Crock Pot Holiday Meals: 15+ Delicious and Easy Recipes for the Holiday Season
Looking for an easy and delicious way to prepare your holiday meals? Try these Crock Pot Holiday Meals! From main dishes to sides and desserts, we've got you covered with a wide range of recipes that are perfect for the holiday season. These crock pot meals are sure to be a hit with family and friends, and they'll help you save time and stress in the kitchen. So why wait? Start planning your Crock Pot Holiday Meals today!
The holiday season is a busy time of year, filled with shopping, wrapping, decorating, and of course, cooking. While traditional Christmas dishes like roast beef and mashed potatoes can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, there is an easier way: Crock Pot Holiday Meals.
Crock pots, also known as slow cookers, are a versatile and convenient appliance that can help take the stress out of holiday cooking. By tossing all of the ingredients into the pot and letting it do the work, you can save time and effort in the kitchen, leaving you more time to focus on other holiday tasks.
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In this article, we will introduce you to a collection of insanely easy crock pot recipes that are perfect for the Christmas season. From a honey mustard ham to a cinnamon roll casserole, these dishes are sure to become new holiday favorites. Not only are they delicious and satisfying, but they are also incredibly simple to prepare. So put away the pots and pans and let your crock pot do the work this holiday season.
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time-saving and stress-reducing benefits of Crock Pot Holiday Meals
Using a crock pot for holiday cooking has a number of convenient and appealing benefits. Here are a few key points to consider:
- Ease of use: Crock pots are incredibly simple to use. All you need to do is add your ingredients, set the temperature and cooking time, and let the pot do the work. This frees up time and effort in the kitchen, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
- Time-saving: Crock pots are perfect for slow cooking, which means you can set them in the morning and come home to a fully cooked meal in the evening. This is especially useful during the busy holiday season, when you may not have as much time to spend in the kitchen.
- Hands-off cooking: Because crock pots do the work for you, you don't have to stand over the stove or constantly check on your food. This allows you to relax and enjoy the holiday season, rather than stressing out about meal prep.
- Keeps the kitchen cool: Using a crock pot can help keep your kitchen from overheating, especially during the warmer months when you don't want to turn on the oven.
- Easy clean-up: Crock pots typically have removable, dishwasher-safe inner pots, making clean-up a breeze.
- Versatility: Crock pots can be used to make a wide variety of dishes, from soups and stews to roasts and casseroles. This makes them a versatile choice for holiday cooking.
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Overall, the convenience and appeal of using a crock pot for holiday cooking lies in its simplicity and time-saving benefits, as well as its versatility and ease of clean-up. With a crock pot, you can prepare delicious holiday dishes with minimal effort, freeing up time and energy to focus on other tasks.
One of the key benefits of using a crock pot for holiday cooking is the time-saving aspect. Because crock pots are designed for slow cooking, you can set them in the morning and come home to a fully cooked meal in the evening. This is especially useful during the busy holiday season, when you may not have as much time to spend in the kitchen.
In addition to saving time, using a crock pot can also help reduce stress in the kitchen. Because the appliance does the work for you, you don't have to stand over the stove or constantly check on your food. This allows you to relax and enjoy the holiday season, rather than stressing out about meal prep.
The hands-off nature of crock pot cooking also makes it easier to entertain guests or host holiday dinners. Rather than spending the entire evening in the kitchen, you can set your crock pot in the morning and enjoy the company of your guests while the food cooks.
Overall, the time-saving and stress-reducing benefits of using a crock pot make it an appealing choice for holiday cooking. With a crock pot, you can prepare delicious dishes with minimal effort, freeing up time and energy to focus on other tasks.
