If you don’t already have a Crock-Pot, you need to add it to your holiday wish list ASAP. There are infinite reasons why you should get one, especially since they’re huge time savers and you can use them to make pretty much anything.
This winter, my plan is to curl up on the couch and binge-watch holiday movies while letting my slow cooker do the meal prepping for me. If you’re in need of some new recipes to create with your Crock-Pot, we’ve compiled a list of six dishes that’ll be sure to make your holiday season the coziest yet.
1. Mac N’ Cheese
This classic southern specialty is great for the days when you’re craving something simple. Start by cooking your desired amount of macaroni, then add it to the Crock-Pot along with milk, butter, eggs, and spices. Sprinkle the mixture with grated cheese and paprika, then cover and cook on low heat. This recipe from Trisha Yearwood uses a mix of whole milk and evaporated milk, making the final product extra creamy.
2. Spinach Artichoke Dip
This recipe from food blogger Ali Martin is rich, flavorful and super easy to make for any holiday gathering (psst: it also makes a fire Super Bowl appetizer — my friends request it every year). All you need to do is toss ingredients into the slow cooker and cook until the cheese is completely melted. Give it a good stir, grab your favorite pita chips or veggie sticks, and you’re good to go!
3. Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of soup on a chilly night? This recipe from Pinch of Yum is ideal for long days when you want something easy and delicious. You’ll need rice, chicken, seasoning, a bit of white wine (optional, yet delish), and a few other ingredients for this savory soup. Pair it with your favorite bread, and voila, the perfect winter meal.
4. Cranberry Apple Crisp
If a blend of sweet apples, tart berries, and buttery oat crumble sounds out of this world, that’s because it is. You absolutely must add this holiday-inspired dessert to your repertoire, and get ready to be wowed. Simply place the ingredients in your Crock-Pot, add oatmeal and brown sugar for a crisp topping, and cook everything on low until the mixture is bubbling. Then, serve warm and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream. So. Dreamy.
5. Pumpkin Bread Pudding
When this Pumpkin Bread Pudding recipe popped up on my feed, it looked too good to be true. This work of art from Ashley at Wishes n’ Dishes is easy to make in the Crock-Pot, and makes a great dessert or breakfast to enjoy with coffee. Make it the night before your next holiday celebration, and serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce on top. Sounds like pumpkin spice heaven to me.
6. Red Wine Hot Chocolate
Dark chocolate and red wine pair perfectly in this fun twist on holiday hot cocoa. Perfect for your next movie night, this simple recipe has got you covered — combine chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugar, milk, and wine in your Crock-Pot, and cook on high for one hour, whisking every 20 minutes or so. Pour some into your favorite mug and add marshmallows or floating gingerbread cookies. We love a moment that’s classy and cute.
Whether you’re a college student testing out your Crock-Pot for the first time or a slow cooker pro, these cozy recipes will be exactly what you need to stay warm this winter. And if you’re in the market for a slow cooker, shop our fave, here.