The holiday season is just around the corner, and with it comes the pressure to create a menu that will impress your family and friends. But fear not! With these 22 delicious Christmas crockpot recipes, you’ll be able to serve up a spread of festive favorites without breaking a sweat. From savory slow-cooked meats to sweet and indulgent treats, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the most wonderful time of the year, featuring a range of mouthwatering dishes that are sure to become new holiday traditions. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece or a comforting side dish, our crockpot recipes are designed to make your life easier and your taste buds happier.
So grab your slow cooker and get ready to spread some cheer with these 22 delicious Christmas crockpot recipes. From classic turkey and ham to sweet treats like cranberry apple cider and chocolate fondue, we’ve got everything you need to make this holiday season one to remember.
Slow Cooker Christmas Ham
Perfect for your holiday gathering, this slow cooker ham recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. With a glaze made from brown sugar, mustard, and spices, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
Instructions:
1. Place the ham in the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, mustard, honey, cinnamon, cloves, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Score the top of the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Spread the glaze evenly over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Pour the pineapple juice into the slow cooker, then cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time:
– Low: 8-10 hours
– High: 4-6 hours
Festive Crockpot Turkey Breast
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this flavorful and tender turkey breast, slow-cooked to perfection in a festive crockpot.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless turkey breast
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a crockpot, combine sliced onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, orange marmalade, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme.
2. Place the turkey breast in the crockpot, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Serves: 6-8 people
Christmas Morning Slow Cooker Oatmeal
Start your Christmas morning with a warm and comforting bowl of slow-cooked oatmeal, infused with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or milk
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
3. Stir the oatmeal occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Serve warm, topped with your favorite toppings such as fruit, nuts, or honey.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Crockpot Holiday Green Bean Casserole
A classic holiday side dish that’s easy to make and perfect for your family gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions, divided
- 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
Instructions:
- In a Crockpot, combine green beans, onion, and garlic.
- In a separate bowl, mix soup, milk, thyme, paprika, and pepper. Pour over green bean mixture.
- Top with 1 cup of French-fried onions and crumbled bacon (if using).
- Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle remaining onions over the top.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Merry Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Merry Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Elevate your holiday meals with this effortless slow cooker mashed potato recipe, perfect for busy gatherings and stress-free entertaining.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese (1/2 cup), chopped fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or thyme)
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a slow cooker.
2. Add butter, milk, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until potatoes are well coated.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Mash the potatoes with a fork or potato masher to desired consistency.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. If using, stir in grated cheese and chopped herbs.
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Enjoy your creamy, comforting Merry Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes!
Christmas Eve Crockpot Beef Stew
Warm up your holiday season with this hearty, comforting beef stew perfect for Christmas Eve.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion to the crockpot.
2. Place the beef pieces on top of the onion.
3. Sprinkle garlic, peas and carrots, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper evenly over the beef.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in brown sugar.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Cranberry Apple Cider
As the weather cools down, cozy up with this delightful slow cooker cranberry apple cider recipe that’s perfect for family gatherings or holiday parties. This sweet and tangy beverage is infused with the flavors of fresh cranberries, apples, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 orange, peeled and sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all the ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in the orange slices, if using, during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
4. Strain the cider through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher or individual cups.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Holiday Crockpot Stuffing
Add a delicious twist to your holiday gatherings with this easy and convenient crockpot stuffing recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup diced sausage (such as breakfast sausage or Italian sausage)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread, celery, onion, sausage, and seasonings.
2. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Add chicken broth and melted butter; mix until the bread is moist but not soggy.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 6-quart crockpot.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Fluff with a fork before serving, garnishing with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Christmas Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
Transform your mac and cheese game with this creamy, comforting slow cooker recipe perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella 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 until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, flour, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
3. Add the mixture to a slow cooker with cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, butter, and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the macaroni is coated in the creamy sauce.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Crockpot Pumpkin Spice Latte
This recipe brings the flavors of fall to your kitchen, minus the hassle of stovetop or oven. Simply add all the ingredients to your Crockpot and let it work its magic while you’re busy with other tasks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to your Crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
3. Stir well before serving.
4. Top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Christmas Pudding
A warm and comforting dessert perfect for the holiday season. This slow cooker recipe allows you to prepare a delicious Christmas pudding with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 cup brandy or orange liqueur (optional)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine dried fruit, brown sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
2. Add brandy or orange liqueur, if using.
3. Mix in heavy cream, eggs, and melted butter until well combined.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Festive Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Warm up with this rich and creamy hot chocolate recipe, perfect for the holiday season. This slow-cooked delight is easy to prepare and serves a crowd.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups milk (whole, low-fat or nonfat)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons instant coffee powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups marshmallows
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a large crockpot, combine milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, coffee powder, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
3. Add marshmallows and chocolate chips to the hot chocolate. Stir until melted and combined.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with whipped cream and additional marshmallows if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Christmas Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Get ready to cozy up with this comforting and flavorful slow cooker recipe that’s perfect for the holiday season. This hearty dish is a twist on the classic comfort food, featuring tender chicken, creamy broth, and fluffy dumplings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 2 tbsp of all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups of biscuit or dumpling mix (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken, chicken broth, milk, flour, and thyme in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the dumplings according to package instructions or homemade recipe.
