If you’re planning a gathering or simply looking for easy meal ideas, crock pot appetizers can be your best friend. These slow cooker recipes save you time and effort, freeing you up to enjoy your event or day.
With this guide, you will discover 25 mouthwatering crock pot appetizers that are simple to make and perfect for any occasion. From creamy dips to savory bites, these dishes offer flavor and convenience, ensuring your food is a hit without the hassle.
1) Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo Chicken Dip is a crowd favorite, perfect for any gathering. Start by combining shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing in a slow cooker.
Cover and set the slow cooker to low heat. Stir the mixture every so often to ensure everything is well-mixed and melting smoothly. You should let it cook for 1.5 to 2 hours.
If you’re using a 6-quart crock pot, the dip might be ready in about 1.5 hours. Once it’s hot and the cheese is melted, it’s ready to serve.
Serve your Buffalo Chicken Dip with a variety of dippers like celery sticks, tortilla chips, or even crackers. Enjoy the creamy, spicy flavors at your next party.
2) Spinach Artichoke Dip
Spinach Artichoke Dip is a classic appetizer that is perfect for any gathering. Using a crockpot makes it super easy.
You start by gathering your ingredients. You need spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic, and milk.
Combine all the ingredients in your crockpot. Give everything a good stir to mix well.
Cover the pot and set it to low heat for 2 hours. If you prefer, you can cook on high heat for 1 hour.
About halfway through the cooking time, uncover the pot and give it another good stir to make sure everything is melting evenly.
Once the cheese is fully melted and everything is nicely combined, taste your dip. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
Serve your warm dip with crackers, chips, or bread.
Using this simple recipe, your Spinach Artichoke Dip will be a hit at any party.
3) Honey Garlic Meatballs
Honey Garlic Meatballs are a tasty and simple crock pot appetizer. They are perfect for parties or gatherings. The sweet and savory sauce adds a burst of flavor to each bite.
To make Honey Garlic Meatballs, you need frozen meatballs and a few basic ingredients. Mix brown sugar, honey, ketchup, soy sauce, and minced garlic in a bowl. Pour this sauce over the meatballs in your crock pot.
Set your crock pot to low and cook for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally to make sure all the meatballs are well-coated in the sauce.
You can add salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped parsley, or cilantro for a touch of freshness. These meatballs are great on their own or served over rice.
4) BBQ Little Smokies
BBQ Little Smokies are a classic favorite for any gathering. These small smoked sausages are easy to make and always a hit. You’ll need just a few ingredients to get started.
First, grab your slow cooker and place the little smokies in the bottom. In a bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and a bit of garlic powder.
Pour the sauce over the smokies, ensuring they are well coated. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, or if you’re in a rush, on high for 1-2 hours. Stir occasionally to make sure the flavors blend well.
For extra flavor, try adding some Worcestershire sauce or a bit of mustard to the mix. This will give the smokies a nice tangy kick.
Once they’re done, serve them hot right from the crock pot. These little bites are perfect for parties or as a simple snack. Your guests will love the sweet and savory taste, and you’ll love how easy they are to prepare.
5) Queso Blanco Dip
To make a delicious Queso Blanco Dip in your crock pot, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need queso blanco cheese, diced green chilies, pickled jalapeños, milk, butter, taco seasoning, and garlic powder.
Cut the queso blanco cheese into small cubes. Place the cubes in your slow cooker along with milk, butter, green chilies, pickled jalapeños, taco seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir gently to combine everything.
Set your slow cooker to low heat and cook for about 1 to 2 hours. Stir the mixture every 30 minutes to ensure the cheese melts evenly.
If you prefer a thicker dip, you can reduce the amount of milk. For a spicier dip, add extra jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Once the cheese is fully melted and smooth, your Queso Blanco Dip is ready to serve. Transfer it to a serving bowl and enjoy it with tortilla chips or crackers.
6) Cranberry BBQ Meatballs
Cranberry BBQ Meatballs are a tasty and simple appetizer for any gathering.
Start by mixing cranberry sauce and your favorite BBQ sauce in a bowl. This combination offers a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs well with the meatballs.
Arrange frozen or thawed meatballs at the bottom of your crockpot. Pour the sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well-coated.