Crock Pot Holiday Meals: Breakfast
Crock pots are not just for dinner - they can also be a convenient and delicious way to prepare breakfast. Here are a few reasons why crock pots are a great choice for breakfast:
- They allow you to set it and forget it. One of the biggest benefits of using a crock pot for breakfast is that you can set it in the morning and come home to a fully cooked and delicious meal. Whether you're preparing oatmeal, eggs, or a breakfast casserole, the crock pot allows you to set it in the morning and forget about it until breakfast is ready.
- They can be a great way to meal prep. If you're short on time in the mornings, using a crock pot to prepare breakfast can be a great way to meal prep and have breakfast ready to go when you need it. You can prepare oatmeal, eggs, or other breakfast staples in the crock pot the night before and have a healthy and convenient breakfast ready to go in the morning.
- They offer a wide range of recipe options. There are many different recipes that can be prepared in a crock pot for breakfast, including oatmeal, eggs, breakfast casseroles, French toast, and more. This means that you can enjoy a wide range of breakfast options without having to spend a lot of time in the kitchen.
- They are a great choice for busy households. If you have a busy household with multiple people trying to get ready in the morning, using a crock pot to prepare breakfast can be a great way to ensure that everyone has a hot and satisfying meal to start the day.
Overall, crock pots are a convenient and delicious choice for breakfast, offering the convenience of "set it and forget it" cooking and a wide range of recipe options.
Whether you're looking for a hot and hearty breakfast casserole or a creamy and comforting bowl of oatmeal, the crock pot has you covered.
Plus, with the ability to meal prep and have breakfast ready to go in the morning, the crock pot can be a lifesaver for busy households. So next time you're looking for a convenient and delicious way to start your day, consider using a crock pot to prepare breakfast.
If you're looking for holiday-inspired crock pot breakfast recipes, here are a few options to consider:
- Slow Cooker Eggnog French Toast: This recipe combines the flavors of eggnog and French toast in a delicious and convenient crock pot breakfast. To prepare it, you'll need bread, eggs, eggnog, milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg. You can customize the recipe by adding in additional mix-ins, such as dried fruit, nuts, or spices.
- Crock Pot Gingerbread Oatmeal: This recipe combines the flavors of gingerbread with creamy oats for a festive and satisfying breakfast. To prepare it, you'll need rolled oats, milk, water, molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. You can top the oatmeal with additional ingredients, such as nuts, dried fruit, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
- Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole: This recipe is a classic breakfast casserole that is perfect for the holidays. To prepare it, you'll need bread, eggs, milk, cheese, and any additional mix-ins you'd like, such as cooked bacon, sausage, or veggies. You can customize the recipe to fit your tastes and preferences.
- Crock Pot Cranberry Orange Quinoa: This recipe is a healthy and flavorful way to start the day, combining quinoa, cranberries, and orange for a refreshing and satisfying breakfast. To prepare it, you'll need quinoa, water, cranberries, orange juice, and spices. You can serve the quinoa with additional toppings, such as nuts, seeds, or yogurt.
- Slow Cooker Maple Pecan Granola: This recipe is a delicious and easy way to prepare a batch of granola in the crock pot. To prepare it, you'll need oats, nuts, maple syrup, oil, and any additional mix-ins you'd like, such as dried fruit or chocolate chips. You can serve the granola with milk or yogurt for a tasty and satisfying breakfast.
By using the crock pot, you can prepare a wide range of holiday-inspired breakfast recipes that are delicious and convenient. Whether you're looking for something sweet and indulgent or something healthy and satisfying, the crock pot has you covered.
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Slow Cooker Cinnamon Roll Casserole
This recipe for Slow Cooker Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a delicious and easy way to prepare a classic breakfast treat in the crock pot.
The recipe calls for just a few simple ingredients - cinnamon rolls, eggs, milk, brown sugar, and cinnamon - which are combined to create a sweet and creamy casserole that is perfect for the holiday season.
You can serve the casserole warm, topped with the icing from the cinnamon roll package, or you can add additional toppings, such as fruit, nuts, or whipped cream, for an extra indulgent touch.
