot, so you can set it and forget it while you enjoy your day. Try this easy crock pot lasagna recipe and impress your family with minimal effort.
8. Old Fashioned Crock Pot Baked Beans
These Old Fashioned Crock Pot Baked Beans are a delicious and easy summer recipe. Made from scratch with Great Northern Beans, they are packed with flavor from ingredients like brown sugar, ketchup, and molasses.
The beans are cooked in a crock pot for 8-10 hours, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. Perfect for summer cookouts or potlucks, these baked beans are a crowd-pleaser.
9. Slow Cooker Summer Chicken Chili
Slow Cooker Summer Chicken Chili is a refreshing twist on the classic winter dish. With vibrant flavors from fresh tomatoes, spicy peppers, and herbs, it's a light and hearty option for summer. The use of chicken instead of red meat keeps it feeling summery, while still providing that satisfying chili taste.
Plus, the convenience of the slow cooker means no need to heat up the kitchen. Serve it over brown rice or your choice of grain for a complete meal. Pair it with a frozen margarita for the perfect summer balance.
10. Homemade Crock Pot Salsa
Homemade Crock Pot Salsa is a simple and flavorful salsa recipe that is perfect for summer. Made with fresh tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and garlic, this salsa has a mild and refreshing taste.
It can be easily prepared in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld together while you enjoy your day. Serve it with tortilla chips for a delicious and satisfying snack or appetizer.
11. Crock Pot Potato Salad
The Crock Pot Potato Salad is a delicious and easy-to-make summer recipe. With a combination of potatoes, eggs, celery, pickle relish, and mayonnaise, it offers a flavorful and creamy side dish for any summer gathering.
The recipe is passed down from the chef's Gramma, adding a sentimental touch to the dish. Overall, this Crock Pot Potato Salad is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for the recipe.
12. Crock Pot Sloppy Joes
Crock Pot Sloppy Joes are a delicious and easy summer dinner recipe. Made with browned ground beef, ketchup, brown sugar, onions, celery, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and chili powder, these Sloppy Joes are bursting with flavor.
Simply throw all the ingredients into the crock pot and let it cook on high for 2 hours or low for 4 hours. Serve on buns with your favorite side dish for a satisfying meal. Perfect for busy moms and a great option for freezer meals.
13. Crock Pot French Onion Soup
Crock Pot French Onion Soup is a delicious and easy summer crock pot recipe. The recipe takes the hard work out of caramelizing onions by allowing the crock pot to do the job for you.
The extended cooking time in the crock pot results in tender and flavorful onions. This soup is perfect for cooler fall temperatures, but can also be enjoyed during the summer. It's a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to please.
14. Easy Crockpot Chicken Fajitas
Easy Crockpot Chicken Fajitas is a delicious and simple summer crock pot recipe. It is packed with flavor and requires minimal effort to prepare.
The chicken is tender and juicy, and the peppers and onions add a nice crunch. This recipe is perfect for busy summer days when you want a tasty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
15. Skinny Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken
Skinny Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken is a delicious and healthy summer crock pot recipe. It is made with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced tomatoes with mild green chilies, black beans, corn, and bell peppers. With just 190 calories and 21 grams of protein per serving, it is a great option for swimsuit season.
This easy-to-make recipe can be served over rice, in tortillas, or as lettuce wraps, and can be topped with various garnishes like scallions, cilantro, cheese, and crushed tortilla chips. Overall, it is a flavorful and satisfying meal for weeknights or gatherings.
16. Pineapple Pulled Pork
Pineapple pulled pork is a delicious and easy summer crock pot recipe. It features tender pork cooked in a flavorful mixture of soy sauce, chicken broth, pineapple juice, ketchup, and spices.
The addition of chopped pineapple adds a refreshing twist. This recipe is versatile and can be served on slider buns, in tacos, or in a salad. It's a crowd-pleasing option for summer picnics and gatherings.
17. Crockpot Corn on The Cob
Crockpot Corn on The Cob is a convenient and easy way to enjoy this classic summer dish indoors.
The recipe calls for husked corn to be seasoned with butter and your choice of seasoning, then wrapped in foil and cooked in the crockpot for a few hours. It's a great option for when you can't grill or want to avoid heating up the house.
18. Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Chicken
Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Chicken is a refreshing and flavorful summer crock pot recipe. The tender chicken is served over pasta and topped with a creamy lemon sauce, creating a light and delicious dish.
The combination of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh parsley adds a zesty and aromatic touch. This recipe is a must-try for those looking for an easy and satisfying slow cooker meal during the summer season.
19. Crock Pot Chicken Gyros
Crock Pot Chicken Gyros is a delicious and easy summer recipe. It features tender chicken thighs cooked in a flavorful blend of herbs and spices.
The dish is served in warm pita bread and topped with homemade tzatziki sauce, red onions, lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumber. It's a refreshing and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year.