Set your crockpot to low heat and cook for 3-4 hours. If you prefer a thicker glaze, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
These meatballs are sure to be a hit, offering a balanced flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for parties or casual get-togethers.
7) Spicy Chicken Wings
Spicy Chicken Wings are the perfect appetizer for any occasion. You can make them easily in a Crock Pot, saving you time and effort.
To start, place your chicken wings in the Crock Pot. Mix together some honey, brown sugar, peppers, adobo sauce, salt, garlic, ketchup, vinegar, and lime juice.
Pour this spicy sauce over the wings and toss to coat them evenly. Set your Crock Pot on HIGH for 2 hours or LOW for 4 hours.
You can also try a different recipe using chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Place the wings in the Crock Pot, sprinkle with seasoning, and cook on HIGH for 4-5 hours or LOW for 6-7 hours.
Another variation includes whisking together water, tomato paste, dark brown sugar, soy sauce, Sriracha sauce, and cayenne pepper. Pour this sauce over the wings and cook on LOW for 3 hours.
These spicy wings pair well with carrot and celery sticks. Serve them with ranch or blue cheese dressing for a cool contrast to the heat.
Experiment with different seasonings and sauces to find your favorite spicy flavor.
8) Creamy Jalapeño Dip
Creamy Jalapeño Dip is the perfect appetizer for any gathering. It combines the spicy kick of jalapeños with rich, creamy cheese.
To make this dip, start by cooking some bacon until it’s crispy. Chop it into small pieces. You will mix this into the dip later.
Next, grab your slow cooker. Add cream cheese, shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced jalapeños. You can also add mayonnaise for extra creaminess.
Season the mixture with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
Set your slow cooker to low and cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir the dip every 30 minutes so the cheeses melt evenly.
Once done, add your crispy bacon bits on top. You can also sprinkle some more shredded cheese if you like.
Serve hot with tortilla chips, corn chips, or fresh veggies. This creamy dip will be a hit at any party!
9) Cheddar Bacon Ranch Dip
Cheddar Bacon Ranch Dip is a must-try crock pot appetizer for your next gathering. It combines the rich flavors of cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and tangy ranch dressing.
Start by blending cream cheese and ranch dressing until smooth. Add sour cream and mix well.
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon bits, and green onions. You can also add a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat.
Transfer the dip mixture to a crock pot. Cook on low for about 2 hours until the dip is warmed through and bubbly.
Serve this dip with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping. It’s perfect for parties, game nights, or any casual get-together. Enjoy!
10) Maple Pecan Brie
Maple Pecan Brie is a delicious appetizer that blends creamy brie cheese with the sweetness of maple syrup and the crunch of pecans. It’s a simple yet impressive dish.
Start by placing a wheel of brie in a small baking dish. Heat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the brie for 10-15 minutes until it’s warm and gooey.
While the brie bakes, prepare the pecan topping. In a small saucepan, heat maple syrup, sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon over low heat until the sugar dissolves. Add chopped pecans and stir until they are well-coated.
Once the brie is ready, pour the maple-pecan mixture over the top. The warmth of the brie will help the flavors meld together. Serve immediately with crackers, slices of baguette, or apple slices.
Maple Pecan Brie is perfect for any gathering. Its rich flavors and textures will be a hit with your guests. It’s also an easy dish to prepare, making it a great choice for last-minute appetizers. Enjoy the simple yet elegant combination of brie, maple, and pecans.
11) Beer Cheese Dip
Beer Cheese Dip is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make in your Crock Pot.
To start, gather your ingredients: beer, cream cheese, shredded cheese, mustard, garlic, milk, and your favorite spices.
Place these ingredients into your slow cooker. Set it to high heat. Cook for about one hour.
Stir the mixture every 10-15 minutes to ensure the cheese melts evenly.
Once the hour is up, check the consistency and taste. Add more salt or red pepper if you like.
Serve your Beer Cheese Dip warm with pretzels, chips, or bread.
Guests will love dipping into this creamy, cheesy blend.
12) Loaded Potato Skins
Loaded Potato Skins make a great appetizer for any gathering. They’re crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor. When preparing this dish, start by washing and drying your potatoes. Cut them in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for about an hour, or until they are fork-tender.
