The holiday season is just around the corner, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than with a warm, comforting meal straight from your slow cooker? This year, why not try something new and exciting on Christmas Day, or even better, let the slow cooker do all the work while you’re busy wrapping gifts and singing carols.
In this article, we’ve rounded up 20 delicious and easy-to-make slow cooker recipes that are sure to become a staple of your holiday celebrations. From classic dishes like slow-cooked ham and turkey breast, to sweet treats like gingerbread hot chocolate and eggnog bread pudding, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner or just want some tasty options for a cozy night in, these slow cooker recipes are sure to impress. So go ahead, put your feet up, and let the slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Slow Cooker Christmas Ham with Honey Glaze
Elevate your holiday spread with this succulent slow cooker ham, smothered in a sweet and sticky honey glaze. Perfect for stress-free entertaining, this recipe is sure to become a new tradition.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Place the ham in a slow cooker, fat side up.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, cloves, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the glaze over the ham, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove from slow cooker and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Creamy Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Transform your mashed potatoes into a rich and creamy side dish with this simple slow cooker recipe. Perfect for family gatherings or holiday meals, these potatoes are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the potato cubes in a slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, butter, and salt until smooth.
3. Pour the milk mixture over the potatoes.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. If using cheese, stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Mash the potatoes with a fork or potato masher to desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Cranberry Orange Turkey Breast
This moist and flavorful turkey breast recipe is perfect for a stress-free holiday meal or special occasion. With the help of your slow cooker, you’ll be able to enjoy a deliciously tender and juicy turkey breast with a sweet and tangy cranberry-orange glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 lb boneless turkey breast
– 1 can (14.5 oz) jellied cranberries
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
2. Place the turkey in a slow cooker and add the cranberry sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, and honey.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Check the turkey’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce
A classic British dessert gets a slow cooker makeover! This moist and flavorful pudding is infused with the warmth of brandy and perfect for serving on Christmas morning or as a festive holiday treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried fruit (currants, raisins, cranberries)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup brandy or other dark liquor (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine dried fruit, brown sugar, flour, and salt.
2. Add brandy or dark liquor, if using; stir to combine.
3. Pour in melted butter and beaten egg; mix until well combined.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve warm with brandy sauce (recipe below) or whipped cream.
Brandy Sauce:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon brandy or other dark liquor
Combine all ingredients in a small bowl; whisk until smooth. Serve warm over pudding.
Slow Cooker Mulled Wine with Cinnamon and Cloves
Warm Up with a Cup of Slow Cooker Mulled Wine with Cinnamon and Cloves
This slow cooker recipe is perfect for the winter season, combining the rich flavors of mulled wine with the warmth of cinnamon and cloves. With minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious and comforting drink ready to serve at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Add the sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves to a slow cooker.
2. Pour in the red wine, brown sugar, and water.
3. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
5. Strain the mulled wine before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Gingerbread Hot Chocolate
Cozy up with a warm and spicy cup of hot chocolate infused with the flavors of gingerbread, all thanks to your trusty slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or nonfat)
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add milk, cocoa powder, honey or sugar, ground ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg to your slow cooker.
2. Stir until the ingredients are well combined.
3. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
4. If desired, stir in heavy cream just before serving.
5. Serve hot, garnished with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon for Christmas Dinner
Experience the rich flavors of France with this tender and flavorful Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon, perfect for a cozy Christmas dinner. This classic dish is elevated to new heights by the convenience of slow cooking, allowing you to enjoy the warm aromas and savory goodness without much fuss.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the beef, onion, garlic, mushrooms, red wine, beef broth, carrots, celery, tomato paste, and thyme to a slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme
This recipe yields a tender and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy perfectly glazed carrots with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine carrot slices, honey, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Eggnog Bread Pudding
Warm up with a cozy slice of Slow Cooker Eggnog Bread Pudding, perfect for the holiday season. This comforting dessert is made easy by using your slow cooker to soak bread in a rich eggnog mixture.
Ingredients:
– 6 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup eggnog
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Grease the slow cooker insert with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggnog, eggs, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
4. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients; stir until bread is well coated.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours, or until bread is golden brown and pudding is set.
