25+ Delicious Crock Pot Lunch Recipes to Kick Off the New Year

Ring in the New Year with simplicity and flavor by exploring the versatility of crock pot recipes.

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, slow cooker meals are the perfect way to create delicious and hearty dishes with minimal effort.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy lunch gathering or looking for something tasty to enjoy with family, these 25+ New Year’s crock pot lunch recipes have you covered.

From savory stews to creative pasta dishes and international favorites, this collection offers a variety of flavors and options to satisfy everyone at the table.

Let your crock pot do the work while you focus on celebrating and creating new memories.

25+ Delicious Crock Pot Lunch Recipes to Kick Off the New Year

As the New Year begins, why not embrace the ease and convenience of crock pot cooking?

These 25+ lunch recipes showcase the diversity and deliciousness that a slow cooker can bring to your table.

Whether you’re craving comforting classics, lighter fare, or bold international flavors, this roundup has something for everyone.

Start your year on a stress-free and flavorful note, and let these crock pot recipes inspire you to enjoy more slow-cooked meals throughout the year. Here’s to a tasty and joyful New Year!

Slow Cooker Honey-Glazed Ham

Celebrate the New Year with a tender and flavorful honey-glazed ham that is both festive and easy to prepare. This recipe is perfect for a mid-day gathering, allowing you to focus on your loved ones while the crock pot works its magic. The sweet and savory glaze adds a luxurious touch, making this dish a standout centerpiece.

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-cooked spiral-sliced ham (7-9 lbs)
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, orange juice, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves until smooth.
2. Place the ham in your crock pot, flat side down. Pour the glaze evenly over the ham.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, basting occasionally with the glaze.
4. Once heated through, transfer the ham to a serving platter and drizzle with the remaining glaze.
5. Slice and serve warm with your favorite New Year’s side dishes.

This honey-glazed ham delivers a luxurious combination of sweetness and spice, making it an ideal main dish for your New Year’s lunch. Its rich flavors and hands-off preparation allow you to enjoy the day while delighting your guests with a memorable meal.

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Crock Pot Black-Eyed Peas and Greens

Ring in the New Year with a dish steeped in tradition and flavor! This recipe combines black-eyed peas and collard greens, symbolizing luck and prosperity for the year ahead. With smoky undertones and a hearty texture, this dish is wholesome, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight
• 1 bunch collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 smoked turkey leg or 4 slices of bacon
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the soaked black-eyed peas in the crock pot. Add collard greens, onion, garlic, and smoked turkey leg or bacon.
2. Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the ingredients and season with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the peas are tender and the flavors are well combined.
4. Remove the turkey leg, shred the meat, and stir it back into the pot. Discard the bones.
5. Serve warm with cornbread or rice for a complete meal.

This crock pot black-eyed peas and greens recipe is a comforting nod to New Year’s traditions while delivering bold, smoky flavors. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides, ensuring a prosperous and delicious start to the year.

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Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Start the New Year with a comforting bowl of creamy chicken and wild rice soup. This crock pot recipe is perfect for a cozy lunch, combining tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a rich, creamy broth. It’s a hearty and warming dish that’s ideal for chilly January days and gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup wild rice
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. Add chicken breasts, wild rice, onion, carrots, celery, chicken broth, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the crock pot.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken and rice are tender.
3. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, cornstarch, and water. Stir the mixture into the soup and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes, until the soup thickens.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper.

This creamy chicken and wild rice soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a New Year’s lunch that soothes the soul and satisfies the appetite. Its luscious texture and nourishing ingredients make it a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to enjoy well beyond January.

Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

Celebrate the New Year with mouthwatering BBQ pulled pork sliders that are both easy to make and bursting with flavor. This recipe offers tender, slow-cooked pork coated in a tangy BBQ sauce, perfect for casual gatherings or family lunches. Serve these sliders with a side of coleslaw for the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs pork shoulder (boneless or bone-in)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 slider buns

Instructions:

1. Season the pork shoulder with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the pork in the crock pot. Add BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar.
3. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours, until the pork is fork-tender.
4. Shred the pork with two forks, mixing it with the sauce in the pot.
5. Toast the slider buns and assemble the sandwiches with pulled pork. Serve with additional BBQ sauce if desired.