Once baked, let the potatoes cool enough to handle. Scoop out some of the potato flesh, leaving a thin layer near the skin. Brush the skins with oil and season them with salt. Bake the skins again at 400°F for 16 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispiness.
In a small bowl, mix together sour cream, cream cheese, and garlic. Spread this mixture over the potato skins. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onions. Place the stuffed skins back in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For a slow cooker version, layer cubed potatoes in a greased crock pot. Pour chicken broth over the potatoes and spread the cream cheese mixture on top. Add cheese, bacon, and green onions. Cook on low for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender and the flavors blend perfectly.
Serve your loaded potato skins hot and watch them disappear quickly!
13) Sausage Cheese Dip
Sausage Cheese Dip is a crowd-pleaser that you can quickly prepare in a crock pot. Start by browning sausage in a skillet until fully cooked, then drain the excess grease.
Cut Velveeta and cream cheese into cubes. Place the sausage, cheese cubes, and a can of Rotel into your slow cooker.
Add some garlic powder for extra flavor. Set your crock pot to low and cook until the cheese is melted, usually about 2-3 hours.
Stir occasionally to combine all the ingredients well. Once the cheese is fully melted, reduce the heat to warm.
This dip pairs perfectly with tortilla chips, crostini, or even sliced veggies. It’s a hit for any gathering, especially when you need a tasty and straightforward appetizer.
14) Chili Cheese Dip
Chili Cheese Dip is a perfect choice for your next gathering. Using a crock pot, you can make this flavorful dip without much fuss.
Start by cutting Velveeta cheese into cubes and placing them in the crock pot. Add your favorite chili on top.
You can also include green chilies and a bit of chili powder for an extra kick. Mix everything well.
Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1-2 hours. Stir occasionally to make sure all the cheese melts evenly.
For a different twist, you could also add some cream cheese or salsa. This dip is best served hot with tortilla chips or corn chips.
15) Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are a delicious crock pot appetizer that your guests will love. Start by cleaning the mushrooms and removing the stems. You can save the stems for the stuffing if you like.
Brown and crumble sausage in a skillet, then mix it with mozzarella and parmesan cheese. You can also add some finely chopped onion and garlic for extra flavor.
Fill the mushroom caps with the sausage mixture, using a spoon or your fingers. Make sure each mushroom is well-packed with stuffing.
Place the stuffed mushrooms in a single layer in a greased crock pot. Cook them on low for 3-5 hours until they are tender and the filling is heated through.
You can drizzle some butter or Worcestershire sauce over the mushrooms before cooking for added flavor. Serve hot and enjoy this tasty appetizer!
16) Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Sweet and sour meatballs are a fantastic appetizer for any gathering. They combine savory meat with a tangy, flavorful sauce. Using your crock pot makes the cooking process simple and stress-free.
Start by preparing the sauce. Mix together brown sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, ketchup, and cornstarch. This combination balances sweetness with a slight tang.
Next, add your meatballs to the slow cooker. You can use frozen or homemade meatballs. For added flavor, some recipes suggest browning the meatballs first.
Include chunks of pineapple and diced bell peppers. These add a touch of sweetness and color to your dish. Pour the prepared sauce over everything.
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook on high for a shorter time. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
Once done, serve your sweet and sour meatballs directly from the crock pot. They are sure to be a hit at any party.
17) Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Bacon Wrapped Smokies are a crowd-pleaser. They are easy to prepare and perfect for any event.
First, cut your bacon strips into thirds. Wrap each Lil Smokie with a piece of bacon. Secure the bacon with a toothpick.
Place the wrapped smokies in your crockpot. Sprinkle a generous amount of brown sugar over them. For an added kick, you can mix the brown sugar with a bit of paprika.
Cook on high for 3 to 3.5 hours. The bacon should be fully cooked and slightly crispy.
These smokies are sweet, savory, and always a hit at parties. Enjoy this simple yet tasty appetizer!
18) Italian Meatball Sliders
Italian Meatball Sliders are an excellent appetizer for any event. Using a crock pot makes them even easier to prepare. First, spray your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Next, add marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to the slow cooker. Stir the mixture to combine the flavors. In a separate bowl, mix ground beef with minced onion, garlic, and seasoning.
