5 Best Thanksgiving Slow Cooker Recipes

Can you imagine being able to greet your guests and actually sit down and savor your time with them this Thanksgiving – instead of spending the day in the kitchen? A slow cooker can deliver that kind of experience. All you have to do is set it, forget it, and sit by the fire with the ones you love.  

With these time-saving slow cooker recipes, you can prepare mouthwatering dishes with minimal effort, leaving you time for what really matters. Together, let’s review five simple recipes that can help you reclaim the day and enjoy the special moments that really matter. 

Slow Cooker Recipes for Thanksgiving

Slow cookers are the ultimate kitchen MVPs. They’re versatile, efficient, and perfect for making rich, flavorful dishes. Here’s why slow cooker meals are a game-changer for Thanksgiving:

1. Hands-Free Cooking: Once you load up the ingredients and set the timer, you’re free to focus on other tasks.

2. Space-Saver: With the oven and stovetop often maxed out, a slow cooker frees up much-needed kitchen real estate.

3. Consistent Results: Slow, even cooking ensures your dishes turn out tender and flavorful.

4. Make-Ahead Magic: Many recipes can be prepped the night before, so you can wake up and hit the “on” button.

Appetizers to Start the Feast

Let’s kick off our Thanksgiving feast with warm and inviting appetizers that set the tone for the meal ahead.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip

This creamy, cheesy dip is always a crowd-pleaser. The best part? You can mix everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cream cheese

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• ½ cup grated Parmesan

• 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped

• 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

Instructions:

1. Combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker.

2. Cook on low for 2 - 3 hours, stirring occasionally.

3. Serve with crusty bread or crackers.

Main Dish Magic

If tackling a whole turkey seems daunting, a slow cooker can simplify the entire process.

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast

Buying a turkey breast is a lovely option because it’s perfect for smaller gatherings or an extra option alongside the big bird. Here’s how to prepare it. 

Ingredients:

• 4 - 6 lb turkey breast

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup chicken broth

• Fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs

Instructions:

1. Rub the turkey breast with olive oil and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Place the broth and herbs at the bottom of the slow cooker.

3. Lay the turkey breast on top and cook on low for 6 - 8 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

4. For crispy skin, pop the turkey under the broiler for 5 minutes before serving.

Sides That Steal the Show

Thanksgiving sides are the unsung heroes of the meal. Have you ever tried to make slow cooker meatballs? They’re a fan-favorite for this hard-working kitchen appliance. But, sticking with the spirit of the season, we thought we’d include a few seasonal stars to steal the show:

Sweet Potato Casserole

Move over slow cooker mac and cheese. That’s a popular one. But, let’s whip up something a little more unique that has the specific flavors of the season. Your slow cooker will be more than happy to create this sweet and nutty masterpiece.

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

• ½ cup brown sugar

• ¼ cup melted butter

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• ½ tsp nutmeg

• 1 cup mini marshmallows

• ½ cup chopped pecans

Instructions:

1. Combine sweet potatoes, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg in the slow cooker.

2. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, stirring occasionally.

3. Top with marshmallows and pecans during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Green Bean Casserole

While we’re at it, let’s add to the list of healthy slow cooker recipes. This twist on a classic dish is a no-fuss way to bring on the nostalgia.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed

• 2 cans cream of mushroom soup

• 1 cup milk

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 cup crispy fried onions

Instructions:

1. Mix green beans, soup, milk, and garlic powder in the slow cooker.

2. Cook on high for 2 - 3 hours.

3. Stir in half the fried onions and sprinkle the rest on top before serving.

Desserts Worth Saving Room For

No Thanksgiving is complete without something sweet. Slow cookers can handle even the finest desserts.

Pumpkin Pie Pudding

This dessert captures all the flavors of pumpkin pie without the hassle of the crust.

Ingredients:

• 1 can pumpkin puree

• 1 can of evaporated milk

• ¾ cup brown sugar

• ½ cup flour

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• ½ tsp nutmeg

• ½ tsp ginger

• Whipped cream for topping

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients (except whipped cream) in the slow cooker.

2. Cook on low for 4 - 6 hours or until set.

3. Serve warm or chilled, topped with whipped cream.

Pro Tips for Thanksgiving Slow Cooker Success

1. Plan Ahead: Prep ingredients the day before to streamline your cooking.

2. Use Liners: Slow cooker liners make cleanup a breeze.

3. Know Your Cooker: Cooking times can vary between models, so keep an eye on your dishes, especially the first time you try a recipe.

4. Layer Wisely: Place dense or slow-cooking ingredients (like potatoes) at the bottom and more delicate ones (like veggies) on top.

5. Double Up: If you have more than one slow cooker, use them! Borrow one if needed to expand your cooking options.

Stress Less, Celebrate More

Thanksgiving is about creating memories, not stressing over the stove. With slow cooker recipes in your arsenal, you can enjoy a feast that’s as delicious as it is effortless. We hope these recipes will free up your hands – and your mind – so you can focus on what truly matters: the people around your table.

Between now and the New Year, keep coming back to visit our lifestyle page. It’s brimming with thoughts and ideas to help you navigate the holiday season with ease. What do you say we make this our best one yet?