11 Comforting Slow Cooker Christmas Lunch Recipes Full of Flavor

As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the cozy charm of slow cooker meals that fill the home with warmth and inviting aromas. Picture serving a Christmas lunch that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor—isn’t that a win-win? From honey-glazed ham to savory turkey breast, these 11 comforting recipes are ready to impress. Want to know how to create a festive feast with minimal fuss? Let’s explore these delicious ideas together.

Slow Cooker Honey-Glazed Ham

Celebrate the festive season with a delightful Slow Cooker Honey-Glazed Ham that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. This succulent dish is perfect for a Christmas lunch, offering a sweet and savory flavor profile that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

The slow cooker method guarantees that the ham remains moist and tender, while the honey glaze adds a beautiful, sticky finish that enhances the natural flavors of the ham.

With minimal prep time and the convenience of the slow cooker, you can focus on enjoying the holiday festivities without spending too much time in the kitchen. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it an ideal choice for a small gathering.

The combination of honey, brown sugar, and spices creates a rich, flavorful glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the ham, providing a delectable centerpiece for your Christmas lunch.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 (3-4 pound) bone-in ham or boneless ham
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup water

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ham: Remove the ham from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. If the ham has a thick layer of fat, trim it down to about 1/4 inch. Place the ham flat side down in the slow cooker.
2. Make the Glaze: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and ground black pepper. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined and the sugar is dissolved.
3. Apply the Glaze: Pour the glaze evenly over the ham, making sure that it’s well-coated. Use a basting brush if necessary to distribute the glaze over the entire surface of the ham.
4. Cook the Ham: Add the water to the bottom of the slow cooker to prevent the ham from drying out. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Cook the ham for 4-5 hours, basting occasionally with the glaze, until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
5. Finish the Ham: Once cooked, remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Slice the ham and serve with the remaining glaze spooned over the top.

Extra Tips:

When selecting a ham, opt for one that’s already fully cooked, as this recipe focuses on reheating and adding flavor.

You can customize the glaze by adding a hint of orange zest or replacing the apple cider vinegar with pineapple juice for a fruitier flavor.

If you prefer a thicker glaze, transfer the leftover glaze to a saucepan and simmer it over medium heat until it reaches the desired consistency.

This ham pairs wonderfully with traditional Christmas sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy your festive meal!

Savory Slow Cooker Turkey Breast

This holiday season, elevate your Christmas lunch with a beautifully tender and flavorful Savory Slow Cooker Turkey Breast. This dish is perfect for those who want a hassle-free cooking experience without compromising on taste. The slow cooker method guarantees that the turkey breast stays juicy and absorbs all the delightful herbs and spices, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Not only does this recipe simplify your holiday preparations, but it also gives you more time to spend with family and friends while your kitchen fills with the comforting aroma of a festive meal.

Perfect for a gathering of 4-6 people, this Savory Slow Cooker Turkey Breast requires minimal preparation and delivers maximum flavor. The combination of fresh herbs, aromatic vegetables, and a touch of citrus creates a savory delight that pairs wonderfully with all your favorite Christmas sides.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a holiday host looking to impress with ease, this recipe will make your Christmas lunch both memorable and delicious.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 (3-4 pound) boneless turkey breast, skin-on
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, quartered
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Turkey Breast: Start by patting the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and guarantees a crispier skin.
2. Season the Turkey: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and paprika. Rub this spice mixture evenly over the turkey breast, ensuring it’s well coated.
3. Sear the Turkey: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the turkey breast skin-side down and sear for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for an additional 3 minutes. This step will lock in the flavors and give a nice color to the turkey.
4. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced lemon, minced garlic, and quartered onion at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth to create a flavorful base for your turkey.
5. Cook the Turkey: Place the seared turkey breast on top of the lemon and onion mixture in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F.
6. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, let the turkey rest in the slow cooker for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, guaranteeing a moist and tender result. Slice the turkey and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the chicken broth. If you prefer a crispy skin, transfer the turkey to a broiler for a few minutes after slow cooking. Always use a meat thermometer to guarantee your turkey is cooked to a safe temperature.

