30 Back to School Slow Cooker Recipes

With the hustle and bustle of back-to-school season in full swing, I’ve compiled a list of 30 back to school slow cooker recipes. These recipes are perfect for busy weekdays when you need a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether juggling homework, after-school activities, or just trying to get back into a routine, these slow cooker meals will make dinnertime stress-free and satisfying. With this list, you’ll have enough meal ideas to get you through an entire month, making it the ideal way to kick off the school year on the right foot!

30 back to school slow cooker recipes | realmomkitchen.com

Narrowing down this list to just 30 back-to-school slow cooker recipes was no easy task, especially considering I have a whopping 132 crock pot recipes on my blog. But I’ve carefully selected a variety of dishes that I know you and your family will love, from comforting classics to new favorites that are sure to become regulars in your meal rotation.

The first 12 recipes are highlighted in the image below, giving you a visual sneak peek of what’s in store. So grab your slow cooker, sit back, and let these recipes do the work for you as you enjoy delicious, hearty meals all month long. Enjoy!

30 Back-to-School Slow Cooker Recipes

Here are some general tips for cooking with a slow cooker

1. Use the Right Size Slow Cooker:

Choose a slow cooker that matches the size of your recipe. For best results, the slow cooker should be filled between half and two-thirds full. Overfilling can cause uneven cooking, while underfilling may lead to overcooking.

2. Layer Ingredients Properly:

Place denser, tougher ingredients like root vegetables (potatoes, carrots, onions) at the bottom of the slow cooker, where they’ll receive more direct heat. Place meats and lighter ingredients on top to ensure everything cooks evenly.

3. Avoid Lifting the Lid:

Every time you lift the lid, heat escapes, and the cooking time is extended by about 15-20 minutes. Resist the temptation to peek and only lift the lid if necessary, like to stir or check for doneness.

4. Prep Ingredients the Night Before:

If you’re short on time in the morning, prepare your ingredients the night before. Chop vegetables, measure out spices, and even brown meat (if needed), then store everything in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply add everything to the slow cooker and turn it on.

5. Brown Meats for Extra Flavor:

While it’s not always necessary, browning meat before adding it to the slow cooker can enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. Searing locks in juices and adds a rich, caramelized flavor that you won’t get from slow cooking alone.

6. Don’t Overdo the Liquid:

Slow cookers retain moisture, so you usually need less liquid than in traditional cooking methods. Be careful not to add too much liquid to your recipes, especially if you’re cooking with ingredients that release water, like vegetables or meats.

7. Adjust Seasonings at the End:

Slow cooking can mellow out flavors, so it’s often a good idea to taste your dish and adjust the seasonings just before serving. Fresh herbs, a splash of vinegar, or a squeeze of citrus can brighten up the flavors right before serving.

8. Choose the Right Cooking Time:

Most recipes can be adapted to cook on either high or low settings, but low and slow generally yields better results. If you have time, opt for the low setting, as it tenderizes meats and allows flavors to meld beautifully.

9. Use the Right Cut of Meat:

Tougher cuts of meat, like chuck roast, pork shoulder, or chicken thighs, are ideal for slow cooking. These cuts have more connective tissue, which breaks down over time, resulting in tender, flavorful dishes.

10. Add Dairy and Fresh Herbs at the End:

Dairy products like milk, cream, or cheese can curdle if cooked too long, so it’s best to add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Fresh herbs are also more vibrant when added just before serving.

11. Let It Rest:

Once your dish is done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making your dish even more flavorful and moist.

12. Clean the Slow Cooker Properly:

To make cleanup easier, consider using slow cooker liners. If you don’t use liners, soak the insert in warm, soapy water right after cooking to help loosen any stuck-on food. Avoid using harsh abrasives that could damage the insert.

By following these tips, you’ll get the most out of your slow cooker and create delicious, perfectly cooked meals with ease.