Summer meals can be a hassle, but with a Crockpot, you can make things much easier. These warm months call for less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the outdoors. A Crockpot allows you to prepare delicious meals without heating up your kitchen, making it perfect for summer cooking.
What meals can you make that are easy, tasty, and won’t make your kitchen swelter? From savory main courses to sweet treats, these 35 summer Crockpot recipes are just what you need. They make cooking simpler, so you can focus on enjoying your summer days.
1) BBQ Pulled Pork
BBQ Pulled Pork is a summer favorite. It’s easy to make and incredibly tasty.
Start by choosing a good cut of pork, like pork loin or pork shoulder. Season the pork well with salt, pepper, and other spices you enjoy, such as garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Place the seasoned pork in a crockpot. Add a bit of liquid like apple juice, broth, or water to keep it moist.
Cook the pork on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours. The key is to let it cook until it is fall-apart tender.
Once the pork is done, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks.
Return the shredded pork to the crockpot and mix it with your favorite BBQ sauce. Let it cook for another 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve the BBQ Pulled Pork on buns, over rice, or with a side of coleslaw. Enjoy the smoky, savory taste of summer with this easy and delicious dish.
2) Chicken Alfredo
For a simple and tasty summer meal, try making Chicken Alfredo in your crockpot. Start by placing chicken breasts into the crockpot. Season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add minced garlic for extra flavor. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream.
Cook on low for about 5 hours or on high for 2.5 hours. Once the chicken is done, remove and shred it. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot. Add dry pasta, like fettuccine or penne. Stir to ensure the pasta is covered in sauce.
Cook on high for another 20-30 minutes, until the pasta is tender. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, creamy finish. Serve hot and enjoy this delightful dish with your family. Chicken Alfredo is perfect for those busy summer days when you want a hearty yet simple dinner.
3) Vegetarian Chili
Vegetarian chili is a great option for summer meals. It’s hearty, full of flavor, and easy to make in a crockpot.
Start by chopping your onions, bell peppers, carrots, and celery. These will be the base of your chili. Add them to the crockpot with garlic and spices like chili powder, cumin, and oregano.
Next, add tomatoes, tomato paste, and some water or broth. This will create a rich sauce that will simmer and blend all the flavors together. You can also add some corn for a bit of sweetness and texture.
For the protein element, use beans. Black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans all work well. You can use canned beans or dried beans that have been soaked overnight.
Cook on high for 5-6 hours or on low for 8-10 hours. This slow cooking process will allow all the ingredients to meld together perfectly. Just before serving, check the seasoning and adjust if needed.
Serve your vegetarian chili with some fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a sprinkle of cheese. It’s a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
4) Beef Stroganoff
Beef Stroganoff is a fantastic slow cooker meal for summer. You can make it with simple ingredients, and it cooks to perfection in your crockpot. First, you need to prepare your slow cooker by greasing it or spraying it with non-stick oil.
Then, add the beef stew meat, seasoning it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Pour in beef broth and Worcester sauce. Stir everything to mix the seasonings with the meat.
Cook the mixture on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for about 4 to 5 hours. Once the beef is tender, mix sour cream with some of the liquid from the slow cooker until smooth. Add this back into the slow cooker and stir gently.
You may also add onions, mushrooms, and a cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce. Cooking on low for 8-9 hours or on high for 4-5 hours ensures the beef is tender and the flavors meld beautifully. Serve over noodles or rice for a complete meal.
5) Taco Soup
Taco Soup is a perfect summer meal that you can make in your Crockpot with minimal effort. Start by browning some ground beef in a skillet. Once it’s cooked through, drain the excess liquid and transfer the beef to your Crockpot.
You’ll add in several cans of ingredients like beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Keep the liquid from the cans when adding them. Include green chilies for a bit of heat and some taco seasoning for flavor.
Set your Crockpot to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process blends the flavors together, making the soup hearty and delicious.
When the cooking time is up, stir in some fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. This adds a bright, fresh taste to your soup. Serve it with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips.
