Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course, delicious food. As someone who loves to cook but also values spending time with loved ones, I’ve found that using a crockpot for side dishes is a game-changer. It frees up oven space and lets me focus on the turkey and other preparations.
I’ve gathered 18 easy crockpot Thanksgiving side dishes that will make your holiday meal prep a breeze. These recipes are simple to put together and cook slowly while you attend to other tasks. From classic stuffing to creative veggie options, there’s something for everyone on this list. Let’s dive into these tasty, stress-free sides that will have your guests asking for seconds.
1) Slow-Cooked Green Bean Casserole
I love making green bean casserole in my crockpot for Thanksgiving. It’s so easy and frees up oven space for other dishes.
To start, I open and drain cans of green beans and place them in the slow cooker. Then I mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, and seasonings in a bowl.
I pour this creamy mixture over the beans and stir gently to combine. Garlic powder and onion powder add extra flavor.
I cook it on low for about 4 hours, stirring occasionally. Near the end, I sprinkle crispy fried onions on top for that classic crunch.
The slow cooking really lets the flavors meld together. My family always raves about how rich and delicious it turns out.
I like that I can prepare it early and let it cook while I work on other dishes. It’s perfect for busy holiday meal prep.
With just a few simple ingredients, this crockpot version is just as tasty as the traditional oven-baked casserole. Plus, it stays warm for serving.
2) Honey Glazed Carrots
I love making honey glazed carrots in my slow cooker for Thanksgiving. They’re so easy and tasty!
To start, I peel and chop some carrots. Then I toss them in the crockpot with honey, butter, and a pinch of salt.
I like to add a sprinkle of thyme for extra flavor. It gives the carrots a nice herbal note that goes great with other holiday dishes.
The slow cooker does all the work. After a few hours, the carrots come out perfectly tender and coated in a sweet glaze.
One thing I really like about this dish is that it frees up oven space for other Thanksgiving foods. It’s one less thing to worry about when I’m busy with the turkey and stuffing.
These carrots are always a hit with my family. Even the picky eaters enjoy them! The natural sweetness of the carrots comes through, enhanced by the honey.
I find this side dish works well for other holidays too. It’s great for Christmas dinner or even a regular Sunday roast.
3) Garlic Mashed Potatoes
I love making garlic mashed potatoes in my crockpot for Thanksgiving. It’s so easy and frees up space on the stove. Plus, the slow cooking process really lets the garlic flavor infuse into every bite.
To start, I peel and chop about 5 pounds of potatoes. I prefer Yukon Gold, but russets work well too. I toss them into the crockpot with some minced garlic, butter, and a splash of milk.
After cooking on low for about 4 hours, the potatoes are perfectly tender. I mash them right in the crockpot, adding more milk if needed to get the right consistency. A sprinkle of salt and pepper finishes them off.
The result is creamy, garlicky mashed potatoes that are sure to please everyone at the table. I love how I can set it and forget it while I work on other dishes.
For an extra touch, I sometimes stir in some shredded cheese or chopped herbs just before serving. It’s a simple way to elevate this classic side dish.
4) Maple Roasted Butternut Squash
I love making maple roasted butternut squash in my crockpot for Thanksgiving. It’s so easy and tastes amazing! The maple syrup gives it a sweet flavor that goes great with turkey.
To make it, I cut up a butternut squash into cubes. Then I toss the cubes with maple syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. I put it all in my slow cooker and let it cook on low for about 4 hours.
The result is tender and sweet squash that’s caramelized on the outside. My family always asks for seconds of this dish. It’s become one of our favorite Thanksgiving sides.
I like to add some chopped pecans on top for crunch. Sometimes I throw in some dried cranberries too. It gives the dish nice color and a bit of tartness.
This recipe is super simple but so good. I can prep it in the morning and it’s ready by dinner time. It frees up oven space for other dishes, which is always helpful on Thanksgiving.
5) Crockpot Stuffing
I love using my crockpot to make stuffing for Thanksgiving. It’s so easy and frees up oven space for other dishes. Plus, the slow cooking process really helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
To make crockpot stuffing, I start with cubed bread. I like to use a mix of white and wheat for added texture. Then I add diced onions, celery, and herbs like sage and thyme.
I pour in some chicken broth to moisten the bread, but not too much. The key is to add just enough liquid so the stuffing is moist but not soggy. I also mix in some beaten eggs for richness.
