Complete Gardening
Celebrate this Christmas with less stress and more joy by harnessing the convenience of crockpot cooking. These 29 delightful recipes will let you enjoy festive flavors without spending all day in the kitchen.
From savory main dishes to sweet desserts, your crockpot is about to become your best holiday ally.
1. Slow-Cooked Honey Garlic Ham
This crockpot honey garlic ham is a holiday centerpiece that requires minimal effort. The sweet and savory glaze of honey, garlic, and orange juice infuses deep into the ham, making every bite unforgettable.
As it slowly cooks, your home will be filled with the enticing aroma of holiday spices. Serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
Ideal for family gatherings, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. The ham is juicy, tender, and packed with flavors that epitomize festive warmth and joy.
2. Crockpot Eggnog French Toast
Start your Christmas morning with the comforting flavors of eggnog French toast made effortlessly in your crockpot.
Thick slices of bread soak in a creamy eggnog mixture overnight, ready to be cooked to perfection by morning. The rich flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg combine with the sweet, custardy bread to create a breakfast delight.
Serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and fresh berries for an added touch of freshness. It’s a delightful way to bring holiday cheer to your breakfast table, all with minimal morning hustle.
3. Festive Beef Bourguignon
This crockpot beef bourguignon offers a taste of French elegance with the ease of home cooking. Tender beef chunks simmered in a rich red wine sauce with mushrooms and carrots.
Set it in the morning and let the crockpot work its magic, creating a dish that’s perfect for a cozy Christmas dinner.
The deep flavors develop beautifully as it slow-cooks, making each bite a savory delight. Pair it with a crusty baguette or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal. It’s a sophisticated yet simple way to impress your guests.
4. Gingerbread Lava Cake
End your holiday feast with a sweet surprise – gingerbread lava cake made right in your crockpot.
This dessert features a warm, gooey center that’s bursting with the classic flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses. Simply mix the ingredients, pour into the crockpot, and let it bake to perfection while you enjoy the rest of your day.
Top it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg for added holiday flair. It’s an indulgent treat that captures the essence of Christmas in every bite.
5. Savory Herb Butter Chicken
Savor the taste of herb butter chicken that’s tender and full of flavor this Christmas.
This crockpot recipe lets you enjoy a luxurious meal without the fuss. The chicken is cooked slowly with butter, garlic, and a blend of herbs, resulting in meat that’s perfectly tender and aromatic.
Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a simple salad to complement the rich flavors. The preparation is straightforward, making it an easy yet impressive main dish for your holiday table. It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth to any festive gathering.
6. Cranberry Apple Cider
Warm up your holiday celebrations with a crockpot full of cranberry apple cider.
This delightful drink combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of apple cider and a hint of spice. Let your crockpot do the work while you focus on enjoying time with friends and family.
Serve it warm, garnished with fresh cranberries and a slice of orange for a festive touch. Perfect for both adults and children, this cider is a heartwarming way to celebrate the season. It’s a fragrant and flavorful drink that embodies the spirit of Christmas.
7. Rich Chocolate Fondue
Create a fun and interactive dessert experience with crockpot chocolate fondue.
Melt rich chocolate in your crockpot, and serve it with an array of dippables such as strawberries, bananas, and marshmallows. This easy setup allows guests to customize their dessert experience.
The fondue stays warm and creamy, making it perfect for long evenings filled with laughter and joy. It’s a delightful way to end a festive meal and a sure hit with guests of all ages. Embrace the holiday spirit with this sweet, communal treat.
8. Maple Glazed Carrots
Add a touch of sweetness to your holiday table with maple glazed carrots made in the crockpot.
These tender carrots are cooked slowly in a buttery maple glaze, which enhances their natural sweetness. The result is a side dish that’s both simple and satisfying, complementing a variety of main courses.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This dish is a wonderful way to add vibrant flavor and color to your Christmas feast, all with minimal effort.
9. Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of peppermint hot chocolate made in your crockpot.
This warming beverage combines creamy milk with decadent chocolate and a hint of peppermint, creating a festive twist on a classic favorite. Let the mixture simmer, allowing the flavors to meld into a delicious drink perfect for winter nights.
Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes for a delightful holiday touch. It’s a simple way to bring warmth and joy to your Christmas gatherings.