If you'd like to mix things up, you can try using different types of rolls, such as croissants or biscuit dough, or you can add in additional mix-ins, such as fruit or nuts, to customize the flavor and texture.
Regardless of how you choose to prepare it, this Slow Cooker Cinnamon Roll Casserole is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of cinnamon rolls (8-12 rolls)
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Directions:
- Cut the cinnamon rolls into small pieces and place them in the crock pot.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour the mixture over the cinnamon rolls in the crock pot.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the casserole is cooked through and the cinnamon rolls are tender.
- Serve the casserole warm, topped with the icing from the cinnamon roll package.
Crock Pot Holiday Meals: Appetizers
There are several reasons why it can be a good idea to serve appetizers at a party or gathering. Here are a few of the main reasons why appetizers can be a useful addition to a menu:
- They help to keep guests satisfied before the main meal is served. Appetizers are a great way to keep guests satisfied and prevent them from getting too hungry while they wait for the main meal to be served. By providing a variety of tasty and satisfying appetizers, you can keep guests happy and energized while they mingle and socialize.
- They provide an opportunity to showcase your culinary skills. Appetizers are a great way to showcase your culinary skills and impress your guests with your creativity and attention to detail. Whether you're serving up classic party favorites like cheese and crackers or trying something more creative and unique, appetizers are a great way to get your guests talking and excited about the meal to come.
- They add variety and interest to the menu. Appetizers are a great way to add variety and interest to a menu, whether you're serving a full-blown dinner party or just a casual gathering of friends. By offering a variety of appetizers, you can provide something for everyone and ensure that there's always something new and exciting to try.
- They can be a fun and interactive way to socialize. Appetizers are a great way to encourage socialization and conversation among guests. By providing a variety of finger foods and small plates, you can encourage guests to try new things and interact with each other over food.
Overall, appetizers can be a useful and enjoyable addition to any party or gathering. Whether you're looking to keep guests satisfied before the main meal or just want to add some variety and interest to your menu, appetizers are a great choice.
On a personal note, for Christmas and New Year we always had appetizers for grazing throughout the day and the main meal was served in the evening.
Here are a few tips for selecting and preparing appetizers for the holidays:
- Choose appetizers that can be made in advance. During the busy holiday season, it's important to choose appetizers that can be made in advance so you don't have to worry about last-minute preparations. Options like dips, spreads, and finger foods that can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer are great choices.
- Consider the theme of your holiday party. When selecting appetizers, consider the theme of your holiday party and choose appetizers that fit with the overall mood and atmosphere. For example, if you're hosting a formal dinner party, you might choose more elegant and sophisticated appetizers, while if you're hosting a casual gathering of friends, you might opt for more casual and relaxed appetizers.
- Mix and match flavors and textures. To keep things interesting, mix and match flavors and textures in your appetizers. For example, you might choose a creamy dip to go with crunchy vegetables, or a spicy spread to go with a milder cracker. By pairing different flavors and textures, you can keep your guests' taste buds guessing and ensure that there's always something new and exciting to try.
- Make use of seasonal ingredients. During the holidays, there are many delicious and flavorful ingredients that are in season. Make use of these ingredients in your appetizers to add flavor and interest to your menu. For example, you might choose to use cranberries, pomegranates, or root vegetables in your appetizers to add a festive touch.
- Don't forget about the presentation. Even the simplest appetizers can be elevated with a little bit of presentation. Consider using attractive serving platters, garnishes, and other decorative touches to make your appetizers look as good as they taste.
By following these tips, you can create a delicious and memorable spread of appetizers that will set the tone for a festive and enjoyable holiday gathering.
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Little Smokies
This recipe for Little Smokies is a delicious and easy party appetizer that is perfect for the holiday season.
The recipe calls for just a few simple ingredients - little smokies sausages, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce - which are combined to create a sweet and savory sauce that coats the sausages as they cook in the crock pot.
