This year, give thanks for our bounty of easy slow-cooker Thanksgiving recipes that promise to elevate your Turkey Day spread without taking up extra oven space—or your precious time with loved ones.
Thanksgiving may be a holiday built around the oven, but that doesn’t mean every dish needs to compete for rack space. I learned firsthand that hosting became so much easier once I started leaning on my slow cooker. It’s a true lifesaver when the kitchen is at full capacity, as it frees up precious oven space, cutting down on stress and still delivering comforting holiday-worthy dishes. I’ve even cooked turkey in mine! And the best part? Many of these slow-cooker Thanksgiving recipes can be prepped ahead of time, so you’re not stuck tackling your entire menu on the big day.
In this collection of easy Thanksgiving slow-cooker dishes, I’ve included a little bit of everything: mains like turkey breast and hearty casseroles, classic sides, cozy soups, festive drinks and indulgent desserts. So many of these recipes reheat beautifully right in the slow cooker, which makes feeding a crowd that much simpler.
And don’t worry if you’re cooking for a group with different needs, as most of these recipes can be adapted with a few easy swaps. Vegetarian stuffing, dairy-free mashed potatoes, low-sodium tweaks—whatever your guests require, there’s a way to make it work. That’s what I love about Thanksgiving slow-cooker meals: They bring convenience, versatility and flexibility to the table, which means you get to enjoy Thanksgiving just as much as everyone else.
1/29
Crockpot Stuffing
From the Recipe Creator:
If you're hosting a big Thanksgiving dinner this year, add a simple slow-cooked stuffing to your menu to ease entertaining. The recipe comes in handy when you run out of oven space at large family gatherings. —Donald Seiler, Macon, Mississippi
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 178 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 49mg cholesterol, 635mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
Stuffing is the undisputed star side of the Thanksgiving table, but it’s also labor-intensive to prepare. Save time by letting your slow cooker handle the heavy lifting once the chopping is done. This version is vegetarian, but it can be adapted easily to prioritize protein. Plus, it can be doubled or tripled, depending on the size of your crew.
2/29
Slow-Cooker Turkey Breast
From the Recipe Creator:
Try this flavorful, easy-fix, tender slow-cooker entree when you're craving turkey. —Maria Juco, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
4 ounces cooked turkey: 173 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 100mg cholesterol, 171mg sodium, 0 carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 36g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat.
Rather than roast a 20-pound bird in the oven for the better part of the day, turn to your trusty kitchen ally: the slow cooker. With just a few pantry spices and five to six set-it-and-forget-it hours, you’ll end up with perfectly cooked, juicy turkey breast. Bonus points if you make your own homemade turkey seasoning for extra flavor.
3/29
Crockpot Mashed Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Sour cream and cream cheese give richness to these smooth make-ahead potatoes. They are wonderful for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner since there's no last-minute mashing required. —Trudy Vincent, Valles Mines, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 210 calories, 11g fat (7g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 670mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein.
Unless you’re craving an arm workout from endless stirring after your turkey trot, this is one side you can happily hand off to your slow cooker. Make-ahead mashed potatoes guarantee fluffy, creamy spuds in every bite, and our recipe takes it a step further by sprinkling in ranch seasoning for an unexpected (but very welcome) surprise.
4/29
Potluck Mac and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
You'll always have a winner at the potluck when you take macaroni and cheese. Here's an extra-rich, creamy version for the slow cooker. —Jennifer Blondek, Chicopee, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 388 calories, 28g fat (17g saturated fat), 122mg cholesterol, 652mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 0 fiber), 17g protein.
Even if mac and cheese isn’t a Thanksgiving staple in your family, this recipe will earn its place on your annual menu. It cooks up rich, saucy and glossy with three kinds of cheese, whole milk, evaporated milk, butter and eggs. And whatever you do, don’t skip the block of Velveeta! Love it or loathe it, it’s the secret ingredient to a super smooth and luscious cheese sauce.
5/29
Jazzed-Up Green Bean Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
After trying many variations of this old standby, I decided to give it a little kick. The crunchy texture from the veggies combines with bacon and melt-in-your-mouth cheese to make this dish a hit at any holiday get-together. —Stephan-Scott Rugh, Portland, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 200 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 862mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 7g protein.
