40+ Delicious Christmas Slow Cooker Recipes to Make for Busy Holiday Meals

Sandra Walker

September 17, 2025

Rounding out your holiday season with delicious food is essential. Between attending work parties, buying gifts for loved ones, and spending quality time with family, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays. This year, why not take some of the stress out of cooking a big dinner by using your slow cooker? Not only will you save time, but you’ll also enjoy a mouth-watering meal without having to spend hours in the kitchen.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out our best Christmas side dish recipes and best Christmas casserole recipes for even more ideas. Here are some of the best Christmas slow cooker recipes I’ve come across, perfect for making your holiday season a little brighter:

SLOW COOKER CRANBERRY MEATBALLS

SLOW COOKER CRANBERRY MEATBALLS

Featuring a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, the Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs are an ideal choice for any holiday gathering. Whether you’re hosting a festive Christmas celebration or a casual get-together with friends, these meatballs are sure to impress. They’re easy to prepare, deliciously flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.

APPLE BALSAMIC CHICKEN

APPLE BALSAMIC CHICKEN

Just like many other slow cooker recipes, this dish is incredibly straightforward and requires minimal effort. The use of balsamic vinegar not only adds a tangy flavor but also helps to balance out the sweetness, resulting in an overall delightful taste experience that leaves you wanting more. This combination of flavors and effortless preparation method makes it a great option for anyone looking to try something new with their slow cooker.

CROCKPOT RASPBERRY CHOCOLATE CHIP FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE

CROCKPOT RASPBERRY CHOCOLATE CHIP FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE

Generally speaking, making brunch feel special doesn’t have to break the bank or require hours in the kitchen. This Crockpot Raspberry Chocolate Chip French Toast Casserole is a prime example of how simplicity can be stunning. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a show-stopping dish that’s perfect for weekends with family and friends. Whether you prep it ahead of time to soak overnight or cook it right away, the result is always a mouth-watering masterpiece that’s sure to impress!

SLOW COOKER CINNAMON ROLLS

SLOW COOKER CINNAMON ROLLS

Hailing from the world of baking, Hamilton Beach has become synonymous with ease and convenience when it comes to preparing a wide range of sweet treats. These Slow Cooker Overnight Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect embodiment of this promise, offering a delicious and hassle-free breakfast solution that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. The rolls’ sweet, gooey centers are perfectly balanced by their soft and fluffy exteriors, making them an absolute delight to indulge in.

CRANBERRY SAUERKRAUT MEATBALLS

CRANBERRY SAUERKRAUT MEATBALLS

Love at first bite is what happens when you taste these scrumptious meatballs, which I was lucky enough to be served at a friend’s birthday party. Since then, they have become a staple in my household, as they are incredibly easy and fast to prepare, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or casual get-togethers like watching football on Sundays.

SLOW COOKER HOT CHOCOLATE

SLOW COOKER HOT CHOCOLATE

Step up your winter game by ditching store-bought mixes and crafting the ultimate hot chocolate experience in the comfort of your own home. This slow-cooker recipe is a masterclass in richness and creaminess, expertly balanced with whole milk, half-and-half, and dark chocolate chips that will leave everyone swooning for more.

SLOW COOKER CRANBERRY PORK LOIN

SLOW COOKER CRANBERRY PORK LOIN

Often, when it comes to cooking, we’re looking for recipes that are both easy and delicious. This slow-cooker cranberry pork loin is one such recipe that checks all the right boxes. The sweetness of the cranberry sauce pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of the onion soup mix, making this dish an excellent comfort food option for a weekday meal or even as the main course for a holiday dinner.

SLOW COOKED BROCCOLI

SLOW COOKED BROCCOLI

Often overlooked as a side dish option, this particular recipe has the potential to become a staple in many households. It offers a perfect combination of flavor and convenience, making it ideal for busy home cooks. With minimal preparation time required, you can easily whip up a delicious serving that will complement your main course perfectly.