Simply toss all of the ingredients into the crock pot and let it do the work for you.
When it's done, you'll have a batch of delicious little smokies that are ready to be served as is, or skewered and served as appetizers.
Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just looking for a tasty snack, these Little Smokies are sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 2 (14-ounce) packages little smokies sausages
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Directions:
- Add the little smokies sausages to the crock pot.
- In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour the mixture over the sausages.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the sausages are heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
- Stir the sausages and sauce before serving. You can serve the little smokies as is, or you can skewer them and serve them as appetizers.
Crab Dip
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 pound lump crab meat, drained and flaked
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- In the crock pot, mix together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, bell pepper, celery, red onion, and parsley until well combined.
- Stir in the crab meat, garlic powder, onion powder, Old Bay seasoning, and black pepper.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the dip is hot and the flavors have melded together.
- Stir the dip before serving. You can serve the crab dip with crackers, bread, or vegetables for dipping.
Crock Pot Meatballs
This recipe for Crock Pot Meatballs is a delicious and easy way to prepare a classic party appetizer or main dish.
By using the crock pot, you can set it in the morning and come home to a fully cooked and flavorful batch of meatballs in the evening.
The recipe calls for just a few simple ingredients - ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, milk, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and marinara sauce which are combined to create a flavorful and moist meatball.
Simply mix all of the ingredients together, roll the mixture into balls, and place them in the crock pot. Then, pour the marinara sauce over the top and let the crock pot do the work for you.
When it's done, you'll have a batch of delicious meatballs that are ready to be served as is, or placed on top of pasta or in a sandwich. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just looking for a tasty meal, these Crock Pot Meatballs are sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jar marinara sauce (32 ounces)
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, milk, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them in the crock pot.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs and stir gently to coat.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is hot.
- Stir the meatballs and sauce before serving. You can serve the meatballs as is, or you can place them on top of pasta or in a sandwich.
Crock Pot Holiday Meals: Main Dish
Tips for selecting the right size crock pot for the main dish
When preparing a main dish in a crock pot, it's important to select the right size crock pot to ensure that the dish cooks evenly and fits comfortably in the pot. Here are a few tips for selecting the right size crock pot for your main dish:
- Measure the size of your main dish. Before you select a crock pot, take a measuring tape and measure the length, width, and height of your main dish. This will give you a good idea of how much space it will take up in the crock pot.
- Consider the size of your crock pot. Most crock pots come in a range of sizes, from small 1.5 quart pots to large 8 quart pots. If you're cooking a small main dish, such as a pork loin or a turkey breast, you can get away with using a smaller crock pot. However, if you're cooking a larger main dish, such as a whole turkey or a large roast, you'll need a larger crock pot to accommodate it.
- Check the capacity of your crock pot. Most crock pots will have a capacity listed in quarts, which can give you an idea of how much food it can hold. For example, a 6 quart crock pot can hold about 6 quarts of food, which is equivalent to 6 liters or 24 cups.
- Leave some extra space in the crock pot. It's always a good idea to leave a little extra space in the crock pot when cooking a main dish, as the food will expand as it cooks and you don't want it to overflow. As a general rule, aim for leaving at least 1-2 inches of space between the top of the main dish and the rim of the crock pot.
By following these tips, you can select the right size crock pot for your main dish and ensure that it cooks evenly and fits comfortably in the pot. This will help you prepare a delicious and stress-free holiday meal.
Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham
Ingredients:
- 8-10 pound ham
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup mustard
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Directions:
- Place the ham in the crock pot.
- In a small bowl, mix together the honey, mustard, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
- Pour the honey mustard mixture over the ham, using a brush to evenly coat the surface.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours, or until the internal temperature of the ham reaches at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the crock pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Serve the ham with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a holiday salad.
