15 Kid-Friendly Summer Crockpot Recipes to Keep Mealtime Easy and Stress-Free
If you’re searching for kid-friendly summer crockpot recipes that don’t heat up the house or take up hours of your day, you’re in the right place.
These slow cooker recipes were made for busy parents who want to enjoy summer without sacrificing quality meals.
If you haven’t started planning for your summer check out this post.
Are you looking for more budget friendly crockpot meals for your family? Check out this post.
But first—let’s answer a few questions you might be asking:
(Update: The images may say 10 Summer Crockpot Meals, but I have added 15. Thank you for your patience and enjoy!)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use a crockpot in the summer?
Yes! In fact, it’s one of the best times to use your slow cooker. It won’t heat up your kitchen like an oven and allows you to set it and forget it while enjoying your day.
Are slow cooker meals kid-friendly?
Absolutely. With the right ingredients, slow cooker meals can be flavorful, mild, and familiar—perfect for picky eaters.
What are the best summer foods to make in a crockpot?
Think BBQ chicken, taco meat, mac and cheese, pulled pork, and even desserts like berry cobbler. You can make entire meals, sides, or snacks without turning on the stove.
Can I freeze leftovers from crockpot meals?
Most of these recipes are freezer-friendly, making them perfect for doubling and saving for busy weekdays.
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Why These Recipes Work for Families
These 15 slow cooker meals were handpicked because they:
- Take little to no prep time
- Require minimal ingredients
- Avoid heavy, winter-style flavors
- Reheat well for leftovers or lunch the next day
- Are flexible—so you can adjust them based on your child’s preferences
- Perfect for busy moms that want to avoid staying in the kitchen all day. You want to enjoy your summer with your family. Pop these ingredients in the crockpot, do your thing in the day and come home to a cooked meal. That’s it!
Let’s dive into the list!
15 Easy Summer Crockpot Meals for Families on a Budget
1. Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Sloppy Joes
A fun twist on the traditional sloppy joe. Combine ground beef, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese in your crockpot.
Serve on hamburger buns with a side of pickles or potato wedges.
For the full recipe see this post.
2. Crockpot Chicken Tacos
Place boneless chicken breasts in the slow cooker with taco seasoning and salsa. After 4–6 hours, shred the chicken and let your kids build their own tacos with cheese, lettuce, and sour cream.
For the full recipe see this post.
3. BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders
Mix BBQ sauce with chicken thighs and let it cook until it’s fork-tender. Serve on slider rolls—add cheese or keep it simple depending on your kids’ preferences.
For the full recipe see this post.
4. Pizza Pasta Casserole
All the flavor of pizza, but with noodles! Combine pasta, marinara, mini pepperoni, and shredded mozzarella. This is always a hit with kids who love pasta night.
For the full recipe see this post.
5. Crockpot Chili Cheese Dogs
Cook hot dogs in a layer of chili for hours while you’re out enjoying the day. Serve them in buns with shredded cheese on top for a carnival-style dinner at home.
For the full recipe see this post.
6. Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
Creamy, cheesy, and comforting. Skip the boxed stuff—this version includes milk, cream, shredded cheese, and elbow noodles cooked slowly for a perfect texture.
For the full recipe see this post.
7. Hawaiian BBQ Chicken
Combine BBQ sauce and crushed pineapple for a sweet and tangy flavor kids love. Serve it with rice or in lettuce wraps for something lighter.
For the full recipe see this post.
8. Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob
Wrap corn cobs in foil with butter, garlic, and herbs and some of your favorite cheese. Let them slow cook until tender and juicy. A perfect side dish for any summer meal.
For the full recipe see this post.
9. Crockpot Baked Potato Bar
Wrap large russet potatoes in foil and cook on low for 6–8 hours. Set out toppings like cheese, sour cream, chopped bacon, or broccoli for a fun DIY dinner.
For the full recipe see this post.
10. French Dip Sandwiches
Slow cook a chuck roast with beef broth, garlic, and onion. Shred and serve on hoagie rolls with the broth for dipping. Kids can skip the dip if they prefer.
For the full recipe see this post.
11. Honey Garlic Drumsticks
These drumsticks are sweet, sticky, and super easy. Cook with honey, soy sauce, and garlic. They’re great with rice or as finger food on a weekend afternoon.
For the full recipe see this post.
12. Crockpot Meatball Subs
Use frozen meatballs and marinara sauce for this ultra-easy dinner. Cook low and slow, then serve in sub rolls with shredded cheese.
For the full recipe see this post.
13. Slow Cooker Berry Cobbler
Layer frozen mixed berries, yellow cake mix, and butter for a hands-off dessert. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
For the full recipe see this post.
14. Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Yes, oatmeal in summer! Perfect for slow mornings or a breakfast-for-dinner situation. Add apples, cinnamon, oats, and milk. Let it cook overnight for a fuss-free breakfast.
This is also a perfect meal prep option. Make this in bulk and spread it out for the week. It is okay to freeze or refrigerate for days!
For the full recipe see this post.
15. Homemade Yogurt Parfaits
Make homemade yogurt in the crockpot and let it chill. Kids can layer it with granola, fruit, and a drizzle of honey for a healthy midday snack or light breakfast.
For the full recipe see this post.
Crockpot Cooking Tips for Moms
- Get the kids involved: Let them help choose toppings or stir ingredients.
- Double the recipe: Freeze leftovers or pack them for lunch the next day.
- Use liners: For even easier cleanup on busy days.
- Plan around activities: Set your crockpot in the morning and have dinner ready after sports, errands, or summer outings.
Wrap-Up: Easy Crockpot Meals That Keep Summer Cool
With these 15 kid-friendly summer crockpot recipes, you can serve delicious meals your whole family will love—without breaking a sweat or spending hours in the kitchen.
The best part? Most of these meals are customizable, freezer-friendly, and can become part of your weekly summer rotation.
Need more help staying organized this summer?
Download the Busy Mom’s Summer Meal Planner – it includes:
- A printable meal calendar
- Grocery lists
- Kid-approved weekly menus
- Bonus crockpot freezer meal prep sheet
Don’t forget to pin this for later!
