15 Delicious Thanksgiving Crockpot Recipes to Simplify Your Feast

Thanksgiving cooking doesn’t always mean juggling five burners and a jam-packed oven. If you’ve got a slow cooker (or two), you’re already halfway to an easier holiday.

These Thanksgiving crockpot recipes take some of the pressure off so you can focus on what really matters—whether that’s catching up with family, watching the parade, or sneaking bites of pie before dinner. From tender turkey alternatives to creamy mashed potatoes and flavorful stuffing, these dishes come together with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Just toss everything in earlier in the day, let it do its thing, and come dinnertime, you’ll have a spread that tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen—even though you didn’t. Let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting this year.

Crockpot Stuffing With Sausage And Herbs

Crockpot Stuffing with Sausage and Herbs

Thanksgiving just isn’t complete without a hearty stuffing, and this Crockpot Stuffing with Sausage and Herbs is a standout choice. The blend of savory sausage and aromatic herbs brings a rich flavor that perfectly complements your turkey or any holiday dish. Plus, cooking it in a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, making your holiday prep a breeze.

This recipe is easy to whip up, allowing you to spend more time with family and less time in the kitchen. With its delightful mix of textures and tastes, it’s sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving table!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 10 cups cubed day-old bread
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  2. In the same skillet, add butter, celery, and onion. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the sausage mixture with the cubed bread, chicken broth, and fresh parsley. Mix gently until everything is well combined.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a greased crockpot and cover. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or until heated through and the bread is tender.
  5. Serve warm, alongside your Thanksgiving feast!

Crockpot Mashed Potatoes With Garlic Butter

Creamy mashed potatoes garnished with herbs and butter

Crockpot mashed potatoes with garlic butter are a fantastic addition to your Thanksgiving spread. They are creamy, buttery, and infused with rich garlic flavor. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect side for busy holiday cooking.

Using a crockpot allows the potatoes to cook slowly and evenly, ensuring a smooth texture every time. Just toss in your ingredients, let them cook, and you’ll have a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish without the hassle!

Ingredients

  • 5 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes into your crockpot. Pour the chicken broth over the potatoes.
  2. Add Ingredients: Pour the melted butter over the potatoes and add the minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  3. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or until the potatoes are tender.
  4. Mash: Once cooked, use a potato masher to mash the potatoes to your desired consistency. Stir in the sour cream until well mixed.
  5. Serve: Garnish with fresh chives or parsley before serving, and enjoy your creamy garlic butter mashed potatoes!

Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

A delicious green bean casserole with crispy topping ready for Thanksgiving.

The Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole is a classic dish that combines tender green beans with a creamy sauce and crunchy topping. It’s a tasty addition to any Thanksgiving table, bringing a comforting balance of flavors that everyone will love. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up in your slow cooker that you can focus on other dishes without any fuss.

This casserole is creamy, savory, and topped with crispy fried onions, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. With minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it until it’s ready to serve. It’s the perfect side dish to complement your holiday feast.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Green Beans: Wash and trim the fresh green beans, then place them in the slow cooker.
  2. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
  3. Add to Slow Cooker: Pour the sauce over the green beans in the slow cooker. Mix until the beans are coated.
  4. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture.
  5. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the green beans are tender.
  6. Add Topping: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the crispy fried onions on top and cover to allow them to crisp up.

Crockpot Turkey Breast With Gravy

Crockpot turkey breast with gravy and herbs

This Crockpot Turkey Breast with Gravy is a fantastic way to simplify your Thanksgiving meal. The turkey stays juicy and tender as it cooks slowly in its own flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the savory gravy adds a delicious touch that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or stuffing.

Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it also allows you to spend more time with loved ones instead of slaving away in the kitchen. Just season the turkey, set it in the crockpot, and let it do its thing while you focus on other dishes.

Ingredients

  • 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in turkey breast
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening gravy)
  • 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening gravy)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Turkey: Rub the turkey breast with olive oil and season with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. Set Up the Crockpot: Place the seasoned turkey breast in the crockpot. Pour the chicken broth around the turkey.
  3. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  4. Make the Gravy: If you want thicker gravy, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the juices from the crockpot and heat on the stove until thickened.
  5. Serve: Slice the turkey and serve with the warm gravy over the top. Enjoy!

Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole

Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole with marshmallows and pecans

Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that perfectly captures the essence of Thanksgiving. With its creamy texture and a blend of sweet and nutty flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that almost everyone will love. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up!