Moreover, the fact that it can be cooked in a slow cooker is an added advantage, allowing you to free up your oven for other essential dishes – especially when cooking large meals.

SLOW COOKER WHITE CHOCOLATE FUDGE

SLOW COOKER WHITE CHOCOLATE FUDGE

Giving in to the holiday spirit is a must, especially when it comes to baking treats for loved ones. As Christmas draws near, my mind starts racing with ideas for delicious gifts that show I care. Fudge is always a popular choice during this time of year, and adding some festive flair can make it even more special.

The combination of white chocolate and pistachio’s vibrant green hue is already a winning pair, but to take it up a notch, I added freeze-dried raspberry pieces for an extra burst of color and fun.

SLOW-COOKED CREAMED CORN

SLOW-COOKED CREAMED CORN

Velvety-smooth creamed corn is always a hit, regardless of the occasion. This delightful recipe uses just five simple ingredients, making it an ideal choice for barbecues, holiday gatherings, or any other get-together where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and effortless side dish.

BIG BATCH BEEF RAGU WITH PASTA

BIG BATCH BEEF RAGU WITH PASTA

Versatility is one of the key benefits of this slow-cooked beef recipe. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can cook it in either the oven or a slow cooker, making it an ideal option for busy days. The recipe makes a large batch, allowing for plenty of leftovers that freeze well. This means you can enjoy a delicious meal on its own or use the excess to serve at dinner parties and social gatherings.

Furthermore, the combination of red wine and tomato sauce gives the beef a rich and intense flavour profile.

SLOW COOKER CARAMEL APPLE PIE DIP

SLOW COOKER CARAMEL APPLE PIE DIP

Gather around the table for a delightful twist on traditional desserts and snacks, courtesy of our Magical Slow Cooker. Within its warming depths, the Slow Cooker Caramel Apple Pie Dip simmers to perfection, featuring tender diced apples suspended in a rich, velvety caramel sauce.

Serve this sweet indulgence with cinnamon sugar pie crust strips, sugar cookies, or crunchy graham crackers for an irresistible treat that’s perfect as either a dessert or an appetizer, leaving you free to enjoy it however your heart desires.

SLOW COOKED CHILI

SLOW COOKED CHILI

Knowing that a great dish starts with quality ingredients, this chili combines the rich flavors of homemade stewed tomatoes and pizza sauce for a unique taste experience. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, despite its complex flavor profile, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious meal without much hassle.

SLOW COOKER CRANBERRY BRISKET

SLOW COOKER CRANBERRY BRISKET

Looking at the recipe, it’s clear that this holiday cranberry brisket has all the makings of a new family tradition. The tender beef brisket is cooked low and slow, then smothered in a rich and tangy cranberry glaze that adds a sweet and savory flavor profile to each bite.

SLOW COOKER CHOCOLATE TURTLES

SLOW COOKER CHOCOLATE TURTLES

Keen on making a delicious and easy treat at home? The Slow Cooker Chocolate Turtles recipe is an excellent option, requiring only a handful of ingredients that are probably already stocked in your pantry. What’s more, this mouthwatering homemade candy can be easily prepared using your trusty slow cooker!

CREAMY CHICKEN FETTUCINE

CREAMY CHICKEN FETTUCINE

Creating a rich and indulgent flavor profile is effortless with the use of convenient ingredients such as canned soup and processed American cheese. These staples play a crucial role in accelerating the preparation process, allowing for the incorporation of generous amounts of tender chicken into the sauce.