Slow Cooker Beef Pot Roast

A Slow Cooker Beef Pot Roast is a perfect dish for a cozy Christmas lunch, offering a hearty and comforting meal that can easily feed a gathering of family and friends. This recipe allows you to enjoy tender beef and perfectly cooked vegetables infused with rich flavors, all with minimal effort.

By using a slow cooker, you can prepare the dish in advance, allowing you to focus on enjoying the holiday festivities while your meal cooks to perfection over several hours.

The beauty of this pot roast lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor it develops as it slowly cooks. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious, well-rounded meal that will be a highlight on your Christmas table.

The beef becomes wonderfully tender, absorbing the aromatic flavors of garlic, herbs, and a splash of red wine, while the vegetables soak up the savory juices, adding color and texture to the dish. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for a small family gathering or intimate holiday celebration.

Ingredients:

• 3 to 4 pounds beef chuck roast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into large pieces
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by seasoning the beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the Beef: Once the oil is hot, add the beef roast to the skillet. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until it develops a rich brown crust. This step enhances the flavor of the beef.
3. Arrange in Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared beef to a slow cooker. Add in the minced garlic, chopped onion, carrots, and potatoes around the roast.
4. Mix the Liquids: In a bowl, combine the beef broth, red wine, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in the dried thyme and rosemary. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.
5. Add Bay Leaves: Tuck the bay leaves into the liquid around the roast. They’ll add a subtle aromatic depth to the dish.
6. Cook Slowly: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Allow the pot roast to cook for 8-10 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. Serve: Once cooked, remove the bay leaves. Slice the beef against the grain and serve it along with the vegetables, drizzling some of the cooking juices over the top for added flavor.

Extra Tips:

For an even richer flavor, consider marinating the beef overnight in the refrigerator with the garlic, herbs, and a splash of red wine before searing it.

If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can remove some of the cooking juices after the roast is done, and thicken them with a slurry of cornstarch and water on the stovetop before serving.

Also, feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for variety. Enjoy your delicious and effortless Christmas lunch with this tender pot roast!

Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs

Cranberry meatballs are a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, perfect for a festive Christmas lunch. By using a slow cooker, you can achieve tender and flavorful meatballs without much fuss, allowing you to focus on other holiday preparations. This recipe combines the classic combination of cranberry sauce and barbecue sauce to create a delicious glaze that clings to the meatballs, making each bite irresistible.

The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s certain to impress your guests. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family gathering or a cozy holiday meal. The meatballs can be served as an appetizer or a main course, depending on your menu. Pair them with some mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Whether you’re hosting a large party or an intimate dinner, these slow cooker cranberry meatballs will be a hit with everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground beef or turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 14 ounces canned cranberry sauce
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
2. Brown the Meatballs (Optional): If desired, brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re browned on all sides. This step is optional but adds a nice texture and flavor to the meatballs.
3. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
4. Combine in Slow Cooker: Place the meatballs in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the meatballs, guaranteeing they’re evenly coated.
5. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The meatballs should be fully cooked and tender, and the sauce should be bubbling gently.
6. Serve: Once cooked, gently stir the meatballs to guarantee they’re evenly coated with the sauce. Serve warm as an appetizer or over mashed potatoes or rice as a main course.

Extra Tips:

For a more intense flavor, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce the night before and refrigerate them separately. On the day of your event, combine them in the slow cooker and let them cook. This allows the flavors to develop even further.

If you prefer, you can substitute ground pork or a mixture of meats for the beef or turkey. Additionally, feel free to adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the sauce by altering the ratio of cranberry sauce to barbecue sauce according to your taste preferences.

Slow Cooker Garlic Mashed Potatoes

When it comes to crafting the perfect Christmas lunch, few dishes are as universally loved as a bowl of creamy, garlic-infused mashed potatoes. This slow cooker garlic mashed potatoes recipe is a game-changer for holiday gatherings, allowing you to focus on other festive preparations while the potatoes cook to perfection on their own.