This casserole combines mashed sweet potatoes with ingredients like brown sugar, butter, and a hint of vanilla. Topped with crunchy pecans and mini marshmallows, it adds a delightful sweetness to your holiday table. Cooking it in a crockpot allows the flavors to meld beautifully while freeing up your oven for other dishes.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 4-5 medium sweet potatoes)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and dice the sweet potatoes, then boil them in water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth.
  3. Transfer to Crockpot: Pour the mixture into a greased crockpot, smoothing the top. Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours.
  4. Add Toppings: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle mini marshmallows and chopped pecans on top, then cover again to let them melt and toast slightly.
  5. Serve: Once cooked, stir gently before serving to combine the toppings with the sweet potato mixture.

Crockpot Cranberry Sauce

A homemade crockpot cranberry sauce with fresh cranberries and orange zest.

Crockpot cranberry sauce is a simple and delicious addition to your Thanksgiving feast. It combines tart cranberries with sweet and citrusy notes, creating a bright and flavorful complement to turkey and other dishes. Using a slow cooker makes it easy to prepare; just mix the ingredients and let the crockpot do the work!

This recipe delivers a homemade sauce that tastes fresher than store-bought options. The natural sweetness from the sugar and the zest of orange elevate the cranberries, balancing their tartness perfectly. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other holiday preparations.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In your crockpot, add the fresh cranberries, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to combine.
  2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
  3. Cool and Serve: Once cooked, allow the sauce to cool slightly before transferring it to a serving dish or jar. It can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference.

Crockpot Cornbread Dressing

A bowl of cornbread dressing with gravy and herbs

Crockpot cornbread dressing is a cozy and comforting side dish that perfectly complements your Thanksgiving feast. This dish combines the sweetness of cornbread with savory herbs and broth, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy holiday cooking.

The cornbread absorbs the broth and seasoning as it cooks, resulting in a warm, moist dressing that’s packed with flavor. Plus, cooking it in a crockpot allows you to focus on other dishes while it simmers away. Your guests will love this crowd-pleaser, and you’ll appreciate how simple it is to make!

Ingredients

  • 1 batch of cornbread (about 8 cups, crumbled)
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 teaspoons dried sage
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, beaten

Instructions

  1. Prep the Vegetables: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped celery and onion, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the crumbled cornbread with the sautéed vegetables. Add the broth, sage, thyme, salt, pepper, and beaten eggs. Stir until well combined.
  3. Cook: Transfer the mixture to a greased crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the dressing is heated through and has absorbed the flavors.
  4. Serve: Once done, fluff with a fork and serve warm alongside your Thanksgiving mains.

Crockpot Mac And Cheese

A spoonful of creamy macaroni and cheese being lifted from a crockpot.

Crockpot Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or any family meal. This creamy dish features tender macaroni coated in a rich cheese sauce, making it a favorite for both kids and adults. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare; just toss the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do all the work!

The result is a warm, gooey dish that’s bursting with cheesy goodness. You can customize it by adding your favorite cheeses or mix-ins, like bacon or veggies, to make it your own. Serve it as a side dish to complement your holiday feast, and watch it disappear!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine shredded cheese, milk, heavy cream, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
  4. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
  5. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious crockpot mac and cheese!

Crockpot Glazed Carrots

Crockpot glazed carrots with herbs

Crockpot glazed carrots are a sweet and savory side dish perfect for Thanksgiving. This recipe combines tender carrots with a delicious glaze that brings warmth and comfort to your holiday table. The taste is a delightful balance of sweetness and spices, making it a favorite for both kids and adults.

This dish is incredibly simple to make. Just toss your ingredients into the crockpot and let them cook while you focus on other preparations. It’s a fuss-free way to add a colorful and flavorful element to your feast!

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds baby carrots
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Carrots: Place the baby carrots in the bottom of the crockpot.
  2. Make the Glaze: In a separate bowl, mix together brown sugar, melted butter, honey, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the carrots.
  3. Add Herbs: If using, sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary over the top.
  4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the carrots are tender.
  5. Serve: Give the carrots a gentle stir to coat them in the glaze before serving. Enjoy your flavorful side dish!

Crockpot Apple Cider

A warm crockpot filled with apple cider, orange slices, and cinnamon sticks.

Crockpot apple cider is the perfect way to fill your home with warm, inviting aromas during the Thanksgiving season. This easy recipe will give you a deliciously spiced drink that’s both sweet and tangy, making it a fantastic addition to your holiday gatherings. Simply toss in your ingredients, let the crockpot do the work, and enjoy a comforting drink that friends and family will love.

This recipe is simple to follow and can be adjusted to suit your taste. The combination of fresh apples, orange slices, and warming spices like cinnamon and cloves creates a cozy flavor profile that’s ideal for chilly evenings. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients

  • 8 cups apple cider
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries (optional)
  • 3-4 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 teaspoon whole cloves
  • 1 teaspoon whole allspice (optional)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)

Instructions

  1. Combine all the ingredients in the crockpot.
  2. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
  3. Once done, gently stir and strain to remove solids if desired.
  4. Serve warm, optionally garnished with additional orange slices or cinnamon sticks.