Taco Soup is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s great for summer dinners.
6) Honey Garlic Chicken
Honey Garlic Chicken is a delicious and easy meal to make in a slow cooker. You start with chicken thighs or breasts, which cook until they’re tender and juicy.
To make the sauce, mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, and some spices. You might see recipes that add ketchup, vinegar, or even tomato paste for extra flavor.
Pour your sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for about 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will soak up the sweet and savory flavors of the sauce.
For a complete meal, some recipes suggest adding veggies like potatoes, carrots, or green beans during the cooking process. This way, you get your protein and sides all in one pot.
This dish is perfect for summer, allowing you to keep your kitchen cool while still enjoying a hearty, home-cooked meal. Serve it over rice or with a side of steamed veggies. You’ll find that Honey Garlic Chicken is a crowd-pleaser at any summer gathering.
7) Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo Chicken Dip is perfect for summer gatherings. It’s creamy, tangy, and has a bit of a kick.
To start, you’ll need shredded chicken. You can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or boil and shred your own.
Mix the chicken with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and buffalo sauce. Add ranch dressing for extra flavor. You can also include blue cheese if you like.
Place everything in your crockpot. Cook on low for about 2-4 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure it mixes well.
Once the dip is hot and bubbly, it’s ready to serve. You can garnish it with extra cheese, chives, or more buffalo sauce.
Serve with tortilla chips, celery, or carrot sticks. This dip is sure to be a hit at any summer party.
8) Lemon Garlic Chicken
Lemon Garlic Chicken is a flavorful dish perfect for summer. Using a slow cooker, you can make this recipe easily while keeping your kitchen cool.
Start by seasoning the chicken with a mixture of salt, pepper, and oregano. Brown the chicken in a skillet for a few minutes on each side.
Next, transfer the chicken to your slow cooker. Add a mixture of water, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chicken bouillon to the skillet. Bring this mixture to a boil, then pour it over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook the chicken on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
For a creamy twist, you can stir in reduced-fat cream cheese and Parmesan cheese at the end of cooking. Remove the chicken to chop or shred, then whisk the cheese into the sauce until smooth.
Serve the Lemon Garlic Chicken with your favorite sides like rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete summer meal. The tangy lemon and rich garlic flavors make this dish a standout on any warm day.
9) Teriyaki Chicken
Teriyaki Chicken is a flavorful and simple dish perfect for summer evenings. Using a slow cooker makes it incredibly easy. Start by placing chicken breasts in your slow cooker.
In a separate bowl, mix ingredients like garlic, ginger, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
Cover the slow cooker and cook. On high, it will take about 3-4 hours. On low, expect about 6-7 hours. You want the chicken to be tender and easy to shred.
Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker to soak up more of the flavorful sauce. This dish pairs well with rice or steamed vegetables.
10) Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Sweet and sour meatballs are a perfect summer dish you can easily prepare in your crockpot.
First, you’ll need meatballs. You can use store-bought frozen meatballs or make your own. Place them in the crockpot.
Next, mix the sauce ingredients. Combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, ketchup, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth.
Add cut bell peppers, onions, and pineapple chunks into the crockpot with the meatballs.
Pour the sauce over the top. Stir everything to make sure the ingredients are coated.
Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened.
This dish is great for potlucks and family dinners. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy!
11) Creamy Ranch Chicken
Creamy Ranch Chicken is a perfect summer crockpot meal. It’s simple to make and doesn’t require a lot of ingredients. Your family will love the rich, creamy taste.
Start by placing chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Add potatoes and carrots if you like a full meal in one pot. These vegetables cook well and absorb the flavors.
Next, mix together cream of chicken soup, a packet of dry ranch dressing mix, and some milk. This forms a tasty sauce that gives the chicken its creamy ranch flavor. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
Set your crockpot on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking method ensures the chicken remains tender and juicy. If you’re short on time, the high setting works well too.
