27+ Tasty and Easy Crockpot BBQ Summer Recipes to Elevate Your Taste

Summer is the season for good food, good company, and unforgettable flavors, and what better way to enjoy the warm weather than with some smoky, tangy BBQ dishes?

Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout, a family gathering, or a casual dinner, crockpot BBQ recipes take the hassle out of cooking while delivering the bold, savory flavors you love.

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, your crockpot can work its magic, creating everything from tender pulled pork to crispy veggie skewers.

In this blog, we’ve rounded up 27+ Crockpot BBQ Summer Recipes that are not only easy to make but will have everyone asking for seconds.

Perfect for any occasion, these recipes will make your summer celebrations stress-free and full of flavor.

Let’s dive into some mouthwatering BBQ ideas that will become the star of your summer menu!

27+ Tasty and Easy Crockpot BBQ Summer Recipes to Elevate Your Taste

As the temperatures rise and summer parties begin, there’s no better way to savor the season than with these simple, yet flavorful Crockpot BBQ Summer Recipes.

From tender pulled chicken sliders to smoky BBQ ribs and even vegan-friendly options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The beauty of crockpot cooking is that it allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.

These recipes are your ticket to making effortless, delicious BBQ meals that will be the talk of the neighborhood.

So fire up that crockpot, gather your favorite ingredients, and let it work its magic to create unforgettable summer dishes.

Get ready to indulge in smoky, tangy goodness all summer long!

Sweet and Tangy Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Nothing screams summer like pulled pork sandwiches dripping with tangy BBQ sauce. This crockpot recipe combines the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it an effortless and mouthwatering centerpiece for any outdoor gathering. Pair it with coleslaw and pickles for an authentic BBQ experience.

Ingredients:

1. 3 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt
2. 1 cup BBQ sauce
3. 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
4. 1/4 cup brown sugar
5. 1 tbsp smoked paprika
6. 1 tsp garlic powder
7. 1 tsp onion powder
8. Salt and pepper to taste
9. Hamburger buns

Instructions:

1. Season the pork shoulder generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Place the pork in the crockpot. Add BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar over the meat.
3. Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 4–5 hours until the meat is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
4. Remove the pork, shred with two forks, and mix it back into the crockpot sauce to soak up the flavors.
5. Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns with extra BBQ sauce and your favorite toppings.

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for summer parties. Its rich and tangy flavor profile makes it hard to resist, leaving your guests satisfied and coming back for seconds.

Honey BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

These honey BBQ chicken drumsticks are a sticky, smoky delight that’s ideal for summer gatherings. The slow cooking process ensures the chicken is juicy and tender, while the honey glaze gives it an irresistible caramelized finish.

Ingredients:

1. 8–10 chicken drumsticks
2. 1 cup BBQ sauce
3. 1/4 cup honey
4. 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
5. 1 tsp smoked paprika
6. 1 tsp chili powder (optional)
7. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken drumsticks with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder if desired.
2. In a small bowl, mix BBQ sauce, honey, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Place the drumsticks in the crockpot and pour the sauce mixture over them, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
4. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
5. For a caramelized finish, transfer the drumsticks to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3–5 minutes until the sauce is sticky and slightly charred.

These drumsticks are a finger-licking good addition to any BBQ feast. Their sweet and smoky flavor makes them an instant hit with both kids and adults, perfect for creating lasting summer memories.

BBQ Pineapple Pulled Chicken Tacos

Infuse your summer with tropical vibes by combining juicy pineapple with smoky BBQ chicken. These tacos are a refreshing twist on traditional BBQ dishes, making them a perfect choice for backyard cookouts or casual dinners.

Ingredients:

1. 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2. 1 cup BBQ sauce
3. 1 cup crushed pineapple (with juice)
4. 1 tsp chili powder
5. 1 tsp garlic powder
6. 1/2 tsp cumin
7. Salt and pepper to taste
8. Soft taco shells
9. Optional toppings: red onion, cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and cumin.
2. Place the chicken in the crockpot and pour the BBQ sauce and crushed pineapple (with juice) over it.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.
4. Shred the chicken using two forks and mix it with the sauce in the crockpot.
5. Serve the pulled chicken in soft taco shells and garnish with your favorite toppings.

These tacos bring a burst of flavor to your summer meals. The combination of sweet pineapple and smoky BBQ sauce creates a tropical treat that will transport your taste buds to an island paradise.

BBQ Ranch Pulled Chicken Sliders

These BBQ ranch pulled chicken sliders are a match made in heaven for summer gatherings. The creamy ranch flavor paired with tangy BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering balance of tastes in every bite. Serve them on mini buns for the perfect party treat.

