• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Parallel Plates
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
menu icon
go to homepage
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
search icon
Homepage link
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
×
Home » Recipe Collections

35 Slow Cooker Dishes That Free Up Your Christmas Eve for Fun

Published: Dec 16, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Slow cooker dishes are a great way to keep Christmas Eve stress-free and focused on what really matters—spending time with the people you love. These recipes let you set it and forget it, freeing up your hands and your schedule for all the fun, laughter, and last-minute wrapping the evening brings. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just keeping it cozy, the slow cooker makes things simple without sacrificing flavor. No hovering over the stove, no juggling a million things at once—just easy, practical cooking that gives you more time for the holiday magic.

A plate of Sriracha Honey Garlic Pork Chops.
Sriracha Honey Garlic Pork Chops. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Potato Soup

A bowl of slow cooker potato soup.
Potato Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

A rich and creamy slow cooker potato soup makes for an effortless, comforting dinner. With minimal prep, it’s an excellent choice to free up your Christmas Eve for fun.
Get the Recipe: Potato Soup

Mac and Cheese

An overhead image of two bowls of mac and cheese with a fork beside each.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Slow cooker mac and cheese is a simple way to enjoy cheesy comfort food with minimal effort. Just toss in the ingredients, and let your slow cooker handle the rest.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Black Bean Soup

An image of slow cooker black bean soup in a bowl with toppings.
Black Bean Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Slow cooker black bean soup is hearty and easy to prepare, making it a stress-free option for busy days. Its effortless preparation frees up time for festive activities.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Soup

Green Bean Casserole

An overhead image of slow cooker green bean casserole on a plate.
Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This slow cooker green bean casserole is a creamy holiday classic made with just 10 minutes of prep. Let the slow cooker handle the rest while you enjoy your evening.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Tortilla Soup

Top view of a bowl of slow cooker tortilla soup.
Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Slow cooker tortilla soup brings bold flavors and can be easily customized with your favorite toppings. It's a convenient option for busy days or relaxed holiday evenings.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Soup

Spaghetti Squash

A halved spaghetti squash on a plate with a fork scooping out the stringy, cooked flesh.
Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Cooking spaghetti squash in a slow cooker takes the effort out of preparing this nutritious vegetable. Set it and forget it, giving you time to enjoy the holiday.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Squash

Apple Cider Brined Turkey Breast

Sliced slow-cooker apple cider brined turkey breast with knife on a cutting board.
Apple Cider Brined Turkey Breast. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Apple cider brined turkey breast in the slow cooker delivers tender, flavorful meat with ease. Perfect for creating a festive holiday meal without added stress.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cider Brined Turkey Breast

Cincinnati Chili

Cincinnatti chili on top of spaghetti and covered with cheese, beans and onions.
Cincinnati Chili. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Slow cooker Cincinnati chili features ground beef and spices for a hearty, dump-and-go dish. Its simplicity makes it a great choice for freeing up your evening.
Get the Recipe: Cincinnati Chili

Cheesy Penne

Slow Cooker Cheesy Penne with meat sauce and parmesan cheese.
Cheesy Penne. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Cheesy penne with beefy tomato sauce comes together effortlessly in the slow cooker. This comforting pasta dish is a perfect family-friendly option for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Penne

Sriracha Honey Garlic Pork Chops

A plate of Sriracha Honey Garlic Pork Chops.
Sriracha Honey Garlic Pork Chops. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Sriracha honey garlic pork chops bring bold flavors with minimal hands-on prep. Let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy more time with loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Sriracha Honey Garlic Pork Chops

Swiss Pork Chops

Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops on a baby blue serving dish.
Swiss Pork Chops. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tender pork chops with a sweet glaze are an easy slow cooker meal for any occasion. The set-it-and-forget-it method keeps your schedule free for holiday fun.
Get the Recipe: Swiss Pork Chops

Salisbury Steak

White plate with salisbury steak on it and a mushroom on top of them.
Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