Before serving, you can shred the chicken for a different texture. Pair your creamy ranch chicken with pasta, rice, or a simple side salad. This meal is versatile and satisfying, making it a great choice for summer evenings.
12) Beef and Broccoli
Beef and Broccoli is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make in your crockpot. It’s perfect for busy summer days when you want a hearty meal without heating up the kitchen.
Start by slicing beef into thin strips. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, beef broth, and brown sugar. Add garlic and ginger for extra flavor.
Place the beef strips in your slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and give it a good stir to coat all the pieces.
Cook on low for about 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. This slow cooking process makes the beef tender and juicy.
About 30 minutes before serving, add fresh or frozen broccoli florets. Stir them in and let them cook until they’re crisp-tender.
Serve the Beef and Broccoli over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if you like. This dish is a tasty and easy way to enjoy a classic takeout favorite at home.
13) Chicken Fajitas
Chicken fajitas are a tasty option for summer meals. They combine tender chicken with colorful bell peppers and onions. Cooking them in a crockpot simplifies preparation and delivers juicy results.
Start by slicing bell peppers and onions. Place them at the bottom of your crockpot. Add chicken breasts on top. Season with a mix of spices or a packet of fajita seasoning.
Add tomatoes and garlic for extra flavor. Pour some chicken broth or salsa to keep the chicken moist. Cover and let it cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
When the chicken is fully cooked, shred it or cut it into strips. Mix everything together in the crockpot before serving. This method ensures the flavors blend well.
Serve the chicken fajitas with warm tortillas. Add toppings like sour cream, cheese, and guacamole. This dish is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for a summer meal.
14) Spaghetti Bolognese
Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic dish that’s perfect for a summer meal. Using your slow cooker means you can avoid standing over a hot stove.
Start by heating some olive oil in a skillet. Add chopped garlic and onion and cook until they turn soft and sweet. Transfer this to your slow cooker.
In the same skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Break up the meat while it cooks. Once browned, add it to the slow cooker.
Next, add crushed tomatoes, beef stock, tomato paste, and diced carrots to the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This long cooking time lets the flavors meld together perfectly.
About 30 minutes before serving, you can add heavy cream for a richer sauce. Stir well and let it simmer.
Serve the Bolognese sauce over cooked spaghetti. Top with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.
15) Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish with tender chicken pieces in a rich, spiced tomato sauce.
To make this, start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized cubes and marinate it with yogurt, salt, and spices like turmeric, garam masala, and red chili powder. Let it sit while you prepare the sauce.
In a slow cooker, place the marinated chicken and add tomato sauce, ginger, garlic, cumin, and coriander. Cook this on low for 6-8 hours.
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk and fresh cilantro.
Serve your Chicken Tikka Masala over hot basmati rice for a comforting meal.
16) Cheesy Potato Soup
Cheesy Potato Soup is a hearty and comforting meal perfect for summer evenings. You can make it easily in your crockpot without much fuss.
Start by adding potatoes, chicken broth, water, and onions to your crockpot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the potatoes are tender.
Next, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Pour this mixture into the crockpot and increase the heat to high. Let it cook for another 20-30 minutes until the soup thickens.
Stir in chunks of cheese until it melts into the soup. For the final touch, you can garnish the soup with bacon and green onions. Enjoy the rich and creamy flavor that this dish brings.
17) Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed Pepper Soup is a simple and delicious summer meal. You need ground beef, bell peppers, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and some basic seasonings.
First, brown the ground beef and chop the onions and peppers. Drain the grease from the beef. Then, put everything except the rice into the crockpot.
Cook the ingredients on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, add in cooked rice to the crockpot.
The soup is ready when the bell peppers are tender, and the flavors have melded together. This dish is hearty and flavorful, making it a great addition to your summer meal rotation.
18) Balsamic Glazed Chicken
Balsamic Glazed Chicken is a delicious and easy summer meal. You’ll need chicken breasts, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and various herbs.