Ingredients:

1. 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
2. 1 cup BBQ sauce
3. 1/2 cup ranch dressing
4. 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
5. 1 tsp smoked paprika
6. Salt and pepper to taste
7. Slider buns

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Add the chicken, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and Worcestershire sauce to the crockpot.
3. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
4. Shred the chicken with two forks and mix it well with the sauce.
5. Serve on slider buns and enjoy!

These sliders are creamy, tangy, and oh-so-satisfying. Perfect for summer picnics or backyard BBQs, they’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.

Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs

Nothing beats the smoky, tender taste of BBQ ribs in summer. This crockpot version gives you fall-off-the-bone goodness without the hassle of grilling, making it a stress-free option for your next BBQ feast.

Ingredients:

1. 3 lbs baby back ribs
2. 1 cup BBQ sauce
3. 1/4 cup brown sugar
4. 1 tsp garlic powder
5. 1 tsp onion powder
6. 1 tsp smoked paprika
7. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Cut the ribs into manageable sections and place them in the crockpot.
3. Pour BBQ sauce over the ribs and sprinkle with brown sugar.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.
5. For a caramelized finish, broil the ribs for 3–5 minutes, brushing with additional BBQ sauce.

These ribs are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. They’re an easy way to bring restaurant-quality BBQ to your summer table.

BBQ Pineapple Meatballs

These sweet and tangy BBQ pineapple meatballs are a versatile summer favorite. Serve them as a main dish or a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next party. The pineapple adds a tropical twist to the classic BBQ flavor.

Ingredients:

1. 2 lbs frozen meatballs
2. 1 cup BBQ sauce
3. 1/2 cup pineapple juice
4. 1/4 cup brown sugar
5. 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and garlic powder in a bowl.
2. Place frozen meatballs in the crockpot and pour the sauce mixture over them.
3. Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.

These meatballs are sweet, sticky, and irresistible. Whether served over rice or on toothpicks, they’re sure to be a hit.

Smoky BBQ Baked Beans

Transform your BBQ side dish game with these smoky baked beans. The crockpot does all the work, creating a rich and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with any summer spread.

Ingredients:

1. 4 cups canned baked beans
2. 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
3. 1/4 cup brown sugar
4. 1/4 cup ketchup
5. 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
6. 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
7. 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in the crockpot and stir well.
2. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, stirring occasionally.

These beans are hearty, smoky, and packed with flavor. They’ll quickly become a staple side dish at your summer BBQs.

BBQ Peach Pulled Pork Nachos

Elevate your summer snacking with these BBQ peach pulled pork nachos. The sweet peaches and savory BBQ pork create an unforgettable combination that’s perfect for casual gatherings.

Ingredients:

1. 2 lbs pork shoulder
2. 1 cup BBQ sauce
3. 1 cup peach preserves
4. Tortilla chips
5. Shredded cheese
6. Optional toppings: diced red onion, jalapeños, sour cream

Instructions:

1. Season pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Add pork, BBQ sauce, and peach preserves to the crockpot. Cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 4–5 hours.
3. Shred the pork and mix it with the sauce.
4. Layer tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and pulled pork. Broil until cheese is melted, then add toppings.

These nachos are a unique and delicious way to enjoy BBQ flavors. They’re the perfect finger food for summer parties.

BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches (Vegan)

Who says BBQ is only for meat lovers? These BBQ jackfruit sandwiches are a plant-based twist on a classic summer favorite, offering all the smoky flavor and texture of pulled pork.

Ingredients:

1. 2 cans young jackfruit, drained and rinsed
2. 1 cup BBQ sauce
3. 1/4 cup vegetable broth
4. 1 tsp garlic powder
5. 1 tsp onion powder
6. 1 tsp smoked paprika
7. Salt and pepper to taste
8. Hamburger buns

Instructions:

1. Shred the jackfruit using your hands or a fork.
2. Add jackfruit, BBQ sauce, vegetable broth, and seasonings to the crockpot.
3. Cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
4. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.

These sandwiches are smoky, tangy, and surprisingly meaty. They’re a great vegan option that everyone will enjoy at your next summer cookout.

Crockpot BBQ Pork and Sweet Potato Chili

This hearty BBQ pork and sweet potato chili is perfect for those summer evenings when you want something comforting but still packed with smoky BBQ flavor. The sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that complements the tangy BBQ sauce.

