19 Spring Slow Cooker Recipes to Welcome the Warmer Weather

2016-05-20
19 Spring Slow Cooker Recipes to Welcome the Warmer Weather

Get out and enjoy spring weather while dinner cooks itself! How? By putting our spring slow cooker recipes to delicious use. We've compiled some of our favorite spring slow cooker recipes to give you more time to enjoy the fresh air. The flavors of spring produce abound in these fresh spring slow cooker meals.

01 of 19

Slow-Cooked Pork Carnitas

This fresh spring slow cooker recipe is all about flavor. Boneless pork shoulder is rubbed with an eight-spice blend before slow cooking to juicy perfection. Keep the carb count low by enjoying the pork on lettuce rather than tortillas. Serve with fresh lime, cilantro, and the zippy tomato-avocado salsa.

02 of 19

Lemony Mussels With Cherry Tomatoes and Potatoes

Cooking mussels is easy when you use this spring slow cooker recipe. The little mussels get fantastic flavor after cooking with potatoes and cherry tomatoes all day. Finished with butter and lemon, you won't be able to get enough of this springtime meal. Serve with plenty of crusty bread for sopping up the delicious juices.

03 of 19

Slow-Cooked Moroccan Chicken

You're only eight ingredients away from this wow-worthy spring dinner. Juicy chicken thighs get a Moroccan-inspired kick with the help of curry powder and cinnamon. Dried plums (prunes) add sweetness and extra fiber to this spring slow cooker recipe.

04 of 19

Rosemary-Parmesan Bread With Garlic Butter

Get ready to utilize your herb garden for this spring slow cooker recipe to serve as a starter or side. Fresh rosemary is the star of this easy-to-make homemade loaf. The bread is baked in your slow cooker, then broiled in the oven for a crisp, golden crust.

05 of 19

Spicy Spring Picnic Pork

It's got spring and picnic in the title so you know this is going to be a winning recipe for the season. The four-ingredient dump dinner recipe utilizes a special secret ingredient (Dr. Pepper soda!) along with spicy barbecue sauce to achieve its signature flavor. Tote the delicious meat to the park and top the sandwiches with lettuce, pickles, and extra sauce.

06 of 19

Veggie Chili Verde With Seitan Crumbles and Lager

There's nothing quite like a bowl of chili on a cool day, but that doesn't mean you can't also enjoy it when the weather warms up. This spring vegetarian slow cooker recipe includes zucchini for a fresh seasonal addition. Seitan (wheat gluten) is the plant-based protein that gives the chili a surprisingly "beefy" texture.

07 of 19

Slow Cooker Taco Salad

Salad from a slow cooker? Why yes, absolutely! This delicious taco salad's beefy, spicy topper bubbles to tender perfection on your countertop. Toss it over crunchy greens and add chopped avocado, corn, and tomatoes for a bright springtime finish.

08 of 19

Beef and Broccoli

Hard to believe this saucy, fork-tender beef dish is weeknight easy—but courtesy of your slow cooker, it is! Freshly grated ginger, hoisin sauce, and garlic contribute to the flavorful sauce in this fabulous Asian-inspired dinner just as good as takeout. Serve over rice noodles or hot cooked rice to complete the meal.

09 of 19

Italian-Style Slow Cooker Meat Loaf

Sorry, Grandma, there's a new meat loaf recipe we love. Featuring ground lamb, fresh garlic, and peppers, this dish is made easily in your slow cooker. Seasonal zucchini makes a surprise appearance in this springtime slow cooker recipe.

10 of 19

Greek Sloppy Joe Pitas

Feta cheese, lamb, olives, and cucumber transform this lunch favorite into a whole new dish. Slices of flatbread or pita pockets are perfect for holding this Mediterranean sandwich together.

11 of 19

Slow Cooker Corn Chowder

This hearty chowder is perfect for those almost-warm-weather nights. It's warm and filling, but still has fresh spring flavor, thanks to fresh veggies and thyme. If you happen to have fresh corn on the cob, use it here instead of frozen to really amp up the seasonal nature.

12 of 19

Lentil- and Rice-Stuffed Peppers

Here's a spring slow cooker recipe for your next meatless Monday. Fill bell peppers with a delicious mix of lentils, brown rice, and veggies for a nutritious and easy make-ahead meal. If you prefer more-tender peppers, boil sweet pepper halves about three minutes, until they're crisp-tender, before stuffing.

