Walmart Crock-Pot Slow Cooker: Mom-Approved Recipes and Review

As a busy mom, finding ways to simplify meal preparation is always a top priority. That’s why I’ve become a huge fan of slow cookers, and specifically the Crock-Pot models available at Walmart. They’re affordable, reliable, and make it incredibly easy to put delicious and healthy meals on the table with minimal effort. In this blog post, I’ll share my honest review of Walmart’s Crock-Pot slow cookers, along with some of my family’s favorite recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.

## Why I Love My Walmart Crock-Pot Slow Cooker

Before diving into recipes, let’s talk about why I chose a Crock-Pot from Walmart. Here’s what I appreciate most:

* **Affordability:** Walmart offers a wide range of Crock-Pot slow cookers at various price points, making it easy to find one that fits your budget. You don’t have to break the bank to get a quality slow cooker.
* **Variety of Sizes and Features:** Whether you’re cooking for a small family or a crowd, Walmart has a Crock-Pot to suit your needs. They offer different sizes (from small 2-quart models to large 7-quart ones) and various features like programmable timers, automatic keep-warm settings, and digital displays.
* **Convenience:** The whole point of a slow cooker is convenience, and Walmart’s Crock-Pots deliver. They’re easy to use, easy to clean (especially the models with dishwasher-safe stoneware), and free up your time to focus on other things.
* **Reliability:** I’ve owned several Crock-Pot slow cookers over the years, and they’ve all been incredibly reliable. They consistently cook food evenly and maintain a consistent temperature, ensuring delicious results every time.
* **Availability:** Walmart is everywhere! This means easy access and convenient purchasing, whether online or in-store.

## My Top Crock-Pot Picks at Walmart

Here are a few specific Crock-Pot models I recommend checking out at Walmart:

* **Crock-Pot 7-Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker (Walmart Exclusive):** This is a great all-around option for families. The 7-quart capacity is perfect for larger meals, and the manual controls are simple and straightforward. It’s also very affordable.
* **Crock-Pot 6-Quart Programmable Cook and Carry Slow Cooker:** If you need to transport your slow cooker to potlucks or gatherings, this is an excellent choice. It has a locking lid and carry handles to prevent spills. The programmable timer allows you to set the cooking time and temperature, and it automatically switches to keep-warm mode when cooking is complete.
* **Crock-Pot 4.5-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker:** A more compact option that’s great for smaller families or couples. It has programmable settings and a digital display for easy operation.
* **Crock-Pot 2-Quart Round Manual Slow Cooker:** Perfect for dips, appetizers, or side dishes. Its small size makes it easy to store.

## Mom-Approved Crock-Pot Recipes for Walmart Slow Cookers

Now for the fun part – the recipes! These are some of my family’s absolute favorites, and they’re all incredibly easy to make in a Walmart Crock-Pot.

### 1. Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

This is a classic for a reason. It’s incredibly versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.

**Ingredients:**

* 3-4 pound pork shoulder (butt roast)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
* 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
* 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
* Hamburger buns, coleslaw, and pickles for serving

**Instructions:**

1. Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder.
2. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned.
4. Place the pork shoulder in the Crock-Pot.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar (if using).
6. Pour the sauce over the pork shoulder in the Crock-Pot.
7. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the pork is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
8. Remove the pork from the Crock-Pot and shred it with two forks. Discard any excess fat.
9. Return the shredded pork to the Crock-Pot and stir to coat it with the sauce.
10. Serve on hamburger buns with coleslaw and pickles.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little heat.
* **Add sweetness:** Use a sweeter barbecue sauce or add more brown sugar to the sauce.
* **Use different cuts of pork:** You can also use a pork loin roast, but it will be leaner and may require less cooking time.
* **Serve it differently:** Use the pulled pork in tacos, sliders, or salads.

### 2. Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

This soup is packed with flavor and perfect for a chilly evening.

**Ingredients:**

* 1.5 – 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
* 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel)
* 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
* 1 packet taco seasoning
* 4 cups chicken broth
* Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips, cilantro

**Instructions:**

1. Place the chicken breasts in the Crock-Pot.
2. Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes and green chilies, cream of chicken soup, taco seasoning, and chicken broth.
3. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
5. Remove the chicken from the Crock-Pot and shred it with two forks.
6. Return the shredded chicken to the Crock-Pot and stir to combine.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables like diced onions, bell peppers, or zucchini.
* **Use a different protein:** You can substitute the chicken with ground turkey or shredded beef.
* **Make it spicier:** Add a chopped jalapeño pepper or more taco seasoning.
* **Thicken the soup:** If you prefer a thicker soup, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir it into the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

### 3. Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Comfort food at its finest! This pot roast is tender, flavorful, and so easy to make.