These slow cooker BBQ pulled pork sliders are a flavorful and satisfying choice for a New Year’s lunch. The rich, smoky flavors and tender texture make them perfect for sharing with loved ones as you welcome the year ahead.

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Crock Pot Lentil and Vegetable Stew

Kickstart the New Year with a wholesome and hearty lentil and vegetable stew. Packed with nutrient-rich ingredients, this dish is not only delicious but also aligns with healthy resolutions. It’s a warming and filling option that’s perfect for a leisurely lunch with friends and family.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 cup diced potatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add lentils, onion, carrots, celery, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, potatoes, thyme, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the crock pot.
2. Stir to combine, cover, and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
3. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

This crock pot lentil and vegetable stew is a hearty, healthy, and flavorful way to start the New Year. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for a comforting lunch, and packed with nutrients to fuel your day.

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Slow Cooker Spinach and Artichoke Dip Pasta

Transform a party favorite into a luxurious New Year’s lunch with this spinach and artichoke dip pasta. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this dish combines the best of comfort food and elegance. It’s an easy yet impressive recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta (cooked and drained)
• 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the crock pot. Stir to combine.
2. Add artichoke hearts and spinach. Cover and cook on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally until the cheeses melt and form a creamy sauce.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the crock pot, stirring to coat it evenly in the sauce.
4. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.

This slow cooker spinach and artichoke dip pasta is a decadent and satisfying way to enjoy a New Year’s lunch. Its creamy texture and savory flavors are sure to impress, making it the perfect dish for a cozy yet celebratory meal.

Slow Cooker Beef and Barley Soup

Warm up your New Year’s lunch with a comforting bowl of beef and barley soup. This hearty recipe is full of tender beef, nutty barley, and wholesome vegetables, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug on a winter’s day. Easy to prepare, it’s a perfect choice for a relaxing and nourishing start to the year.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
• 1/2 cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In the crock pot, combine beef, barley, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, paprika, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir to mix and cover. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
3. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.

This slow cooker beef and barley soup is the ultimate cozy lunch, perfect for a New Year’s gathering. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, providing a filling meal that satisfies both the heart and the stomach.

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Crock Pot Sweet and Spicy Meatballs

Bring a burst of flavor to your New Year’s lunch with these sweet and spicy meatballs. Perfect as a main dish or appetizer, these tender meatballs are coated in a luscious sauce that balances heat and sweetness. This dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends!

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs frozen meatballs (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup grape jelly
• 1 cup chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place the frozen meatballs in the crock pot.
2. In a bowl, whisk together grape jelly, chili sauce, Sriracha, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Pour the sauce over the meatballs.
3. Stir to coat the meatballs evenly. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Serve warm as an appetizer or over rice for a complete meal.

These crock pot sweet and spicy meatballs are the perfect blend of flavors for a festive New Year’s lunch. Whether served as a main dish or snack, they’re guaranteed to add excitement to your celebration.

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Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Upgrade your New Year’s lunch with a rich and creamy tomato basil soup made effortlessly in the crock pot. This recipe combines the vibrant flavor of tomatoes with the aromatic touch of fresh basil for a cozy and elegant dish. Serve it with grilled cheese or crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 (28 oz) cans crushed tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Add crushed tomatoes, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, dried basil, sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the crock pot. Stir to combine.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth (or carefully transfer to a blender in batches).
4. Stir in the heavy cream and fresh basil. Cook on high for an additional 15 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and a drizzle of cream if desired.

This creamy tomato basil soup is a delightful addition to your New Year’s lunch menu. Its velvety texture and balanced flavors create a comforting and satisfying dish that sets the tone for a warm and joyous year ahead.