First, whisk the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a small bowl. This will create the glaze for the chicken. Season the chicken breasts with basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Place the seasoned chicken in your slow cooker. Pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken. Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
For added flavor, you can include sliced onions, diced tomatoes, or vegetables like carrots and bell peppers. This combination makes a rich and tasty sauce that complements the chicken well.
Check to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Once done, the chicken will be tender and infused with a balanced blend of sweet and tangy flavors.
Serve your Balsamic Glazed Chicken with rice or mashed potatoes for a complete summer meal. Enjoy the ease and delicious taste of cooking with your crockpot.
19) White Chicken Chili
White Chicken Chili is a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for summer. You will find it easy to make with a slow cooker.
Start by placing chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add chicken broth, white beans, green chiles, garlic, and onion. Season it with cumin, oregano, salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Set your slow cooker on low heat and cook for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. Once the chicken is tender, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
Stir the shredded chicken back into the pot. Spice it up with freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor.
This dish pairs well with toppings like tortilla chips, avocado slices, and shredded cheese. Enjoy your homemade White Chicken Chili!
20) Jambalaya
Jambalaya is a classic dish with roots in Cajun and Creole cuisine. It’s perfect for summer because it’s hearty yet simple to make in a slow cooker.
To start, add diced chicken breast and sliced andouille sausage to your slow cooker. Include chopped bell peppers, jalapenos, onion, celery, and diced tomatoes. These vegetables add both flavor and texture to the dish.
Next, pour in chicken stock or broth. Adding minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, oregano, thyme, and parsley gives it a rich, savory taste. Stir everything together to make sure the ingredients are well-mixed.
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld together while the chicken cooks through.
Some recipes suggest adding shrimp during the last 15 minutes of cooking. If you like seafood, this is a tasty addition that adds to the complexity of flavors.
Once cooked, you can serve Jambalaya over rice. It’s versatile and can be adjusted to your taste preferences, making it an easy yet flavorful summer meal.
21) Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort meal that adapts well to a slow cooker. You can create a hearty dish with minimal effort.
To start, place boneless skinless chicken breasts, condensed soup, chopped onion, and butter in your slow cooker. Add enough water to cover the ingredients.
Let the mixture cook on high for 5-6 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, tear biscuit dough into pieces. Add the dough to the slow cooker and let it cook.
You can also include vegetables like peas and carrots during the last hour. This enhances flavor and adds nutrition to your meal.
Another option is using rotisserie or leftover shredded chicken. Combine it with ingredients like soy sauce, brown sugar, and chili powder for a different twist.
This recipe is perfect for busy summer days. Your slow cooker does most of the work, so you can relax or spend time outside.
22) Pulled Chicken Tacos
Pulled Chicken Tacos offer a flavorful and easy summer meal. Start by placing chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Add salsa, taco seasoning, and some diced green chilies. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3 hours.
Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it. Make sure to stir it back into the sauce in the slow cooker. This helps the chicken absorb all the flavors.
You can also add other ingredients like onions, garlic, and lime juice for extra zest. Serve the pulled chicken in flour or corn tortillas. Top with your favorite taco toppings like lettuce, cheese, and sour cream.
For a twist, you can even place the pulled chicken on a bed of rice or in a salad. This versatile dish is perfect for any summer gathering. Enjoy!
23) Savory Pot Roast
Your slow cooker can take the stress out of making a rich and tasty pot roast. Start by placing onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in the bottom of your cooker. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and mix them together.
Next, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown your roast on all sides to seal in the juices.
In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, mustard, and herbs. Pour this mixture over the roast and vegetables in the slow cooker.
Season with salt and pepper before covering the slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 8 hours or until the meat is tender.
The result is a flavorful pot roast that falls apart easily. Serve with the cooked vegetables and enjoy a satisfying meal.
24) Maple Dijon Chicken
Maple Dijon Chicken is a flavorful and easy dish to make in your slow cooker. You will combine simple ingredients like Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar to create a delicious sauce.
