An Easy Crockpot Menu – Cajun Pork and Beans
Tips:
- Prevent sogginess: Before adding sauerkraut to a Reuben sandwich or hot dogs, squeeze the excess liquid from the sauerkraut. A potato ricer works well for this and keeps sandwiches and hot dogs from becoming soggy.
- Fruit topping idea: For a creamy, fruity topping, soften and beat an 8 oz. package of cream cheese until smooth, then fold in a couple of cups of marshmallow creme. This creates a sweet, spreadable dip perfect for fruit or as a cake topping.
- Softer, less sweet frosting: To tone down overly sweet frosting, mix an 8 oz. package of softened cream cheese into a can of prepared frosting. This blend is also lovely as a dip for berries and other fresh fruit.
Menu:
Cajun Pork and Beans
Corn on the Cob
Chips
Berries and Cream Dessert
Crockpot Cajun Pork and Beans
- Author: Jill Cooper
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a crockpot, stirring to blend the sauces and seasonings evenly through the beans and meat.
- Cook on low for 4 to 8 hours, stirring once or twice if possible. Adjust seasonings toward the end of cooking: add more Cajun seasoning, hot sauce, or a splash of Worcestershire to taste.
Notes on flavor and texture: This recipe is intentionally flexible. If you prefer a sweeter dish, add a little brown sugar. If you like a smoky note, add a few drops of liquid smoke. For a spicier version, increase the Cajun seasoning or add hot sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a small amount of water or additional tomato sauce to reach the desired consistency.
Serving suggestions: Serve directly from the crockpot for a casual gathering. This dish pairs nicely with corn on the cob, a simple green salad, or tortilla chips for scooping. Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for a few days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Berries and Cream Dessert
1 loaf (10 oz.) pound cake or angel food cake, cubed
2 (3 oz.) packages cream cheese, softened
2 cups marshmallow cream (about 1 large jar)
4 cups of your favorite berries or other fruit
Instructions: Place cake cubes in individual serving bowls or a single trifle dish. Sprinkle the fruit over the cake pieces. In a separate bowl, whip the softened cream cheese until smooth, then fold in the marshmallow cream until fully combined and fluffy. Spoon or dollop the cream cheese-marshmallow mixture over the berries and cake. Chill until ready to serve so the flavors meld and the cream firms slightly.
Variations and tips: Use a mix of berries—strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries work beautifully together—or substitute sliced peaches, mango, or canned fruit if fresh is not available. For a lighter version, fold in a little whipped topping or whipped cream to the cream cheese mixture. To make individual parfaits, layer cake, berries, and cream in clear glasses for an attractive presentation. This recipe is easy to halve or double depending on the number of guests.
Storage: Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to a couple of days. Note that the cake will continue to absorb moisture from the cream and fruit, so the texture will soften over time; it is best enjoyed within 24–48 hours.
For more easy meal ideas and make-ahead menus, consider exploring recipe collections and crockpot bundles tailored to simple weeknight cooking and casual entertaining.