Crock Pot Holiday Meals: Side Dishes
Tips for timing the cooking of the side dishes to be ready at the same time as the main dish
When preparing a holiday meal, it's important to time the cooking of the side dishes so that they are ready at the same time as the main dish. Here are a few tips for timing the cooking of the side dishes to be ready at the same time as the main dish:
- Check the cooking times of the main dish and side dishes. Before you start cooking, check the cooking times of the main dish and side dishes to get a good idea of how long they will take to cook. Make sure to also check the temperature at which they should be cooked, as some dishes may need to be cooked at a higher or lower temperature than others.
- Plan out the cooking times. Based on the cooking times of the main dish and side dishes, plan out the order in which you will prepare them. For example, if the main dish takes 6 hours to cook on low heat and the side dishes take 3 hours to cook on low heat, you might start the main dish in the morning and the side dishes in the afternoon.
- Use multiple crock pots or a slow cooker with multiple compartments. If you have multiple crock pots or a slow cooker with multiple compartments, you can use them to cook the main dish and side dishes at the same time. This can help to ensure that everything is ready at the same time and saves you the hassle of juggling different cooking times.
- Adjust the cooking times as needed. If the main dish or side dishes are taking longer or shorter to cook than expected, you may need to adjust the cooking times to ensure that everything is ready at the same time. For example, if the main dish finishes cooking before the side dishes, you can turn the crock pot to the "warm" setting to keep it hot until the side dishes are ready.
By following these tips, you can time the cooking of the side dishes to be ready at the same time as the main dish, ensuring that you have a cohesive and stress-free holiday meal.
Crock Pot Mashed Potatoes
This recipe for Crock Pot Mashed Potatoes is an easy and convenient way to prepare a classic holiday side dish.
By using the crock pot, you can set it in the morning and come home to perfectly cooked and mashed potatoes in the evening.
The recipe calls for just a few simple ingredients - potatoes, chicken broth, milk, butter, salt, and pepper - which are combined to create a rich and flavorful side dish.
Whether you're serving a roast beef or a honey mustard ham, these Crock Pot Mashed Potatoes are sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds potatoes (such as Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- Add the potatoes to the crock pot. Pour in the chicken broth or water, making sure the potatoes are fully covered.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the crock pot. Add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
- Using a potato masher or a hand mixer, mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. You can also use a food processor or a blender if you prefer a smoother consistency.
- Taste the potatoes and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the potatoes are too thick, you can add a splash more milk to thin them out.
- Serve the mashed potatoes hot, garnished with additional butter or chives if desired.
Crock Pot Stuffing
This recipe for Crock Pot Stuffing is a delicious and easy way to prepare a classic holiday side dish.
By using the crock pot, you can set it in the morning and come home to a fully cooked and flavorful stuffing in the evening.
The recipe calls for just a few simple ingredients - bread, chicken broth, butter, onion, celery, parsley, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper - which are combined to create a savory and aromatic stuffing.
Whether you're serving a roast turkey or a honey mustard ham, this Crock Pot Stuffing is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (such as white bread, sourdough, or cornbread)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- Place the bread cubes in the crock pot.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the chicken broth, melted butter, onion, celery, parsley, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the bread cubes.
- Gently stir the bread and liquid together until the bread is evenly coated.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the stuffing is heated through and the bread is soft.
- Stir the stuffing before serving. You can also garnish it with additional chopped parsley or a sprinkle of poultry seasoning if desired.
Crock-Pot Sweet Potato Casserole
This recipe for Crock-Pot Sweet Potato Casserole is a delicious and easy way to prepare a classic holiday side dish.
By using the crock pot, you can set it in the morning and come home to a fully cooked and flavorful casserole in the evening.
The recipe calls for just a few simple ingredients - sweet potatoes, butter, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt - which are combined to create a creamy and sweet base.
The topping, made with chopped pecans, butter, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon, adds a crunchy and flavorful contrast.
Whether you're serving a roast turkey or a honey mustard ham, this Crock-Pot Sweet Potato Casserole is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Topping:
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Directions:
- Add the sweet potatoes to the crock pot.