Start by seasoning your chicken with a bit of salt and pepper. Place the chicken into your slow cooker and pour the mustard and maple sauce over it. Make sure the chicken is well-coated. Set your slow cooker on low for 3-5 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked.
You can add vegetables like broccoli during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a complete meal. This keeps the veggies crisp and full of flavor. Once done, you might want to garnish the dish with chopped parsley or a bit of black pepper.
If you’d like a crispy skin, you can place the cooked chicken under a broiler for a few minutes. This simple step adds a nice texture to the dish. Serve your Maple Dijon Chicken with rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty summer meal.
25) Beef Barbacoa
Beef Barbacoa is a classic Mexican dish full of flavor and spices. You can easily make it in a slow cooker, which saves you time and effort while providing delicious results.
Start by placing your beef in the slow cooker. You can use cuts like chuck roast. Add ingredients like beer, cilantro, and various spices to enhance the flavor.
Cook the beef on low for 8-10 hours until it’s tender and can be shredded with a fork. If you prefer, you can cook it on high for 4-6 hours. Once cooked, shred the beef and mix it back into the juices in the slow cooker.
This dish is versatile. Serve your Beef Barbacoa in tacos, burritos, or even over rice. The slow cooker helps the flavors meld together, giving you a taste that’s both rich and satisfying.
Adding lime juice and additional seasonings to taste can make the flavors pop even more. Keep the dish warm in the slow cooker until you’re ready to serve.
Enjoy your summer meals with this savory and simple Beef Barbacoa recipe. It’s perfect for gatherings or a family dinner.
26) Mushroom Risotto
Mushroom risotto is a creamy, flavorful dish that you can easily make in a crockpot.
Start by sautéing mushrooms, onions, and garlic in olive oil until the mushrooms are lightly browned. This step enhances their flavors. Then, add the rice and cook for about a minute.
Transfer the mixture to your crockpot. Add broth, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir. Ensure the liquid fully covers the rice.
Set your crockpot to low and cook for about 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally. The rice should absorb the broth and become creamy.
To finish, you can add a bit of butter and grated Parmesan cheese. This makes the risotto extra creamy and rich.
Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving. This adds a fresh touch to the dish.
Enjoy your mushroom risotto warm as a main dish or a side.
27) Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a comforting and filling meal perfect for summer evenings. You can easily prepare it using your crockpot. Start by chopping potatoes and onions. Add them to the crockpot along with chicken broth, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook on high for about 4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours.
Once the potatoes are tender, add cubed cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and combines with the soup, making it creamy. You can also add crispy bacon bits and some heavy cream for extra richness.
Make sure to give it a good stir, then let it cook for another 15-20 minutes on low until everything is well-mixed. Serve hot with additional toppings like green onions or more cheese if you like.
This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or simply having leftovers for the next day. Enjoy your meal with a side of crusty bread for a complete and satisfying dinner!
28) Italian Meatballs
Italian Meatballs are a tasty and easy meal for summer. To start, lightly grease a baking sheet and broil the meatballs on high until they’re browned on each side. This takes about 4-5 minutes per side.
Once browned, transfer the meatballs to your crockpot. Pour your favorite marinara sauce over the meatballs until they are covered. You can make your own sauce by blending crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, olive oil, oregano, red pepper flakes, and garlic.
You can cook the meatballs on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. This ensures they absorb all the flavors from the sauce.
Serve with pasta or bread. These meatballs are perfect for spaghetti dinners or as a filling for sandwiches. Simple and delicious, they make a great addition to your summer meals.
29) Chicken Tortilla Soup
Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delicious and simple meal for summer. You can use your crockpot to make it with ease.
Start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need chicken, spices like chili powder and cumin, beans, onion, corn, and tomatoes. Don’t forget to have some chicken broth ready.
Add everything to your crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The slow cooking helps the flavors blend well.
When the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot. Shred the chicken using two forks, and then return it to the crockpot. Add some lime juice to give it a fresh taste.