13 of 19

Greek Chicken With Cucumber Salad

Lemon makes a splash in this bright Greek twist on a healthy spring slow cooker recipe. Featuring cool cucumber, fresh mint, and fat-free Greek yogurt, what's not to love? Top with fresh parsley and some lemon zest for a fancy finish.

14 of 19

Spicy Turkey Lasagna

Yes, you can make lasagna in your slow cooker! Our delicious, lightened-up spring slow cooker recipe features ground turkey for the meaty base. We amp up the spice factor with crushed red pepper flakes. And don't worry, there's still plenty of cheese involved.

15 of 19

Pesto Chicken Sandwiches

Vibrant green pesto celebrates all the herbal flavors that come with spring. Make your own pesto sauce using fresh herbs from the garden or use purchased to get this easy spring slow cooker meal together fast. Enjoy the delicious chicken-and-veggie mixture over thick slices of bread.

16 of 19

Slow Cooker Taco Meat Loaf

Get the best of both worlds by using tasty beef-and-pork meat loaf in your tacos. The loaf is jam-packed with tomatoes, corn, and crushed tortilla chips, making it a delicious taco filling. To make your meat loaf easy to remove, line the slow cooker with foil strips.

17 of 19

Coconut-Chicken Curry Stew

Chicken, sliced onion, and chopped carrots provide the savory curry base for this spicy spring slow cooker recipe. Simply toss the ingredients in your slow cooker and let the flavors meld for one seriously delicious stew. Serve with hot naan bread for dipping.

18 of 19

Slow-Cooked Beef Pozole

The longer pozole (a traditional soup popular in Mexican cuisine) cooks, the more delicious it gets. That's why this spring slow cooker recipe is going to be perfect to enjoy after a day outside in the sun. Serve your one-pot meal with queso fresco, cilantro, and lime wedges.

19 of 19

Braised Chicken With Fennel and Cannellini Beans

Braising meat doesn't have to be done via stove top or oven. In this high-fiber spring slow cooker meal, chicken, fennel, and bell peppers simmer in a tomato-wine sauce. By cooking with cannellini beans, you'll add a bit of extra protein to your dish.

Related Article

Chocolate Pudding Pie Is the Potluck Dessert Everyone Loves

Chocolate Pudding Pie Is the Potluck Dessert Everyone Loves

This easy chocolate pudding pie recipe starts with a purchased crust and is filled with luscious chocolate filling. Garnish the pie with piles of whipped cream and chocolate curls.
Crinkle Cake Is the Best Dessert You’ve Never Heard Of

Crinkle Cake Is the Best Dessert You’ve Never Heard Of

Crinkle cake is a shortcut dessert that's made with purchased phyllo dough and custard. Here's how to make this easy dessert at home.
Banoffee Pie Is Made with Decadent Layers of Caramel, Bananas, and Whipped Cream

Banoffee Pie Is Made with Decadent Layers of Caramel, Bananas, and Whipped Cream

We'll walk you through how to make banoffee pie. You'll fall in love with the layers of rich caramel, sliced bananas, and whipped cream. Don't forget the shaved chocolate on top!
Sourdough Discard Oatmeal Cookies

Sourdough Discard Oatmeal Cookies

This delicious oatmeal cookie recipe is a great use for sourdough discard. Use your choice of dried fruit to add flavor and texture to the sourdough discard recipe.
15 Easy Party Dips to Fill Up Your Appetizer Table Quickly

15 Easy Party Dips to Fill Up Your Appetizer Table Quickly

No matter which of these recipes you reach for, these easy party dips dazzle on every occasion. Perfect for big potlucks or small gatherings.
Our Calming Lemon Balm Tea Recipe Is Packed with Benefits—Here’s How to Make It

Our Calming Lemon Balm Tea Recipe Is Packed with Benefits—Here’s How to Make It

A soothing glass of lemon balm tea is our favorite way to enjoy the plentiful herb.
The Bicicletta Will Make You Feel Like You’re Summering in Italy with Every Sip

