14 Perfect Crock Pot Side Dishes For Every Meal

Cooking side dishes can sometimes feel like a hassle, especially when you’re trying to juggle multiple tasks in the kitchen. But with a Crock Pot, you can simplify meal preparation and still create delicious, flavorful dishes with minimal effort.

A Crock Pot (also known as a slow cooker) is one of the best kitchen tools for making perfect side dishes that everyone will love. From Crock Pot scalloped potatoes to a creamy Crock Pot macaroni and cheese, these side dishes are perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a holiday meal, or simply looking for easy everyday recipes, Crock Pot side dishes are a life-saver. The beauty of cooking in a Crock Pot is that you can “set it and forget it,” giving you time to focus on other things.

Plus, these dishes tend to be rich in flavor and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ready to get started? Here are 14 fantastic Crock Pot side dishes that you’ll want to make time and time again!

1. Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 4 hours | Serves: 6-8

If you love creamy, cheesy potatoes, this Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes recipe will quickly become a favorite. I adore how easy this dish is to prepare, and the slow cooker does most of the work for you. The potatoes turn out tender and soaked in a creamy cheese sauce, making it the perfect side dish for almost any meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions:

1. Grease the inside of your Crock Pot with butter or cooking spray.
2. Layer the sliced potatoes in the Crock Pot, starting with a layer of potatoes at the bottom.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour half of the mixture over the potatoes.
4. Sprinkle a little cheese on top of the cream mixture.
5. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and cheese.
6. Top the final layer with butter pieces.
7. Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
8. Serve and enjoy!

2. Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Mash

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 3 hours | Serves: 4-6

This Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Mash is a perfect low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes. The cauliflower becomes soft and creamy when cooked in the Crock Pot, and the garlic and parmesan cheese add incredible flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the cauliflower florets and garlic to the Crock Pot.
2. Pour in 1 cup of water and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cover and cook on low for 3 hours, or until the cauliflower is soft.
4. Once done, mash the cauliflower with a potato masher or an immersion blender.
5. Stir in the parmesan, cream cheese, and butter.
6. Continue mashing until smooth and creamy. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve and enjoy this deliciously creamy side dish!

3. Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 4 hours | Serves: 6-8

Who doesn’t love a big bowl of mashed potatoes? This Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe is incredibly easy to make in your Crock Pot, and the cheesy, garlicky goodness will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 5 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the potatoes, garlic, and a pinch of salt to your Crock Pot. Pour in enough water to cover the potatoes.
2. Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the Crock Pot.
4. Add the butter, sour cream, milk, and cheddar cheese to the potatoes.
5. Mash everything together until creamy and smooth.
6. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, and serve!

4. Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 3 hours | Serves: 6-8

This Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty side dish that everyone will love. The rice is cooked perfectly in the slow cooker, and the broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrition. This is a great option if you want something a bit more substantial alongside your meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Grease the inside of the Crock Pot with butter or cooking spray.
2. Combine the rice, broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk in the Crock Pot.
3. Stir well, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cover and cook on low for about 3 hours, or until the rice is cooked and the broccoli is tender.
5. Stir in the shredded cheese and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

5. Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 4 hours | Serves: 6-8

For those looking for a vegetable-packed, cheesy side dish, this Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is the perfect choice. The cauliflower is cooked until tender and then smothered in a creamy cheese sauce, making it a comforting and delicious dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Grease the Crock Pot with butter or cooking spray.
2. Place the cauliflower florets into the Crock Pot.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the mixture over the cauliflower and stir to coat.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
6. Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours, or until the cauliflower is tender.
7. Serve warm and enjoy this cheesy, comforting dish!

6. Crock-Pot Cheesy Grits

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 3 hours | Serves: 6-8

If you’re craving something warm and creamy with a Southern flair, this Crock-Pot Cheesy Grits recipe is the perfect side dish. Grits are already a comforting base, but adding cheese makes them rich and flavorful, perfect to pair with almost any main dish. You’ll love how easy this recipe is to prepare, and the slow cooker does all the work!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup grits
• 4 cups water
• 2 cups milk
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In the Crock Pot, combine the grits, water, and milk. Stir well to combine.
2. Cover and cook on low for about 3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure the grits don’t stick.
3. Once the grits are soft and creamy, stir in the butter, cheddar cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is well mixed.
5. Serve warm and enjoy this cheesy, comforting dish!

7. Crock-Pot Creamed Corn

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 3 hours | Serves: 6-8

For a classic side dish that pairs wonderfully with just about anything, Crock-Pot Creamed Corn is a must-try. The sweetness of the corn combined with a creamy sauce makes this dish irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make and will definitely be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups frozen corn kernels
• 1 can (14 oz) cream-style corn
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In the Crock Pot, combine the frozen corn, cream-style corn, and heavy cream.
2. Add the butter, salt, and pepper, and stir well to mix everything together.
3. Cover and cook on low for 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Once it’s heated through and creamy, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Serve warm and enjoy this deliciously simple side dish!