Crockpot Butternut Squash Soup

A bowl of creamy butternut squash soup with a swirl of cream on top.

This creamy butternut squash soup is a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving table. It’s warm, comforting, and packed with the flavors of fall, making it a perfect starter for your holiday feast. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make—just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work!

The natural sweetness of the butternut squash pairs beautifully with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a rich and satisfying soup. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress your guests while keeping your kitchen stress-free.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium butternut squashes, peeled and diced
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: In your crockpot, combine the diced butternut squash, chopped onion, carrots, and minced garlic.
  2. Add Liquid and Spices: Pour in the vegetable broth, and sprinkle the cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper over the top. Stir to combine.
  3. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the squash is tender.
  4. Blend: Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches.
  5. Finish with Coconut Milk: Stir in the coconut milk for added creaminess and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Crockpot Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

Crockpot Brussels sprouts with bacon and seasoning.

Crockpot Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a delightful side dish that balances the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts with the savory richness of bacon. It’s simple to make and perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or any family meal. The slow-cooked process ensures that the sprouts become tender while soaking up all the delicious flavors from the bacon and seasoning.

This recipe is so easy that even novice cooks can whip it up without any fuss. Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work for you. The end result is a warm, comforting side that will impress your guests and have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 6 slices of bacon, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, chopped bacon, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together until the Brussels sprouts are well coated.
  2. Load the Crockpot: Transfer the mixture to the crockpot. Spread it evenly in the pot.
  3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for about 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the Brussels sprouts are tender and the bacon is crispy.
  4. Add Balsamic: When done, drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the Brussels sprouts and give it a gentle stir before serving.

Crockpot Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

A bowl of pumpkin pie oatmeal topped with yogurt and oats, with cinnamon sticks in the background.

Crockpot pumpkin pie oatmeal is a cozy and delicious breakfast that brings all the flavors of fall into your morning routine. This recipe is simple to make; just toss the ingredients into your crockpot before bed, and you’ll wake up to a warm, perfectly spiced dish ready to enjoy. The taste is a delightful blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg, giving you that comforting pumpkin pie flavor without all the fuss.

Not only is it tasty, but it’s also a healthy way to start your day. You can easily customize it to fit your dietary needs, making it a versatile option for everyone. Whether you’re hosting guests or just enjoying a quiet morning at home, this oatmeal is sure to please.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 2 cups milk (or dairy-free alternative)
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In your crockpot, mix together the oats, milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
  2. Set Cooking Time: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.
  3. Add Toppings: When ready to serve, stir the oatmeal well and top with chopped pecans or any other favorite toppings like yogurt or additional maple syrup.
  4. Serve and Enjoy: Scoop into bowls and enjoy this warm, hearty breakfast that tastes just like pumpkin pie!

Crockpot Turkey And Rice Soup (For Leftovers)

A warm bowl of turkey and rice soup with vegetables.

Crockpot Turkey and Rice Soup is the perfect way to use up leftover turkey after Thanksgiving. This hearty soup combines tender turkey pieces with wholesome rice and vibrant vegetables, creating a warm, comforting dish that’s packed with flavor. It’s incredibly simple to make; just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work for you!

With a rich broth and a medley of spices, this soup is not only delicious but also a great way to warm up on chilly days. It’s a complete meal in a bowl that everyone will love, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to minimize waste and enjoy every bit of your holiday feast!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
  • 1 cup rice (white or brown)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a crockpot, add shredded turkey, rice, onion, carrots, celery, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the rice and vegetables are tender.
  3. Add Peas: If using, stir in the frozen peas about 30 minutes before serving.
  4. Serve: Once cooked, ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy your delicious turkey and rice soup!

Crockpot Garlic Herb Rolls

Delicious garlic herb rolls cooked in a crockpot

These Crockpot Garlic Herb Rolls are the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving feast. Soft, fluffy, and infused with garlic and herbs, they offer a delightful taste that pairs beautifully with turkey, gravy, and all your favorite sides. Plus, making them in the crockpot means you can free up your oven for other dishes, making your holiday prep a breeze.

With simple ingredients and minimal effort, these rolls will impress your guests while you relax and enjoy the day. They’re versatile enough to be served as a starter or alongside your main course. Trust us, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients

  • 2 cans of refrigerated biscuit dough
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Open the cans of biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters. Set aside.
  2. Mix the Garlic Herb Butter: In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, chives, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Coat the Dough: Toss the biscuit pieces in the garlic herb butter until evenly coated.
  4. Layer in the Crockpot: Spray the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. Layer the coated biscuit pieces into the crockpot, stacking them slightly.
  5. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until the rolls are cooked through and golden on top.
  6. Serve: Enjoy warm, straight from the crockpot with more garlic herb butter on the side if desired.

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