Cooking Time: 1-3 hours
Slow Cooker Christmas Morning Casserole
Start your holiday morning with a warm and comforting breakfast casserole that’s easy to prepare the night before. This Slow Cooker Christmas Morning Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional breakfast dishes, perfect for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sausage (such as chorizo or Italian), casings removed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup frozen hash browns, thawed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat; drain on paper towels.
2. Add onion and garlic to the same skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
3. In the slow cooker, combine cooked sausage, onion mixture, diced tomatoes with green chilies, hash browns, and shredded cheese.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Spiced Apple Cider
As the weather cools down, there’s nothing like a warm and comforting cup of spiced apple cider to brighten up your day. This slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for chilly fall or winter evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger.
2. Cover the cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into mugs or heat-proof glasses.
4. Serve warm, garnished with a cinnamon stick if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Parmesan Potatoes: A rich and comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the potatoes, butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir the mixture halfway through cooking time to ensure even cooking.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate
This creamy and refreshing slow cooker hot chocolate is perfect for cold winter days or holiday gatherings. With the warmth of peppermint, this recipe will become your new favorite wintertime treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or non-dairy)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups hot chocolate mix
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup sugar (optional)
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine milk, heavy cream, hot chocolate mix, cocoa powder, and peppermint extract.
2. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
4. If desired, add sugar to taste and stir until dissolved.
5. Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Slow Cooker Herb-Roasted Turkey Legs
Elevate your slow cooker game with this flavorful and tender turkey leg recipe, perfect for a comforting meal or special occasion. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, you’ll have deliciously roasted turkey legs in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 turkey legs (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to Low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place turkey legs in the slow cooker and brush the herb mixture evenly over both legs.
4. Cook on Low for 8-10 hours or High for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove turkey legs from slow cooker and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (Low) or 4-6 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Cranberry Pecan Stuffing
A twist on traditional stuffing, this recipe combines the sweetness of cranberries with the crunch of pecans for a deliciously savory side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 teaspoons dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, butter, brown sugar, pecans, cranberries, and sage.
3. Mix until well combined, breaking up any clumps with your hands or a fork.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chocolate Peanut Clusters
Elevate your snack game with these gooey, chocolatey clusters that combine the perfect balance of peanut butter and chocolate. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a sweet treat for a party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine peanut butter, honey, and brown sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Add chopped peanuts and mix well.
3. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Stir in butter until combined.
4. Pour melted chocolate mixture over peanut butter mixture in the slow cooker.
5. Cook on Low for 2-3 hours or High for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until clusters form.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (Low) or 1 hour (High)
Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Transform humble Brussels sprouts into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this easy slow cooker recipe. Perfect for a comforting side dish or as a unique addition to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine Brussels sprouts, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
2. Drizzle with olive oil; toss to coat evenly.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Slow Cooker Christmas Chili with Ground Beef
Get into the holiday spirit with this hearty and flavorful slow cooker chili recipe, perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup of diced tomatoes
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced green chilies
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup of water
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and paprika to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker with the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, green chilies, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir in the water and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Slow Cooker Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the comforting flavors of a latte, all made easy in your slow cooker. Perfect for a cozy fall gathering or as a unique dessert to bring to a holiday party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso (optional)
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Grease a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. Add flour and milk; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared slow cooker.
5. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
6. Remove from heat; let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Balsamic Glazed Pork Loin
Slow Cooker Balsamic Glazed Pork Loin Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of a tender pork loin glazed with tangy balsamic vinegar, all made easy in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 2-pound boneless pork loin roast
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic, and thyme until well combined.
3. Season the pork loin with salt and pepper.
4. Place the pork loin in the slow cooker and pour the glaze over it.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Summary
Get ready to spread holiday cheer with these 20 cozy slow cooker Christmas recipes! From savory main courses like Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon and Slow Cooker Herb-Roasted Turkey Legs, to sweet treats like Slow Cooker Gingerbread Hot Chocolate and Slow Cooker Eggnog Bread Pudding, there’s something for everyone on this list. Plus, don’t miss out on unique desserts like Slow Cooker Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce or delicious drinks like Slow Cooker Mulled Wine with Cinnamon and Cloves. Perfect for busy holiday entertaining!