Shape the meat mixture into small meatballs. Place the meatballs gently into the sauce in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours, until the meatballs are fully cooked.
When the meatballs are ready, place each one on a small slider bun. Top with a slice of mozzarella cheese and fresh basil. Place under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese melts and starts to brown.
These sliders are perfect for your guests. They will enjoy the rich flavors of the meatballs combined with the melted cheese and fresh basil. Serve immediately for the best taste.
19) Cheesy Taco Dip
Cheesy Taco Dip is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. It’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to make in your crock pot.
Start by browning ground beef in a skillet. Make sure to drain the excess grease. Next, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
Add cream cheese and Velveeta for a rich, creamy texture.
Toss in some taco seasoning and a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. If you like a bit more spice, you can add some jalapeños.
Set your crock pot to low and cook the mixture for around 1 to 2 hours. Make sure to stir occasionally so the cheese melts evenly.
Once the cheese is fully melted and everything is well combined, serve the dip warm with tortilla chips.
This cheesy taco dip is perfect for game days, parties, or just as a tasty snack.
20) Crab Rangoon Dip
Crab Rangoon Dip is a creamy and delicious appetizer that brings the flavors of a favorite Asian-inspired dish to your crock pot. It’s a hit at parties and gatherings.
You start by mixing softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Add Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and a touch of sriracha for some heat. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese and finely chopped green onions.
Gently fold in fresh or canned crab meat. Transfer your mixture to your crock pot and set it on low heat. Allow it to cook for about 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure it’s heating evenly.
Serve the dip with crispy wonton chips. To make wonton chips, cut wonton wrappers into triangles and bake until they are golden brown and crunchy. You can also use tortilla chips or sliced baguette as a substitute.
This warm and cheesy crab dip is sure to please your guests and make your event memorable.
21) Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are a flavorful addition to your crock pot appetizer menu. To start, cut chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a bowl and pour your favorite teriyaki sauce over them. Stir to coat the chicken well. Marinate the chicken in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
After marinating, thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving small gaps between each piece. Preheat your crock pot as directed in its manual. Place the skewers in the crock pot, arranging them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
Cook on high for about 2-3 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Baste the chicken with additional teriyaki sauce halfway through the cooking process for extra flavor.
Once done, remove the skewers from the crock pot. Sprinkle with chopped chives and sesame seeds for garnish. These Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are ready to serve and will be a hit at any gathering.
22) Philly Cheesesteak Dip
Philly Cheesesteak Dip brings the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak into a warm, creamy dip. It’s perfect for any gathering or game day.
Begin by sautéing chopped onions and bell peppers in a skillet until they are soft. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
Next, season thinly sliced steak with salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Sear the steak pieces in the same skillet until they are no longer pink.
Combine the cooked onions, peppers, and steak in your slow cooker. Add cream cheese, provolone cheese, and a bit of milk. Stir everything together.
Set your slow cooker to high for about 2 hours or low for 4-5 hours. Stir the mixture halfway through to ensure everything melts evenly.
For a final touch, top the dip with extra provolone cheese. Let it cook for another 30 minutes to let the cheese melt perfectly.
Serve hot with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh veggies. This dip is sure to be a hit with guests who love hearty, savory flavors.
23) Pineapple Glazed Ham
Pineapple glazed ham is a delicious and easy appetizer to prepare in a crock pot. You’ll need a ham and just a few simple ingredients to create a sweet and savory dish.
Start by placing the ham in your slow cooker. Attach pineapple rings to the ham with toothpicks or pour crushed pineapple over it. Mix pineapple juice with brown sugar and mustard to make a glaze.
Pour the glaze over the ham, ensuring it covers the meat well. Set your crock pot to low and cook the ham for 7 to 10 hours.
Basting occasionally helps to enhance the flavor and keep the ham moist. Once cooked, let the ham rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
This appetizer is perfect for gatherings and adds a flavorful touch to any meal. Your guests will love the tender, juicy ham paired with the sweet pineapple glaze.