Once everything’s combined, I transfer it to my greased crockpot. I cook it on low for about 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally. The result is a perfectly cooked stuffing with crispy edges and a soft center.
One tip I’ve learned: if you like your stuffing extra crispy on top, you can pop it under the broiler for a few minutes before serving. It adds a nice golden crust that everyone loves.
6) Cheesy Corn Casserole
I love making cheesy corn casserole in my crockpot for Thanksgiving. It’s so easy and tasty! This side dish is creamy, sweet, and loaded with cheese.
To make it, I mix canned cream-style corn and whole kernel corn in my slow cooker. Then I add some Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese.
I stir everything together and let it cook on low for a few hours. The smell that fills my kitchen is amazing!
Sometimes I like to add a bit of diced bell pepper for extra flavor and color. It gives the casserole a nice crunch too.
When it’s done, the casserole has a soft, almost pudding-like texture. The top gets slightly golden and crusty. It’s the perfect mix of textures.
This cheesy corn casserole is always a hit at my Thanksgiving table. Even the kids love it! Plus, it frees up oven space for other dishes.
I think it’s one of the easiest and tastiest Thanksgiving sides you can make. Give it a try – I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do!
7) Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
I love making creamy scalloped potatoes in my crockpot for Thanksgiving. It’s such an easy and delicious side dish that frees up precious oven space.
To make them, I start by slicing potatoes thinly and layering them in the slow cooker. I mix cream, cheese, and herbs to pour over the top. The slow cooking process makes the potatoes perfectly tender.
One tip I’ve learned is to cut the potatoes between 1/8 and 1/4 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and absorb all the creamy goodness.
I like to add some crispy bacon bits between the layers for extra flavor. The bacon adds a nice smoky touch that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
My favorite part is the cheesy crust that forms on top. It gets slightly browned and caramelized, adding great texture to the dish.
I find these slow cooker scalloped potatoes are always a hit at Thanksgiving dinner. They’re rich, comforting, and pair perfectly with turkey and other traditional sides.
8) Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
I love making cranberry sauce in my crockpot for Thanksgiving. It’s so easy and frees up space on the stove. The combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange is perfect for the holiday table.
To make this tasty side, I start with fresh cranberries. I add orange juice, orange zest, and some maple syrup for sweetness. The slow cooker does all the work, simmering the ingredients to perfection.
Slow cooker cranberry sauce is a game-changer for busy cooks. I just set it and forget it while I prepare other dishes. After a few hours, the cranberries burst and create a thick, flavorful sauce.
The orange zest adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the cranberries beautifully. I sometimes toss in a cinnamon stick for extra warmth and spice. The result is way better than anything from a can!
This Crockpot Cranberry Orange Sauce is a hit with my family every year. It’s tangy, sweet, and full of fresh flavor. Plus, it makes the house smell amazing while it cooks.
9) Savory Bread Pudding
I love making savory bread pudding in my crockpot for Thanksgiving. It’s a tasty twist on traditional stuffing that’s sure to impress my guests.
To start, I cube some crusty bread and let it dry out overnight. Then I mix it with sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs in my slow cooker.
Next, I pour a savory custard made of eggs, milk, and broth over the bread mixture. This helps bind everything together and gives it a rich, creamy texture.
I like to add some grated cheese and cooked bacon or sausage for extra flavor. Mushrooms and spinach are great veggie additions too.
After 3-4 hours on low, my savory bread pudding is perfectly cooked. The top gets golden and crispy while the inside stays moist and tender.
This dish is so versatile. I can customize it with different breads, cheeses, meats, and veggies to suit my family’s tastes. It’s become one of our favorite Thanksgiving sides.
The best part is that it frees up oven space for other dishes. Plus, I can make it ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
10) Pumpkin Spice Sweet Potatoes
I love making these pumpkin spice sweet potatoes in my crockpot for Thanksgiving. They’re so easy and taste amazing!
To start, I peel and cube about 3 pounds of sweet potatoes. Then I toss them into my slow cooker.
Next, I mix brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice in a bowl. I pour this sweet mixture over the potatoes and give everything a good stir.
I let the sweet potatoes cook on low for 4-5 hours until they’re nice and tender. The smell that fills my kitchen is heavenly!
Before serving, I like to top the potatoes with some mini marshmallows. I put the lid back on for a few minutes to let them get all melty and gooey.