10. Spicy Sausage and Bean Stew
Warm up with a bowl of spicy sausage and bean stew from your crockpot this holiday season.
Featuring a medley of sausage, beans, and vegetables in a zesty tomato sauce, this stew is both filling and flavorful. The slow cooking process melds the spices and ingredients, creating a dish with rich, deep flavors.
Serve it with crusty bread for a comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly Christmas evenings. It’s a hearty dish that brings a touch of spice to your festive celebrations.
11. Holiday Spiced Nuts
Fill your home with the irresistible aroma of holiday spiced nuts, easily made in your crockpot.
This tasty snack combines a mix of nuts coated in a sweet and spicy glaze, perfect for nibbling during festive gatherings.
As the nuts cook, they absorb the flavors of cinnamon, cayenne, and brown sugar, resulting in a delightful balance of sweet and heat.
Serve in bowls for guests to enjoy throughout the evening. It’s a simple yet flavorful treat that captures the essence of the holidays.
12. Slow Cooker Coq au Vin
Bring a taste of French cuisine to your Christmas table with slow cooker coq au vin.
This classic dish features tender chicken cooked in a rich sauce of red wine, mushrooms, and onions. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop fully, making each bite a savory delight.
Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It’s an elegant yet easy dish that adds a touch of sophistication to your festive meal.
13. Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding
Enjoy the comforting flavors of pumpkin spice bread pudding, effortlessly made in your crockpot.
This dessert combines day-old bread with a creamy pumpkin spice custard, creating a rich and satisfying treat. Let the crockpot do its magic, transforming the ingredients into a warm, aromatic dessert.
Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for the perfect finishing touch. It’s a cozy dessert that brings the warmth of the season to your holiday table.
14. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your holiday side dishes with balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts, easily made in the crockpot.
The sweet and tangy balsamic glaze enhances the natural flavors of the Brussels sprouts, while crispy bacon adds a savory crunch. This dish is a delicious way to incorporate vegetables into your Christmas meal with minimal effort.
Serve alongside your favorite main courses for a balanced and flavorful feast. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that will impress your guests.
15. Sweet Potato Casserole
Delight in the sweet, comforting flavors of sweet potato casserole made in your crockpot.
This classic holiday dish features creamy sweet potatoes topped with toasted marshmallows and a crunchy pecan crumble. The crockpot ensures the sweet potatoes cook to perfection, making it an easy addition to your holiday menu.
Serve as a side dish to complement your main courses, or enjoy it as a dessert. It’s a versatile dish that embodies the warmth and sweetness of the season.
16. Mulled Wine
Warm up with a cup of mulled wine, gently simmered in your crockpot.
This festive drink combines red wine with spices such as cinnamon, star anise, and cloves, creating a fragrant and warming beverage perfect for holiday gatherings. Serve in mugs, garnished with orange slices and a cinnamon stick for a festive touch.
It’s a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of the season while staying cozy and comfortable. Mulled wine is a classic holiday treat that brings cheer to any celebration.
17. Vegetarian Lasagna
Enjoy a meatless holiday meal with crockpot vegetarian lasagna.
Layers of spinach, ricotta cheese, and marinara sauce come together to create a delicious and satisfying dish. The crockpot cooks the lasagna gently, ensuring the flavors meld perfectly. Serve with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
This vegetarian option is not only simple to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser, offering a lighter alternative to traditional holiday fare. It’s a wholesome dish that everyone can enjoy.
18. Sticky Toffee Pudding
Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of sticky toffee pudding made in your crockpot.
This classic British dessert features a moist cake infused with dates, topped with a luscious caramel sauce. The crockpot ensures the pudding stays warm and gooey, making it perfect for chilly winter evenings.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures. It’s a sweet treat that brings a touch of indulgence to your holiday celebrations.
19. Sausage and Pepper Risotto
Create a creamy, comforting meal with crockpot sausage and pepper risotto.
This dish combines the savory flavors of sausage and bell peppers with creamy risotto, cooked to perfection in the crockpot. The slow cooking process allows the rice to absorb the flavors, resulting in a rich, satisfying meal.
Top with grated Parmesan and fresh basil for an added burst of flavor. It’s a cozy dish that brings warmth and comfort to your holiday table, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
20. Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day with a warm bowl of apple cinnamon oatmeal, effortlessly made in your crockpot.