I have one non-negotiable at Thanksgiving, and it’s green bean casserole. Polarizing to some? Sure. Incredibly comforting once you find a foolproof version? You betcha. Enter this slow-cooker recipe that practically makes itself and promises perfectly cooked veggies, an umami-laced mushroom sauce studded with salty bacon and the ultimate topper: french-fried onions.
6/29
Crockpot Apple Cider
From the Recipe Creator:
There's no last-minute rush before the party when you simmer this slow-cooker apple cider. It has all the tantalizing flavors of fall. —Alpha Wilson, Roswell, New Mexico
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 177 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 30mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (40g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
Why should the slow cooker have all the food fun when it can just as easily keep a big batch of apple cider cozy for hours to be available for guests to help themselves? Simply load up the cider ingredients in the slow cooker a few hours before company arrives and spend your time mingling instead. For a grown-up twist, add a splash of brandy or whiskey for an instant cocktail.
7/29
Slow-Cooker Pumpkin Pie Pudding
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband loves anything pumpkin, and this creamy, comforting pumpkin pudding recipe is one of his favorites. We make our easy pudding all year long, but it's especially nice in the fall. —Andrea Schaak, Bloomington, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 229 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 187mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (25g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein.
If the thought of making homemade pie crust is too daunting, we feel you. Try slow-cooker pumpkin pie pudding instead. It has all the goodness of the warm, spiced filling minus the crust and effort. Thanks to a biscuit mix and eggs, the result is spoonable and silky with a texture that lands somewhere between a softly set pie and a tender flan.
8/29
Slow-Cooker Citrus Carrots
From the Recipe Creator:
These carrots are yummy and so simple to make. The recipe is from my mom, who tweaked it a bit to suit her taste. You can make the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it until needed—then just reheat it before serving! —Julie Puderbaugh, Berwick, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 136 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 208mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 5g fiber), 1g protein.
Thanksgiving has a way of convincing us to sneak in one more side dish—and this year, it should be these glazed citrus carrots. Sweet, buttery and bright with orange juice, they cook low and slow in your slow cooker until perfectly tender. With frozen carrots, some OJ, sugar, cornstarch and butter, you’ll have a simple yet vibrant side dish.
9/29
Slow-Cooker Butternut Squash Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
Much of the work for this soup can be done in advance, and it keeps all day in the slow cooker. The recipe can easily be doubled if you’re feeding a crowd. Once you’ve tried it, try mixing it up—add sage or savory with the thyme or replace the thyme with nutmeg. For a vegan version, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. —Jennifer Machado, Alta, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 124 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 616mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 6g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch.
Looking to add a soup course to your Thanksgiving lineup? You can never go wrong with silky butternut squash soup. Warming and nutty with a swirl of tangy sour cream, it hits all the holiday high notes. The slow cooker does all the work here, letting the squash, Yukon Gold potatoes and aromatic herbs gently meld together into a satisfying soup with minimal effort.
10/29
Creamed Corn with Cream Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
Five ingredients are all you'll need for my popular creamed corn recipe. It's wonderful no matter what the occasion is. Try it on a barbecue buffet or holiday menu. —Barbara Brizendine, Harrisonville, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 378 calories, 26g fat (16g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 439mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 8g protein.
Creamed corn is brilliant for two reasons: It manages to be both homey and downright decadent at once. You can dress it up with indulgent toppings—shaved truffles, anyone?—or keep it simple. The creamy, cheesy corn will steal the show. For the best flavor, skip the frozen shortcuts. One of our favorite five-ingredient recipes, this side delivers the richest slow-cooked creamed corn that tastes way better than the canned stuff.
11/29
Pumpkin Spice Custard
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's a traditional slow-cooker pumpkin custard with some espresso powder for a latte effect. —Shelly Bevington, Hermiston, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 280 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 108mg cholesterol, 381mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (46g sugars, 3g fiber), 7g protein.
Say what you will about pumpkin spice, but once the leaves start to turn, this seasonal star knows its place—dusted on frappuccinos, blended into smoothies and baked into sweet treats like this autumnal custard. Once you master the simple foil ring and sling setup in your slow cooker, this recipe is hands-free ease from there. A few hours later, you’ll have spiced custard ready to top with crushed gingersnaps and a cloud of whipped cream.