CHICKEN AND SAUSAGE SLOW COOKER JAMBALAYA

CHICKEN AND SAUSAGE SLOW COOKER JAMBALAYA

Magical aromas will fill the air as you cook up this delightful Chicken and Sausage Slow Cooker Jambalaya Recipe, a twist on the classic Cajun dish that’s been simplified to fit perfectly in your crockpot. This fun, flavorful, and festive dinner idea is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

SLOW COOKED CRANBERRY STUFFED APPLES

SLOW COOKED CRANBERRY STUFFED APPLES

Unlocking the essence of comfort food, these indulgent stuffed apples evoke the nostalgia of a crisp autumn afternoon. The sweet, aromatic blend of cinnamon and nutmeg perfectly complements the satisfying crunch of walnuts, creating a delightful flavor experience that’s sure to warm your heart. And the best part? Your slow cooker takes care of most of the work, freeing you up to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

SLOW COOKER SPICED WHITE HOT CHOCOLATE

SLOW COOKER SPICED WHITE HOT CHOCOLATE

Zero in on the perfect way to start your day with this Slow Cooker Spiced White Hot Chocolate recipe. This delicious drink is infused with the warm and comforting aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom, creating a rich and creamy flavor that will leave you craving more with each sip.

SLOW COOKER RED WINE POT ROAST

SLOW COOKER RED WINE POT ROAST

Gastronomic delights abound when preparing a dish as impressive and effortless to make as the Slow Cooker Red Wine Pot Roast. This indulgent recipe is sure to be the talk of the town, impressing both family and friends with its rich flavors and tender fall-apart texture, making it perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.

CROCKPOT CANDY

CROCKPOT CANDY

Needless to say, Crockpot Candy is a must-make treat this holiday season! The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy peanuts is absolute perfection. But what really sets it apart is the simplicity of its ingredients – just four in total – and the fact that it can be prepared entirely within your slow cooker. What’s more, its generous yield makes it an ideal choice for filling cookie tins or bringing to holiday gatherings!

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out our collection of Instant Pot Dessert Recipes.

SLOW COOKER EGGNOG LATTES

SLOW COOKER EGGNOG LATTES

Taking inspiration from the festive atmosphere of the holiday season, why not try serving up something truly unique and exciting to your guests? These Slow Cooker Eggnog Lattes are an excellent choice, as they’re not only remarkably easy to prepare but also promise to be a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to bring joy and warmth to any gathering.

SLOW COOKER CINNAMON APPLES

SLOW COOKER CINNAMON APPLES

Versatility is the key to making these Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apples truly special. They can be served as a flavorful side dish on their own, paired with a variety of main courses, or used as a topping for oatmeal, pancakes, ice cream, or even yogurt for a sweet and satisfying treat.

SLOW-COOKED PIZZA CASSEROLE

SLOW-COOKED PIZZA CASSEROLE

Catering to various tastes and preferences is effortless with this versatile casserole recipe that has become a staple in many social gatherings. Consistently receiving rave reviews, its rich and filling flavor profile makes it an ideal choice for potlucks, where individual palates can be accommodated by adjusting the ingredients to suit anyone’s taste buds.

SLOW COOKER VEGGIE OMELETTE

SLOW COOKER VEGGIE OMELETTE

You don’t have to be a morning person to enjoy a delightful breakfast without much fuss. Simply cook your omelette in a crock pot for an effortless and scrumptious meal that’s perfect for busy days! This recipe focuses on the harmony between simplicity and flavor, allowing you to effortlessly combine all ingredients into the slow cooker, let it do its magic, and come back later to indulge in a nutritious and mouth-watering breakfast.

LAZY SLOW COOKER TIKTOK FETA PASTA

LAZY SLOW COOKER TIKTOK FETA PASTA

Bring your taste buds to life with our delectable and effortless crockpot TikTok feta pasta recipe! This adapted masterpiece takes the original’s richness to new heights, while requiring minimal effort and time to prepare. Don’t wait any longer – get cooking and indulge in this scrumptious dish today!

SLOW COOKER CHEESY BACON RANCH POTATOES

SLOW COOKER CHEESY BACON RANCH POTATOES

Zesty and satisfying, this crockpot potato recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to whip up a delicious side dish or snack with minimal effort. Simply combine sliced potatoes, shredded cheese, and crispy bacon in your slow cooker, and let the magic happen! These tender, flavorful, and oh-so-cheesy spuds are infused with the rich flavors of smoky bacon and melted cheese, making them an irresistible treat that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

With just three key ingredients – potatoes, cheese, and bacon – you can’t go wrong!

