As the leaves change colors and the holiday season approaches, many people start thinking about their favorite Thanksgiving dishes. While traditional turkey and mashed potatoes are always a hit, there’s something to be said for shaking things up and trying some new recipes. That’s where the slow cooker comes in – it’s the perfect tool for cooking up delicious meals with minimal effort.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering Thanksgiving crockpot recipes that are easy to make and sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic dishes like turkey breast and stuffing to sweet treats like pumpkin soup and pecan pie bread pudding, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your slow cooker and let’s get started!
Crockpot Turkey Breast with Herbs
This recipe yields a deliciously moist and flavorful turkey breast infused with the savory flavors of herbs, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a mouthwatering main course that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the turkey breast with salt and pepper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Place the turkey breast in the crockpot and brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the meat.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Thanksgiving Stuffing
Slow Cooker Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe
Get ready to simplify your Thanksgiving preparations with this delicious slow cooker stuffing recipe! This moist and flavorful dish is perfect for a stress-free holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1 teaspoon sage
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, onion, celery, garlic, poultry seasoning, sage, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until the bread is evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Pour in melted butter and chicken broth; mix until the bread absorbs the liquid.
5. Transfer the stuffing mixture to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Crockpot Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this effortless crockpot recipe that yields a rich, creamy, and comforting side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the cubed potatoes in a crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the cream mixture over the potatoes in the crockpot.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. After cooking time is up, use an electric mixer or a potato masher to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole
This classic comfort food dish is a staple of many holiday gatherings, and with this slow cooker recipe, you can enjoy it without the hassle of constant monitoring. Simply toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a warm, creamy casserole ready to serve.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup french-fried onions
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the green beans, onion, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and black pepper to a slow cooker.
2. Stir until everything is well combined.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the french-fried onions on top of the casserole.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole
Transform sweet potatoes into a creamy, sweet, and savory casserole with this easy Crockpot recipe. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 1/4 cup marshmallows (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel and cube sweet potatoes. Place them in the Crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together brown sugar, heavy cream, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pour over sweet potatoes.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. If using, sprinkle chopped pecans and marshmallows on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional pecans and marshmallows if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Easy Crockpot Cranberry Sauce
This recipe makes a delicious and effortless cranberry sauce perfect for the holiday season. With just a few ingredients, you can create a tangy and flavorful condiment to accompany your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) orange juice
– 1/4 cup (60ml) water
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a crockpot, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, and orange zest.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Stir the sauce occasionally to ensure even cooking.
5. Once the sauce has thickened slightly, remove it from the crockpot and let it cool.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours (depending on temperature setting)
Slow Cooker Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday meals with this effortless slow cooker turkey gravy recipe, perfect for busy days and big gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups turkey drippings or pan juices
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together flour and a pinch of salt until well combined.
2. Gradually add in turkey drippings or pan juices, whisking continuously.
3. Add in chicken broth and butter; stir until smooth.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Enjoy your rich, flavorful turkey gravy with mashed potatoes, stuffing, or as a dip for roasted vegetables!
Crockpot Pumpkin Soup
Warm up on a chilly fall day with this creamy and comforting crockpot pumpkin soup. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add pumpkin, butter, onion, garlic, cumin, nutmeg, and cinnamon to the crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half (if using) and chicken broth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Herbed Crockpot Cornbread Dressing
Elevate your holiday meals with this moist and flavorful cornbread dressing, infused with the warmth of herbs and spices. This hands-off recipe is perfect for busy gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat crockpot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine cornbread, melted butter, onion, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add chicken broth and mix until the dressing is moist but not soggy.
4. Transfer the mixture to the preheated crockpot and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this ridiculously easy slow cooker mac and cheese recipe! With minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, flour, and salt until smooth.
3. Add shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese to the milk mixture; stir until combined.
4. Add cooked macaroni, butter, and pepper to the cheese mixture; stir until coated.
5. Transfer mixture to a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Crockpot Honey Glazed Carrots
Sweet and sticky, these Crockpot Honey Glazed Carrots are a perfect side dish for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and no fuss, you’ll have a deliciously caramelized batch of carrots ready to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby carrots
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Place the baby carrots in the Crockpot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, ginger, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the glaze over the carrots, making sure they’re all coated.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir the carrots to redistribute the glaze.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup
This recipe is perfect for a chilly day or a busy weeknight meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a deliciously creamy soup to enjoy.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. Peel the butternut squash, remove seeds, and chop into 1-inch cubes.
3. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. Add chopped squash, broth, and heavy cream (if using) to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Crockpot Apple Cider Turkey
Elevate your holiday feast with this tender and flavorful turkey recipe, infused with the warmth of apple cider and spices. Perfect for a stress-free Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup apple cider
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your crockpot to low.
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together apple cider, brown sugar, olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the turkey in the crockpot and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Slow Cooker Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
A delicious and easy way to prepare Brussels sprouts, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of the vegetables with the smoky flavor of bacon. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the Brussels sprouts, bacon, onion, and garlic in a slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Pecan Pie Bread Pudding
This sweet and savory bread pudding is a twist on the classic pecan pie, with the added convenience of cooking in a crockpot. Perfect for a cozy evening or brunch gathering, this recipe combines the flavors of caramelized pecans, maple syrup, and warm spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
Instructions:
1. In a greased crockpot, combine bread, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and chopped pecans.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Pour over bread mixture.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Stir in maple syrup during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Serve warm, topped with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.
Slow Cooker Spiced Pumpkin Butter
This autumnal treat is perfect for snuggling up on a chilly day. With its sweet and spicy flavors, it’s great on toast, muffins, or even as a filling for cakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and stir until combined.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
5. Transfer to airtight containers and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Garlic Herb Butter Turkey
This Crockpot Garlic Herb Butter Turkey recipe is an easy and impressive way to cook your holiday turkey. With the combination of butter, garlic, and herbs, you’ll have a mouthwatering main course that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the turkey and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme until well combined.
3. Place the turkey in the Crockpot and spread the garlic herb butter mixture evenly over the top of the turkey.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Corn Pudding
This creamy corn pudding recipe is a perfect side dish for any occasion. With its smooth texture and rich flavor, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine heavy cream, whole milk, corn kernels, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the melted butter and stir until smooth.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours (low) or 1-3 hours (high)
Crockpot Cinnamon Apples
Warm up with a deliciously comforting Crockpot Cinnamon Apples recipe! This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for a cozy evening or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 apples, sliced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter
Instructions:
1. In the Crockpot, combine sliced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Dot the top with butter.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve warm, topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Sage and Onion Stuffing
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this easy and aromatic slow cooker stuffing recipe, infused with the warm flavors of sage and onion. Perfect for serving alongside roasted meats or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons dried sage
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, melted butter, onion, garlic, sage, and poultry seasoning. Toss until well combined.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and mix until the bread is evenly coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and cook for 6-8 hours or overnight on low heat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Summary
Get ready to impress your family and friends with these 20 delicious Thanksgiving crockpot recipes! From classic dishes like turkey breast with herbs and stuffing, to creative twists like pumpkin soup and pecan pie bread pudding, there’s something for everyone. These easy-to-make recipes are perfect for busy hosts and guests alike. Simply add all the ingredients to your crockpot in the morning, and come home to a stress-free, mouth-watering meal. Whether you’re looking for comfort food classics or innovative new dishes, these Thanksgiving crockpot recipes have got you covered!
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