4. Add the cooked dumplings to the slow cooker and stir gently.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Holiday Sweet Potatoes
Get ready to elevate your holiday gathering with this deliciously simple and comforting Crockpot recipe for sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the sweet potato cubes in the Crockpot.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 30 minutes of cooking to add a creamy touch.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Gingerbread Cake
This slow cooker gingerbread cake recipe combines the classic spices of ginger and cinnamon with the ease of a hands-off cooking method. Perfect for a cozy night in or a holiday gathering, this moist and flavorful dessert is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
3. Add eggs and mix until well combined.
4. Pour in milk and stir until the batter is smooth.
5. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Grease the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker and pour in the batter.
7. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Christmas Crockpot Corn Chowder
Warm up with this delicious and easy-to-make Christmas Crockpot Corn Chowder, perfect for a cozy holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) can of corn, drained
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup of half-and-half or heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 6 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of diced cooked ham or bacon
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the crockpot.
2. Stir in the corn, half-and-half or heavy cream, and chicken broth.
3. Add the diced cooked ham or bacon on top of the mixture.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Holiday Meatballs
Elevate your holiday gatherings with these tender and flavorful meatballs cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or family get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Roll mixture into 20-25 meatballs (about 1-inch each).
4. Place meatballs in the slow cooker and drizzle with marinara sauce and olive oil.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Christmas Eve Lamb Shanks
Gather your loved ones around the table on Christmas Eve and serve up a hearty, comforting dish that’s sure to become a new tradition. These tender lamb shanks slow-cooked in a rich, flavorful broth are perfect for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
2. In the Crockpot, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, and dried rosemary.
3. Add the lamb shanks to the Crockpot and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Festive Apple Butter
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this warm and inviting Slow Cooker Festive Apple Butter recipe, perfect for spreading on toast, using as a topping for pancakes or waffles, or giving as a gift in decorative jars.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (Granny Smith or a mix of sweet and tart varieties), peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Add chopped apples, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Stir in water and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Christmas Crockpot Chocolate Fondue
Add a touch of holiday magic to your gatherings with this rich and decadent Christmas Crockpot Chocolate Fondue recipe. Perfect for dipping fresh fruit, marshmallows, or graham crackers, this sweet treat is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: holly-shaped cookie cutters for dipping
Instructions:
1. In a crockpot, combine chocolate chips, heavy cream, butter, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Cook on low for 1 hour or high for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until smooth and melted.
3. Transfer fondue to a serving bowl and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Tips:
– For an extra special touch, use holly-shaped cookie cutters to create festive dipping shapes.
– Serve with fresh fruit, marshmallows, or graham crackers for a fun and interactive dessert experience.
Slow Cooker Holiday Rice Pudding
This creamy and comforting dessert is perfect for the holiday season. With its rich flavors and tender texture, it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Combine rice, water, milk, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a slow cooker.
2. Stir in melted butter and vanilla extract.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove from heat and stir to combine any remaining liquid with the pudding.
5. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with your favorite toppings such as raisins, nuts, or cinnamon sugar.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Christmas Morning Casserole
Start your holiday morning off right with this easy and delicious Crockpot Christmas Morning Casserole. This comforting dish is perfect for a busy morning when you need something to warm up the family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen hash browns, thawed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, hash browns, and shredded cheese; stir until combined.
4. In the Crockpot, combine browned sausage mixture, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low), 3-4 hours (High)
Conclusion
Get into the holiday spirit with these 22 delicious Christmas crockpot recipes! From savory main courses like Slow Cooker Christmas Ham and Festive Crockpot Turkey Breast to sweet treats like Christmas Slow Cooker Pudding and Slow Cooker Gingerbread Cake, there’s something for everyone. Try making a festive feast with Crockpot Holiday Green Bean Casserole or Christmas Morning Slow Cooker Oatmeal. Or warm up with a comforting bowl of Crockpot Pumpkin Spice Latte or Christmas Eve Crockpot Beef Stew. These easy and effortless recipes are sure to make your holiday season merry and bright!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