12/29
Slow-Cooker Cran-Apple Chutney
From the Recipe Creator:
My clan isn’t crazy for cranberries, but they can’t get enough of this delicious chutney. I recommend it for Thanksgiving, as it tastes amazing paired with turkey, but it's also good on its own. —Raquel Haggard, Edmond, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 103 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 2mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein.
If visions of canned cranberry sauce haunt your Thanksgiving memories, let this cran-apple chutney come to the rescue. Tangy and vibrant, it’s divine on turkey, delicious layered over stuffing and the perfect partner for buttery mashed potatoes. Best of all, it takes only 10 minutes of prep, then the slow cooker does the rest.
13/29
Autumn Pumpkin Chili
From the Recipe Creator:
We have this turkey pumpkin chili often because everyone loves it, even the most finicky grandchildren. It’s a definite keeper in my book! —Kimberly Nagy, Port Hadlock, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 281 calories, 13g fat (3g saturated fat), 75mg cholesterol, 468mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 7g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
Chili is the slow-cooker gift that keeps on giving come fall. For Thanksgiving, why not include the gourd du jour: pumpkin? Our warming slow-cooker chili is also brimming with a medley of peppers and onions, ground turkey, sweet tomatoes and all the spices. It gets even better once topped with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, corn chips and sliced green onions.
14/29
Slow-Cooker Cheesy Corn
From the Recipe Creator:
My family really likes this creamy, cheesy side dish—and it's so easy to make. Even those who usually don't eat much corn often ask for a second helping. —Mary Ann Truitt, Wichita, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 265 calories, 16g fat (9g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 227mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein.
I’ve already sung the praises of creamed corn at Thanksgiving, but this side takes it up a notch with an ultra-cheesy finish. Sweet corn is folded into a creamy, melty cheese sauce effortlessly made in your slow cooker. This recipe is comforting, crowd-pleasing and perfect for everything from holiday feasts to busy weeknights.
15/29
Butterscotch Pears
From the Recipe Creator:
This grand finale simmers during dinner and impresses as soon as you bring it to the table. Serve it as is or with vanilla ice cream and a slice of pound cake. Leftover pear nectar is heavenly when added to sparkling wine or simply poured over ice. —Theresa Kreyche, Tustin, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed pear half: 209 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 109mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 4g fiber), 1g protein.
If you’re looking to serve an elegant post-turkey dessert, these poached pears are a showstopper. They gently simmer in the slow cooker after being brushed with lemon juice and filled with a brown sugar–cinnamon mixture studded with pecans. These pears are just as gorgeous as they are delicious.
16/29
Cranberry-Apple Red Cabbage
From the Recipe Creator:
When I was looking for something new, I started playing with flavors and came up with this very tasty dish. My German grandmother would be impressed, I think! The colorful side dish is just right with pork. —Ann Sheehy, Lawrence, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 131 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 295mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (20g sugars, 4g fiber), 2g protein.
Sweet, tangy and a little unexpected, this slow-cooker red cabbage side dish deserves a spot on your holiday table. Cranberry sauce, tart Granny Smith apples and a splash of cider vinegar give it a bright, festive flavor, while caraway seeds add a savory twist. It’s vibrant, crunchy and the perfect complement to rich Thanksgiving mains.
17/29
Slow-Cooker Tater Tot Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
What's not to love about classic Tater Tot casserole—especially when it's made in the slow cooker? You'll want to add this family-pleasing potluck favorite to your regular rotation. —Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 383 calories, 22g fat (7g saturated fat), 58mg cholesterol, 941mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 20g protein.
Perfect for a turkey day lunch or post-holiday brunch, this spin on the Minnesota classic hot dish layers ground beef and creamy condensed mushroom soup beneath a blanket of golden potato tots and melted cheese. Add green beans from yesterday’s feast or swap in leftover turkey—either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t keep you tied to the stove.
18/29
Apple Betty with Almond Cream
From the Recipe Creator:
I love making this apple betty for friends during the peak of apple season. I plan a quick soup and bread meal so we can get right to the dessert! —Elizabeth Godecke, Chicago, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup with 1/4 cup almond cream: 468 calories, 23g fat (14g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 224mg sodium, 65g carbohydrate (45g sugars, 5g fiber), 5g protein.