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Pour the mixture over the sweet potatoes and stir to coat.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, mash them with a potato masher or a hand mixer until they are smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the topping ingredients until well combined. Sprinkle the topping over the mashed sweet potatoes.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for an additional 30 minutes, or until the topping is heated through and the sweet potatoes are hot.
- Serve the Crock-Pot Sweet Potato Casserole hot, garnished with additional chopped pecans if desired.
Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese
This recipe for Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese is a delicious and easy way to prepare a classic holiday side dish.
By using the crock pot, you can set it in the morning and come home to a fully cooked and flavorful macaroni and cheese in the evening.
The recipe calls for just a few simple ingredients - macaroni, water, milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, butter, flour, salt, and pepper - which are combined to create a creamy and cheesy dish.
Whether you're serving a roast turkey or a honey mustard ham, this Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups water
- 4 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- In the crock pot, combine the macaroni, water, and milk.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until a paste forms. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the paste starts to turn golden brown.
- Slowly add 1 cup of the milk from the crock pot to the saucepan, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the salt and pepper.
- Pour the milk mixture back into the crock pot and stir to combine.
- Add the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the crock pot and stir until the cheeses are melted and the macaroni is fully coated.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the macaroni is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Stir the macaroni and cheese before serving. You can garnish it with additional shredded cheese or chopped herbs if desired.
Crock Pot Creamed Corn
This recipe for Crock Pot Creamed Corn is a delicious and easy way to prepare a classic holiday side dish.
By using the crock pot, you can set it in the morning and come home to a fully cooked and flavorful creamed corn in the evening.
The recipe calls for just a few simple ingredients - frozen corn, heavy cream, butter, flour, sugar, salt, and pepper - which are combined to create a rich and creamy dish.
Whether you're serving a roast turkey or a honey mustard ham, this Crock Pot Creamed Corn is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds frozen corn, thawed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- Add the corn to the crock pot.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until a paste forms. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the paste starts to turn golden brown.
- Slowly add the heavy cream to the saucepan, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the cream mixture into the crock pot and stir to combine.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the creamed corn is hot and the flavors have melded together.
- Stir the creamed corn before serving. You can garnish it with additional chopped herbs or a sprinkle of cheese if desired.
Drinks
Slow Cooker Mulled Wine
This recipe for Slow Cooker Mulled Wine is a delicious and easy way to prepare a classic holiday drink.
By using the crock pot, you can set it in the morning and come home to a fully cooked and flavorful mulled wine in the evening.
The recipe calls for just a few simple ingredients - red wine, orange juice, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and honey - which are combined to create a warm and spicy drink.
Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just looking for a cozy drink to curl up with, this Slow Cooker Mulled Wine is sure to be a hit. You can serve it with sliced oranges and additional cinnamon sticks as garnishes, or enjoy it as is.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine
- 1 cup orange juice
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1/4 cup honey
Directions:
- In the crock pot, combine the red wine, orange juice, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the wine is hot and the flavors have melded together.
- Stir in the honey until it is fully dissolved.
- Serve the mulled wine hot, garnished with sliced oranges and additional cinnamon sticks if desired.
Creamy Crock Pot Hot Chocolate
This recipe for Creamy Crock Pot Hot Chocolate is a delicious and easy way to prepare a classic holiday drink.
By using the crock pot, you can set it in the morning and come home to a fully cooked and creamy hot chocolate in the evening.
The recipe calls for just a few simple ingredients - milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt - which are combined to create a rich and indulgent drink.
Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just looking for a cozy drink to curl up with, this Creamy Crock Pot Hot Chocolate is sure to be a hit. You can serve it as is, or top it with whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings for extra decadence.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions:
- In the crock pot, combine the milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the chocolate is fully melted and the hot chocolate is hot.