24) Antipasto Skewers
Antipasto skewers are a perfect choice for a crock pot appetizer. Start by cutting provolone cheese into bite-sized squares.
Next, if you have large bocconcini balls, cut them in half and marinate them in olive oil with a pinch of oregano or red pepper flakes. Boil your choice of tortellini to add a little extra texture.
Thread your skewers with marinated vegetables, cheese, cherry tomatoes, olives, and basil leaves. Using a mix of colors and flavors makes each skewer interesting and tasty.
Before serving, you can drizzle them with balsamic glaze for added zing. Once assembled, cover and refrigerate the skewers for up to 24 hours.
Your guests will love these easy-to-make, flavorful antipasto skewers.
25) Creamy Corn Dip
Creamy Corn Dip is a delightful appetizer that will surely please your guests. Using a slow cooker, you can easily prepare this dish with minimal effort.
Start by adding frozen corn, sour cream, cream cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar cheese, and pepper jack cheese into the slow cooker. You can also include some garlic powder and salt to taste.
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure they are well combined. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to help the cheeses melt and blend together smoothly.
Once the dip is hot and bubbly, it’s ready to serve. You can top it with bacon bits or cilantro for extra flavor. Serve the dip warm with corn tortilla chips or your favorite crackers.
This creamy and cheesy corn dip is perfect for any gathering, providing a rich and savory flavor that is hard to resist.
Benefits of Crock Pot Appetizers
Crock Pot appetizers offer numerous advantages, including ease of preparation and time-saving. These benefits make them a great choice for entertaining guests or everyday snacking.
Ease of Preparation
Preparing appetizers in a Crock Pot is straightforward and requires minimal effort. You can mix the ingredients, set the temperature, and let the Crock Pot do the work. This frees you from constant monitoring.
Most recipes only need basic ingredients, like chicken wings or potato soup. You don’t need special skills or tools. This makes slow cooker appetizers accessible for everyone, even if you’re new to cooking.
Another advantage is the variety. With a Crock Pot, you can make anything from creamy dips to finger-licking ribs. The possibilities are endless and cater to everyone’s tastes.
Time-Saving
Crock Pots save you valuable time. You can prepare ingredients in the morning and have a tasty dish ready by evening. This is helpful if you have a busy schedule.
The slow cooker does all the work automatically. There’s no need for frequent stirring or checking. You can attend to other tasks or simply relax while your appetizer cooks.
Furthermore, slow cooking helps flavors develop better. This means your food will be more delicious, despite the minimal hands-on time. Preparing appetizers this way lets you enjoy flavorful dishes with little time investment.
Tips for Making the Best Crock Pot Appetizers
To make the most delicious and successful crock pot appetizers, focus on using quality ingredients, managing cooking times effectively, and maintaining both flavor and texture throughout the process.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Start with fresh and high-quality ingredients. Lean meats such as chicken breast, pork tenderloin, and beef are excellent for slow cooking.
Fresh vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers hold up well during long cooking times. Avoid vegetables that turn mushy, like zucchini.
For herbs and spices, fresh or dried versions work, but be mindful of the quantities, as flavors concentrate during slow cooking. Use low-sodium or no-sodium broths to control salt levels.
Optimal Cooking Times
Cooking times vary by recipe, but most appetizers need 2-4 hours on high or 4-6 hours on low. Always follow recipe guidelines for best results.
Avoid overcooking seafood or delicate vegetables, which can break down and lose texture. If you need to extend cooking time, shift to the “keep warm” setting to prevent overcooking.
For meats, ensure they reach a safe internal temperature while retaining moisture. Use a food thermometer to check doneness, especially for poultry and beef.
Maintaining Flavor and Texture
Layer flavors by browning meats and sautéing vegetables before adding them to the crock pot. This step adds depth to the dish.
Add fragile ingredients or those that don’t require long cooking, like fresh herbs or dairy, in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This helps maintain their texture and fresh taste.
To avoid a diluted flavor, reduce liquids slightly compared to stove-top recipes. If the final dish is too watery, remove the lid and cook on high for the last 30 minutes to evaporate excess liquid.
By following these tips, you can create appetizers that are flavorful, well-textured, and perfectly cooked every time you use your crock pot.
