The turkey takes up a lot of room in the oven, which leaves little space in there for all the sides. Even with a double oven, it can be challenging to get everything on the table hot at the same time. With a little help from a slow cooker (or two?), Thanksgiving becomes much more manageable. We're in awe of all the delicious dishes one can make in there, and all with tons of flavor.
Crock-Pots really are the best helpers in the kitchen. They are not just for stews and soups, either. And don't think for one second that a Crock-Pot means everything will turn out mushy. These recipes yield some of the most incredible flavors and textures, making them all the perfect accompaniment to the turkey. They are also great for the non-turkey eaters, delivering a lot of veggies.
From Brussels sprouts and acorn squash to pumpkin, potatoes, and cranberries, all these different slow cooker dishes will give the table variety and seasonal flair. There are even desserts and drink options! And when the holidays are this hectic, it is so important to remember to free up time wherever possible — so hopefully these 21 recipes will help ease the holiday chaos.
Dinner Rolls
Dinner rolls are staples on the Thanksgiving dinner table. This dinner rolls recipe is a great way to get those rolls done when the oven is tied up with the turkey. They take just 15 minutes to prep and about 90 minutes to cook. These rolls are still homemade, but won't need to be baked in the oven.
Pumpkin Soup
A great way to warm up for your Thanksgiving meal is with some pumpkin soup. This pumpkin soup recipe offers up some great seasonal flavors that you will crave on more than just Thanksgiving. Apart from salt and pepper, this recipe has just five ingredients and the prep work doesn't take too long as you can leave the pumpkin, potatoes, and onions in 1-inch chunks to cook.
No-Boil Slow Cooker Mac & Cheese
This kid-friendly dish isn't just for a weekday dinner — it's a Thanksgiving fave for so many. Try the no boil slow cooker mac and cheese from Cookies and Cups for a creamy deliciousness the whole family will enjoy. Add peas for a pop of color and to sneak in some extra vegetables for everyone.
Slow Cooker Rosemary Acorn Squash
What may seem like an overwhelming side to cook, making slow cooker rosemary acorn squash with this recipe from Jenna Braddock's Make Healthy Easy is — well — easy! With the addition of rosemary and balsamic vinegar, this acorn squash dish is perfect alongside the turkey.
Slow Cooker Collard Greens & Ham Hocks
Add a Southern classic to the Thanksgiving feast with this recipe for slow cooker collard greens and ham hocks by Southern Living. This flavorful side takes nine hours and can be made ahead and stored in the fridge, which will free up your slow cooker on Thanksgiving for some more delicious sides!
Slow Cooker Glazed Root Vegetables
Root veggies are all the rage this season, and this slow-cooker glazed root vegetables from Betty Crocker has parsnips, onions, carrots, and sweet potatoes with thyme and honey. Sweetness, crunchiness, and total goodness in one pot. This dish is a perfect way to add some yummy veggies to your Thanksgiving meal.
Crock-Pot Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
The brown sugar, the pecans, and all of that warm buttery sweetness can be cooked up perfectly in your slow cooker with this awesome sweet potato casserole recipe. This dish is pretty much a dessert in itself, and will add a depth of deliciousness to your holiday meal. Even kids will enjoy their sweet potatoes!
No Boil Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are another Thanksgiving staple. It just wouldn't be Thanksgiving without them. They are also a ton of work. From cutting to boiling to mashing, there is a lot to do to get them just right. Instead, take a look at this slow cooker mashed potatoes recipe. While you still need to peel and cut the potatoes, you don't need to worry about boiling as the slow cooker does its magic.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
If you want to up your potato game this Thanksgiving, check out these slow cooker cheesy scalloped potatoes. You can use any kind of potato that you wish. Russet potatoes will need to be peeled first, but if you use red or Yukon potatoes, you can throw them into the slow cooker with the skin on after slicing them. This dish is a great choice for adding some potato variety to your day.
Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole
Many people love green bean casserole with french fried onions for Thanksgiving. It is super easy to make in a slow cooker! Just check out this green bean casserole recipe that uses pretty much the same ingredients as the original recipe. It takes about 2 1/2 hours in the slow cooker. As for browning the french fried onions, you can throw them into a skillet on the stove before topping your green beans.
Crock-Pot Cranberry Sauce
You have so many yummy things to make for your Thanksgiving feast. It can be a huge help making some things ahead of time. This Crock-Pot cranberry sauce is not only delicious, but can be made a few days ahead of time and stored in the fridge in an airtight container until you're ready to break it out.
Slow Cooker Cheesy Cauliflower
Veggies are a must on your Thanksgiving table — as long as they aren't boring. And this slow cooker cheesy cauliflower does the trick, thanks to its flavorful cheddar topping. No need to worry about under- or overcooking the cauliflower since it comes out perfectly from your Crock-Pot each time.
Slow Cooker Brussels Sprouts
There's always someone at a Thanksgiving table who claims he doesn't like Brussels sprouts — but that's just because he has yet to taste these amazing slow cooker Brussels sprouts, which are a melt-in-your-mouth buttery, mustard-y treat. These are a great addition to your dinner, and a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables, too.
Crock-Pot Stuffing
Stuffing is another staple of the Thanksgiving meal, and if you can free up some oven space by making it in a slow cooker, why not? This stuffing recipe is another one that you can make up to 24 hours in advance, which is great for all the things you have to cook. Fresh herbs really add to the deliciousness of this dish and makes it taste better than the usual stuffing.
Creamed Corn
Creamed corn is a great addition to your meal. This recipe is super easy with just five ingredients, and only takes about three hours to make. It will be so much better than buying canned creamed corn. You can really taste the difference. It is super creamy, and you may find yourself going back for seconds.
Spinach & Artichoke Dip
While you wait for the rest of the meal, it is a good idea to have some appetizers on hand for guests. This slow cooker spinach and artichoke dip recipe is so creamy and delicious that it makes a great starter for your Thanksgiving. This dish takes just over two hours to make, and is perfect to enjoy while the bird is cooking.
Pecan Pie
We can't forget about dessert! Did you know you can make pie in a slow cooker? How cool is that? If you like pecan pie, check out this recipe. The trick with making pie in the slow cooker is that you need to let it cool completely so it will hold its shape. You can always reheat it when you are ready to serve it. Don't forget the ice cream to complete this yummy dessert!
Pumpkin Pie
If pecan pie is not your thing, you can make pumpkin in the slow cooker, too. This pumpkin pie recipe outlines the best way to do this. It takes just 10 minutes to make, and about three hours for the filling to set up in the slow cooker. The custard-y texture will leave your guests craving more of this wonderful dessert.
Apple Cider
Thanksgiving is the perfect holiday to break out some yummy drinks. Check out this Crock-Pot apple cider recipe. Not only is the slow cooker great for melding all of these flavors together, it will also keep it warm throughout your holiday gathering. Your guests will love having a nice warm drink to thaw them out from the cold.
Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate
If hot chocolate is more your thing, check out this peppermint bark hot chocolate recipe that has a kick. This beverage will also help thaw out your guests and warm them up with a bit of cheer in the form of crème de menthe or vodka, depending on your preference. You can also leave this out for an alcohol-free version for those who don't drink.
Sangria
For another fruity option, but this time with alcohol, check out this recipe for slow cooker sangria. It makes enough sangria for about 12 people, and it features some great fall spices, such as cinnamon and pepper. While it's not a traditional Thanksgiving beverage, it will bring warmth to the gathering.
