If you're new to the Crock-Pot game, you're probably content with a few staple soup [1] and stew [2] recipes. But once you're ready to elevate your slow-cooker repertoire to the next level, the possibilities are endless. Here, 13 surprising ways to put every mom's favorite kitchen appliance to work — is there anything that this thing can't do?!
Apple-Spiced Butter
It may take almost 24 hours to come together, but this Apple Spiced Butter [3] requires virtually no hands-on time.
Chex Mix
Any mom who has ever planned a party has searched for ways to simplify the prep work, and this Crock-Pot Chex Mix [4] goes straight to the top of our lists.
Chicken Wings
Next time you're hosting a big game day or tailgate party, follow Damn Delicious's lead for making a a batch of Sticky Chicken Wings [5].
Triple Chocolate Brownies
Whip up a batch of ooey, gooey Triple Chocolate Brownies [6] the Martha Stewart [7] way — in your Crock-Pot.
Steel-Cut Crock-Pot Oatmeal
Oatmeal sound too involved for school days? Make a big batch of this Crock-Pot oatmeal [8] at the beginning of the week to ensure a hot and hearty breakfast for your family from Monday through Friday.
Cupcakes
We'd never heard of this either, but Damn Delicious's Pumpkin Mocha Cupcakes [9] are certainly incentive to give it a try!
BBQ Ribs
Barbecue purists may debate the method, but there's no arguing with the efficiency and ease of Crock-Pot ribs [10].
Loaded Baked Potatoes
A little advance prep in the morning means that you'll have the most tender and delicious baked potatoes [11] come dinnertime!
Cinnamon Pecan French Toast
Crock-Pot french toast [12] is the perfect thing to make if you've got company coming over for weekend brunch.
White Chocolate Raspberry and Cream Cake
You can always bake a cake, but did you know that you could also slow-cook it? Betty Crocker's White Chocolate Raspberry and Cream Cake [13] is elegant enough to serve for dinner guests, but easy enough to make for your family on an average weeknight — all it takes is a little advance work.
Breakfast Potatoes
Throw these easy breakfast potatoes [14] into the slow cooker in the evening, and have a hearty, decadent morning side dish ready to go when you wake up.
Hot Chocolate
How Sweet Eats takes the favorite cold-weather drink to entirely new levels with this Coconut Hot Chocolate [15] that you make in the Crock-Pot.
Eggplant Parmesan
A new way to prep an old-school Italian favorite — try a savory batch of eggplant parm [16] in the Crock-Pot. (It's perfect for Meatless Mondays [17]!)