Utilizing a slow cooker not only simplifies the cooking process but also enhances the flavors, as the garlic subtly infuses into the potatoes over time, creating a rich and velvety side dish that pairs beautifully with any holiday main course.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for a cozy family gathering or an intimate holiday meal. The combination of Yukon Gold potatoes, fresh garlic, and a blend of butter and cream promises a decadent dish that will have your guests asking for seconds.

The slow cooking method guarantees that the potatoes are tender and easy to mash, while also allowing the flavors to meld together harmoniously.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
• Begin by peeling and cubing the Yukon Gold potatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces to guarantee even cooking. Mince the garlic cloves finely to maximize their flavor infusion during the slow cooking process.
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
• Place the cubed potatoes into the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic and pour the chicken broth over the potatoes. Stir gently to distribute the garlic and broth evenly.
3. Cook the Potatoes:
• Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on high for 3 to 4 hours, or on low for 6 to 7 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to guarantee even heat distribution.
4. Mash the Potatoes:
• Once the potatoes are fully cooked, add the cubed butter and heavy cream directly into the slow cooker. Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. Final Touches:
• Stir the mashed potatoes well to combine all ingredients thoroughly. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Extra Tips:

To elevate your slow cooker garlic mashed potatoes, consider adding roasted garlic for a deeper, more robust flavor. Simply roast a head of garlic in the oven and squeeze the softened cloves into the potatoes before mashing.

For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. If you prefer chunkier mashed potatoes, reduce the mashing time to leave some texture.

Remember that potatoes can be kept warm in the slow cooker for up to an hour on the “keep warm” setting, making it convenient to serve alongside other dishes.

Slow Cooker Creamed Corn

Slow Cooker Creamed Corn is a delightful addition to any Christmas lunch, offering a creamy, sweet, and savory flavor that complements the festive spread. This dish brings the comforting taste of traditional creamed corn with the convenience of a slow cooker, allowing you to focus on other holiday preparations while it cooks to perfection.

The slow cooker method guarantees every kernel absorbs the rich, buttery, creamy goodness, resulting in a side dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or enjoying a cozy family meal, this Slow Cooker Creamed Corn recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it a perfect fit for most holiday tables. It combines simple ingredients that blend harmoniously, creating a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.

The preparation is minimal, and the slow cooker does most of the work, freeing up your time and oven space for other holiday treats.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 4 cups frozen corn kernels
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into slices
• 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Begin by spraying the inside of your slow cooker with a non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add the frozen corn, heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper into the slow cooker. Stir the ingredients to guarantee they’re evenly distributed.
3. Add Butter and Cream Cheese: Place the slices of butter and cubes of cream cheese on top of the corn mixture. These will melt into the corn during cooking, adding creaminess and flavor.
4. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let the creamed corn cook for 4 hours, stirring occasionally to guarantee even cooking and to combine the melted butter and cream cheese with the corn.
5. Final Stir and Serve: After 4 hours, give the mixture a final stir to fully incorporate the melted ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.

Extra Tips:

For a bit of extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the corn mixture and then stir it back into the pot. Alternatively, for a little heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to taste.

Remember to keep the lid on the slow cooker as much as possible during cooking to maintain temperature and moisture. Enjoy your festive meal with this creamy, delicious side dish!

Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole is a classic holiday side dish that becomes even more convenient and flavorful when prepared in a slow cooker. This creamy, crunchy, and savory recipe is perfect for a Christmas lunch, allowing you to focus on other dishes while your slow cooker does the work.

The slow cooking process enhances the flavors of the green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions, making it a delicious accompaniment to your festive spread.

Preparing Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it an ideal choice for a stress-free holiday meal. By using a slow cooker, you not only free up oven space but also guarantee that the casserole remains warm and ready to serve whenever your guests are ready to eat.