Serve the soup hot. You can top it with crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, or avocado slices. This soup is sure to be a hit with everyone at your table.
30) Beef Bourguignon
Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish perfect for your summer crockpot meals. Start by searing your beef in a skillet to lock in the flavors. You can then transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
Add bacon, garlic, and a mix of onions, carrots, and mushrooms to the pot. Pour in red wine to deglaze your skillet, scraping up browned bits for extra flavor.
Combine this with chicken broth, tomato paste, and dried thyme. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables. Let it cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours.
Serve this dish over mashed potatoes, pasta, or toasted bread. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and added flavor. This hearty meal is sure to be a hit at any summer gathering.
31) Mongolian Beef
Mongolian beef is a tasty and easy dish you can make in a slow cooker. It combines flavors like soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar to create a savory and slightly sweet meal.
Start by coating sliced flank steak in cornstarch. This helps thicken the sauce and gives the meat a nice texture.
Mix olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, water, and brown sugar in a bowl. Whisk them together until well combined. Add this mixture to your slow cooker.
Next, add the coated beef to the slow cooker, along with grated carrots if you like. Stir everything well so the meat is fully covered in the sauce. Cover the slow cooker with a lid.
Set your slow cooker to high for 2.5 to 3 hours, or to low for 4 to 5 hours. This will let the flavors blend and the beef become tender.
Once it’s done cooking, stir the beef again. Garnish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds for added flavor and texture. Serve the Mongolian beef over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
32) Lemon Herb Chicken
Lemon Herb Chicken is a delicious and simple crockpot meal perfect for summer. You can start by placing your chicken in a slow cooker. Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken and add the squeezed lemons into the chicken’s cavity.
Combine your favorite herbs and spices in a bowl. Common choices are thyme, garlic, and rosemary. Sprinkle these evenly over the chicken before closing the lid.
Set your slow cooker to low and cook for about 6-8 hours. The chicken should be tender and juicy. The slow cooking helps the flavors infuse deeply into the meat.
A creamy version of this dish can be made by adding cream of chicken soup and water to the mix. This gives a rich and smooth texture to the zesty dish. Adjust the seasoning to your taste before serving.
Serve your Lemon Herb Chicken with sides like steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. This light yet flavorful dish is ideal for hot summer days. Its tangy and fragrant profile will make it a favorite in your household.
33) Chicken Enchilada Soup
Chicken Enchilada Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for summer. You can easily prepare it in a slow cooker, making it ideal for busy days.
Start by placing chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Add corn, black beans, onions, and bell peppers to the pot. Pour in diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, and chicken broth.
Cover and set your slow cooker on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours. Once done, shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the soup.
Stir to mix everything well. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro. This soup is a delicious way to enjoy a taste of Mexico any day of the week.
34) Pumpkin Curry
Pumpkin curry is a flavorful and healthy dish you can make in your slow cooker. It combines pumpkin with spices to create a rich, creamy meal.
Start by adding coconut milk and pumpkin puree to your slow cooker. Include chicken stock, curry powder, turmeric, garam masala, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine everything thoroughly.
Next, toss in chopped onions, garlic, ginger, carrots, and sweet potatoes. If you want to make it a chicken curry, add your chicken pieces now. Cook this mixture on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
When the cooking time is nearly up, check that your vegetables are tender. If you used chicken, it should be easy to shred with a fork.
Finish your pumpkin curry by stirring in fresh spinach, cilantro, and a bit of lime juice. Let it cook for a few more minutes until the spinach is wilted and everything is hot.
Serve your pumpkin curry over rice or with a side of naan bread. Enjoy this easy and delicious summer meal.
35) Ginger Soy Chicken
Ginger Soy Chicken is a flavorful dish perfect for summer evenings. You will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts or drumsticks.
Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, cilantro, and ginger to create a tasty marinade for the chicken. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Place the marinated chicken in a slow cooker and pour the remaining sauce over it. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, until the chicken is tender.