This hearty breakfast combines oats with fresh apples, cinnamon, and a touch of brown sugar, creating a comforting and nourishing dish. Let the crockpot cook the oats overnight, and wake up to the inviting aroma of apples and spices.
It’s a perfect way to fuel your holiday mornings, offering a delicious and wholesome start to the day. Serve with a splash of milk or cream for extra richness.
21. Beef and Broccoli
Enjoy the classic flavors of beef and broccoli, made easy in your crockpot.
This dish features tender beef strips and crisp broccoli, cooked in a savory soy-ginger sauce that infuses the ingredients with rich flavor.
The crockpot ensures the beef remains juicy and tender, while the sauce thickens to perfection.
Serve over steamed rice for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. It’s a simple way to enjoy a beloved dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
22. Caramelized Onion Dip
Elevate your holiday appetizers with creamy caramelized onion dip, made effortlessly in your crockpot.
This rich, savory dip combines caramelized onions with cream cheese and sour cream, creating a flavorful treat perfect for any gathering. Let the crockpot do the work while you focus on entertaining guests.
Serve with crispy pita chips or fresh vegetables for dipping. It’s a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both simple to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a great addition to your holiday spread.
23. Cheesy Potato Soup
Warm up with a bowl of cheesy potato soup, easily made in your crockpot.
This comforting soup combines tender potatoes with creamy cheese, creating a rich and satisfying dish. The crockpot allows the flavors to develop fully, making each spoonful deliciously savory.
Serve with bread or crackers for a complete meal. It’s a perfect dish for chilly winter nights, offering warmth and comfort with every bite. This soup is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.
24. Ginger and Lemongrass Chicken
Bring exotic flavors to your Christmas menu with ginger and lemongrass chicken, effortlessly cooked in your crockpot.
This dish features tender chicken infused with the aromatic flavors of ginger, lemongrass, and lime. The slow cooking process ensures the chicken is juicy and packed with flavor.
Serve with jasmine rice or a simple salad for a complete meal. It’s a unique dish that adds a touch of adventure to your holiday celebrations, offering a refreshing change from traditional fare.
25. Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Savor the comforting flavors of creamy tomato basil soup, made effortlessly in your crockpot.
This classic soup combines ripe tomatoes with fresh basil and cream, creating a rich and flavorful dish. The crockpot ensures the soup is perfectly cooked, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serve with grilled cheese sandwiches for a cozy, satisfying meal. It’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your holiday table, offering a delicious way to enjoy the season’s bounty.
26. Pineapple Glazed Ham
Add a tropical twist to your holiday meal with pineapple glazed ham, easily made in your crockpot.
This dish features a juicy ham coated in a sweet and tangy pineapple glaze, creating a delightful balance of flavors. The crockpot ensures the ham remains moist and tender, making it a perfect centerpiece for your Christmas feast.
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It’s a festive dish that brings a touch of sunshine to your holiday table.
27. Vegetable Curry
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of vegetable curry, made easy in your crockpot.
This dish features a medley of colorful vegetables cooked in a creamy coconut sauce, creating a rich and satisfying meal. The crockpot allows the flavors to meld perfectly, making each bite a delightful experience. Serve with rice or naan for a complete meal.
It’s a healthy and flavorful dish that adds a touch of spice to your holiday celebrations, offering a delicious alternative to traditional fare.
28. Barbecue Pulled Pork
Delight in the smoky flavors of barbecue pulled pork, made effortlessly in your crockpot.
This dish features tender pork cooked in a savory barbecue sauce, resulting in a smoky and flavorful meal. The crockpot ensures the pork is perfectly tender and juicy, making it ideal for serving in soft buns with a side of coleslaw.
It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings, offering a taste of summer in the midst of winter. Enjoy the festive flavors without the fuss.
29. Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Indulge in the festive flavors of chocolate peppermint bark, made easily in your crockpot.
This sweet treat combines rich chocolate with crunchy candy canes, creating a delightful holiday confection. Simply melt the chocolate in your crockpot, and sprinkle with crushed candy canes and a drizzle of white chocolate.
It’s a fun and festive way to end your holiday meal, offering a sweet treat that everyone will love. Enjoy the flavors of the season with this simple and delicious dessert.