The secret to this apple betty? Cubed cinnamon-raisin bread. Baked with crisp, peak-season apples and warm spices and then topped with a dollop of fluffy almond-scented cream, this cozy dessert disappears fast. You’ll want to have seconds ready.
19/29
Slow-Cooker Broccoli Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
This family-favorite side dish is quick to fix and full of flavor. Because it simmers in a slow cooker, it frees up my oven for other things. That's a tremendous help when I'm prepping a big meal at home. —Connie Slocum, Antioch, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 159 calories, 11g fat (6g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 431mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
Fact: Broccoli and cheese are better together, especially in this slow-cooker casserole. Frozen florets become tender and flavorful as they simmer in a base of cream of celery soup and sharp cheddar, while a buttery cracker topping adds just the right crunch.
20/29
Vegetarian Stuffing
From the Recipe Creator:
Tasty mushrooms and onions complement the big herb flavor in this amazing stuffing. This dressing stays so moist because it’s made in the slow cooker. —Ruth Ann Stelfox, Raymond, Alberta
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 212 calories, 11g fat (6g saturated fat), 50mg cholesterol, 694mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein.
The best vegetarian stuffing is a simple one. This version combines jarred mushrooms for earthy flavor, chopped onions and celery, classic poultry seasoning, and a touch of fresh sage and parsley. Eggs act as a binder, while vegetable broth adds just the right amount of moisture. Trust us: No one will miss the meat.
21/29
Pumpkin Cranberry Bread Pudding
From the Recipe Creator:
Savor your favorite fall flavors with this scrumptious bread pudding served warm with a sweet vanilla sauce. Yum! —Judith Bucciarelli, Newburgh, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 479 calories, 23g fat (13g saturated fat), 147mg cholesterol, 237mg sodium, 61g carbohydrate (48g sugars, 4g fiber), 9g protein.
There’s a reason this pumpkin bread pudding studded with cranberries is a Taste of Home award winner—it’s warm, comforting and oh, so easy to make. Moist and spiced from cinnamon bread, it’s absolute perfection drizzled with caramel or vanilla sauce, and even better with a scoop of ice cream on top.
22/29
Vegetable Lentil Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
Here’s a healthy slow-cooker soup that's ideal for vegetarians and those watching their weight. Butternut squash and lentils make it hearty, while herbs and other veggies round out the flavor. —Mark Morgan, Waterford, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 217 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 685mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 8g fiber), 11g protein.
I love lentil soup in all its forms—topped with crispy lardons, sprinkled with Parmesan and now loaded up with butternut squash. The squash adds a creamy consistency that pairs beautifully with hearty carrots, onions and green beans. Best of all, it is hands-off cooking for four hours and doesn’t require pulling out your blender.
23/29
Mulled Wine
From the Recipe Creator:
This mulled wine is soothing and satisfying with a delightful blend of spices warmed to perfection. Refrigerating the wine mixture overnight allows the flavors to blend, so don't omit this essential step. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 379 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 10mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (41g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a dinner party for 20, our mulled wine never disappoints. The cozy mix of red wine, brandy, citrus and warm spices keeps everyone festive and toasty. Quick to assemble and perfect for simmering away in the slow cooker, it’s the ultimate holiday drink for Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving.
24/29
Slow-Cooker Loaded Mashed Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Every year my mom made cream cheese mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving. I tailored the recipe to my family's taste and carried on the tradition. I make them a day ahead and use my slow cooker to free up oven space for other dishes. —Ann Nolte, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 505 calories, 36g fat (20g saturated fat), 109mg cholesterol, 530mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 16g protein.
There are classic Thanksgiving mashed potatoes, and then there’s the loaded kind. Clearly, we’re partial to the latter. Three pounds of potatoes get mashed with cream cheese, sour cream, butter and a splash of milk before being piled high with cheddar, pepper jack, bacon and green onions. A sprinkle of onion and garlic powder ties it all together. Best of all, the slow cooker does the work, keeping everything warm and melty until you’re ready to serve.
25/29
Slow-Cooker Green Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
I spent hours in search of sides for a cooking demo to present to women from my church. These easy green beans became my star attraction. —Alice White, Willow Spring, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 143 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 320mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein.
