33 Slow Cooker Holiday Dinner Ideas for a Stress-Free Celebration

Slow cooker Holiday dinner ideas are the secret to a stress-free celebration. These recipes take the pressure off by letting you prep ahead and let the slow cooker do all the hard work. No need to hover over the stove just set it and forget it, so you can focus on what really matters: enjoying time with loved ones. From classic dishes to creative new takes, slow cooker meals make holiday dinners simple and delicious. If you want to keep things easy while still serving a memorable meal, these slow cooker Holiday dinner ideas are the way to go.

A bowl of stew with beef chunks, potatoes, carrots, and herbs, accompanied by sliced bread and sprigs of rosemary. — Photo credit: Chew Out Loud.

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Slow Cooker Pork Chops

Plate of slow cooked pork chops served over white rice, garnished with green onions. — Slow Cooker Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Pork Chops are perfect for busy days when you need a no-fuss dinner. Simply set them in the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have a juicy, flavorful meal ready to serve. This is one of the best slow cooker holiday dinner ideas since it frees up your time for other tasks while ensuring a delicious dinner. If you're looking to impress without any effort, this recipe is the way to go. It’s perfect for those cozy holiday meals when you want to relax and enjoy the moment.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Chops

Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot

Sliced roasted pork tenderloin garnished with fresh herbs on a wooden cutting board. — Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot delivers tender and juicy meat with minimal effort. The beauty of this recipe is its ease—it allows you to prepare a holiday meal while you go about your day. It’s an ideal choice for slow cooker holiday dinner ideas because it creates a flavorful centerpiece without any hassle. The pork loin cooks to perfection, absorbing the savory seasonings for an unforgettable dinner experience. This is a great option when you need a reliable dish that fits the holiday spirit.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a spoon holding creamy mac and cheese garnished with green onions. — Crock Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food made effortlessly. This creamy, cheesy dish is perfect for gatherings, and it’s one of the easiest slow cooker holiday dinner ideas out there. With just a few ingredients, you’ll end up with a side dish that everyone will love. Whether it’s served alongside your main course or as a solo dish, it will be the star of the table. It’s a no-brainer for feeding a crowd during the busy holiday season!
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

Broccoli Cheese Soup

A bowl of creamy broccoli soup with chunks of broccoli, served with a spoon. — Broccoli Cheese Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Broccoli Cheese Soup in the slow cooker is a cozy, warming dish that’s perfect for chilly days. This creamy soup is packed with hearty broccoli and melted cheese, making it ideal for your holiday meal lineup. It’s a top choice when it comes to slow cooker holiday dinner ideas because it’s so easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. With just a few ingredients, this dish turns into a rich, satisfying meal that’s ready when you are. Perfect for a casual holiday gathering or a simple weeknight treat.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheese Soup

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Sauce being poured over a bowl of beef and bell pepper stir-fry served on white rice. — Slow Cooker Pepper Steak. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak brings bold flavors and tender beef to your dinner table. It’s a fantastic option for slow cooker holiday dinner ideas because it requires very little preparation, giving you more time to focus on other holiday tasks. The peppers and savory sauce perfectly complement the beef for a meal that’s rich in flavor. This recipe guarantees a satisfying dinner without the stress, making it perfect for a hassle-free holiday gathering. It’s an easy choice when you want a dish that’s both flavorful and filling.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Spoonful of Hawaiian chicken served over rice. — Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is the perfect combination of sweet and savory, made effortlessly in your slow cooker. This dish is one of the best slow cooker holiday dinner ideas because of its simple ingredients and minimal prep time. The chicken becomes tender and infused with the tropical sweetness of pineapple, making it a real crowd-pleaser. It’s an ideal option for busy holiday cooks who still want to serve something delicious. This recipe is as easy as it is flavorful, making your holiday meal planning a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup

A ladle serving vegetable soup with diced tomatoes, potatoes, and green beans into a white bowl. — Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup is a comforting and healthy option that will warm you up from the inside out. It’s perfect for slow cooker holiday dinner ideas, especially if you’re looking for a lighter dish to complement your main course. Packed with vegetables and a rich broth, this soup is both nourishing and filling. You can throw it together in the morning, and it will be ready when you need it. It’s an easy, satisfying way to enjoy a wholesome holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup

Slow Cooker Beef Tips

Close-up of a spoonful of beef stew with chunks of meat, onions, and parsley in a rich brown broth. — Slow Cooker Beef Tips. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Beef Tips are tender, flavorful, and make for a hearty meal. This recipe is perfect for slow cooker holiday dinner ideas because it delivers comfort food without requiring hours in the kitchen. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after hours of slow cooking, absorbing all the delicious spices and seasonings. This dish will quickly become a holiday favorite, offering both ease and great taste. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying with your family.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Tips

Crock Pot Cabbage Soup

Bowl of hearty vegetable soup with a spoon on a checked napkin. — Crock Pot Cabbage Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crock Pot Cabbage Soup is a simple and satisfying dish that’s perfect for chilly days. This soup is a wonderful addition to slow cooker holiday dinner ideas, offering a comforting taste that won’t weigh you down. Made with cabbage and flavorful seasonings, it’s a great way to balance out heavier holiday meals. You can set it and forget it, and it will be ready to enjoy when it’s time to eat. This is a no-fuss recipe that delivers big on flavor and comfort.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Cabbage Soup

Crock Pot Tomato Soup

Bowl of creamy tomato soup garnished with basil leaves. — Crock Pot Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crock Pot Tomato Soup is rich, creamy, and incredibly easy to make in your slow cooker. It’s a fantastic addition to slow cooker holiday dinner ideas, offering a classic and comforting option for your holiday meal spread. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can have a warm, flavorful soup that’s perfect for pairing with grilled cheese or as a stand-alone dish. It’s a great way to keep things simple without sacrificing taste. This soup brings comfort with every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Tomato Soup

Slow Cooker Rice

A spoonful of slow-cooked white rice held above a bowl, with a fresh green parsley leaf in the background. — Slow Cooker Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Rice is a foolproof method to make fluffy, perfectly cooked rice every time. It’s an essential recipe for slow cooker holiday dinner ideas because it requires no attention once it’s in the cooker, leaving you with more time to prep other dishes. This recipe ensures your rice will be the perfect side for any holiday meal. You don’t have to worry about it burning or sticking, making it the ideal way to prepare rice for a crowd. Simple, easy, and perfectly done rice every time.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Rice

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Buffalo Chicken Dip is a spicy, creamy treat that everyone will love. It’s perfect for slow cooker holiday dinner ideas, offering a delicious, hands-off appetizer that’s ready in no time. The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy cheese creates a dip that’s irresistible. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or alongside your main meal, it’s bound to be a hit. This dip is a must-have for any holiday gathering where you want to keep things fun and festive.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Baked Ziti

Three bowls and a crockpot filled with cheesy baked pasta on a wooden table, accompanied by two glasses of milk, a folded green napkin, and silver forks. — Baked Ziti. Photo credit: The Cookin Chicks.

Baked Ziti in the slow cooker is an easy, cheesy, and filling dish that will keep everyone coming back for more. It’s one of the best slow cooker holiday dinner ideas because it’s perfect for feeding a crowd without any fuss. With just a few minutes of prep, this dish becomes a satisfying and comforting meal. The rich, cheesy sauce and hearty pasta are sure to please everyone at your table. It's an effortless choice for your next holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ziti

Mississippi Roast

A blue plate with sliced roast beef, mashed potatoes topped with gravy, and a side of green peas, set on a wooden table with a fork and knife. — Mississippi Roast. Photo credit: Living Sweet Moments.

Mississippi Roast is a tender, flavorful roast made with minimal ingredients and effort. This recipe is a winner for slow cooker holiday dinner ideas because it’s super easy to prepare and delivers incredible taste. Simply throw in a few ingredients, and you’ll have a melt-in-your-mouth roast ready for dinner. It’s perfect for a stress-free holiday meal that still feels special. This roast is sure to be the centerpiece of any holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Roast

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet Potatoes in the slow cooker are simple to prepare and full of flavor. This recipe is one of the best slow cooker holiday dinner ideas because it pairs perfectly with a variety of main dishes, especially during the holidays. The slow cooking process brings out the natural sweetness, making it a crowd-pleaser. It’s a great side dish to have cooking in the background while you focus on other parts of the meal. Your guests will love the sweetness and softness of these potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potatoes

