Dust off the Crockpot

When you’re at the end of your rope, food can somehow soothe your nerves. The idea of comfort food is all about meals that make you feel like you’ve been wrapped in a warm hug. It seems like the richer and creamier the meal, the better you feel. But, having time to prepare comfort food meals is where the problem lies. With the kids back in school, football and volleyball games every week, along with a normal work day, spending 40 minute to cook is out of the question. It could be time to dust off the old crockpot and do slow cooking.

Pot Roasts

A pot roast is a staple comfort food and can be changed to suit your tastes. However, if you are looking for something yummy and easy, this Mississippi pot roast recipe  is a winner. After cooking for several hours, you’ll have fork tender beef that is perfect served over mashed potatoes or rice. Shred the roast for amazing tacos or nachos. Leftovers will make great hoagies too!

There is something about pot roast that can transport you back to your childhood and great memories.

Soups

Soups are an absolute mainstay of crockpot cooking. If you start with a great base, you can make countless varieties of soups. Most people start their soup bases with a broth or stock. A similar but richer choice is to use a bone broth. Bone broth is very similar to stock or broth but making bone broth uses a variety of meaty joint and bones simmered for an extensive period of time. Making soup with bone broth will give a richer flavor to the ingredients added. Add your vegetables, protein, and spices and you’ll have a soup with lots of healthy benefits. 

Pasta dishes

You can make a number of pasta dishes using your crockpot. Try making lasagna or an alfredo pasta in your slow cooker. One of my all time favorite crockpot pasta dishes is an ooey gooey macaroni and cheese. Just imagine a creamy Tuscan chicken that cooks while you’re going about your daily business. Just remember, your crockpot is for more than just soup!

Casseroles

What is better than a one pot meal? You can get cook a number of casseroles right in your crockpot! You’ll delight your family by starting the weekend with a delicious breakfast casserole that includes eggs, gravy, sausage, and cheese all prepared the night before. You just have to put the crock into the base and turn it on before everyone gets up.

Another childhood favorite meal that can absolutely be cooked in the crockpot is the  much loved tater tot casserole. I don’t know a child who didn’t get excited for a meal that included tater tots. Mix the ingredients ahead, pop it in the crockpot and voila! Instant childhood memories.

Don’t limit your comfort food meal options to just what can be cooked on the stove. The crockpot is more versatile than you remember.