As the crisp autumn air sets in, there’s nothing quite like gathering around the dinner table to enjoy a warm and comforting meal. And what better way to do that than with slow cooker recipes? This season, we’re trading in our summer salads and light bites for hearty, cozy dishes that simmer all day long in our trusty crockpots.
In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 20 Cozy Crocktober Recipes for Slow Cooking – from classic comfort foods like pot roast and stew, to creative twists on traditional favorites like apple cider braised chicken. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for an easy meal solution or a foodie looking to get creative in the kitchen, we’ve got something for everyone. So grab your slow cooker and let’s dive into the world of Crocktober – where comfort meets convenience!
Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting slow cooker stew, packed with tender beef and a medley of root vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck or round, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, parsnip, beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme to the slow cooker.
3. Place the browned beef on top of the vegetables.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Creamy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a rich creamy broth. With minimal prep time and all-day cooking, this recipe is a stress-free weeknight winner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed wild rice
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add chicken, wild rice, chicken broth, onion, and garlic to a crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in heavy cream and thyme.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Crocktober Chili with Black Beans
Get ready to warm up with this bold and flavorful chili that’s perfect for a cozy fall evening. This Spicy Crocktober Chili with Black Beans is a hearty, one-pot meal that combines the richness of beef with the comfort of black beans and a kick of heat from jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeño slices for garnish
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer mixture to slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans. Stir well.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with jalapeño slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Fall Harvest Pumpkin and Lentil Stew
As the seasons change, warm up with this comforting and nutritious stew that combines the flavors of fall with the wholesomeness of lentils. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, pumpkin, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Pork Loin
Transform a pork loin into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Season the pork loin with salt and black pepper.
4. Place the pork loin in the slow cooker and pour the honey-garlic mixture over it.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove the pork loin from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Autumn Apple Cider Braised Chicken
As the seasons change, warm up with this cozy and flavorful Autumn Apple Cider Braised Chicken dish. A perfect blend of sweet and savory, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from pot and set aside. Reduce heat to medium, then add sliced onion and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in apple cider, brown sugar, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return chicken to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to preheated oven.
7. Braise for 45-50 minutes or until chicken is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Crockpot Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto
This creamy, comforting risotto is infused with the warm flavors of roasted butternut squash and fragrant sage, perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 teaspoons dried sage
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add squash, broth, and rice to the Crockpot. Cook on low for 6 hours.
2. In a skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add garlic; cook 1 minute.
3. Stir in cooked risotto, Parmesan cheese, and sage. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve warm, garnished with additional sage if desired.
Cooking Time: 6 hours
Maple Glazed Slow Cooker Carrots
Sweeten up your meal with this easy and delicious recipe for Maple Glazed Slow Cooker Carrots. This sweet and sticky glaze brings out the natural sweetness of carrots, making them a perfect side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the chopped carrots, maple syrup, brown sugar, olive oil, and cinnamon.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle with salt to taste.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Savory Crocktober Pot Roast with Gravy
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this comforting and flavorful pot roast recipe, perfect for a chilly fall evening. Let the slow cooker do all the work as it tenderizes the beef to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck roast
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the roast with salt and pepper.
2. In the crockpot, combine sliced onion and minced garlic.
3. Place the beef on top of the onion mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, red wine (if using), brown sugar, and thyme. Pour the mixture over the roast.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove the roast from the crockpot and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
7. Strain the juices and serve with the sliced roast, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Warm Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal (Overnight Crockpot)
Start your day with a deliciously comforting bowl of warm oatmeal, infused with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon. This easy overnight crockpot recipe is perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 medium apple, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)
– Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a crockpot, combine oats, water or milk, salt, honey, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
2. Add the diced apple on top of the oat mixture.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or overnight (6-8 hours).
4. In the morning, stir in the apples and add a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Slow Cooker Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili
Warm up with a hearty and flavorful slow cooker chili that combines tender turkey, sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
2. Add the turkey, garlic, red bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the turkey is browned on all sides.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Add the sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, and kidney beans.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Herbed Crockpot Mushroom and Barley Soup
This hearty soup is perfect for a chilly day, packed with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, nutty barley, and fresh herbs. Let your crockpot do the work while you enjoy the cozy aroma filling your home.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add sliced mushrooms, chicken broth, pearl barley, olive oil, onion, garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the crockpot.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Stir in chopped parsley, if using. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Caramelized Onion and Beef Slow Cooker Sliders
Elevate your slider game with this tender beef and sweet caramelized onion combination, perfectly cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for casual gatherings or busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional toppings: cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re dark golden brown.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the cooked onions, ground beef, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Form the beef mixture into small patties and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. Assemble the sliders by placing a patty on each bun and adding your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Crocktober Tuscan White Bean Soup
A hearty, comforting soup perfect for the chilly fall season, this Creamy Crocktober Tuscan White Bean Soup is a twist on traditional Italian cooking. This slow-cooked delight combines cannellini beans with aromatic vegetables and creamy goat cheese for a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large crock pot, combine soaked cannellini beans, olive oil, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
2. Pour in chicken broth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. Stir in heavy cream and crumbled goat cheese until smooth.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Slow Cooker Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin
This sweet and tangy slow cooker recipe is perfect for a stress-free dinner party or special occasion. The combination of tender pork, cranberries, and orange creates a harmonious flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cranberries, orange marmalade, honey, soy sauce, and cumin.
3. Place the pork tenderloin in the slow cooker and pour the cranberry mixture over it.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Cozy Crockpot Sausage and Kale Stew
Warm up with this hearty, comforting stew that’s perfect for a chilly day. This easy-to-make recipe combines savory sausage, nutritious kale, and aromatic spices to create a cozy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage
– 2 cups chopped fresh kale (curly or lacinato work well)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the sausage mixture to the crockpot. Add the kale, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and thyme.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spiced Pear and Ginger Slow Cooker Dessert
Warm up with this sweet and spicy dessert that’s perfect for chilly fall evenings. A medley of spices, fresh ginger, and tender pears come together in a mouthwatering treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou work well), peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine pear slices and sliced ginger.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Sprinkle evenly over the pears.
3. Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve warm, topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this creamy, cheesy recipe that’s perfect for busy days or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the cubed potatoes, chicken broth, garlic, and salt in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the Parmesan cheese and butter until melted and smooth.
4. Season with pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Autumn Spiced Slow Cooker Applesauce
Warm up to the flavors of autumn with this deliciously spiced slow cooker applesauce, perfect for snacking or using as a topping for pork chops or pancakes.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples (any variety), peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped apples, brown sugar, water, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Mash the applesauce with a fork or potato masher until your desired consistency is reached.
4. Serve warm or let cool and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Enjoy the sweet and spicy flavors of autumn in every bite!
Savory Crockpot French Onion Soup with Cheese Croutons
A rich and flavorful twist on the classic French onion soup, this recipe combines caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted cheese for a hearty and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes (for croutons)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. In a crockpot, combine onions, butter, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
2. Stir in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Toss baguette cubes with Parmesan cheese and bake until golden brown, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Ladle soup into bowls and top with croutons and grated cheddar cheese.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 20 delicious crocktober recipes! From hearty stews and soups to savory roasts and sweet treats, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables or Creamy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup. Or go spicy with Spicy Crocktober Chili with Black Beans. And don’t forget the sweet treats like Maple Glazed Slow Cooker Carrots or Spiced Pear and Ginger Slow Cooker Dessert. Perfect for a chilly fall day, these recipes are sure to warm your heart and belly.
