The Ultimate Guide to Thanksgiving Crockpot Recipes

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, togetherness, and indulgence in delicious food. However, preparing an entire holiday meal can be overwhelming, with ovens overflowing and stovetops working overtime. This is where the crockpot comes in—a host’s secret weapon for creating flavorful dishes with minimal stress. From juicy mains to hearty sides and delectable desserts, a crockpot simplifies your cooking while delivering mouthwatering results.

In this guide, you’ll discover over 25 of the best Thanksgiving crockpot recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or hosting your first holiday dinner, these recipes will save time, free up oven space, and ensure a memorable feast for your guests.

Why Use a Crockpot for Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving cooking often feels like a juggling act, but a crockpot can help you regain control. Here’s why it’s a must-have:

• Effortless Cooking: Add your ingredients, set the timer, and let the crockpot do the rest. It’s as easy as “set it and forget it.”
• Saves Oven Space: With turkeys, pies, and casseroles competing for oven time, the crockpot takes on the heavy lifting for sides and desserts.
• Deepens Flavors: The slow-cooking process enhances the taste of dishes, blending ingredients perfectly.
• Prepares Ahead: You can assemble ingredients the night before and start cooking in the morning, giving you more time to enjoy the day.

Main Course Recipes

Crockpot Turkey Breast

A tender and juicy crockpot turkey breast is perfect for smaller gatherings or as an accompaniment to a roasted turkey. The slow cooking ensures moist meat infused with herbaceous flavors.

Ingredients:

• 4-5 lbs turkey breast (bone-in or boneless)
• 4 tbsp butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Fresh herbs: thyme, rosemary, sage
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Pat the turkey dry and rub with softened butter, garlic, and a mix of fresh herbs.
2. Place the turkey breast in the crockpot and pour the chicken broth around it for moisture.
3. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. For crispy skin, broil the turkey for 5 minutes after cooking.

For a flavorful twist, try this Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken for a tangy main course option.

Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

For a non-traditional Thanksgiving main course, beef brisket is an irresistible choice. The crockpot locks in juices, ensuring every slice is tender and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 4 lbs beef brisket
• 1 tbsp paprika, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp black pepper, and 1 tbsp salt
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Steps:

1. Rub the brisket with the spice blend and place it in the crockpot with onions and beef broth.
2. Add Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours.
4. Slice thinly and serve with its rich juices as gravy.

For more inspiration, explore Slow-Braised Beef Roast with Cranberry Balsamic Glaze, a unique holiday dish.

Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Crockpot Stuffing

No Thanksgiving table is complete without stuffing. Cooking it in a crockpot guarantees a moist and flavorful result every time.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of sourdough bread, cubed
• 1 onion, 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 4 tbsp butter
• Fresh sage and thyme

Instructions:

1. Sauté the onion and celery in butter until softened.
2. Mix the bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, and fresh herbs in a large bowl.
3. Add chicken broth to moisten, then transfer to the crockpot.
4. Cook on low for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Forget boiling and mashing by hand. With a crockpot, you can create creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 4 tbsp butter
• ½ cup heavy cream

Steps:

1. Add potatoes and chicken broth to the crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 4-5 hours until the potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Mash the potatoes directly in the crockpot with butter and cream for a smooth finish.

Sweet Potato Casserole

This Thanksgiving classic is a hit with both kids and adults. You can top it with marshmallows for sweetness or pecans for a crunchy finish.

Steps:

1. Combine 4 lbs of peeled, diced sweet potatoes with ½ cup brown sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 3 tbsp butter in the crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 6-7 hours until soft.
3. Mash and top with your choice of marshmallows or pecans.

Need more ideas? Check out this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe for step-by-step guidance.

Green Bean Casserole

A staple at Thanksgiving, green bean casserole is even easier in a crockpot.

Steps:

1. Mix 3 cups of green beans with 1 can of cream of mushroom soup and ½ cup milk.
2. Stir in half a cup of crispy onions.
3. Cook on low for 3-4 hours and add more onions just before serving.

For another comforting side, try Loaded Potato Soup, which is ideal for chilly holiday evenings.

Delicious Desserts

Crockpot Pumpkin Pie

Skip the oven and try this crustless pumpkin pie for an effortless yet satisfying dessert.

Ingredients:

• 1 can pumpkin puree
• 1 can evaporated milk
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp nutmeg, ¼ tsp cloves

Steps:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl and pour into a parchment-lined crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 3-4 hours.
3. Serve with whipped cream or a caramel drizzle.

Apple Crisp

Warm, spiced apple crisp is the epitome of fall desserts.

Steps:

1. Toss 6 peeled, sliced apples with ½ cup brown sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon.
2. Top with an oat crumble made of oats, butter, and sugar.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours.

For another fruit-based treat, explore Blackberry Dumplings.

Crockpot Pecan Pie

This rich, nutty pecan pie is perfect for Thanksgiving.

Steps:

1. Combine pie filling ingredients and pour into a lined crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 3 hours.
3. Serve warm with ice cream.

FAQs About Thanksgiving Crockpot Recipes

How long can dishes stay warm in the crockpot?

Most crockpots can keep food warm for 4-6 hours without drying out.

Can I prepare recipes the night before?

Yes, assemble your ingredients, refrigerate overnight, and start cooking in the morning.

What size crockpot should I use?

• Side dishes: 3-4 quarts.
• Main courses: 6-8 quarts.

With these Thanksgiving crockpot recipes, you’ll save time, reduce stress, and impress your guests. From savory turkey breast to indulgent desserts, your crockpot is the key to a memorable feast.

For more inspiration, visit Recipeseline for endless ideas to elevate your holiday meal.