This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it a perfect side dish for a small family gathering or an intimate holiday celebration.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• ¾ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 ½ cups crispy fried onions, divided
• Non-stick cooking spray

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and soy sauce. Stir until well mixed.
3. Layer the Ingredients: Place the green beans in the slow cooker. Pour the mushroom soup mixture over the green beans and stir to coat the beans evenly with the sauce.
4. Cook the Casserole: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low. Cook for 4-5 hours until the green beans are tender but still have a slight bite.
5. Add the Onions: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in half of the crispy fried onions. This will allow the onions to soften slightly while enhancing the flavor of the casserole.
6. Finish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions on top of the casserole. Leave the lid off for the final 5-10 minutes of cooking to allow the onions on top to crisp up.

Extra Tips:

For an added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the green beans with a little butter or garlic before placing them in the slow cooker.

If you prefer a richer sauce, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream. Additionally, if fresh green beans aren’t available, you can use frozen or canned green beans; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Ultimately, feel free to customize the casserole by adding cooked bacon bits or shredded cheese before serving for an even more decadent dish.

Slow Cooker Stuffing With Sausage

A slow cooker stuffing with sausage is a perfect addition to your Christmas lunch spread. This dish combines the savory flavors of sausage with the aromatic herbs and soft bread cubes, creating a comforting and flavorful side dish.

Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together beautifully over a few hours, freeing up your oven for other holiday dishes. The result is a moist and flavorful stuffing that’s certain to be a hit at your festive gathering.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for a smaller family gathering or as a side dish among many. The preparation is simple, but the end result is a deliciously hearty stuffing that pairs well with turkey, chicken, or any other holiday main course.

The slow cooking process guarantees that the stuffing remains moist while the edges get perfectly crisped, giving you the ideal texture with every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) of ground sausage
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 8 cups cubed bread (day-old or slightly stale)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and brown the sausage, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once browned, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add onions, celery, carrots, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, sage, thyme, cubed bread, and parsley. Mix well.
4. Add Liquids: In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth and beaten eggs. Pour this mixture over the bread and sausage mixture, guaranteeing the liquid is evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray or a little olive oil. Transfer the stuffing mixture into the slow cooker.
6. Cook the Stuffing: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the stuffing is heated through and the edges are slightly crispy. Stir occasionally to guarantee even cooking.
7. Serve: Once cooked, fluff the stuffing with a fork and serve warm as a side dish.

Extra Tips:

To guarantee the bread cubes absorb the flavors well, it’s best to use day-old or slightly stale bread. If your bread is fresh, you can dry it out in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes before using.

Additionally, if you prefer a slightly drier stuffing, you can cook it for a bit longer or leave the lid slightly ajar during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some moisture to escape.

Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and feel free to add other herbs or ingredients, such as cranberries or nuts, to customize the stuffing to your preference.

Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole

Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that perfectly complements a Christmas lunch spread. This comforting casserole combines creamy sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping, offering a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Its sweetness and warmth make it an ideal side dish, capturing the essence of the holiday spirit.

Using a slow cooker not only simplifies the cooking process but also frees up oven space for other holiday dishes, making it a practical choice for busy holiday gatherings. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and convenience. After a bit of preparation, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, cooking the sweet potatoes to tender perfection while infusing them with cinnamon and nutmeg’s warm spices.

The pecan topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base. This dish can be easily scaled to serve a crowd, but the following recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it perfect for a small family Christmas lunch.

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup brown sugar (for topping)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for topping)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. This guarantees they cook evenly and become tender in the slow cooker.
2. Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine the chopped sweet potatoes, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until the sweet potatoes are well coated with the mixture.
3. Add Eggs: Lightly beat the eggs and fold them into the sweet potato mixture. This will help bind the casserole and give it a creamy texture.
4. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Grease the inside of a slow cooker with a bit of butter or cooking spray. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the slow cooker, spreading it evenly.
5. Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, flour, 1/3 cup brown sugar, and 1/4 cup melted butter. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated and form a crumbly topping.
6. Add the Topping: Sprinkle the pecan mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes in the slow cooker.
7. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the topping is golden and crisp. The aroma will fill your home with holiday cheer.
8. Serve: Once cooked, gently scoop the casserole into a serving dish. Serve warm as a delightful side to your Christmas lunch.