Ingredients:

1. 1 lb ground pork
2. 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
3. 1 cup BBQ sauce
4. 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
5. 1 can (14 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
6. 1 small onion, diced
7. 2 cloves garlic, minced
8. 1 tsp chili powder
9. 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
10. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground pork in a skillet and drain excess fat.
2. Add the pork, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, black beans, onion, garlic, BBQ sauce, and seasonings to the crockpot.
3. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve with sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro, if desired.

This chili is rich, smoky, and full of summer vibes. It’s perfect for gatherings or as a hearty meal after a long day in the sun.

Crockpot BBQ Shrimp Boil

Give your summer seafood boil a BBQ twist with this easy crockpot recipe. Packed with shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes, this dish is a one-pot wonder perfect for summer celebrations.

Ingredients:

1. 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2. 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
3. 4 ears of corn, cut into thirds
4. 1 lb baby potatoes
5. 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
6. 1/4 cup melted butter
7. 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
8. 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions:

1. Place the potatoes and corn in the crockpot. Add melted butter, BBQ sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Stir to coat.
2. Cook on high for 2–3 hours or until potatoes are tender.
3. Add the sausage and shrimp during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir occasionally.
4. Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.

This BBQ shrimp boil is a fun and flavorful twist on a summer classic that’s sure to impress your guests.

Crockpot BBQ Pulled Beef Enchiladas

Combine BBQ flavors with Mexican-inspired cuisine for a unique summer treat. These crockpot BBQ pulled beef enchiladas are smoky, cheesy, and downright delicious.

Ingredients:

1. 2 lbs beef chuck roast
2. 1 cup BBQ sauce
3. 1 cup enchilada sauce
4. 1 tsp cumin
5. 1 tsp garlic powder
6. 1 cup shredded cheese
7. 8–10 flour tortillas

Instructions:

1. Season the beef with cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place it in the crockpot with BBQ and enchilada sauce.
2. Cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until tender.
3. Shred the beef and mix it back into the sauce.
4. Fill tortillas with the pulled beef, roll them up, and place them in a baking dish. Top with shredded cheese and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes until bubbly.

These enchiladas are bold, cheesy, and perfect for a summer dinner with a twist.

Crockpot BBQ Chicken and Cornbread Casserole

This BBQ chicken and cornbread casserole is the ultimate comfort food for summer gatherings. The sweet cornbread topping pairs beautifully with the smoky, saucy chicken base.

Ingredients:

1. 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
2. 1 cup BBQ sauce
3. 1/2 cup diced onion
4. 1/4 cup brown sugar
5. 1 box cornbread mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)

Instructions:

1. Place chicken, BBQ sauce, onion, and brown sugar in the crockpot. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
2. Shred the chicken and spread it evenly in a baking dish.
3. Prepare the cornbread mix according to the package and pour it over the chicken.
4. Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, until the cornbread is golden.

This casserole is a sweet, smoky, and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd.

Crockpot BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes (Vegan)

For a plant-based twist on a summer classic, these BBQ lentil sloppy joes are hearty, smoky, and loaded with flavor. Perfect for vegan guests, they’re a crowd-pleaser for all.

Ingredients:

1. 1 cup dry lentils, rinsed
2. 2 cups vegetable broth
3. 1 cup BBQ sauce
4. 1/2 cup diced onion
5. 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
6. 1 tsp smoked paprika
7. Hamburger buns

Instructions:

1. Combine lentils, broth, BBQ sauce, onion, bell pepper, and smoked paprika in the crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the lentils are tender.
3. Serve on hamburger buns for a vegan take on sloppy joes.

These sloppy joes are smoky, tangy, and filling—perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike.

Crockpot BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites

These BBQ bacon-wrapped chicken bites are bite-sized, smoky, and irresistibly good. They’re a fantastic appetizer or snack for summer parties.

Ingredients:

1. 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2. 1 lb bacon, cut in half
3. 1 cup BBQ sauce
4. 1/4 cup brown sugar

Instructions:

1. Wrap each piece of chicken with a strip of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
2. Place the chicken bites in the crockpot and sprinkle with brown sugar. Pour BBQ sauce over them.
3. Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours.

These bites are smoky, sweet, and incredibly easy to make. They’re the perfect finger food to wow your guests.

Crockpot BBQ Brisket Tacos

For a flavorful taco night, these BBQ brisket tacos are sure to impress. The tender brisket slow-cooked in BBQ sauce takes on deep, smoky flavors, and the soft tortillas offer the perfect base for the juicy meat.