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Bowls

Ring in the New Year with flavorful and tender teriyaki chicken bowls. This dish combines juicy chicken with a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze, served over fluffy rice and topped with fresh vegetables. It’s a balanced, wholesome, and delicious lunch option that’s simple to prepare in the crock pot.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Steamed broccoli, carrots, and edamame, for topping
• Sesame seeds and green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add chicken, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger to the crock pot. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
3. Remove the chicken, shred or slice it, and return it to the crock pot. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook on high for 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Serve the teriyaki chicken over rice, topped with vegetables, sesame seeds, and green onions.

These slow cooker teriyaki chicken bowls are a satisfying and healthy way to celebrate the New Year. Packed with flavor and vibrant toppings, they’re sure to impress your family while keeping lunch stress-free.

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Crock Pot Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Add an Italian flair to your New Year’s lunch with these crock pot spinach and ricotta stuffed shells. This creamy and cheesy dish, paired with a tangy marinara sauce, is a delightful and hearty option for any celebration. It’s perfect for vegetarians and loved by all.

Ingredients:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells, cooked al dente
• 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
• 1 egg
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, egg, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
2. Stuff each pasta shell with the ricotta mixture.
3. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the crock pot. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer. Top with remaining marinara sauce.
4. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours.
5. Sprinkle additional mozzarella on top 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil.

These crock pot spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are an indulgent yet easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for your New Year’s lunch. The creamy filling and flavorful sauce make this recipe a comforting crowd-pleaser.

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Slow Cooker Moroccan Chickpea Stew

Celebrate the New Year with the exotic flavors of a Moroccan chickpea stew. This vibrant dish is a vegetarian delight, featuring tender chickpeas, warming spices, and hearty vegetables. Serve it over couscous or with crusty bread for a comforting and nutritious lunch.

Ingredients:

• 2 (15 oz) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add chickpeas, onion, carrots, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the crock pot. Stir to combine.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
3. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, over couscous or with bread.

This slow cooker Moroccan chickpea stew brings warmth and vibrant flavors to your New Year’s lunch. Healthy, hearty, and easy to make, it’s a delightful dish to start the year on a flavorful and fulfilling note.

Slow Cooker Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Jambalaya

Spice up your New Year’s lunch with this slow cooker Cajun shrimp and sausage jambalaya. Packed with bold flavors, this Southern-inspired dish features tender shrimp, smoky sausage, and perfectly seasoned rice. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that brings a festive vibe to the table.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add sausage, onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, rice, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, salt, and pepper to the crock pot. Stir to combine.
2. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the rice is tender.
3. Add shrimp during the last 30 minutes of cooking, stirring to combine. Cook until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked.
4. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.

This Cajun shrimp and sausage jambalaya brings bold flavors and hearty textures to your New Year’s lunch. It’s a satisfying and festive dish that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.

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Crock Pot Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry

Kick off the New Year with a nourishing and flavorful lentil and sweet potato curry. This vegan-friendly recipe combines creamy coconut milk, aromatic spices, and tender lentils for a dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Serve it over rice or with naan for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (14 oz) can coconut milk
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add lentils, sweet potatoes, onion, garlic, coconut milk, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the crock pot. Stir to mix.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or high for 3-4 hours, until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.
3. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot over rice or with naan, garnished with fresh cilantro.

This lentil and sweet potato curry is a wholesome and comforting dish to celebrate the New Year. Its creamy texture and rich spices make it a standout choice for a satisfying lunch that aligns with healthy resolutions.

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Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

Add a touch of Southern comfort to your New Year’s lunch with these slow cooker BBQ pulled pork sliders. The tender, juicy pork is infused with smoky barbecue flavors and served on soft buns, making it a fun and flavorful meal for the whole family.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Slider buns
• Coleslaw, for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rub the pork shoulder with smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Place it in the crock pot.
2. Add onion, garlic, chicken broth, and half of the BBQ sauce. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
3. Remove the pork and shred with two forks. Return it to the crock pot and stir in the remaining BBQ sauce.
4. Serve on slider buns with coleslaw on top, if desired.

These slow cooker BBQ pulled pork sliders are a surefire hit for your New Year’s lunch. With tender meat and bold flavors, they’re perfect for sharing and celebrating with loved ones. They’re as fun to eat as they are delicious!

Note: More recipes are coming soon!