These easy side dishes come together in your slow cooker, so they won't warm up your house on hot summer days. Bonus? They're easy to pack for a picnic.
37 Easy Summer Side Dishes for the Slow Cooker
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Cowboy Calico Beans
This is a tradition at the table when my girlfriends and I go up north for a girls’ weekend. The husbands and kids are left at home, but the slow cooker comes with us! —Julie Butsch, Hartland, Wisconsin
2/37
Slow-Cooked Summer Squash
From the Recipe Creator:
We love squash, but I got tired of fixing just plain squash and cheese. I decided to jazz up the dish a bit. This was a huge hit with my family. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 111 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 442mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
Check out these slow-cooked dinners, too.
3/37
Slow-Cooked Corn on the Cob
From the Recipe Creator:
I like to eat corn all year long, so I came up with this recipe. It's my favorite side to serve when I make sloppy joes. You can use a butter substitute for a skinny version of this corn. —Teresa Flowers, Sacramento, California
Nutrition Facts:
4 pieces: 161 calories, 9g fat (6g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 118mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
4/37
Buffalo Wing Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
I was getting tired of mashed and baked potatoes, so I decided to create something new. This potluck-ready recipe is an easy and delicious twist on the usual potato dish. —Summer Feaker, Ankeny, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 182 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 382mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1/2 fat.
5/37
Black-Eyed Peas
From the Recipe Creator:
I find that pork is the secret to a good black-eyed peas recipe. A double dose of ham for flavor and slow, gentle cooking creates this perfect side dish. —Emory Doty, Jasper, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 359 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 788mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 14g fiber), 20g protein.
6/37
Crockpot Mashed Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Sour cream and cream cheese give richness to these smooth make-ahead potatoes. They are wonderful for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner since there's no last-minute mashing required. —Trudy Vincent, Valles Mines, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 210 calories, 11g fat (7g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 670mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein.
7/37
Jalapeno Corn
From the Recipe Creator:
This comforting and creamy corn side dish is appealing to almost everyone. It gets its spicy kick from jalapeno peppers.—Judy Carty, Wichita, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 251 calories, 16g fat (10g saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 275mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein.
8/37
Oregano Green Beans with Toasted Pine Nuts
From the Recipe Creator:
This super easy side dish is a wonderful picnic or potluck recipe. It’s a beautiful, surprising mix that leaves guests and family raving. You can substitute any kind of nut for the pine nuts or even replace them with fresh berries. —Wolfgang Hanau, West Palm Beach, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 94 calories, 6g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 191mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
9/37
Slow-Cooker Citrus Carrots
From the Recipe Creator:
These carrots are yummy and so simple to make. The recipe is from my mom, who tweaked it a bit to suit her taste. You can make the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it until needed—then just reheat it before serving! —Julie Puderbaugh, Berwick, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 136 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 208mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 5g fiber), 1g protein.
10/37
Onion-Garlic Hash Browns
From the Recipe Creator:
Quick to assemble, this is a simple recipe I’ve cooked many times. Stir in hot sauce if you like a bit of heat. I also like to top the finished dish with a sprinkling of shredded cheddar cheese. —Cindi Hayward-Boger, Ardmore, Alabama
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 110 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 136mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
11/37
Vegan Baked Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
This version of vegan baked beans doesn't need an oven. The slow cooker makes it the ultimate hands-off party dish. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 294 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 161mg sodium, 60g carbohydrate (27g sugars, 9g fiber), 13g protein.
12/37
Kentucky Spoon Bread
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a traditional Kentucky recipe. It’s a popular side dish served all year long. If you’ve never tried spoon bread before, I think you’ll find it’s tasty and comforting. —Caroline Brown, Lexington, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 192 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 87mg cholesterol, 433mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
13/37
Green Beans in Bacon Cheese Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
I like to take this side dish to potlucks, because it is easy to make and always popular. —Karen Lewis, Pleasant Grove, Alabama
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 137 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 817mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 7g protein.
14/37
Slow-Cooked Ranch Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Even after seven years, my family still asks for this tasty potato and bacon dish. Try it once and I'll bet your family will be hooked, too. —Lynn Ireland, Lebanon, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 230 calories, 12g fat (6g saturated fat), 33mg cholesterol, 545mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein.
15/37
Slow-Cooker Broccoli Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
This family-favorite side dish is quick to fix and full of flavor. Because it simmers in a slow cooker, it frees up my oven for other things. That's a tremendous help when I'm prepping a big meal at home. —Connie Slocum, Antioch, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 159 calories, 11g fat (6g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 431mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
16/37
Cheddar Creamed Corn
From the Recipe Creator:
I took this super easy recipe to a school potluck once and it was gone in no time. I’ve been asked to bring it to every function since. —Jessica Maxwell, Englewood, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 272 calories, 20g fat (12g saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 317mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein.
17/37
Boston Baked Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
For a potluck or picnic, you can’t beat this classic side that starts with a pound of dried beans. Molasses and maple syrup give it a slight sweetness. —Pat Medeiros, Tiverton, Rhode Island
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 385 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 810mg sodium, 77g carbohydrate (50g sugars, 8g fiber), 11g protein.
18/37
Marmalade Candied Carrots
From the Recipe Creator:
My favorite way to make baby carrots is to steam them, then drizzle with an orangey glaze that makes them candy-sweet. —Heather Clemmons, Supply, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 211 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 115mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (27g sugars, 4g fiber), 2g protein.