Looking for a lighter Thanksgiving side that won’t leave you reaching for an elastic waistband? Consider your search over. These slow-cooker green beans are a gluten-free side dish that’s full of flavor, having a glaze of a sweet-savory mix of brown sugar and soy sauce. If you usually steam, saute or microwave your beans, you’re missing out—this hands-free method infuses them with a spicy-sweet depth that comes only from cooking low and slow.
26/29
Slow-Cooker Apple Pudding Cake
From the Recipe Creator:
A satisfying dessert like this is a superb treat on a chilly night. It has three layers—apples, cake and sauce—and I like to serve it in a bowl. It's comfort food for the soul. —Ellen Schroeder, Reedsburg, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup with 2 tablespoons sour cream mixture: 431 calories, 17g fat (11g saturated fat), 53mg cholesterol, 461mg sodium, 64g carbohydrate (44g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
This decadent dessert toes the line between pudding and cake, offering the best of both worlds. Tart apples are tucked into a tender, buttery cake base, then topped with a citrusy honey sauce that bakes right in as it cooks. Finished with a dollop of tangy sour cream and a dusting of confectioners’ sugar, this pudding cake is cozy and indulgent enough to end a holiday feast in style.
27/29
Spiced Acorn Squash
From the Recipe Creator:
Working full time, I found I didn't always have time to cook the meals my family loved, so I re-created many of those dishes in the slow cooker. This treatment for squash is one of our favorites. —Carol Greco, Centereach, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 squash half: 433 calories, 12g fat (7g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 142mg sodium, 86g carbohydrate (63g sugars, 5g fiber), 3g protein.
This dish is almost too pretty to eat, but we’ll make an exception. These golden boats taste as divine as they look and couldn’t be simpler in the slow cooker. Just fill the squash halves with a mix of brown sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg, then sprinkle with raisins and top with butter. Wrap in foil, add to the Crockpot with a little water and let them cook until perfectly tender.
28/29
Hot Spiced Cranberry Drink
From the Recipe Creator:
I serve this rosy spiced beverage at parties and family gatherings during the winter. Friends like the tangy twist it gets from Red Hots. It's a nice change from the usual hot chocolate. —Laura Burgess, Ballwin, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 155 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 2mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (37g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
Move over, mulled wine and Thanksgiving cocktails—this festive sipper brings the holiday cheer without the booze. Cranberry, orange and lemon juices mingle with warm spices and a handful of Red Hots (yes, really) for a sweet-tart punch that simmers away in the slow cooker until your kitchen smells like holiday magic.
29/29
Slow-Cooker Baked Apples
From the Recipe Creator:
Coming home to this irresistible dessert on a dreary day is just wonderful; it’s slow-cooker easy. —Evangeline Bradford, Erlanger, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed apple: 203 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 35mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (37g sugars, 4g fiber), 1g protein.
If you need a break from pie, these stunning slow-cooker baked apples make a beautiful alternative. Cored and filled with a sweet mix of raisins, brown sugar and orange zest, they’re then drizzled with orange juice concentrate and slow-cooked in a water bath until perfectly tender. Peeling just the top third of each apple adds an elegant touch, making this simple dessert a true showstopper at the table.
Slow-Cooker Thanksgiving Recipes FAQ
What can I make in a slow cooker for Thanksgiving?
The options are nearly endless! Classic sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans, mac and cheese, soups, chilis and hearty casseroles all adapt beautifully to the slow cooker. Slow-cooker desserts are fair game too—think bread pudding, poached pears, custards or even a pumpkin pie pudding. And don’t forget beverages: Mulled wine, hot spiced cranberry punch or warm apple cider can simmer away while guests help themselves, making entertaining easier.
Can you cook a Thanksgiving turkey in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! While fitting a whole bird inside is a challenge, a bone-in turkey breast is the perfect solution. Season it generously with herbs and spices, then cook it low and slow in a water bath until it’s tender and juicy. You’ll free up oven space and still serve a flavorful turkey that slices beautifully.
What are some easy slow-cooker side dishes for Thanksgiving?
Stuffing is one of the easiest and most rewarding slow-cooker sides—the bread slowly soaks up the broth, butter and seasonings, turning out moist and flavorful without the oven shuffle. Other great options include creamy mashed or loaded potatoes, green bean casserole, candied or spiced squash, glazed carrots and cheesy corn. Each dish stays warm until serving, which means less juggling and more time to enjoy the holiday.
