12 Crock Pot Recipes For A Crowd

Cooking for a crowd can sometimes feel like a daunting task, especially when you’re juggling multiple responsibilities. But don’t worry—your Crockpot is here to save the day! These slow cooker recipes are perfect for feeding a large group without the stress.

Whether it’s a family gathering, a game day, or a potluck, these dishes are easy to make and packed with flavor. From hearty stews to creamy pasta, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s dive into these mouthwatering recipes that will have your guests coming back for seconds!

1. Chicken and Dumplings

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours | Serves: 8

Chicken and dumplings is a comforting classic that’s perfect for a crowd. This recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy broth for a meal that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 2 cups biscuit dough or pre-made biscuit mix
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Place chicken thighs in your Crockpot and season with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour chicken broth over the chicken and cook on low for 5 hours.
3. After 5 hours, shred the chicken using two forks. Add the frozen vegetables and heavy cream. Stir well.
4. Drop small spoonfuls of biscuit dough on top of the mixture to form dumplings. Cover and cook for an additional hour, or until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy the cozy goodness!

2. Chili for a Crowd

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 8 hours | Serves: 10

Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for feeding a hungry group. This recipe is simple to prepare and allows the flavors to meld beautifully in the slow cooker.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess fat and transfer the meat to the Crockpot.
2. Add diced onion, minced garlic, beans, tomatoes, beef broth, and all spices to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Serve with cornbread, cheese, or sour cream for a perfect meal!

3. Salisbury Steak

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours | Serves: 8

This Salisbury steak recipe is made with juicy patties and rich gravy. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or egg noodles.

Ingredients

1. 2 lbs ground beef
2. 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
3. 1 egg
4. 1 small onion, finely diced
5. 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
6. 2 cups beef broth
7. 1 cup sliced mushrooms
8. 2 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
9. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, diced onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Form into 8 patties.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the patties on both sides until browned. Transfer to the Crockpot.
3. Add beef broth and sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook on low for 5 hours.
4. Mix cornstarch with water to form a slurry. Add it to the pot in the final hour of cooking to thicken the gravy.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

4. Swedish Meatballs

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours | Serves: 8

Swedish meatballs in a creamy sauce are a delightful option for any crowd. They’re rich, flavorful, and easy to make in a slow cooker.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs frozen meatballs (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp flour (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Place the meatballs in the Crockpot.
2. In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour over the meatballs.
3. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours.
4. In the final hour, add the flour slurry to thicken the sauce. Stir well.
5. Serve over egg noodles or mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.

5. Beef Stroganoff

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 7 hours | Serves: 8

Beef Stroganoff is a classic comfort food that combines tender beef, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce. This slow cooker version is effortless and perfect for feeding a group.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 cups sliced mushrooms
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Egg noodles for serving

Instructions

1. Place the beef, diced onion, and sliced mushrooms in the Crockpot.
2. Add beef broth and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours until the beef is tender.
4. In the final hour, mix in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Just before serving, stir in the sour cream for a creamy finish.
5. Serve hot over cooked egg noodles.

6. Pot Roast

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 8 hours | Serves: 8

Pot roast is a classic, hearty dish that’s a staple for feeding a large group. This slow cooker version ensures the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Ingredients

• 3-4 lbs chuck roast
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 potatoes, cut into large pieces
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. Sear it in a hot skillet on both sides for a golden crust, then transfer to the Crockpot.
2. Add onions, carrots, and potatoes around the roast.
3. Mix beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and thyme in a bowl. Pour over the roast and vegetables.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the roast is fork-tender.
5. Slice and serve with the vegetables and juices from the pot.

7. French Onion Soup

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours | Serves: 8

French onion soup in a Crockpot is a crowd-pleasing, flavorful dish that doesn’t require standing over the stove. It’s rich and comforting, with caramelized onions and melty cheese.

Ingredients

• 6 large onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp butter
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 baguette, sliced and toasted
• 2 cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese

Instructions

1. Place the sliced onions and butter in the Crockpot. Cook on high for 1 hour to caramelize slightly.
2. Add beef broth, wine, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Cook on low for 5-6 hours, allowing the flavors to deepen.
4. To serve, ladle the soup into bowls, top with a slice of toasted baguette, and sprinkle with cheese. Broil in the oven until the cheese melts and bubbles.

8. Chicken Tetrazzini

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours | Serves: 10

Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for a party or family gathering. The slow cooker makes it a breeze to prepare.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 lb spaghetti, cooked al dente
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In the Crockpot, combine chicken, chicken broth, heavy cream, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
2. Add the cooked spaghetti and mix until evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours. Stir before serving and enjoy the cheesy goodness!

9. Corned Beef and Cabbage

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 8 hours | Serves: 8

Corned beef and cabbage is a traditional favorite for large gatherings. This CrockPot version makes it incredibly easy while keeping all the classic flavors intact.

Ingredients

• 3-4 lbs corned beef brisket (with seasoning packet)
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 6 small red potatoes, halved
• 1 small green cabbage, cut into wedges
• 4 cups water
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar

Instructions

1. Place the corned beef brisket in the Crockpot, fat side up. Sprinkle the seasoning packet on top.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and potatoes around the brisket. Pour in the water, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar.
3. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
4. In the last hour, add the cabbage wedges to the Crockpot. Cook until tender.
5. Slice the corned beef against the grain and serve with the vegetables.

10. Beef Barley Soup

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 8 hours | Serves: 10

Beef barley soup is a hearty and nutritious option for feeding a crowd. This slow-cooked version is flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 3/4 cup pearl barley
• 8 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Place the beef, onion, carrots, celery, barley, and diced tomatoes in the Crockpot.
2. Pour in the beef broth and add garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Serve hot with crusty bread.

11. Chipotle Brisket Sliders

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 10 hours | Serves: 12 sliders

These chipotle brisket sliders are smoky, spicy, and perfect for a party. Serve them on mini buns for a fun and easy-to-eat meal.

Ingredients

• 3-4 lbs beef brisket
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 cup chipotle barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 12 slider buns

Instructions

1. Place the brisket in the Crockpot and top with sliced onion.
2. Mix the barbecue sauce and beef broth together and pour over the brisket.
3. Cover and cook on low for 10 hours, or until the brisket is tender and shreds easily.
4. Shred the brisket using two forks and mix it with the sauce.
5. Serve the brisket on slider buns with your favorite toppings like coleslaw or pickles.

12. Bolognese Sauce Over Pappardelle Pasta

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 8 hours | Serves: 10

This rich and hearty Bolognese sauce is perfect for serving over wide pappardelle pasta. It’s a comforting dish that will impress any crowd.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup dry red wine
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb pappardelle pasta, cooked

Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Transfer to the Crockpot.
2. Add red wine, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, milk, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours. Stir occasionally if possible.
4. Serve the Bolognese sauce over cooked pappardelle pasta, garnished with Parmesan cheese.

Conclusion

Cooking for a crowd doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming, especially when you have a trusty Crockpot by your side. These easy-to-follow recipes are perfect for feeding a large group with minimal effort, all while delivering mouthwatering, comforting meals that everyone will enjoy. From hearty stews to creamy pastas and tender meats, there’s something for every taste and occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a party, or just looking for an easy weeknight meal, these Crockpot recipes allow you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones. The slow-cooking process ensures that each dish is infused with rich flavors, making every bite satisfying.

So, gather your ingredients, set your Crockpot, and get ready to enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals that will impress your guests. Happy cooking, and may your next crowd-pleasing meal be one for the books!