19/37
Garlic Green Beans with Gorgonzola
From the Recipe Creator:
I updated this green bean holiday side dish by adding a touch of white wine, fresh thyme and green onions. It's delicious, easy to make and my family loves it! —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 142 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 431mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 6g protein.
20/37
Sweet and Tangy Beets
From the Recipe Creator:
Fresh beets are delicious when combined with aromatic spices and a hint of orange. These have the ideal balance of sweet and sour flavors. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 214 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 344mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (38g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein.
21/37
Crockpot Mac and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
This classic casserole is a rich and cheesy meatless main dish. I've never met anyone who didn't ask for a second helping. —Bernice Glascoe, Roxboro, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 502 calories, 28g fat (18g saturated fat), 131mg cholesterol, 638mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 21g protein.
22/37
Cheesy Spinach
From the Recipe Creator:
My daughter often serves this cheese and spinach blend at church suppers. Even people who don't usually eat spinach like this flavorful dish once they try it. There are never any leftovers. —Frances Moore, Decatur, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 230 calories, 15g fat (9g saturated fat), 121mg cholesterol, 855mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 14g protein.
23/37
Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Potatoes are among our favorite side dishes. This version take sa little effort, but you can save time by boiling the spuds ahead of time. The night you want them for dinner, just crisp them up with garlic and Parmesan cheese. —Donna Gribbins, Shelbyville, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
3 smashed potatoes: 354 calories, 22g fat (5g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 253mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 8g protein.
24/37
Honey-Butter Peas and Carrots
From the Recipe Creator:
This classic combination of peas and carrots is enriched with a handful of flavor enhancers. Slow cooking allows the ingredients to meld for maximum richness. —Theresa Kreyche, Tustin, California
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 106 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 293mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
25/37
Kentucky Spoon Bread
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a traditional Kentucky recipe. It’s a popular side dish served all year long. If you’ve never tried spoon bread before, I think you’ll find it’s tasty and comforting. —Caroline Brown, Lexington, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 192 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 87mg cholesterol, 433mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
26/37
Chutney-Glazed Carrots
From the Recipe Creator:
Carrots slow-cooked with chutney, Dijon and ginger make a zippy side for a barbecue or potluck. We love serving these carrots with grilled chicken or beef roast. —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 183 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 714mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein.
27/37
Slow-Cooked Cajun Corn
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband loves corn on the cob, and I love this slow-cooker recipe because I don't have to stand at a hot stove. We like a little spice, so the Cajun seasoning works well for us, but any spice blend works. —Audra Rorick, Lyons, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 ear of corn: 190 calories, 13g fat (8g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 307mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
28/37
Fiesta Corn and Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
Bursting with southwestern flavors, the zesty veggie medley here can be served as a side dish or a meatless meal-in-one. The dollop of yogurt is a cool, creamy finishing touch. —Gerald Hetrick, Erie, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 149 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 380mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 7g fiber), 8g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 lean meat, 1 vegetable.
29/37
Italian Mushrooms
From the Recipe Creator:
Only four ingredients create a rich and flavorful side dish that goes well with beef and mashed potatoes. —Kim Reichert, Fargo, North Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 99 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 281mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
30/37
Simple Vegetarian Slow-Cooked Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
When I have a hungry family to feed, these tasty beans with spinach, tomatoes and carrots are a go-to dish. This veggie delight is frequently on our menu. —Jennifer Reid, Farmington, Maine
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 229 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 672mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 13g fiber), 12g protein.
31/37
Baked Beans with Pineapple
From the Recipe Creator:
This marvelous recipe is a staple at our neighborhood's annual barbecue. —J. Hindson, Victoria, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 266 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 830mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 8g fiber), 12g protein.
32/37
Slow-Cooked Potatoes with Spring Onions
From the Recipe Creator:
I love the simplicity of this recipe, as well as its ease of preparation with my slow cooker. Everyone always enjoys roasted potatoes, even my pickiest child! If desired, top with shredded or crumbled cheese. —Theresa Gomez, Stuart, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 157 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 110mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
33/37
Slow-Cooker Green Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
I spent hours in search of sides for a cooking demo to present to women from my church. These easy green beans became my star attraction. —Alice White, Willow Spring, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 143 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 320mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein.
34/37
Truly Tasty Turnips with Greens
From the Recipe Creator:
These savory greens are a hit at every church dinner I take them to. Adjust the seasonings as you please to make this recipe your own. —Amy Inman, Hiddenite, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
.75 cup: 58 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 514mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 lean meat, 1 vegetable.
35/37
Slow-Cooked Cheesy Cauliflower
From the Recipe Creator:
When my main course took up the entire oven, I needed a vegetable that I could make in the slow cooker. After searching for a recipe, I ended up writing my own. My dish turned out better than I could have hoped! —Heather Corson, Casper, Wyoming
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 178 calories, 12g fat (7g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 411mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein.
36/37
Ham and Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
I had never made or eaten this dish before meeting my husband here in Kentucky. Now I make it at least once a week. I serve it with some homemade sweet cornbread. Delicious! —Christine Duffy, Sturgis, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 195 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 505mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 10g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat.
37/37
Spanish Hominy
From the Recipe Creator:
I received this recipe from a good friend who is a fabulous cook. The colorful side dish gets its zesty flavor from spicy canned tomatoes with green chiles. —Donna Brockett, Kingfisher, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 150 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 1039mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 5g fiber), 6g protein.