Savory Salisbury steak with mushroom gravy comes together effortlessly in the slow cooker. It's a comforting choice for a relaxed family dinner on a busy holiday.
Get the Recipe: Salisbury Steak

Short Rib Ragu

A bowl of Slow Cooker Short Rib Ragu with a spoon.
Short Rib Ragu. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Slow cooker short rib ragu offers tender meat and rich flavors for a cozy meal. Serve over pasta or sweet potatoes for an elegant yet easy holiday dinner.
Get the Recipe: Short Rib Ragu

Pork Loin in Crock Pot

Pork tenderloin on a cutting board next to a slow cooker.
Pork Loin in Crock Pot. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow cooker pork loin delivers juicy, flavorful results with minimal effort. This dish fits seamlessly into your plans, leaving time for festive activities.
Get the Recipe: Pork Loin in Crock Pot

Pork Roast

An image of pork roast.
Pork Roast. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

A slow cooker pork roast seasoned with herbs makes for an effortless family dinner. The easy prep allows more time for holiday celebrations and relaxation.
Get the Recipe: Pork Roast

Beef Stroganoff

Crockpot beef stroganoff with wooden spoon.
Beef Stroganoff. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Slow cooker beef stroganoff features tender beef in a creamy sauce for a hearty meal. This recipe is a time-saving way to enjoy a classic comfort food dish.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stroganoff

Taco Meatloaf

Close-up image of slow cooker taco meatloaf on a plate.
Taco Meatloaf. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Taco meatloaf combines bold spices, green chiles, and nacho chips for a unique twist. Made in the slow cooker, it’s a convenient choice for weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Taco Meatloaf

Country Style Ribs

Slow cooker country style ribs on a tray on top of mashed potatoes with corn.
Country Style Ribs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Country-style ribs with a blend of peach preserves, honey, and BBQ sauce cook beautifully in the slow cooker. This stress-free recipe makes meal prep easy during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Country Style Ribs

Ranch Pork Chops

A plate of Crockpot Ranch Pork Chops.
Ranch Pork Chops. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Ranch pork chops require just three ingredients and a slow cooker for a hassle-free dinner. Let the slow cooker handle the cooking while you focus on holiday fun.
Get the Recipe: Ranch Pork Chops

Beef and Broccoli

Slow cooker beef and broccoli with onion in brown bowl.
Beef and Broccoli. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Beef and broccoli with ginger and garlic sauce is a flavorful slow cooker alternative to takeout. This hands-off recipe is great for busy nights and festive meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Broccoli

Beef Carnitas

Overhead image of slow cooker beef carnitas with a tongs in a pan.
Beef Carnitas. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Slow cooker beef carnitas deliver tender, flavorful meat with minimal effort. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday celebrations, they free up time for fun.
Get the Recipe: Beef Carnitas

Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Close-up image of slow cooker garlic parmesan chicken with a fork on a plate.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

A hearty slow cooker chicken dish brings family and friends together with ease. It’s proof that mealtime can be both simple and enjoyable with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Ranch Chicken

Close-up image of slow cooker ranch chicken in a bowl.
Ranch Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Slow cooker ranch chicken turns basic ingredients into a satisfying family meal. The set-it-and-forget-it method lets you enjoy a carefree holiday evening.
Get the Recipe: Ranch Chicken

Mississippi Chicken

Overhead image of mississippi crockpot chicken in a white bowl.
Mississippi Chicken. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Mississippi chicken in the slow cooker offers bold flavors with easy preparation. It’s a practical choice for busy nights, leaving time for holiday cheer.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Chicken

Chicken Alfredo

Chicken pasta with sundried tomatoes and peas and garlic..
Chicken Alfredo. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

Chicken Alfredo made in the slow cooker offers creamy, comforting flavors with minimal prep. This hands-off recipe simplifies holiday dinners while keeping everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Alfredo

London Broil

A plate of slow cooker London broil with a side of veggies.
London Broil. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