These pumpkin spice sweet potatoes are always a hit at my Thanksgiving table. The best part is that they free up oven space for other dishes. It’s a win-win!
11) Herbed Wild Rice Pilaf
I love making herbed wild rice pilaf in my crockpot for Thanksgiving. It’s so easy and frees up space on the stove. The nutty flavor of wild rice pairs perfectly with herbs and adds a nice texture to the meal.
To start, I combine wild rice, chicken broth, water, and some diced onions in my slow cooker. I add salt, pepper, and fresh thyme for flavor. A few sliced mushrooms give it an earthy taste.
I set my crockpot on low and let it cook for about 7-8 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Near the end, I stir in some dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
Before serving, I fluff the rice with a fork and sprinkle on some chopped fresh parsley. The result is a festive side dish that’s both tasty and pretty on the plate.
This pilaf is always a hit with my family. It’s a great alternative to traditional stuffing and adds variety to our Thanksgiving spread. Plus, it’s so simple to make, I can focus on other dishes while it cooks.
12) Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
I love making mac and cheese in my slow cooker for Thanksgiving. It’s so easy and frees up space on the stove. Plus, it always turns out creamy and delicious.
To make it, I start by greasing my slow cooker. Then I add uncooked pasta, milk, butter, and shredded cheese. I like to use a mix of cheddar and gouda for extra flavor.
I cook it on low for about 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. The pasta soaks up the liquid and becomes tender while the cheese melts into a velvety sauce.
Near the end, I stir in some cream cheese for added richness. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top gives it a nice crunch.
This slow cooker mac and cheese is always a hit with both kids and adults at my Thanksgiving table. It’s comfort food at its finest.
I sometimes add extras like crispy bacon bits or diced jalapeños for a twist. The best part is I can keep it warm in the slow cooker until serving time.
13) Spicy Jalapeño Cornbread
I love making spicy jalapeño cornbread in my crockpot for Thanksgiving. It’s a tasty twist on classic cornbread that adds a kick to the meal.
This easy recipe uses Jiffy mix as a base. I mix in creamed corn, cheddar cheese, and diced jalapeños for extra flavor and moisture.
The slow cooker does all the work, freeing up my oven for other dishes. In about 2-3 hours, I have perfectly moist cornbread with a spicy bite.
I can adjust the heat level by keeping or removing the jalapeño seeds. For a milder version, I use fewer peppers or leave them out of the cream cheese layer.
Sometimes I add fresh corn kernels or swap the cheddar for pepper jack cheese. These little tweaks keep the recipe interesting each time I make it.
My family loves the balance of sweet cornbread with spicy jalapeños. It’s become a must-have side dish at our Thanksgiving table.
14) Pecan-Topped Sweet Potato Casserole
I love this easy crockpot side dish for Thanksgiving. It’s perfect for freeing up oven space. The sweet potatoes cook until they’re soft and creamy.
To make it, I mix mashed sweet potatoes with butter, sugar, eggs, and spices. Then I pour the mixture into my slow cooker. The pecan topping adds a delicious crunch to contrast the smooth potatoes.
I usually cook it on low for about 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. This timing works well with my other Thanksgiving preparations. The casserole comes out perfectly cooked and ready to serve.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how it fills the house with a warm, sweet aroma. It really gets everyone excited for the meal. Plus, it’s so simple to make that I can focus on other dishes.
I like to add a splash of orange juice to brighten the flavors. Sometimes I’ll use maple syrup instead of sugar for a more natural sweetness. The pecan topping can be adjusted to your liking – more or less sugar, extra spices, or even a mix of nuts.
15) Brown Sugar Baked Apples
I love making these Brown Sugar Baked Apples in my crockpot for Thanksgiving. They’re so easy and smell amazing while cooking.
I start by peeling and coring some large apples. Golden Delicious work great, but any firm baking apple will do.
Then I mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl. I sprinkle this mixture over the apples in the crockpot.
For extra flavor, I add a splash of vanilla extract and some melted butter. A bit of orange juice helps keep everything moist.
I let the apples cook on low for about 4 hours. They come out perfectly tender and infused with warm, sweet flavors.
These baked apples are versatile too. I can serve them as a side dish or a dessert. For a special treat, I sometimes top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
My family always looks forward to these apples. They’re a comforting addition to our Thanksgiving spread and so much easier than traditional baked apples.
16) Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
I love making roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon for Thanksgiving. It’s a tasty side dish that’s easy to prepare in my crockpot.
First, I trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Then I chop some bacon into small pieces. I toss these ingredients into my slow cooker with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
I cook the mixture on low for about 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process makes the Brussels sprouts tender and flavorful. The bacon adds a delicious smoky taste and crispy texture.
Near the end of cooking, I might add a drizzle of honey or balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. This gives the dish a nice balance of sweet and savory notes.
Brussels sprouts with bacon are great for changing people’s minds about this veggie. The crispy bacon makes them rich and tasty. It’s a crunchy side that goes well with any main dish.
I find this recipe is always a hit at my Thanksgiving table. It’s simple to make and lets me focus on other dishes while it cooks. Plus, the leftovers taste great too!
17) Slow Cooked Ratatouille
I love making ratatouille in my slow cooker for Thanksgiving. It’s a colorful veggie dish that adds a French twist to the holiday table. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare!
To start, I chop up eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions. I layer these veggies in my Crock-Pot with some crushed tomatoes and garlic.
A sprinkle of herbs like thyme and basil gives it that classic Provençal flavor. I let it cook on low for about 6 hours, stirring occasionally.
The slow cooking process makes all the vegetables tender and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s a great make-ahead dish that frees up oven space.
This slow cooker side dish is not only tasty but also pretty healthy. It’s perfect for guests who prefer lighter options among the heavier Thanksgiving fare.
I like to serve my ratatouille warm, topped with some fresh basil. It’s a hit with both vegetarians and meat-eaters at my Thanksgiving table!
18) Maple Bacon Green Beans
I love making these Maple Bacon Green Beans in my crockpot for Thanksgiving. They’re so easy and tasty!
First, I add green beans, onion, and crispy bacon to my slow cooker. Then I mix up a simple sauce with vegetable stock, maple syrup, and soy sauce.
I pour the sauce over the beans and sprinkle on some salt and pepper. After stirring everything together, I cover the pot and let it cook for about 5 hours.
Halfway through, I give the beans a quick stir to make sure they’re cooking evenly. The maple syrup adds a hint of sweetness that goes great with the salty bacon.
These green beans come out tender but not mushy. The flavor is amazing – a perfect mix of sweet, salty, and savory. My family always asks for seconds!
I like that this dish frees up space in my oven for other Thanksgiving goodies. Plus, the slow cooking really lets all the flavors blend together nicely.
Tips for Perfect Crockpot Side Dishes
I’ve found some great ways to make crockpot side dishes turn out amazing every time. These tips cover choosing ingredients, layering techniques, and seasoning adjustments.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
I always start with fresh, high-quality ingredients. For veggies, I pick firm ones that can stand up to long cooking times. Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes are perfect. I avoid delicate greens or quick-cooking veggies.
For liquids, I use less than I would on the stovetop. Crockpots trap moisture, so too much liquid can make dishes watery. I often use concentrated broths or wines for more flavor.
When recipes call for dairy, I add it near the end of cooking. This prevents curdling and keeps sauces smooth. For cheese, I grate my own rather than using pre-shredded. It melts better and gives a creamier texture.
Layering and Cooking Techniques
I layer ingredients carefully in my crockpot. Dense, longer-cooking items go on the bottom near the heat source. I put quicker-cooking or delicate items on top.
Here’s a simple layering guide I follow:
- Root veggies and tough meats
- Onions and celery
- Softer veggies
- Liquids and seasonings
I avoid stirring too much. Opening the lid lets heat escape and can add up to 20 minutes of cooking time each time.
For even cooking, I fill the crockpot between 1/2 and 2/3 full. This ensures everything cooks at the right speed and temperature.
Adjusting Seasonings
I start with less seasoning than I think I need. Flavors intensify in the crockpot, so it’s easy to overdo it. I taste and adjust near the end of cooking.
Herbs can lose flavor over long cooking times. I add dried herbs at the start, but save fresh herbs for the last 30 minutes. This keeps their flavors bright and fresh.
For thicker sauces, I mix a little cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last hour. This helps thicken without changing the flavor.
I’ve found that a splash of acid like lemon juice or vinegar at the end can really wake up flavors in crockpot dishes. It adds a fresh taste that long cooking can sometimes dull.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.