As we all know, there’s nothing quite like the coziness of winter – the snow gently falling outside, the warm glow of the fireplace, and, of course, the comforting aromas wafting from the kitchen. But let’s be real, on those chilly, busy days, spending hours in the kitchen is the last thing any of us want to do. That’s where my latest obsession comes in – easy winter crockpot meals!
I’ve always been a fan of good food that brings people together, but I’m also all about making life simpler. So, I’ve put together a list of 15 winter crockpot recipes that are perfect for those cold weather days when you just want to huddle up and enjoy something warm and hearty without the fuss.
These recipes are my winter lifesavers. Imagine coming home to a slow-cooked stew that’s been simmering to perfection, or waking up to a warm, ready-to-eat breakfast on a frosty morning – these are the simple joys that make winter days so much more bearable.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a work-from-home warrior, or just someone who wants to spend more time enjoying the winter wonderland outside than slaving away in the kitchen, these crockpot meals are for you. They are easy, flavorful, and, best of all, they practically cook themselves. So grab your crockpot, and let’s get cooking – winter just got a whole lot yummier!
15 Easy Winter Crockpot Meals for Busy Cold Weather Days
Slow-Cooker Short Ribs
These slow-cooker short ribs are an easy alternative to traditionally braised short ribs—you don’t need to pay any attention to them once you get them in the slow cooker. (That makes it my favorite beef short ribs recipe!) —Rebekah Beyer, Sabetha, Kansas
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Southwest Chicken Chili
Chicken thighs are a nice change of pace in this easy chili. I also use a smoked ham hock and fresh cilantro for flavor and to keep the dish interesting. —Phyllis Beatty, Chandler, Arizona
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Slow-Cooker Swiss Steak Supper
To save a step when making slow-cooker steak and potatoes, I keep peppered seasoned salt on hand to use instead of the seasoned salt and pepper. —Kathleen Romaniuk, Laval, Quebec
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Slow-Cooker Monkey Bread
I often take this slow-cooker monkey bread to church potlucks—children and adults alike love it! The rum extract is optional. —Lisa Leaper, Worthington, Ohio
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Slow-Cooker Chicken Tagine with Pumpkin
I first discovered tagines—Moroccan stews—when my oldest son was a baby, and I’ve loved them ever since. The first version I made was in a slow cooker, and since I’m a mom with two active boys, that has stayed my preferred method. The pumpkin mixture is supposed to be thick, but if you like a thinner consistency, stir in chicken broth before serving. —Necia Blundy, Bothell, Washington
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Pizza Beans
This dish is wonderful for parties or as a main dish. It can even be made the day before and reheated. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
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Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole
This Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole is an easy dinner for both you and the kids. Serve with carrot and celery sticks for a fuss-free feast. You can also stir in some spicy brown mustard if the adults want more zing. —Laura Wilhelm, West Hollywood, California
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Hot Cocoa for a Crowd
This is a simple, delicious and comforting hot cocoa with a hint of cinnamon. It has just the right amount of sweetness.—Deborah Canaday, Manhattan, Kansas
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Holy Moly Potato Soup
This is a turned-up version of a cheesy potato soup. We eat this often, especially on cold winter evenings, but it’d be lovely for family get-togethers or potlucks during the holidays! Crushed red pepper flakes really turn up the heat. —Angela Sheridan, Opdyke, Illinois
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Spaghetti & Meatball Soup
A couple of nights a week our family ends up eating in shifts because everyone is going every which way, all at the same time. Having a hearty soup simmering in the slow cooker is an easy way to give them all a warm meal. —Susan Stetzel, Gainesville, New York
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Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
My friend Caroline Gray and I came up with this creamy slow-cooker white chicken chili. It’s unusual because it calls for Alfredo sauce. —Cindi Mitchell, St. Marys, Kansas
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Slow-Roasted Chicken with Vegetables
Even a beginner cook could make this slow cooked chicken and have it turn out perfectly. This recipe could not be easier. A few minutes of prep and you'll come home to a delicious dinner. —Anita Bell, Hermitage, Tennessee
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Roast Beef and Gravy
This slow-cooker roast beef and gravy is unbelievably easy. On busy days, I put this main dish in the crock and forget about it. My family likes it with mashed potatoes and fruit salad. —Abby Metzger, Larchwood, Iowa
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Slow-Cooker Cheesy White Lasagna
Here’s my best version of my favorite food—lasagna! The recipe is a winner, so it’s worth the extra prep. You’ll have plenty of time to plan side dishes while the main dish is cooking. —Suzanne Smith, Bluffton, Indiana
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Boston Baked Beans
Simmered in molasses, these slow-cooker Boston baked beans are perfect to take to your next potluck. The sauce is sweet, dark and rich and they complement anything you serve with them.—Darlene Duncan, Langhorne, Pennsylvania
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Jenny has always been passionate about cooking, and she uses her platform to share her joy of food with others. Her recipes are easy to follow, and she loves giving tips and tricks to help others create their own unique culinary creations.
