Slow Cooker Staples for National Family Meals Month

We know that cooking during the workweek can be challenging. And to those of you who do find the time to whip up a gourmet-ish dinner on a Tuesday or Wednesday night – well, we salute you. And we’re sure your family appreciates your admirable efforts in the kitchen too.

Roasting a whole chicken with a side of sauteed green beans and garlic mashed potatoes would probably be gladly received by many of us on just about any night of the week. But taking the time to prepare a dinner like this is another story.

Thank goodness for the trusty slow-cooker. With only a few ingredients and a few minutes of prep in the morning, we can leave our homes for work or a slew of errands and know that dinner will be (mostly) made when we return in the evening. Let’s not forget to mention the clean-up is a breeze. One-pot dinners are always essential when it comes time to wash the dishes.

The most lovely part of it all is that we can spend the time with our families and loved ones that we would’ve spent slaving away over the stove. And to us, that’s what matters most about family meals. The time we spend around the table, catching up, reflecting, and excitedly planning for weekend getaways or big vacations.

So to honor National Family Meals Month and that quality time around the dinner table, we’re sharing some of the best  Fall slow cooker recipes we’ve found.

Pumpkin Soup

Celebrate the flavors of fall with this soup that got sweet and spice, and everything nice.

Barley Risotto with Mushrooms & Leeks

This creamy and earthy screams Autumn time and makes for wonderful leftovers too.

Slow Cooker “Baked Apples”

Quick and oh, so easy, this recipe will be your go-to dessert for guests this Fall and Winter.

Vegetarian Sweet Potato Chili

Perfect for a cold night, this deliciously healthy chili is jam-packed with protein and fiber.

Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie

Creamy and full of protein and veggies, this classic family recipe gets a re-boot, in slow cooker form.

Chicago-Style Italian Beef Sandwiches

While they’re quite messy, your family will fall in love with this classic recipe for Chicago beef sandwiches.

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Soothing and scrumptious, the creamy lemony broth makes an irresistible base for chicken, veggies, and orzo.