The Bicicletta Will Make You Feel Like You’re Summering in Italy with Every Sip

A mixture of an Aperol Spritz and negroni, the Bicicletta is satisfyingly bitter and refreshing. Plus, the low-proof cocktail brings the Mediterranean to you.
4 Must-Haves for a Self-Serve Margarita Bar Guests Will Love

4 Must-Haves for a Self-Serve Margarita Bar Guests Will Love

Impress your guests with this party-ready margarita bar—complete with a variety of garnishes, rimmers, and boozy stir-ins for customized cocktails.
Make-Ahead Frozen Margaritas

Make-Ahead Frozen Margaritas

Need a quick drink for a party, but don't want to spend all night playing bartender? These delicious make-ahead margaritas are the answer! Freeze them in jars overnight and they're all set for the next day.
34 Halloween Potluck Ideas for Dishes to Serve at Your Monster Mash

34 Halloween Potluck Ideas for Dishes to Serve at Your Monster Mash

Hosting a party for Halloween? Or maybe you're bringing a dish to a bash. We've got you covered with Halloween potluck ideas for happy gobblin'!
19 Fourth of July Picnic Ideas for a Tasty Outdoor Celebration

19 Fourth of July Picnic Ideas for a Tasty Outdoor Celebration

There's something for everyone on this list of Fourth of July picnic ideas, from star-spangled-salads to patriotic desserts.
Why You Should Be Adding Spirulina to Your Smoothies (and So Much More)

Why You Should Be Adding Spirulina to Your Smoothies (and So Much More)

The sustainable superfood algae called spirulina will give you a nutritional boost. Learn about the benefits of spirulina, plus why it's a sustainable option and how to eat more spirulina.
8 Anti-Inflammatory Foods to Add to Your Diet

8 Anti-Inflammatory Foods to Add to Your Diet

Add these anti-inflammatory foods to your diet to feel healthier and reduce the risk and impact of cancer, heart disease, and other chronic health issues.
The Surprising Ingredient in Raw Cookie Dough (Besides Eggs) That Could Make You Sick

The Surprising Ingredient in Raw Cookie Dough (Besides Eggs) That Could Make You Sick

Study up on the risks of eating raw cookie dough. You’re probably familiar with the danger of raw eggs, but did you know that raw flour can pose a health risk, too? Dietitians and a food safety specialist share more about raw cookie dough risks and how to stay safe as you enjoy cookie recipes and other baked goods.
Should You Wash Bananas After Bringing Them Home? Experts Clear Up the Confusion

Should You Wash Bananas After Bringing Them Home? Experts Clear Up the Confusion

Should you wash bananas after bringing them home? It might seem unnecessary since you peel the fruit before eating, but there are two very valid reasons why you should wash bananas before storing them. Learn more about the benefits of washing bananas and snag pro tips to keep them fresh for as long as possible.
How to Make Oven-Dried Tomatoes (Including a Bonus Dehydrator Method!)

How to Make Oven-Dried Tomatoes (Including a Bonus Dehydrator Method!)

Here's how to dry tomatoes in the oven or dehydrator, including our Test Kitchen's secret for storing the dried tomatoes for up to 9 months.
Canned Food Recipes For When You Want to Cook From Your Pantry

Canned Food Recipes For When You Want to Cook From Your Pantry

Think outside the box with our best canned food recipes. Featuring beans, pumpkin, tomatoes, coconut milk, crab, and so much more, these globe-trotting canned food recipes prove that budget-friendly pantry staples can transform into a restaurant-quality meal.
8 Tips for How to Make Pancake Mix Better-Tasting Than Homemade

8 Tips for How to Make Pancake Mix Better-Tasting Than Homemade

Get that made-from-scratch taste with these easy hacks for how to make pancake mix better-tasting than homemade.
Santa Fe Turkey Wraps

Santa Fe Turkey Wraps

Planning a picnic? Make sure you include these tasty turkey wraps in your basket! They have a few classic ingredients, like avocado, tomato, and lettuce, and one or two to spice things up, like roasted corn and jalapeno cream cheese.
Follow These Tips for the Best Grilled Burgers You've Ever Tasted

Follow These Tips for the Best Grilled Burgers You've Ever Tasted

It's not summer without a homemade burger on the grill and all the extras that go with it. Follow our Test Kitchen tips for the perfect burger.