Extra Tips:

For an added burst of flavor, consider adding a dash of orange zest to the sweet potato mixture. This will enhance the aroma and complement the spices beautifully. If you prefer a less sweet casserole, reduce the amount of brown sugar in the sweet potato mixture according to your taste preference.

Additionally, to save time, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and topping mixture the night before and store them separately in the refrigerator, assembling them in the slow cooker in the morning.

Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pork Loin

Celebrate the festive season with a delightful Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pork Loin, a dish that marries the sweetness of apple cider with the savory flavors of a perfectly cooked pork loin. This recipe is designed to be both easy and delicious, allowing you to enjoy a wonderful Christmas lunch without spending hours in the kitchen.

The slow cooker does all the hard work, infusing the pork loin with the warm, aromatic flavors of the cider and spices, resulting in tender, juicy meat that’s full of holiday cheer. This recipe provides a serving size suitable for 4-6 people, making it perfect for a family gathering or a cozy Christmas celebration with friends.

The apple cider not only acts as a flavorful marinade but also helps keep the pork loin moist as it slowly cooks to perfection. Pair this dish with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 3 to 4 pounds pork loin
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 apples, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork Loin: Season the pork loin generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This will enhance the flavor of the meat during the cooking process.
2. Sear the Pork Loin: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork loin and sear on all sides until a golden brown crust forms, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step helps lock in the juices and adds a rich flavor to the meat.
3. Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well mixed.
4. Assemble in the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced apples and onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. This creates a flavorful bed for the pork loin and adds moisture to the cooking process.
5. Add the Pork Loin: Place the seared pork loin on top of the apple and onion layer in the slow cooker.
6. Pour the Marinade: Pour the apple cider mixture over the pork loin, making certain it’s evenly coated.
7. Cook the Pork Loin: Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C).
8. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pork loin from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, guaranteeing a moist and flavorful result.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor of your Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pork Loin, consider adding a splash of bourbon to the apple cider marinade for a deeper, richer taste.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the cooked pork loin and thicken the remaining juices in the slow cooker by stirring in a slurry of cornstarch and water. Always use a meat thermometer to confirm your pork is cooked to the proper temperature, and don’t skip the resting step, as it makes a significant difference in maintaining the meat’s juiciness.

Enjoy your holiday meal with a side of your favorite vegetables!

Slow Cooker Bread Pudding With Bourbon Sauce

Slow Cooker Bread Pudding With Bourbon Sauce is a delightful dessert that perfectly complements any festive Christmas lunch. This warm, comforting dish combines the richness of custard-soaked bread with the robust flavor of bourbon-infused sauce.

The slow cooker method allows the bread pudding to cook evenly and absorb the delicious flavors, resulting in a moist and tender dessert that’s sure to impress your guests. Plus, it frees up your oven for other holiday cooking needs.

The bourbon sauce adds a luxurious finish to the dish, offering a sweet and slightly boozy contrast to the rich bread pudding. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or an intimate family meal, this recipe serves 4-6 people and guarantees everyone gets a generous helping.

It’s an easy yet indulgent way to conclude your Christmas feast, with the added benefit of minimal preparation and hands-off cooking.

Ingredients

• 6 cups day-old bread, cubed
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Bourbon Sauce:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup bourbon

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread: Spread the cubed bread evenly in the slow cooker. If your bread isn’t day-old, consider toasting it in the oven for a few minutes to dry it out slightly.
2. Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. Combine Ingredients: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes in the slow cooker, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Add the raisins and gently fold them into the mixture.
4. Cook: Drizzle the melted butter over the top. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the pudding is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Make the Bourbon Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sugar and cream, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in the bourbon.
6. Serve: Once the bread pudding is done, let it cool slightly before serving. Drizzle the warm bourbon sauce over each serving for an extra decadent touch.

Extra Tips

For the best results, use a sturdy, dense bread like brioche or challah for this recipe. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the bourbon in the sauce with vanilla extract or omit it altogether.

You can also customize the bread pudding by adding nuts or chocolate chips for additional texture and flavor. If you’re preparing this dish in advance, you can keep it warm in the slow cooker for up to an hour before serving.