20. Crock Pot Corn on The Cob
Crock Pot Corn on The Cob is a delicious and easy summer recipe. The combination of coconut milk, butter, and seasonings enhances the sweetness of the corn, making it flavorful and tender.
Cooking the corn in the slow cooker allows for a hands-free experience, perfect for picnics or cookouts. Whether using fresh or frozen corn, this recipe is a winner.
21. Cranberry Orange Crock Pot Pork Tenderloin
The Cranberry Orange Crock Pot Pork Tenderloin is a delicious and easy summer recipe. The combination of cranberry sauce, Catalina dressing, and orange juice creates a savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender and juicy pork tenderloin.
It's a great dish to enjoy with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables. Overall, this recipe is a must-try for a tasty summer meal.
22. Ultimate Crock Pot Cowboy Beans
The Ultimate Crock Pot Cowboy Beans are a flavorful and hearty dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. With a combination of bacon, hot dogs, ground beef, baked beans, brown sugar, and onions, these beans are packed with delicious flavors.
The recipe is easy to prepare and can be cooked in a slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners, these cowboy beans are sure to satisfy your cravings.
23. Crock Pot BBQ Chicken
Crock Pot BBQ Chicken is a simple and flavorful summer recipe that can be easily made in a slow cooker. The chicken is cooked with a combination of BBQ sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices, resulting in tender and delicious pulled chicken.
It's a convenient option for parties, potlucks, or picnics, especially when you don't want to use the oven in hot weather.
24. Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas
The Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas recipe is a perfect choice for a summer crock pot meal. With minimal prep and only four ingredients, it offers the delicious flavors of traditional enchiladas in a fraction of the time.
The chicken is cooked in a crock pot with mild red enchilada sauce, then shredded and mixed with corn tortilla strips and shredded cheese. The dish is cooked a little longer to melt the cheese and soften the tortillas. It's a one-pot meal that is easy to make and perfect for feeding a large family.
25. Crock Pot Spaghetti Squash with Meatballs
Crock Pot Spaghetti Squash with Meatballs is a super easy and delicious summer crock pot recipe. With just three ingredients, it requires minimal prep work and is perfect for busy weeknights.
The spaghetti squash turns out tender and moist, resembling the texture of spaghetti noodles. The meatballs and sauce add flavor and make it a satisfying meal. Overall, this recipe is a must-try for a hassle-free and healthy summer dinner option.
26. Crock Pot Smoked Sausage, Cabbage and Potatoes
Crock Pot Smoked Sausage, Cabbage and Potatoes is an easy and delicious summer crock pot recipe. It requires minimal effort – just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it cook all day.
The combination of smoked sausage, cabbage, and potatoes creates a hearty and flavorful dish. Perfect for a summer meal without the need to heat up the kitchen.
27. Italian Beef
Italian Beef is a mouthwatering and easy-to-make crock pot recipe that delivers tender and flavorful roast beef. This recipe is perfect for summer, as it can be used to make delicious Italian beef sandwiches with sweet peppers and melted cheese.
The use of chuck roast ensures a fork-tender result, while the addition of bouillon enhances the overall flavor. Whether served with French fries or other sides, this Italian Beef recipe is a must-try for any summer gathering.
28. Easy Crock Pot Baked Beans with Bacon
Easy Crock Pot Baked Beans with Bacon is a game-changing recipe for summer BBQs and game-day parties. The combination of savory bacon and a touch of sweetness in the sauce creates a delicious flavor.
This recipe is a simple upgrade from canned beans, with the convenience of using a slow cooker. It's a must-try for those looking to elevate their baked beans game.
29. Crock Pot Spiced Peaches
Crock Pot Spiced Peaches is a delightful summer dessert that pairs perfectly with ice cream. The recipe calls for canned peach slices in syrup, brown sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and a variety of spices.
Optional additions like raisins, prunes, figs, or dates can be included for added flavor. Simply combine the ingredients in a crock pot and cook on high for 2 hours. Serve the warm spiced peaches over a scoop of ice cream for a delicious treat.
30. Sweet Glazed Carrots
Sweet Glazed Carrots is a delicious and easy-to-make crock pot recipe that is perfect for summer. The carrots are cooked until fork-tender and coated in a sweet and buttery glaze made with brown sugar, cinnamon, and fresh parsley.
This kid-friendly side dish is a crowd favorite and can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient option for busy summer gatherings.
31. Crock Pot Peach Crisp
Crock Pot Peach Crisp is a delicious summer dessert made with fresh peaches and a sweet oat topping. It's easy to prepare in the slow cooker, making it perfect for stress-free entertaining.
The peaches are tender and bursting with flavor, while the crunchy topping adds a delightful texture. Serve it with ice cream or whipped cream for a truly indulgent treat.
