After a season of shopping, wrapping, and baking, the last thing you may want to do is think about making an elaborate Christmas dinner. That said, you'd probably still like to serve something that wows your crowd. Why not put the Crock-Pot to work for you?Â
We found 10 slow cooker dinners that look so delicious, no one will believe you didn't spend the whole day in the kitchen. Think of this as our gift to you harried home cooks!Â
Image via betsylife.com
Osso Buco
"With its rich gravy, falling-off-the-bone meatiness, and topping of zesty, garlicky gremolata, itâs tough to beat this one," says Erin of Platings and Pairings of her Osso Buco recipe. Erin pairs it with a saffron risotto. Sounds amazing!
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Beef Bourguignon
Reviewers of Matt of Real Food by Dad's Beef Bourguignon say the recipe is delicious — especially when served with crusty bread to "sop up the incredible sauce." Julia Child would be proud, a fellow cook notes.
Coq Au Vin
Betsy of Betsy's Life says home cooks shouldn't be put off by how fancy her recipe might sound.
"Coq Au Vin is an easy and homey dish to make in the slow cooker," she explains. "I think some people are intimidated by French cooking. It certainly can be scary if youâre interested in all the techniques and rules, but it also can be very accessible if you just want a delicious, 'French' belly of food."
Turkey Breast
Edyta of Innocent Delight flavors her Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with the rosemary, lemon, thyme. (You can almost smell it simmering, can't you?)Â
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Slow Cooker Italian Beef Bolognese Fettuccine
Sarah of Whole and Heavenly Oven says this Slow Cooker Italian Beef Bolognese Fettucini is "unbelievably rich, creamy, full of tender beef, and loaded with deep Italian flavors. The slow cooker really works its magic here, guys. You wonât believe the flavors here. You really, really wonât."
Honey-Glazed Ham
It wouldn't be the holiday season without ham! Cassie at Back to Her Roots agrees. She shares her Slow Cooker Honey-Glazed Ham recipe, which calls for honey, brown sugar, and cloves, making your home smell amazing!Â
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Paella
Emily of A Nutritionist Eats shares her Paella recipe which includes chicken, chorizo, and delicious fresh herbs. Unlike other recipes, this slow cooker special won't have you spending hours in the kitchen. The nutritionist says it takes a half hour of prep work and two hours in the slow cooker.
Chicken Cordon Bleu
Amy of Funny Is Family says even her children love her Crock-Pot Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe. Made with ham, Swiss cheese, and stuffing mix, this meal will have guests thinking they're at a fancy French restaurant.
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Balsamic Glazed Roast Beef
Georgia at The Comfort of Cooking says of her Balsamic Glazed Roast Beef: "The beef is tender and juicy, and the balsamic glaze is just the cherry on top. Served over fluffy mashed potatoes, every forkful is irresistibly good." Sounds perfect for the holidays!
Spinach & Feta Lasagna
Have a vegetarian on your guest list? Here's the perfect dish! Katrina of Diethood says all you need to do to pull off her colorful and delicious Spinach & Feta Lasagna is layer everything in your Crock-Pot and step away! How great does that sound?