8. Crock-Pot Macaroni and Cheese

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 2-3 hours | Serves: 6-8

When it comes to side dishes, Crock-Pot Macaroni and Cheese is a classic favorite. This creamy, cheesy dish is perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or any time you’re craving a cheesy comfort food. It’s so easy to make in the Crock Pot, and you won’t have to worry about stirring it constantly.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Grease the Crock Pot with butter or cooking spray.
2. Add the uncooked macaroni, milk, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the Crock Pot. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally until the macaroni is cooked and the sauce is creamy.
4. Once the pasta is done, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and incorporated.
5. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese!

9. Crock-Pot Mexican Street Corn Dip

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 2-3 hours | Serves: 6-8

If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful side dish that’s a little different, try this Crock-Pot Mexican Street Corn Dip. Inspired by Mexican street corn, this creamy dip has the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors. It’s great for parties, BBQs, or as a side dish with any meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups frozen corn kernels
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ cup crumbled feta or cotija cheese
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In the Crock Pot, combine the frozen corn, sour cream, mayonnaise, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Stir everything together to mix well.
3. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Before serving, stir in the crumbled feta or cotija cheese for that perfect cheesy flavor.
5. Serve warm, and enjoy this flavorful Mexican-inspired side dish!

10. Herbed Wild Rice Pilaf

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 4 hours | Serves: 6-8

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful side dish, this Herbed Wild Rice Pilaf is just what you need. The combination of wild rice and fresh herbs makes this dish aromatic and savory, and it pairs wonderfully with chicken, beef, or pork.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup wild rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or rosemary
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the wild rice, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, and fresh herbs to the Crock Pot.
2. Stir well and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Stir in the butter just before serving for extra richness.
5. Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful rice pilaf!

11. Parmesan Zucchini and Squash

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 3 hours | Serves: 4-6

If you’re looking for a lighter side dish, Parmesan Zucchini and Squash is a wonderful option. The zucchini and squash are cooked perfectly in the Crock Pot, absorbing the flavors of the parmesan cheese and seasoning.

Ingredients:

• 2 zucchinis, sliced
• 2 yellow squash, sliced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the sliced zucchini and squash to the Crock Pot.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir to coat the vegetables evenly.
4. Cover and cook on low for about 3 hours, until the zucchini and squash are tender.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve warm and enjoy this simple, healthy side dish!

12. Crock-Pot Ratatouille

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 4 hours | Serves: 6-8

Crock-Pot Ratatouille is a colorful and delicious vegetable dish that’s perfect as a side or even as a main vegetarian meal. The combination of eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and bell peppers creates a fresh, vibrant dish that’s full of flavor. This is a great option if you’re looking to incorporate more vegetables into your meals.

Ingredients:

• 1 eggplant, chopped
• 2 zucchinis, chopped
• 2 bell peppers, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Add all the chopped vegetables to the Crock Pot.
2. Sprinkle with garlic, dried basil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and flavorful.
5. Serve warm as a side dish or over rice for a complete meal!

13. Crock-Pot Garlic Butter Mushrooms

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 3 hours | Serves: 4-6

Crock-Pot Garlic Butter Mushrooms are a savory and rich side dish that’s incredibly easy to make. The mushrooms soak up the garlic butter sauce, creating a delicious, melt-in-your-mouth experience. They pair perfectly with steaks, chicken, or even pasta dishes.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz mushrooms, whole or sliced
• ½ cup butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the mushrooms to the Crock Pot.
2. In a small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave and mix with garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the garlic butter over the mushrooms and stir to coat.
4. Cover and cook on low for about 3 hours, or until the mushrooms are tender.
5. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

14. Crock-Pot Sweet and Spicy Peppers

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 3 hours | Serves: 4-6

For a side dish that’s both sweet and spicy, this Crock-Pot Sweet and Spicy Peppers recipe is fantastic. The peppers are tender and flavorful, with just the right balance of sweetness and heat. It’s a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or tacos.

Ingredients:

• 4 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the sliced peppers to the Crock Pot.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with brown sugar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the apple cider vinegar over the peppers and stir well to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for about 3 hours, until the peppers are tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!

Conclusion

Making side dishes doesn’t have to be a stressful part of cooking. With the help of a Crock Pot, you can prepare flavorful, comforting dishes with little effort.

Whether you’re making creamy Crock-Pot mashed potatoes, a cheesy Crock-Pot macaroni and cheese, or healthy Crock-Pot roasted Brussels sprouts, these recipes are guaranteed to make your meal more enjoyable.

The best part is that the Crock Pot allows you to set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other tasks. So, whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just looking for an easy way to add more flavor to your meals, these Crock Pot side dishes will help you create the perfect meal with ease.

By trying out these recipes, you’ll discover just how versatile the Crock Pot is and how it can transform simple ingredients into mouth-watering sides. Give them a try and enjoy the time-saving, delicious results!