SLOW COOKER PORK TACOS

SLOW COOKER PORK TACOS

Planning a fun and delicious fiesta night at home can be a breeze with this easy slow cooker recipe that’s sure to impress your guests. To ensure your meal turns out perfectly, keep in mind these helpful tips: First, when it comes to slow-cooked dishes, it’s essential to remember that they don’t require much fat, so take the time to trim any excess from meats before adding them to the pot.

Additionally, for optimal flavor, consider waiting until the dish is finished cooking before adding your fresh herbs, as this will help preserve their delicate taste and aroma.

CROCKPOT MAC AND CHEESE

CROCKPOT MAC AND CHEESE

Whenever you’re craving comfort food that’s also incredibly convenient, look no further than this rich, creamy crockpot mac and cheese recipe. To make it, simply combine uncooked macaroni noodles, milk, cheese, and seasonings in your slow cooker for a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.

SLOW COOKER CRANBERRY APPLE BUTTER

SLOW COOKER CRANBERRY APPLE BUTTER

Relax with the cozy aroma of fall as you cook up this delicious slow cooker apple recipe in the comfort of your own home. The sweet scent of fresh apples is a classic signifier of the season, and with this easy-to-make dish, you can bring that sensation indoors without much effort at all. Simply add the required ingredients to your crockpot and let it do its magic – before long, your house will be filled with the mouthwatering aroma of tender apples cooking away.

APPLE-NUT BREAD PUDDING

APPLE-NUT BREAD PUDDING

Not only does this dessert bring back fond memories of childhood, but its autumnal flavors also evoke the cozy atmosphere of a crackling fireplace. The combination of apples and pecans adds a delightful twist to traditional bread pudding, making it a perfect treat for the fall season. I take great pleasure in serving warm portions topped with a generous scoop of creamy ice cream.

SLOW COOKER BLUEBERRY FRENCH TOAST

SLOW COOKER BLUEBERRY FRENCH TOAST

Sweetly scented homes are not just a dream, thanks to the amazing aroma that this breakfast dish creates. Not only will your home smell incredible, but the taste will be delicious too. It’s best to make this dish when you have company because it makes 12 servings and is quite rich, so a little goes a long way, making it perfect for special occasions.

SLOW-COOKED VEGGIE MEATBALL SOUP

SLOW-COOKED VEGGIE MEATBALL SOUP

Among the numerous recipes available for a satisfying meal, this Taste of Home soup stands out due to its ease of preparation and versatility. This mouth-watering dish is ideal for busy individuals as it can be made ahead of time, allowing you to cook the pasta when you return home and still have a warm, ready-to-eat dinner waiting for you in no time. If you’re looking for more ideas on how to make your mealtime easier, consider checking out our compilation of Best Instant Pot Soup Recipes.

EASY CREAMY POTATO CORN SOUP WITH SHRIMP

EASY CREAMY POTATO CORN SOUP WITH SHRIMP

Not only does this Creamy Potato Soup provide an exciting twist on a classic comfort food, but it’s also incredibly nutritious. Made with wholesome ingredients like corn, potatoes, and sautéed shrimp, this recipe is free from dairy products while still achieving that rich, creamy texture we all know and love. Perfect for a weeknight meal any time of year, this healthy and hearty soup is sure to become a staple in your household.

SLOW-COOKED CRAWFISH DIP

SLOW-COOKED CRAWFISH DIP

Just imagine the excitement on your guests’ faces when you serve them a deliciously hot and fresh Southern Living-inspired dip on Derby day. This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, as all you need to do is cook it in a slow cooker, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your celebration.

