Cooking for a large family can be both rewarding and challenging. One of the most effective tools in your kitchen arsenal is the slow cooker. It allows you to prepare hearty meals with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Here are three delicious examples of slow cooker recipes that will satisfy even the hungriest of families!
This classic beef stew is perfect for chilly nights and is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. It’s packed with nutrients and flavors, making it a wholesome choice for large families.
Start by browning 3 pounds of cubed beef chuck in a skillet. While that’s cooking, chop 4 medium-sized carrots, 4 potatoes, and 2 onions. Place the beef in a large slow cooker, and add the chopped vegetables. Pour in 4 cups of beef broth, add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs (such as thyme and bay leaves). Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. This meal can easily feed 8-10 people, and leftovers make for a delicious lunch the next day!
Notes and Variations: You can add other vegetables like peas or green beans for extra color and nutrition. Additionally, if you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1/4 cup of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Who doesn’t love tacos? This slow cooker chicken taco recipe is a crowd-pleaser and allows everyone to customize their own meal, making it perfect for large families.
Begin with 4 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Place them in the slow cooker and sprinkle with 2 packets of taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning). Add 1 cup of salsa and 1 can of black beans (rinsed and drained). Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Once cooked, shred the chicken with a fork and stir it back into the sauce. Serve with taco shells, shredded cheese, lettuce, and any other toppings your family enjoys. This recipe can easily serve 10 or more people, depending on how many tacos each person eats!
Notes and Variations: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with 4 cups of chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn. You can also use quinoa or lentils for added protein.
This hearty vegetarian chili is perfect for those meatless nights or for families looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet. It’s filling, flavorful, and packed with protein from beans.
Start by chopping 1 onion, 2 bell peppers, and 3 cloves of garlic. Add these to your slow cooker along with 2 cans of black beans, 2 cans of kidney beans, 2 cans of diced tomatoes, and 2 tablespoons of chili powder. Give it a good stir and season with salt and pepper. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This recipe serves around 10 people and can be served with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.
Notes and Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients like corn, zucchini, or even quinoa for extra texture. For a spicier chili, try adding jalapeños or red pepper flakes to taste. You can also top it with avocado, sour cream, or cheese for a little extra indulgence.
Cooking for a large family doesn’t have to be stressful! These examples of slow cooker recipes for large families are not only easy to prepare but also delicious and satisfying. Enjoy your cooking adventures!