Cheesy Ranch Bacon Potatoes

A bowl of potato salad with bacon and herbs on a wooden board, surrounded by a blue glass, striped napkin, and salt and pepper shakers. — Cheesy Ranch Bacon Potatoes. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Cheesy Ranch Bacon Potatoes are a rich, indulgent side dish that’s super easy to whip up in the slow cooker. If you’re looking for a hit at your next holiday gathering, this recipe is a must-try. It combines creamy cheese, ranch seasoning, and crispy bacon into a mouthwatering side that complements any holiday meal. These potatoes are perfect for feeding a group with minimal effort, making them a top choice for your slow cooker holiday dinner ideas. You’ll be sure to please everyone with this savory treat.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Ranch Bacon Potatoes

Crockpot Green Beans

A bowl of cooked green beans mixed with pieces of bacon, served with a fork on the side. — Crockpot Green Beans. Photo credit: Recipes From A Pantry.

Crockpot Green Beans are an easy, flavorful side dish that cooks with little effort. This simple recipe is perfect for slow cooker holiday dinner ideas, especially when you need a side dish that’s both quick and tasty. The green beans absorb all the savory seasonings, becoming tender and flavorful. It’s a great way to add some green to your holiday meal without the stress. This is a no-fuss side dish that will enhance any festive dinner.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Green Beans

Irish Guinness Beef Stew

This Irish Guinness Beef Stew is a hearty meal with tender beef and rich flavors. It’s a fantastic choice for slow cooker Holiday dinner ideas because it’s comforting and easy to prep ahead. A perfect dish for family gatherings, it’s sure to be enjoyed by all.
Get the Recipe: Irish Guinness Beef Stew

Ham Dinner

A plate with sliced ham topped with a pineapple ring, steamed green beans, and small potatoes. Salt and pepper shakers and a slow cooker are in the background. — Ham Dinner. Photo credit: The Magical Slow Cooker.

This Ham Dinner combines savory ham steaks with potatoes and green beans in a delicious holiday-inspired sauce. It’s a great option for slow cooker Holiday dinner ideas, as it’s easy to prepare and will satisfy a crowd. The complete meal is both flavorful and filling.
Get the Recipe: Ham Dinner

Slow Cooker Whole Chicken

Roasted chicken with potatoes and carrots in a slow cooker, surrounded by parsley, salt, pepper, and olive oil on a white surface. — Slow Cooker Whole Chicken. Photo credit: Pumpkin 'N Spice.

This Slow Cooker Whole Chicken is a simple yet impressive dish, perfect for any holiday dinner. By slow cooking the chicken with potatoes and carrots, it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful. It’s definitely a winner for slow cooker Holiday dinner ideas, giving you a stress-free meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Whole Chicken

Bison Roast

A plate of roasted meat with chickpeas, carrots, and potatoes garnished with herbs, set on a wooden table with a candle and star decoration nearby. — Bison Roast. Photo credit: In the Kitch.

This Bison Roast offers a unique twist on the traditional holiday meal, featuring juicy bison and a mix of hearty vegetables. It's an excellent option for slow cooker Holiday dinner ideas, especially for those wanting something a little different. It’s a festive dish that’s both filling and healthy.
Get the Recipe: Bison Roast

Butternut Squash Soup

A bowl of creamy pumpkin soup topped with croutons, seeds, and herbs. Salt and pepper are in small bowls nearby. — Butternut Squash Soup. Photo credit: The Forked Spoon.

This Butternut Squash Soup is creamy, comforting, and perfect for cozy holiday meals. It’s a great option for slow cooker Holiday dinner ideas, bringing warmth to your table with minimal effort. A simple recipe that delivers a burst of flavor, it’s the ideal starter for any festive gathering.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Soup

Cranberry Pork Loin

A plate with sliced roast pork topped with cranberries, rice mixed with vegetables, and green beans. A small bowl of cranberries is nearby. — Cranberry Pork Loin. Photo credit: The Magical Slow Cooker.

This Cranberry Pork Loin combines tender pork with a tangy cranberry sauce, creating a mouthwatering dish. It’s an excellent choice for slow cooker Holiday dinner ideas, bringing a delicious balance of savory and sweet to your meal. The simplicity of this recipe makes it perfect for stress-free holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pork Loin

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes

A plate of roasted potatoes mixed with diced bacon, topped with chopped green onions and herbs, with a fork on the side. — Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes. Photo credit: Recipes From A Pantry.

These Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. A fantastic side dish for slow cooker Holiday dinner ideas, they’re sure to complement any main course. Just set it and forget it while you enjoy other holiday prep.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes

Garlic Steak Bites

A white dish filled with a stew of cooked meat chunks and gravy, garnished with chopped herbs, and a wooden spoon resting on the side. — Garlic Steak Bites. Photo credit: Pumpkin 'N Spice.

These Garlic Steak Bites are easy to prepare and full of rich, buttery flavor. They're a perfect fit for slow cooker Holiday dinner ideas, offering a delicious way to spice up your holiday menu. Serve them over mashed potatoes or rice for a meal that’s both simple and indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Steak Bites

Sirloin Tip Roast

Slices of roast beef covered in brown gravy, garnished with fresh thyme on a white plate. A sprig of rosemary and a jar of gravy are in the background. — Sirloin Tip Roast. Photo credit: The Feathered Nester.

This Sirloin Tip Roast cooks to tender perfection in the slow cooker with minimal effort. Ideal for slow cooker Holiday dinner ideas, it’s a fuss-free way to serve up a flavorful roast. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it’s sure to please guests with its juicy, mouthwatering flavors.
Get the Recipe: Sirloin Tip Roast

Corned Beef And Cabbage

A dish featuring corned beef, carrots, cabbage, and potatoes garnished with herbs served in a white casserole dish. — Corned Beef And Cabbage. Photo credit: Chew Out Loud.

This Corned Beef and Cabbage is a classic holiday meal, made even easier in the slow cooker. It’s a great option for slow cooker Holiday dinner ideas, offering a hearty, satisfying dish with minimal prep. It’s a simple, flavorful meal that’s perfect for family celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Corned Beef And Cabbage

Slow Cooker Lasagna

A serving of lasagna topped with basil on a white plate. Fork and knife on the side, with tomatoes, garlic, and basil in the background. — Slow Cooker Lasagna. Photo credit: Corrie Cooks.

This Slow Cooker Lasagna is the ideal way to enjoy this classic Italian dish without the hassle of baking. Perfect for slow cooker Holiday dinner ideas, it’s a hands-off approach that lets you spend more time with your guests. With rich layers of pasta and cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Lasagna

Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup

A ladle of soup with cabbage, ground meat, tomato pieces, and rice in a broth. — Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup brings together the comforting flavors of cabbage and beef in a hearty, satisfying dish. It’s a fantastic choice for slow cooker Holiday dinner ideas, offering a filling, one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare. This soup is sure to warm up your holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup

Pot Roast

This Pot Roast is a classic, tender roast served with vegetables, perfect for any holiday meal. It’s an excellent option for slow cooker Holiday dinner ideas, as it takes little time to prep but delivers big flavor. You can set it in the morning and enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal later.
Get the Recipe: Pot Roast

Chicken And Potatoes With A Healthy Gravy

Grilled chicken breast with a creamy sauce served on a bed of roasted potatoes and vegetables. — Chicken And Potatoes With A Healthy Gravy. Photo credit: My Chef's Apron.

This Chicken and Potatoes with a Healthy Gravy is an easy, balanced meal that’s both comforting and flavorful. It’s a great fit for slow cooker Holiday dinner ideas, offering a simple yet satisfying dish. Serve it up for a festive meal that everyone can enjoy without all the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Chicken And Potatoes With A Healthy Gravy

Beef Ragu

A bowl of pasta with shredded meat, tomato sauce, and grated cheese, garnished with herbs. A slice of bread is placed beside the bowl on a white surface. — Beef Ragu. Photo credit: Modern Honey.

This Beef Ragu is a rich, braised beef dish served over pasta, making it a perfect choice for any holiday feast. Ideal for slow cooker Holiday dinner ideas, it’s a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for cold weather. You’ll love the ease of preparation and the tender beef that falls apart effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Beef Ragu

Jalapeño Popper Creamed Corn

A dish of creamy corn casserole topped with green onions and bacon in a white baking dish on a woven mat, surrounded by sliced jalapeños, a floral napkin, and drinks. — Jalapeño Popper Creamed Corn. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This Jalapeño Popper Creamed Corn is a spicy, creamy side dish that’s perfect for any holiday gathering. It’s a great option for slow cooker Holiday dinner ideas, adding a delicious pop of flavor to your spread. The balance of heat and creaminess will complement any main course beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Creamed Corn