SLOW COOKER CANDIED CINNAMON PECANS

SLOW COOKER CANDIED CINNAMON PECANS

Zest up the holiday season with a simple yet scrumptious treat – our Slow Cooker Candied Cinnamon Pecans. Not only are these tasty nuts fantastically easy to prepare, but your home will be filled with the mouthwatering aroma of cinnamon and caramel while they cook. They’re also an excellent idea for homemade gifts that can be packaged in large quantities, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

SLOW COOKER MULLED WINE

SLOW COOKER MULLED WINE

Begin your holiday gatherings in style with this delightful mulled wine recipe, ideal for any festive occasion. By heating up red wine with a blend of warming spices such as cloves, cinnamon, and star anise, you’ll create a truly comforting and invigorating Christmas drink that’s sure to impress your guests.

SLOW COOKER MEATBALL PINEAPPLE SMOKIES

SLOW COOKER MEATBALL PINEAPPLE SMOKIES

Kick off your next game day party with a tasty appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. These Slow Cooker Meatball Pineapple Smokies are a must-try for any host looking to wow their guests without slaving away in the kitchen. Made with a sweet and tangy combination of apricot preserves, BBQ sauce, and juicy pineapples, these bite-sized morsels are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

SLOW COOKER PARMESAN BRUSSELS SPROUTS

SLOW COOKER PARMESAN BRUSSELS SPROUTS

Among the easiest side dishes to prepare for a weeknight dinner, these Slow Cooker Parmesan Brussels Sprouts stand out as a crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender steamed sprouts slow-cooked to perfection and tossed with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese creates a delicious accompaniment that pairs well with any type of meat or potato dish.

SLOW COOKER RITZ CHICKEN

SLOW COOKER RITZ CHICKEN

Here at Six Sisters’ Stuff, we’re sharing a recipe that’s perfect for busy families: Slow Cooker Ritz Chicken. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also budget-friendly, making it an ideal solution for those short on time or money.

What’s more, the fact that it’s ready in under 5 minutes means you can easily impress your loved ones without having to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen, all while keeping a secret that will leave everyone wondering how you managed to create such a masterpiece!

SLOW COOKER MASHED SWEET POTATOES

SLOW COOKER MASHED SWEET POTATOES

Gathering all my favorite ingredients, I adore that this Magical Slow Cooker dish is a one-pot wonder. The beauty of it lies in its simplicity, as the potatoes steam perfectly within the cooker itself, alongside butter and a minimal amount of water. Next, I carefully add some essential spices, a drizzle of maple syrup, and just a touch of rich heavy cream to elevate the flavors.

SLOW COOKER PUMPKIN DUMP CAKE

SLOW COOKER PUMPKIN DUMP CAKE

Among all the delicious desserts I’ve tried recently, none have caught my attention quite like this Apple Dump Cake. The moment I took that first bite, I knew it was a perfect fall treat. To give it an extra boost of flavor and texture, I added a bit more butter than called for in the recipe, and now just thinking about it is making me hungry! Let’s get started on making this tasty dessert!

GINGERBREAD AND WHITE CHOCOLATE FUDGE

GINGERBREAD AND WHITE CHOCOLATE FUDGE

Not only is it essential to cater to different tastes during the holidays, but also consider making ahead recipes that can be easily cooked in a slow cooker. By doing this, it creates a delightful two-tone Christmas Fudge with a milder flavor profile, which gingerbread enthusiasts will undoubtedly adore. The holiday season can be overwhelming due to its busy schedule, so it’s great to simplify cooking by utilizing this convenient appliance.

Our collection of easy-to-make ahead-of-time recipes covers everything from mouth-watering main dishes and scrumptious sides to sweet treats like the White Chocolate Fudge Recipe. So take a deep breath, unwind, and relish the joy that comes with sharing quality time with your loved ones during this festive period.

SOME SLOW COOKERS THAT YOU CAN BUY:

Known for their quality and versatility, Crock-Pot slow cookers are a staple in many households. One of the most popular models is the Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), which boasts a generous capacity to serve 9+ people or accommodate a 7-pound roast. This versatile cookware allows for high or low slow cooking settings, as well as a convenient warm function to ensure the perfect serving temperature.

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