You can serve this dish with brown rice or a fresh cabbage slaw. The combination of ginger and soy sauce creates a savory and slightly sweet flavor. This crockpot meal is easy to prepare and sure to please your family.
Healthy Benefits of Summer Crockpot Meals
Using a crockpot in the summer can help you maintain the nutrients in your food and balance your meals with a mix of proteins, vegetables, and grains.
Nutrient Retention
Crockpots cook food slowly at low temperatures.
This method helps retain vitamins and minerals.
For example, vitamin C in vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes is better preserved compared to traditional cooking methods.
Low heat also prevents nutrient loss through boiling, ensuring your meals remain nutritious.
Using a crockpot reduces the need for added fats and oils.
This can help you prepare leaner meals that are still flavorful.
By avoiding high-temperature cooking, you reduce the formation of harmful compounds.
This makes your summer recipes healthier overall.
Balanced Ingredients
Crockpot meals are great for incorporating various food groups.
You can easily include lean proteins, fiber-rich vegetables, and healthy grains.
For instance, a crockpot chicken stew can feature chicken breasts, carrots, spinach, and quinoa.
This provides a balanced mix of protein, vitamins, and carbs in one pot.
Many summer crockpot recipes focus on seasonal produce.
This means you can enjoy fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients like zucchini, tomatoes, and peaches.
Combining these ingredients ensures that your meals are not only balanced but also delicious.
Using a variety of ingredients helps you consume a wide range of nutrients.
This encourages a more balanced diet, which is essential for optimal health.
Tips for Preparing Summer Crockpot Meals
Making summer meals with a Crockpot is a great way to enjoy flavorful dishes without heating up your kitchen. These tips will help you choose the best ingredients, make the most of your cooking time, and ensure your meals are full of flavor.
Choosing Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is essential for tasty summer Crockpot meals. Opt for seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, as they are at their peak freshness and full of flavor.
Summer fruits such as peaches and berries can also add a nice touch to desserts or salads. When buying meat, select cuts like chicken thighs or pork shoulder for tenderness after slow cooking.
Visit your local farmers’ market for fresh and organic produce. Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, and parsley can elevate your dishes with vibrant, natural flavors.
Optimizing Cooking Time
Make the most out of your Crockpot by optimizing cooking times. For meat dishes, use the low setting for longer periods, which helps break down fibers and achieve a tender texture.
Vegetables often require less cooking time. Add them halfway through the cooking process to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
Consider meal prep to save time during busy summer days. Assemble ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, place them in the Crockpot and set the timer.
Maintaining Flavor
Maintaining the flavor of your Crockpot meals is crucial. Season your dishes generously with spices and herbs. Ingredients like garlic, onion, and ginger can add depth and complexity to your meals.
Add sweet and savory sauces for richer tastes. Barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and a splash of citrus juice can make a big difference.
Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this can cause heat loss and lengthen cooking times. Use broth or wine instead of water for added flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When using your crockpot for summer meals, it’s essential to avoid a few common pitfalls to ensure your dishes turn out perfect.
Overcooking Vegetables
One frequent mistake is overcooking vegetables. Vegetables cook faster than meats and may become mushy if left in the slow cooker for too long. To prevent this:
- Add vegetables later in the cooking process, especially those that should retain some crunch, like bell peppers and zucchini.
- Use vegetables that maintain their texture well with longer cooking times, such as carrots and potatoes.
- Cut vegetables into larger chunks to help them withstand longer cooking periods without turning to mush.
Not Using Seasonal Produce
Not using seasonal produce can detract from the flavor and nutritional value of your meals. Seasonal produce is at its peak in both taste and nutrients:
- Choose fruits and vegetables that are in season in your region to get the best taste and quality.
- Visit local farmers’ markets to find fresh, seasonal ingredients and get inspiration for your meals.
- Incorporate a variety of seasonal items to keep your dishes interesting and flavorful.
By paying attention to these details, you can ensure your summer crockpot meals are both delicious and healthy.
