Crockpot cooking is a lifesaver when you’re feeding a crowd! This collection of over 50 side dishes makes it easy to whip up delicious, comforting accompaniments without the fuss. From hearty vegetables to creamy casseroles, you’ll find plenty of crowd-pleasing recipes that are perfect for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings—all thanks to the magic of your slow cooker!
Savory Herb Rice Pilaf
This Savory Herb Rice Pilaf is a fantastic side dish for any gathering. It’s easy to make and perfect for serving a crowd. The rice is fluffy and infused with a mix of herbs that add a delightful flavor.
The image shows a colorful crockpot filled with the rice pilaf, garnished with fresh herbs and bits of colorful vegetables. The vibrant design of the crockpot adds a cheerful touch to your table setting.
To make this dish, you’ll need ingredients like long-grain rice, vegetable broth, diced bell peppers, onions, and a mix of herbs such as parsley and thyme. Start by sautéing the onions and peppers, then add the rice and broth. Let it cook in the crockpot until fluffy. Serve warm and watch it disappear!
Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake
This Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake is a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort to any gathering. The image shows a bubbling, cheesy dish filled with vibrant green broccoli and creamy cauliflower, all coated in a rich cheese sauce. It’s the perfect side dish to complement any main course.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh broccoli, cauliflower, shredded cheese, cream, and some spices for flavor. Start by steaming the broccoli and cauliflower until tender. Then, mix them with the cheese sauce and pour everything into a crockpot. Let it cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
This recipe is simple and can easily be doubled for larger crowds. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while keeping everyone happy with that cheesy goodness. Serve it hot, and watch it disappear!
Spicy Corn and Black Bean Salad
This Spicy Corn and Black Bean Salad is a colorful and tasty addition to any gathering. The vibrant yellow corn and deep red black beans create a beautiful contrast that is sure to catch the eye.
Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor, while lime wedges provide a zesty touch. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for your crowd.
To make this salad, you’ll need canned black beans, sweet corn, diced bell peppers, and fresh herbs. Toss everything together with lime juice and a sprinkle of spices for that extra kick. It’s simple, quick, and perfect for serving a large group.
Honey Glazed Carrots
Honey glazed carrots are a delightful side dish that adds a pop of color and sweetness to any meal. The image shows vibrant, shiny carrots, perfectly cooked and coated in a honey glaze. They look inviting and are sure to catch the eye of your guests.
This dish is simple to prepare and can easily be made in a crockpot, making it a great option for serving a crowd. The sweetness of the honey pairs beautifully with the natural flavor of the carrots, creating a dish that is both comforting and delicious.
To make honey glazed carrots, you’ll need fresh carrots, honey, butter, and a sprinkle of salt. Start by peeling and cutting the carrots into uniform pieces. Then, mix the honey and butter in the crockpot, add the carrots, and let them cook until tender. The result is a sweet and savory side that everyone will love.
Sweet and Spicy Baked Beans
Sweet and spicy baked beans are a classic side dish that everyone loves. They bring a warm, comforting vibe to any gathering. The image shows a pot of baked beans, rich in color and topped with crispy bacon. The beans look hearty and inviting, perfect for a crowd.
To make this dish, you’ll need ingredients like canned beans, brown sugar, barbecue sauce, and spices. Start by mixing the beans with the sweet and spicy elements in a slow cooker. Let them simmer until everything is well combined and heated through. The result is a dish that balances sweetness with a kick of spice, making it a hit at any potluck or barbecue.
Serve these baked beans alongside grilled meats or as part of a larger spread. They add a delightful contrast to savory dishes and are sure to be a favorite among guests. Don’t forget to keep some extra napkins handy; these beans are so good, people will want seconds!
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a colorful and healthy side dish that’s perfect for gatherings. The vibrant mix of cherry tomatoes, black olives, and creamy feta cheese makes it visually appealing and delicious.
To make this salad, you’ll need quinoa, which is packed with protein, along with fresh vegetables like bell peppers and cucumbers. Toss in some herbs like parsley or mint for added flavor. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for a refreshing dressing.
Cook the quinoa according to package instructions, then let it cool. Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl, and mix well. This dish can be served warm or chilled, making it versatile for any occasion.
It’s a great option for potlucks or BBQs, as it can easily be made in large quantities. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that caters to various dietary needs.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes are a fantastic side dish that can easily feed a crowd. These golden cubes of potato are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
The image shows a slow cooker filled with perfectly roasted potatoes, sprinkled with fresh parsley for a pop of color. The garlic and Parmesan cheese create a mouthwatering aroma that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
To make these delicious potatoes, you’ll need some simple ingredients: baby potatoes, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Start by cutting the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and tossing them with minced garlic, olive oil, and seasonings. Then, sprinkle the Parmesan on top before cooking them in the crockpot.
Cooking them in a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully. After a few hours, you’ll have tender, flavorful potatoes that are ready to serve. They pair well with almost any main dish, making them a versatile choice for your next event.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a crowd-pleaser that can elevate any meal. The image showcases a generous bowl of fluffy mashed potatoes, topped with a pat of butter and sprinkled with fresh chives. This dish is not just comforting; it’s a delightful addition to any gathering.