**Ingredients:**

* 3-4 pound beef chuck roast
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1 pound baby potatoes, quartered
* 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cups beef broth
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening gravy)
* 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening gravy)

**Instructions:**

1. Season the beef chuck roast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned.
3. Place the potatoes, carrots, and onion in the bottom of the Crock-Pot.
4. Place the seared roast on top of the vegetables.
5. Pour beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the roast.
6. Sprinkle with dried thyme.
7. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the roast is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
8. Remove the roast and vegetables from the Crock-Pot. Set aside and keep warm.
9. If you want to thicken the gravy, whisk together cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. Stir the mixture into the juices in the Crock-Pot.
10. Cover and cook on high for 15-20 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened.
11. Shred the roast with two forks. Serve with the vegetables and gravy.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add other vegetables:** You can also add other vegetables like celery, parsnips, or turnips.
* **Use red wine:** Substitute 1 cup of beef broth with 1 cup of red wine for a richer flavor.
* **Add balsamic vinegar:** A tablespoon of balsamic vinegar adds a touch of sweetness and acidity to the gravy.
* **Make it extra flavorful:** Brown the vegetables in the skillet before adding them to the Crock-Pot.

### 4. Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

A creamy, cheesy comfort food that’s perfect for a potluck or family gathering.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound elbow macaroni
* 4 cups milk
* 4 tablespoons butter, melted
* 2 teaspoons salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
* 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
* Optional: breadcrumbs for topping

**Instructions:**

1. Grease the inside of the Crock-Pot.
2. Add the macaroni, milk, melted butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to the Crock-Pot.
3. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. After 2-3 hours, stir in the cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and creamy.
6. If desired, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and cook on high for 15 minutes to brown the topping.
7. Serve hot.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Use different cheeses:** Experiment with different cheese combinations, such as Gruyere, Parmesan, or Gouda.
* **Add bacon:** Cooked and crumbled bacon adds a smoky flavor to the mac and cheese.
* **Add vegetables:** Steamed broccoli, peas, or cauliflower can be added for a healthier twist.
* **Make it spicy:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

### 5. Slow Cooker Applesauce

A healthy and delicious snack or side dish that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.

**Ingredients:**

* 6-8 apples (such as Gala, Honeycrisp, or Fuji), peeled, cored, and chopped
* 1/4 cup water
* 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
* 1 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice

**Instructions:**

1. Place the chopped apples in the Crock-Pot.
2. Add water, brown sugar (if using), cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
3. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the apples are very soft.
5. Mash the apples with a potato masher or use an immersion blender to create a smooth applesauce.
6. Let cool slightly before serving.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Use different apples:** Experiment with different apple varieties to create different flavor profiles.
* **Add other spices:** Try adding a pinch of cloves or ginger.
* **Adjust the sweetness:** Add more or less brown sugar to taste.
* **Make it chunky:** If you prefer a chunky applesauce, mash the apples less thoroughly.

## Tips for Using Your Walmart Crock-Pot Slow Cooker

* **Don’t overfill the slow cooker:** It should be no more than two-thirds full.
* **Don’t lift the lid too often:** Each time you lift the lid, it releases heat and increases the cooking time.
* **Use the keep-warm setting:** If you’re not ready to serve the food immediately, use the keep-warm setting to keep it at a safe temperature.
* **Clean your slow cooker properly:** Always unplug the slow cooker before cleaning it. Wash the stoneware insert with warm, soapy water. Most stoneware inserts are dishwasher-safe, but check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Wipe down the exterior of the slow cooker with a damp cloth.
* **Consider using slow cooker liners:** These disposable liners make cleanup a breeze.

## My Final Thoughts: Is a Walmart Crock-Pot Worth It?

Absolutely! For the price, convenience, and reliability, a Crock-Pot slow cooker from Walmart is an excellent investment for any busy mom (or anyone who wants to simplify meal preparation). It’s a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to make a wide variety of delicious and healthy meals with minimal effort. I highly recommend it!

I hope this review and these recipes have inspired you to try out a Walmart Crock-Pot slow cooker. Happy cooking!