Are you tired of the same old side dishes at every gathering? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious crock pot side dish recipes that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a holiday feast, or just need a quick and easy solution for a weeknight meal, these slow cooker recipes have got you covered.
From creamy mac and cheese to savory garlic parmesan potatoes, we’ve gathered some of the most mouthwatering crock pot side dish recipes out there. And the best part? They’re all ridiculously easy to make! Simply throw your ingredients in the crock pot, set it, and forget about it until it’s time to serve.
In this article, we’ll be highlighting a variety of recipes that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. From classic comfort foods to healthier options and even some gluten-free and vegan choices, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Get ready to enjoy a comforting, creamy macaroni and cheese dish with minimal effort using your crock pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
3. Slowly add the heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a crock pot and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-easy slow cooker recipe!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the sliced potatoes and melted butter. Stir until the potatoes are evenly coated.
2. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and minced garlic over the potatoes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure that all the potatoes are covered.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time:
– Low heat: 6-8 hours
– High heat: 3-4 hours
Crock Pot Honey Glazed Carrots
Sweet and tender carrots are a perfect side dish for any meal. This easy Crock Pot recipe is a great way to bring out the natural sweetness of carrots with the addition of honey.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a Crock Pot, combine the sliced carrots, honey, olive oil, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir until the carrots are evenly coated with the glaze.
3. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Remove the lid and stir the carrots to ensure they’re glazed evenly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Cheesy Crock Pot Corn Casserole
A creamy, cheesy twist on traditional corn casserole, this recipe is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup crushed crackers (such as Ritz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a crock pot, combine corn kernels, cream of chicken soup, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Stir until well combined.
3. Top with grated cheese and crushed crackers.
4. Cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or HIGH for 1-2 hours.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (LOW) or 1-2 hours (HIGH)
Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole
Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this slow cooker green bean casserole is a classic combination of tender green beans, creamy sauce, and crispy topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Add green beans, onion, cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and salt to the slow cooker.
2. Stir to combine, then cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle French-fried onions and cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
4. Continue cooking until the onions are golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal or a gathering with friends and family. This recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort, leaving you more time to enjoy the company.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or chives)
Instructions:
1. In the Crock Pot, create a layer of potato slices.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together milk, cheese, and butter until smooth.
3. Pour half of the milk mixture over the potatoes, followed by another layer of potatoes.
4. Repeat steps 2-3, ending with a layer of potatoes on top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using fresh herbs, sprinkle them over the top layer.
6. Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Herbed Crock Pot Rice Pilaf
A flavorful and aromatic rice pilaf infused with fresh herbs, perfect for a stress-free dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine it with chicken broth, olive oil, onion, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper in a crock pot.
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Mash
Transform the humble butternut squash into a creamy, comforting side dish with this easy slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: brown sugar, nutmeg, or other spices of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to Low.
2. Peel the butternut squash and cut it into large chunks. Place them in the slow cooker.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, and heavy cream on top of the squash.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add brown sugar or other spices for extra flavor.
5. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
6. Use a fork to mash the cooked squash mixture until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Crock Pot Bacon Ranch Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this creamy, cheesy, and savory Crock Pot recipe featuring crispy bacon and a tangy ranch flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup ranch seasoning
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the potato chunks in the Crock Pot.
2. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon, ranch seasoning, sour cream, and butter evenly over the potatoes.
3. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Low: 6-8 hours
– High: 3-4 hours
Slow Cooker Creamed Spinach
Transform wilted spinach into a creamy, comforting side dish with this easy slow cooker recipe. Perfect for busy days or special occasions!
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the spinach, heavy cream, butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to a slow cooker.
2. Stir until the spinach is well coated with the cream mixture.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2 hours.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the spinach to a blender in batches) to puree the mixture until smooth.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours
Crock Pot Cheesy Broccoli Rice
This creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the uncooked rice, chicken broth, broccoli, and olive oil to a Crock Pot.
2. Stir until the rice is well coated with the liquid and the broccoli is evenly distributed.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the rice mixture.
5. Cover the Crock Pot and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and flavorful slow cooker recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine mushroom slices, butter, garlic, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley on top (if using).
5. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or as a side dish.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Sweet Potato Casserole
Transform sweet potatoes into a deliciously sweet and savory casserole with this easy-to-make recipe. Perfect for a comforting side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the Crock Pot, combine sweet potatoes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt.
2. Pour in heavy cream and add cinnamon and nutmeg.
3. Stir until sweet potatoes are well coated with the mixture.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans over the casserole during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional pecans if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Slow Cooker Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your veggie game with this easy and delicious slow cooker recipe that combines the earthy sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the savory goodness of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine Brussels sprouts, olive oil, chicken broth, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
2. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in Parmesan cheese.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Crock Pot Loaded Mashed Cauliflower
Transform cauliflower into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece with this easy Crock Pot recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the cauliflower florets to the Crock Pot.
2. Dot the top with butter.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the cauliflower.
5. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
6. Mash the cauliflower with a fork until it reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (LOW) or 3-4 hours (HIGH)
Slow Cooker Cheesy Cornbread Casserole
A warm, comforting casserole perfect for a chilly evening or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can (14.5 oz) creamed corn
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, combine milk, egg, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour in the creamed corn and shredded cheese; mix well.
6. Cook on low for 2-1/2 hours or high for 1 hour.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cook Time: 2-1/2 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Crock Pot Herb and Butter Corn on the Cob
This recipe is a twist on traditional corn on the cob, adding rich flavors from butter and herbs. Perfect for a stress-free weeknight dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the corn in a single layer at the bottom of a 6-quart Crock Pot.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, parsley, chives, and thyme.
3. Spread the herb butter mixture evenly over each ear of corn.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Slow Cooker Balsamic Glazed Carrots
Slow Cooker Balsamic Glazed Carrots Recipe
Sweet and tangy, these slow-cooked carrots are a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine sliced carrots, balsamic glaze, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir the carrots to ensure they’re coated with the glaze.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Enjoy your delicious slow-cooked balsamic glazed carrots!
Crock Pot Cheesy Garlic Bread
Transform your dinner into a warm, cheesy, and aromatic meal with this easy-to-make Crock Pot Cheesy Garlic Bread recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.1 oz) loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch slices
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Place bread slices in the Crock Pot.
2. In a small bowl, mix minced garlic with melted butter.
3. Spread the garlic-butter mixture evenly over the bread.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and dried oregano over the bread.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on Low for 2-3 hours or High for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (Low) or 1-2 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Maple Bacon Baked Beans
A sweet and savory twist on classic baked beans, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of maple syrup with the smoky richness of bacon for a deliciously unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the soaked navy beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, maple syrup, brown sugar, ground mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Top with the bacon pieces.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Summary
Discover 20 mouth-watering Crock Pot side dishes recipes perfect for any occasion! From comforting classics like Creamy Mac and Cheese to innovative twists like Cheesy Broccoli Rice, these slow-cooked delights are sure to please. Try Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Potatoes, Crock Pot Honey Glazed Carrots, or Herbed Crock Pot Rice Pilaf for a flavorful addition to your next meal. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a quick and easy fix, these recipes will become a staple in your kitchen.
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