London broil with potatoes and carrots in the slow cooker creates a hearty, flavorful dish. It’s a classic choice for a relaxed and comforting Christmas Eve meal.
Get the Recipe: London Broil

Pepper Steak

Plates of slow cooker pepper steak.
Pepper Steak. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Slow cooker pepper steak combines tender beef, peppers, and savory sauce for a quick dinner. This recipe keeps things simple while still delivering a satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Pepper Steak

Tomato Lime Chicken

Image shows a Bite of tomato lime chicken on a fork with rice and the rest of the bowl in the background.
Tomato Lime Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Tomato lime chicken in the slow cooker offers bright, fresh flavors with minimal work. This recipe is perfect for fall and holiday meal prep, saving you time and effort.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Lime Chicken

Vegetarian Chili

Close-up of slow-cooker vegetarian chili.
Vegetarian Chili. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Vegetarian chili in the slow cooker is hearty and full of flavor, making it a great choice for gatherings. Minimal prep allows you to enjoy a festive, hands-off dinner.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Chili

Brisket

Slow Cooker Brisket on a wooden board.
Brisket. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Slow cooker brisket is an effortless way to enjoy tender, juicy meat that’s perfect for sharing. It’s a low-maintenance option for holiday gatherings with impressive results.
Get the Recipe: Brisket

Kabocha Squash Chili

A bowl of kabocha squash chili.
Kabocha Squash Chili. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Kabocha squash chili is a comforting vegetarian option made simple in the slow cooker. This recipe lets you enjoy seasonal flavors with little effort on your part.
Get the Recipe: Kabocha Squash Chili

Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Overhead image of slow cooker chicken and wild rice soup.
Chicken and Wild Rice Soup. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

This slow cooker soup is hearty and ready when you are, making it a great dinner option. It’s a stress-free choice for a busy evening, keeping everyone well-fed.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Chicken Tacos

Two tacos on a plate with a bowl of guacamole.
Chicken Tacos. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken tacos from the slow cooker make for an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner option. They’re a simple way to serve up a flavorful meal without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tacos

Bean with Bacon

Top view of slow cooker bean with bacon topped with crackers in a bowl.
Bean with Bacon. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Slow cooker bean and bacon soup features hearty beans and savory bacon in a rich broth. This hands-off recipe is perfect for enjoying a comforting meal on busy fall days.
Get the Recipe: Bean with Bacon

Ham & Potato Chowder

A blue bowl of ham and potato soup.
Ham & Potato Chowder. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Ham and potato chowder in the slow cooker offers a creamy, hearty meal with minimal prep. It’s a family-friendly option for busy nights and festive gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Potato Chowder

More Recipe Collections

  • An overhead image of caramelized onion pasta in a. skillet.
    27 weeknight dinners that come together with very little effort and no shortcuts on flavor
  • Top view of beef bulgogi with various vegetables and rice in a bowl.
    23 budget dinners that taste better than their price tag suggests
  • Breakfast casserole with veggies and tator tots in a casserole dish.
    21 make-ahead Easter recipes that give you your morning back
  • Easter Hand Pies on a cooling rack.
    27 homemade Easter desserts that make store-bought feel unnecessary

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Close up headshot

Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

More about me →

Popular

  • Overhead image of air fryer loaded bagel breakfast casserole on a plate.
    23 Easter brunch dishes worth building the morning around
  • A cooked meatloaf topped with sliced mushrooms and garnished with parsley on a white plate.
    23 dinners people made from scratch every week that somehow fell off the rotation
  • Lemon Chiffon Cake on a circular wooden board.
    31 old-fashioned sweets that were made from memory and still come out right
  • Sheet Pan Caprese Pizza top view.
    25 one-pan meals where cleanup is genuinely the easiest part

Footer

↑ back to top

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclosure & Terms of Use
  • Cookie Policy
  • Accessibility Policy

Newsletter

  • Sign Up!

Contact

  • Contact

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2024 Black Bicycle LLC