- Stir the hot chocolate before serving. You can serve it as is, or you can top it with whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings for extra decadence.
Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate
This recipe for Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate is a delicious and easy way to prepare a classic holiday drink with a refreshing twist. By using the crock pot, you can set it in the morning and come home to a fully cooked and flavorful hot chocolate in the evening.
The recipe calls for just a few simple ingredients - milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract - which are combined to create a rich and minty hot chocolate that is perfect for the holiday season.
Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just looking for a cozy drink to curl up with, this Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate is sure to be a hit. You can serve it as is, or top it with whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, or chocolate shavings for an extra festive touch.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- In the crock pot, combine the milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the chocolate is fully melted and the hot chocolate is hot.
- Stir the hot chocolate before serving. You can serve it as is, or you can top it with whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, or chocolate shavings for an extra festive touch.
Dessert
There are many delicious dessert recipes that can be prepared in a crock pot, making it easy to enjoy indulgent and satisfying treats without having to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Here are a few options for dessert recipes that can be prepared in a crock pot:
- Bread pudding: This classic dessert can be made in the crock pot by combining stale bread, eggs, milk, sugar, and spices in the crock pot and cooking on low heat until the bread is fully absorbed and the pudding is set. You can add fruit, nuts, or other mix-ins to customize the flavor and texture.
- Chocolate fondue: Chocolate fondue is a delicious and easy dessert that can be prepared in the crock pot by melting chocolate chips, cream, and butter in the crock pot and stirring until smooth. You can serve the fondue with an assortment of dippers, such as fruit, cookies, and pretzels.
- Crock Pot Brownies: Brownies can be made in the crock pot by mixing together the brownie batter and baking it in the crock pot on low heat until the brownies are cooked through. You can top the brownies with frosting, chocolate chips, or other toppings for an extra indulgent treat.
- Crock Pot Cinnamon Rolls: Cinnamon rolls can be made in the crock pot by rolling out a can of refrigerated dough, spreading it with a mixture of butter, sugar, and cinnamon, and rolling it up before placing it in the crock pot. The cinnamon rolls will cook slowly in the crock pot and come out soft, fluffy, and delicious.
- Crock Pot Apple Crisp: Apple crisp can be made in the crock pot by combining sliced apples, oats, sugar, butter, and spices in the crock pot and cooking on low heat until the apples are tender and the topping is crispy. You can serve the apple crisp with ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious and comforting dessert.
By using the crock pot, you can prepare a variety of delicious and indulgent dessert recipes with minimal effort and hassle. Whether you're looking for a classic comfort food or something a little more creative, there's a crock pot dessert recipe that's sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
When preparing dessert recipes in a crock pot, it's important to adjust the cooking time and temperature to ensure that the recipe turns out correctly. Here are a few tips for adjusting the cooking time and temperature for different dessert recipes in a crock pot:
- Follow the recipe's guidelines. The first step in adjusting the cooking time and temperature for a dessert recipe in a crock pot is to follow the recipe's guidelines. Most dessert recipes will provide specific instructions for cooking time and temperature, so make sure to follow these guidelines as closely as possible.
- Check the recipe's doneness. As the dessert is cooking, it's important to check its doneness to ensure that it is cooking evenly and properly. For most desserts, this can be done by inserting a toothpick or knife into the center of the dessert and checking to see if it comes out clean. If the toothpick or knife comes out with wet batter or gooey filling, the dessert is not yet done.
- Adjust the cooking time as needed. If the dessert is not yet done after the recommended cooking time, you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure that it is cooked through. You can do this by adding additional time in increments of 15-30 minutes, checking the doneness of the dessert each time.
- Adjust the cooking temperature as needed. If the dessert is cooking too slowly or too quickly, you may need to adjust the cooking temperature to ensure that it is cooked properly. For most crock pot recipes, you can adjust the temperature by switching between the low and high settings.
