As the temperature drops and the snowflakes start to fall, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm, comforting bowl of goodness. And that’s exactly what our 20 Cozy Winter Slow Cooker Recipes are all about. From hearty beef stews to creamy chicken soups, we’ve got you covered for those cold winter nights when you just want to hunker down and let someone else do the cooking.
Our collection of slow cooker recipes is designed to warm your belly and your heart, featuring a mix of classic comfort foods and international twists on old favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and savory or light and fruity, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to become a new winter tradition.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the seasons, highlighting some of our favorite slow cooker recipes perfect for a cold winter’s night. From classic beef stews to international-inspired curries, we’ve got everything you need to make your taste buds sing and your belly full.
Hearty Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting stew made with tender beef, hearty root vegetables, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck or brisket, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, parsnip, thyme, cumin, and bay leaf. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
3. Add broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy chicken and wild rice soup, perfect for a chilly day or a cozy evening at home. This hearty soup is packed with tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a rich, creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed wild rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, then add the wild rice, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker Pot Roast with Gravy
Perfectly tender pot roast cooked low and slow in a rich, savory gravy – a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and satisfying to eat. This recipe is ideal for busy days when you want a hearty meal without much fuss.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 pound beef pot roast
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pot roast with salt and pepper.
2. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
3. Place the pot roast on top of the onions and add the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the pot roast from the slow cooker and strain the juices to create a rich gravy.
6. Slice the pot roast thinly and serve with the savory gravy.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Spiced Apple Cider Pork Shoulder
Warm up with this tender and flavorful pork shoulder dish infused with the cozy flavors of fall. Perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 2 apples, peeled and chopped (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Add chopped apples, onion, and garlic to the pot. Pour in apple cider vinegar and apple cider.
6. Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 2 1/2 hours or until pork is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Lentil and Sausage Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of protein-rich sausage, fiber-packed lentils, and aromatic vegetables. It’s a simple and satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Cook sausage, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, lentils, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetable and Chickpea Curry
This flavorful curry is a great way to use up any combination of your favorite vegetables, paired with the creamy richness of chickpeas. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add bell pepper and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin and Black Bean Chili
This hearty and flavorful chili is a perfect blend of autumn spices and savory beans. With the addition of pumpkin puree, it’s a nutritious and delicious option for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the black beans, pumpkin puree, red bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Add the diced tomatoes and water. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Glazed Ham with Pineapple
Elevate your holiday gathering with this sweet and savory ham recipe, featuring a rich maple glaze and the perfect balance of tangy pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, mustard, and honey. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Place the ham in a roasting pan, scoring the surface if desired. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover evenly.
4. Add chopped pineapple to the pan, arranging it around the ham.
5. Roast the ham for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
6. Baste the ham with the pan juices every 30 minutes during cooking.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Beef and Barley Soup
This comforting soup is a classic winter warmer, packed with tender beef, nutty barley, and a rich broth. Perfect for a cold day, this recipe is easy to make and serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, potatoes)
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the vegetables, barley, broth, onion, garlic, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili
Warm up with this hearty Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili recipe! This twist on traditional chili combines tender turkey breast, sweet potatoes, and rich flavors to create a satisfying meal perfect for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey breast over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sweet potatoes, chili powder, cumin, paprika, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker French Onion Soup
Warm up with a classic French Onion Soup that’s easy to prepare and simmered to perfection in your slow cooker!
Slow Cooker French Onion Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups grated Swiss cheese (divided)
– 6 slices of baguette, toasted
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine onion, butter, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in beef broth and 1 cup of Swiss cheese.
4. Preheat broiler.
5. Place toasted baguette slices on a baking sheet, top each with remaining Swiss cheese, and place under the broiler until melted and bubbly.
6. Ladle soup into bowls and serve topped with toasted bread and additional grated cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots
This classic Moroccan dish combines tender lamb, sweet apricots, and aromatic spices in a flavorful tagine. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chopped dried apricots
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown lamb, then set aside.
3. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened. Add spices and cook 1 minute.
4. Add browned lamb, diced tomatoes, apricots, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper.
5. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Simmer for 2-3 hours or until lamb is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
This classic soup recipe combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and cream for a comforting and delicious meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a side dish to accompany your favorite pasta.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream and chopped basil.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready to sink your teeth into tender, flavorful pulled pork smothered in sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, all wrapped up in a soft bun.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw, pickles, and any other toppings you like
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder.
3. Place the pork in the slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours or until tender and easily shredded.
4. After 6 hours, add the BBQ sauce to the slow cooker and continue cooking for another 2 hours.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and pile onto hamburger buns. Add your favorite toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
White Bean and Kale Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of creamy white beans, tender kale, and aromatic spices. Serve it as a comforting meal or as a starter for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add kale, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until beans are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches and return to pot.
4. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
This comforting recipe is perfect for a cold day or when you need a quick and easy meal solution. With minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious slow cooker chicken noodle soup ready to go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of uncooked egg noodles
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, chicken broth, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add the egg noodles to the slow cooker.
4. Stir well to combine and cook until the noodles are tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
A classic Russian-inspired dish that combines tender beef strips with sautéed mushrooms and a rich, creamy sauce, served over egg noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 1 minute. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in tomato paste, broth, cream, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add beef back into the skillet and stir to coat with sauce. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa and Vegetable Stew
This flavorful stew is a perfect blend of quinoa, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices. It’s a great option for a quick and nutritious meal that’s also vegan-friendly.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 bell peppers, any color, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, tomatoes, and mushrooms)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add carrots and bell peppers; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Add quinoa, mixed vegetables, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Delight
This recipe combines the rich flavors of honey, garlic, and chicken to create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the honey-garlic mixture over it.
4. Add ground ginger on top of the chicken.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spiced Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows
Warm up on a chilly day with this rich and comforting spiced hot chocolate, topped with fluffy marshmallows. This recipe is perfect for snuggling up by the fireplace or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and salt.
3. Gradually whisk the dry ingredients into the hot milk, stirring constantly.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking frequently.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Top with marshmallows and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Cozy up this winter with these 20 delicious slow cooker recipes. From hearty beef stew to creamy chicken and wild rice soup, there’s something for everyone on this list. Try your hand at pot roast with gravy, spiced apple cider pork shoulder, or lentil and sausage stew. For a vegetarian option, opt for vegetable and chickpea curry or pumpkin and black bean chili. And don’t forget the sweet treats, like maple glazed ham with pineapple or spiced hot chocolate with marshmallows. Perfect for cold winter nights, these slow cooker recipes are easy to make and sure to please.
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