Ingredients:

1. 2 lbs beef brisket
2. 1 cup BBQ sauce
3. 1/4 cup beef broth
4. 1 small onion, sliced
5. 1 tsp garlic powder
6. 1 tsp cumin
7. 8 small soft tortillas
8. Optional toppings: cilantro, lime wedges, shredded cheese

Instructions:

1. Season the brisket with garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Place brisket, BBQ sauce, beef broth, and onion in the crockpot.
3. Cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the brisket is tender and easily shreds.
4. Shred the brisket and serve on soft tortillas with your favorite toppings.

These tacos are smoky, tender, and bursting with flavor, perfect for a weekend gathering or a casual dinner.

Crockpot BBQ Veggie Skewers

These BBQ veggie skewers are a great vegetarian option for summer BBQs, made easy in the crockpot. With a variety of colorful veggies, the smoky BBQ sauce enhances their natural sweetness and brings out their best flavors.

Ingredients:

1. 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
2. 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
3. 1 zucchini, cut into rounds
4. 1 small red onion, cut into chunks
5. 1 cup BBQ sauce
6. 1 tbsp olive oil
7. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and season with salt and pepper.
2. Thread the vegetables onto skewers, alternating colors.
3. Place the skewers in the crockpot and pour BBQ sauce over them.
4. Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the vegetables are tender and infused with BBQ flavor.

These veggie skewers are a healthy and colorful addition to your summer spread, bringing a smoky-sweet flavor that everyone will love.

Crockpot BBQ Cauliflower Wings (Vegan)

If you’re craving a vegan version of BBQ wings, these cauliflower wings are perfect. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, coated in a tangy BBQ sauce that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients:

1. 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
2. 1 cup BBQ sauce
3. 1/4 cup flour
4. 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
5. 1/4 cup almond milk (or regular milk)
6. 1 tbsp olive oil
7. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, dip cauliflower florets in almond milk, then coat with flour and breadcrumbs.
2. Arrange the coated florets in the crockpot and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Pour BBQ sauce over the cauliflower and cook on low for 3–4 hours, or high for 2 hours.
4. For extra crispiness, you can broil them in the oven for 2–3 minutes before serving.

These BBQ cauliflower wings are perfect for a light yet satisfying appetizer or side dish, offering all the flavors of BBQ with a healthy twist.

Crockpot BBQ Chicken and Rice

This BBQ chicken and rice dish is a one-pot wonder that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. The slow-cooked chicken combines beautifully with the smoky BBQ sauce, and the rice soaks up all the delicious juices.

Ingredients:

1. 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
2. 1 cup BBQ sauce
3. 2 cups chicken broth
4. 1 cup uncooked rice
5. 1 small onion, diced
6. 1 tsp garlic powder
7. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place chicken, BBQ sauce, chicken broth, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender.
3. Add uncooked rice, and stir it into the sauce.
4. Cover and cook for another 1–2 hours, until the rice is fully cooked.
5. Shred the chicken and mix it back into the rice before serving.

This dish is comforting, easy to make, and a great option for busy summer days.

Crockpot BBQ Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Take your grilled cheese to the next level with this crockpot version, featuring gooey cheese and a smoky BBQ twist. It’s the perfect comfort food for summer, especially when paired with a bowl of tomato soup.

Ingredients:

1. 8 slices of bread
2. 1 cup BBQ sauce
3. 8 slices of cheese (cheddar or your choice)
4. 2 tbsp butter
5. Optional: caramelized onions or sliced pickles

Instructions:

1. Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
2. Place cheese slices between two pieces of bread, buttered side out.
3. In the crockpot, arrange the sandwiches and pour BBQ sauce evenly over them.
4. Cover and cook on low for 2–3 hours, until the cheese is melted and the sandwiches are golden and crispy.

These BBQ grilled cheese sandwiches are crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, with the BBQ sauce adding a smoky and tangy depth. Perfect for a casual summer meal.

Crockpot BBQ Sausage and Peppers

This BBQ sausage and peppers recipe brings together savory sausage, tender peppers, and a tangy BBQ sauce. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for summer cookouts and outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients:

1. 4–6 Italian sausage links
2. 2 bell peppers, sliced
3. 1 large onion, sliced
4. 1 cup BBQ sauce
5. 1/2 cup chicken broth
6. 1 tsp Italian seasoning
7. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place sausages in the crockpot and add bell peppers, onion, chicken broth, BBQ sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
3. Once cooked, serve the sausages and peppers on rolls or over rice for a satisfying meal.

These BBQ sausages and peppers are flavorful and easy to prepare, making them a fantastic choice for a quick summer dinner.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!