By following these tips, you can adjust the cooking time and temperature for different dessert recipes in a crock pot to ensure that they turn out perfectly every time.
Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
This recipe for Slow Cooker Apple Crisp is a delicious and easy way to prepare a classic comfort food in the crock pot.
The recipe calls for just a few simple ingredients - apples, oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter - which are combined to create a flavorful and satisfying dessert that is perfect for the holiday season.
The crock pot allows you to set it in the morning and come home to a fully cooked and delicious apple crisp in the evening.
You can serve the apple crisp warm, topped with ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch, or you can enjoy it as is for a healthier option. Regardless of how you choose to prepare it, this Slow Cooker Apple Crisp is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups sliced apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Directions:
- Place the sliced apples in the bottom of the crock pot.
- In a separate bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is well combined.
- Spread the oat mixture evenly over the apples in the crock pot.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the apples are tender and the topping is crispy.
- Serve the apple crisp warm, topped with ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Cherry Dump Cake
This recipe for Cherry Dump Cake is a delicious and easy way to prepare a classic dessert in the crock pot.
The recipe calls for just a few simple ingredients - cherry pie filling, yellow cake mix, and butter - which are combined to create a sweet and flavorful cake that is perfect for the holiday season.
The crock pot allows you to set it in the morning and come home to a fully cooked and delicious cherry dump cake in the evening.
You can serve the cherry dump cake warm, topped with ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch, or you can enjoy it as is for a simpler option. Regardless of how you choose to prepare it, this Cherry Dump Cake is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 can cherry pie filling
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
Directions:
- Spread the cherry pie filling evenly in the bottom of the crock pot.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cherry pie filling.
- Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours, or until the cake is cooked through and the top is golden brown.
- Serve the cherry dump cake warm, topped with ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
You’ll Need Crock Pots for These Recipes
When selecting a crock pot for creating a holiday meal, it's important to consider the size and capacity of the pot.
If you're planning on preparing a large main dish, such as a ham or turkey, you'll want to choose a crock pot that is large enough to accommodate the size of the dish.
Similarly, if you're planning on preparing multiple dishes at once, you'll want to choose a crock pot with multiple cooking bowls or a removable insert that allows you to cook multiple dishes at once. There are commercial units with multiple cooking bowls as well.
In terms of size, a 6-quart crock pot is a good choice for most holiday meals, as it provides enough capacity to accommodate a large main dish and several side dishes. However, if you're cooking for a larger group, you may want to consider a larger 8-quart crock pot, which will provide even more capacity.
Other features to consider when selecting a crock pot for holiday cooking include the presence of a timer, which allows you to set the cooking time in advance and have the pot shut off automatically when the cooking is complete, and the presence of multiple heat settings, which allows you to adjust the cooking temperature to suit the needs of your recipe.
Overall, when selecting a crock pot for holiday cooking, consider the size and capacity of the pot, as well as any additional features that may be helpful for your needs. With a little bit of research and planning, you can find the perfect crock pot to help make your holiday meal a success.
In conclusion, using a crock pot for holiday cooking can be a convenient and appealing option for busy home cooks. With the ability to set it and forget it, the crock pot allows you to prepare a wide range of dishes without having to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. This can be especially helpful during the holiday season, when time is often at a premium.
To make the most of the crock pot's time-saving and stress-reducing benefits during the holiday season, consider preparing a variety of dishes in advance and freezing them for later use.
This can be a great way to have ready-to-go meals on hand when you're short on time. Additionally, consider preparing side dishes and appetizers in the crock pot, which can free up oven and stovetop space for the main dish.
Finally, don't be afraid to get creative with your crock pot recipes - there are many different dishes that can be prepared in the crock pot, so don't be afraid to experiment and try new recipes.
Overall, the crock pot is a valuable tool for holiday cooking, offering convenience, ease, and delicious results. With a little bit of planning and creativity, you can use the crock pot to prepare a wide range of dishes that are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
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