Slow-Cooker Appetizers

Turn to slow-cooker recipes when you need easy appetizers.  With these appetizer ribs, there will be no more long hours of smoking on the grill or smoker. The slow cooker cuts the time in half while still yielding that much desired fall-off-the-bone texture. Cutting the rib racks in half makes a better appetizer-sized portion.

 

 

This irresistible dip featuring three cheeses, Parmesan, feta, and cream cheese, and four vegetables, spinach, artichokes, onion, and sun-dried tomatoes, is sure to be the hit of the party. Soak the sun-dried tomatoes during the first hour of cooking so they'll be ready to add during the second hour. Recipe:Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Dip

Set up a simple BBQ sandwich bar so guests can create their own mini sandwiches with their favorite flavors. Serve fun and colorful toppings like coleslaw, pickles, Cheddar cheese, and pickled jalapeño peppers in small bowls alongside the slow cooker. To make an entrée-sized sandwich, feel free to substitute the dinner rolls with French sandwich rolls or buns. Recipe:Mini BBQ Sandwiches

Pull out the fondue set and serve this fabulously cheesy recipe at your next gathering. For a more intense flavor, try substituting with spicy sausage, dark beer, and sharp Cheddar cheese. Granny Smith apples, torn brown bread, and broccoli florets make excellent dippers. Here's a tip: stir the dippers in a figure-eight motion to keep the cheese creamy and smooth.

For more slow-cooker cheese dip recipes, try Spicy White Cheese Dip or Chunky Cheese Queso. Recipe:Beer-and-Cheddar Fondue

These versatile meatballs have so many serving possibilities. Dunk the meatballs into extra tomato sauce with a toothpick for an easy appetizer, stuff into a hoagie roll and top with cheese for a hearty sandwich, or top on spaghetti noodles for a quick weeknight dinner.

>Chipotle-Barbecue Meatballs

>Aunt Jenny's Slow-Cooker MeatballsRecipe:Turkey Meatballs

Dried beef adds a uniquely salty flavor that enhances the taste of this smooth, creamy dip. Serve with red bell peppers strips and bagel chips for an easy party starter. Recipe:Creamy Dried Beef Dip

These Southern-style peanuts cook for 18 hours so a little planning ahead is involved to make sure they are ready to eat when you're ready to serve. Start them late in the evening so they can cook through the night and are ready for the picnic or tailgate the next afternoon. Recipe:Sina's Georgia-Style Boiled Peanuts

Chicken wings are a favorite party food so serve this spicy-sweet appetizer the next time you have friends over to watch the big game. They're sticky so be sure to serve with extra napkins! Recipe:Chicken Wings with Spicy Chili Sauce

The slow cooker is perfect for keeping this spicy cheese dip warm throughout the party.