To make these mashed potatoes, you’ll need simple ingredients: potatoes, garlic, butter, cream, salt, and pepper. Start by boiling the potatoes until tender, then mash them with roasted garlic for that rich flavor. Stir in butter and cream for creaminess, and season to taste.
These mashed potatoes pair well with a variety of main dishes, making them perfect for family dinners or potlucks. They can be made ahead of time and kept warm in a crockpot, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy them at their best.
Creamed Spinach with Nutmeg
Crockpot creamed spinach with nutmeg is a delightful side dish that brings comfort and flavor to any gathering. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the subtle warmth of nutmeg, making it a crowd-pleaser.
This dish features fresh spinach, which is packed with nutrients, and a creamy sauce that ties everything together. The nutmeg adds a unique twist, enhancing the overall taste.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh spinach, cream, garlic, and a sprinkle of nutmeg. Start by sautéing the garlic, then mix in the spinach until wilted. Combine with cream and nutmeg, and let it simmer in the crockpot. In no time, you’ll have a delicious side ready to serve!
Zesty Coleslaw with Apple Cider Vinegar
This zesty coleslaw is a perfect side dish for any gathering. The vibrant colors of shredded cabbage, carrots, and green onions make it visually appealing. The addition of apple cider vinegar gives it a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the vegetables.
To make this coleslaw, you’ll need green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, green onions, and a simple dressing made from apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and a touch of honey. Just mix everything in a large bowl and let it chill in the fridge for a bit. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
This dish is not just tasty; it’s also refreshing and light, making it a great complement to heavier main courses. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in large batches, making it ideal for serving a crowd. Everyone will appreciate the crunch and zest!
Lentil and Vegetable Stew
This lentil and vegetable stew is a perfect side dish for any gathering. It’s hearty, healthy, and packed with flavor. The vibrant colors of the vegetables make it visually appealing, and the aroma is simply inviting.
To make this stew, you’ll need lentils, bell peppers, carrots, and spices. Start by sautéing the vegetables until they soften. Then, add the lentils and broth, letting everything simmer until the lentils are tender. Finish it off with fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.
Serve this stew warm, alongside some crusty bread for dipping. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy, making it an ideal choice for your next potluck or family dinner.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon make a fantastic side dish for any gathering. The image shows these delicious sprouts nestled in a crockpot, perfectly cooked and ready to serve. The combination of the crispy bacon and tender Brussels sprouts creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will enjoy.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh Brussels sprouts, bacon, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Start by trimming the sprouts and cutting the bacon into small pieces. In a bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then add the bacon. Transfer everything to the crockpot and cook on low for several hours. This method ensures the flavors meld beautifully.
Serving these roasted Brussels sprouts at your next event will surely impress your guests. They are easy to prepare and can be made in large batches, making them perfect for a crowd. Plus, the aroma of bacon wafting through the air is hard to resist!
Spiced Apple and Cranberry Chutney
Spiced Apple and Cranberry Chutney is a delightful addition to any meal. This chutney combines the sweetness of apples with the tartness of cranberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The warm spices elevate the taste, making it a crowd-pleaser.
In the image, you can see a jar filled with this vibrant chutney, surrounded by fresh apples and cranberries. The rich color of the chutney hints at the delicious spices mixed in. It’s not just visually appealing; it also brings a burst of flavor to your table.
To make this chutney, gather ingredients like apples, cranberries, sugar, vinegar, and spices such as cinnamon and ginger. Start by chopping the apples and cranberries, then combine them in a slow cooker with the other ingredients. Let it cook until everything is tender and the flavors meld together.
This chutney can be served warm or cold and pairs wonderfully with meats, cheeses, or even as a spread on bread. It’s a fantastic way to impress your guests without much effort!
Savory Mushroom Risotto
Mushroom risotto is a fantastic side dish that brings comfort and warmth to any gathering. This creamy, rich dish is perfect for feeding a crowd. The image showcases a delicious bowl of risotto, filled with tender rice and earthy mushrooms. The wooden spoons resting in the pot hint at the homemade goodness waiting to be served.
To make this risotto, you’ll need Arborio rice, fresh mushrooms, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Start by sautéing the onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the rice and stir until it’s coated. Gradually add the broth, letting the rice absorb the liquid before adding more. Stir in the mushrooms and finish with a sprinkle of cheese for that creamy texture.
This dish not only tastes amazing but also looks beautiful on the table. It’s a great way to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian option. Everyone will love it!
Classic Potato Salad with Dill
This classic potato salad is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering. The image shows a bowl filled with creamy potatoes, fresh dill, and colorful cherry tomatoes. The vibrant colors make it look inviting and delicious.
To make this dish, you’ll need potatoes, mayonnaise, dill, mustard, and some seasoning. Start by boiling the potatoes until tender, then chop them into bite-sized pieces. Mix the potatoes with mayonnaise, dill, and mustard for a creamy texture. Add salt and pepper to taste. Toss in some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor.
This potato salad is not just tasty; it’s also easy to prepare in a crockpot, making it ideal for serving a large group. Just set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld together while you focus on other dishes.
