25+ Easy Winter Crockpot Recipes for Busy Days and Cozy Nights
Winter is the season for hearty, comforting meals that warm you up from the inside out.
And what better way to embrace the chill than with a delicious selection of crockpot recipes?
Whether you’re craving a savory stew, a spicy chili, or a cheesy casserole, your slow cooker is the perfect companion for creating mouthwatering dishes with minimal effort.
These winter crockpot recipes will not only fill your home with delicious aromas but also provide you with a hot, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
From tender meats to comforting soups, we’ve rounded up 25+ winter crockpot recipes that will keep you cozy during the colder months.
25+ Easy Winter Crockpot Recipes for Busy Days and Cozy Nights
As the winter season sets in, your slow cooker becomes your best friend.
With these 25+ winter crockpot recipes, you can enjoy easy, comforting meals that require little preparation but deliver big on flavor.
The beauty of crockpot cooking is that it allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with family and friends.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to enjoy a warm, hearty meal after a long day, these winter recipes will keep you satisfied and warm all season long.
So, dust off your crockpot, grab your ingredients, and let these recipes bring comfort and joy to your winter nights.
Slow Cooker Beef and Vegetable Stew
This hearty beef and vegetable stew is perfect for cold winter days. The slow cooker does all the work, melding together tender beef, fresh vegetables, and rich, savory broth for a comforting meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping a meal for the week, this stew is an easy and delicious choice.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cubed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 cup frozen peas
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, brown the beef stew meat over medium heat. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add the potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
- Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle in the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
- If you’d like a thicker stew, mix the flour with a little water to form a slurry and stir it into the stew 30 minutes before serving.
- Stir in the frozen peas during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
This beef and vegetable stew is the epitome of comfort food. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop fully, creating a rich, savory dish that’s perfect for warming up after a long winter day. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’ll have a meal everyone will love!
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup
A warm, creamy chicken and mushroom soup that will keep you cozy all season long. The slow cooker creates a smooth, rich base, and the chicken turns tender and juicy. This soup is easy to prepare, with minimal effort and maximum comfort.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cups sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup flour (for thickening)
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts, onion, mushrooms, and chicken broth into the slow cooker.
- Season with thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the chicken to the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix the flour with a little water to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker to thicken the soup.
- Add the heavy cream and stir until combined. Let the soup simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
This creamy chicken and mushroom soup is both indulgent and satisfying. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, and the addition of heavy cream gives the soup a luxurious texture. It’s perfect for a cold winter night when you’re craving something creamy and comforting.
Slow Cooker Chili with Sweet Potatoes and Black Beans
This chili is a healthy, hearty twist on a classic winter dish. Packed with sweet potatoes, black beans, and lean ground turkey, it’s full of flavor and nutrition. The slow cooker makes it easy to prepare, so you can set it and forget it until it’s time for dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat and transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add the sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the flavors have blended together.
- Stir the chili, taste for seasoning, and adjust as necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
This chili with sweet potatoes and black beans is a great option for anyone looking for a lighter, yet filling, meal during the winter months. The combination of hearty vegetables and lean turkey creates a satisfying dish that’s rich in flavor without being overly heavy. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner!
Slow Cooker White Bean and Ham Soup
This comforting white bean and ham soup is a winter favorite that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the beans to soften and the ham to infuse the broth with a savory richness. It’s a satisfying, hearty dish perfect for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups dried white beans (like Great Northern or navy beans), rinsed
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- In the slow cooker, add the rinsed beans, diced ham, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have developed.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve hot with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
This white bean and ham soup is the epitome of comfort food—rich, hearty, and filling. The slow cooker lets all the flavors meld together, creating a warm, savory broth that’s perfect for a winter evening. It’s a great dish for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers the next day.
Slow Cooker Beef and Barley Soup
This beef and barley soup is an absolute winter essential. The beef becomes tender and flavorful, and the barley adds a pleasant chewiness that makes the soup even more satisfying. With a mix of vegetables and a flavorful broth, this recipe is a complete meal in a bowl.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef stew meat, cubed
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- In the slow cooker, add the beef stew meat, barley, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
- Pour in the beef broth, and sprinkle in the thyme, black pepper, and salt.
- Stir to combine, cover, and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with a slice of bread.
This beef and barley soup is a hearty and wholesome meal that’s perfect for winter. The barley absorbs the rich beef broth, creating a filling and nourishing dish. It’s a great way to stay warm and satisfied on those cold winter days, and the leftovers only get better!
Slow Cooker Sweet Potato and Lentil Curry
This vegan-friendly sweet potato and lentil curry is bursting with warm spices and nourishing ingredients. It’s a perfect winter meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. The slow cooker brings all the spices together, making this dish even more comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 teaspoons curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Place the diced sweet potatoes, lentils, onion, garlic, and ginger into the slow cooker.
- Add the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper, then cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.
- Stir the curry and taste for seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Pair with rice or naan for a complete meal.
This sweet potato and lentil curry is a perfect dish for winter—warming, hearty, and full of vibrant flavors. The coconut milk adds a creamy richness, while the sweet potatoes and lentils provide a satisfying texture. It’s a nourishing, plant-based meal that’s sure to become a staple in your winter recipe rotation.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
This slow cooker chicken and dumplings recipe is a perfect winter comfort food. The creamy chicken stew is loaded with tender vegetables and topped with fluffy dumplings. The slow cooker makes this dish incredibly easy to prepare, and the result is a cozy, filling meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 package refrigerated biscuit dough (or make your own dumplings)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker along with the chicken broth, onion, carrots, celery, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Stir in the heavy cream and mix well.
- Tear the biscuit dough into small pieces (or form your dumplings) and drop them into the slow cooker. Cover and cook for an additional 1 hour on low until the dumplings are cooked through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
This slow cooker chicken and dumplings recipe is the ultimate winter comfort food. The creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft dumplings make for a warming meal that’s perfect for chilly nights. It’s easy to prepare, filling, and the whole family will love it.
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup with Ham
This classic split pea soup with ham is a healthy, hearty meal that will warm you from the inside out. The slow cooker makes the process effortless, allowing the peas to break down into a smooth, thick soup. It’s a satisfying dish that’s packed with protein and fiber, perfect for cold winter evenings.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In the slow cooker, add the rinsed split peas, diced ham, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine, cover, and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened.
- Remove the bay leaf and taste for seasoning, adjusting with more salt or pepper if necessary.
- For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup or mash it with a potato masher.
- Serve hot, with crusty bread on the side.
This slow cooker split pea soup with ham is the definition of comfort food. It’s rich, filling, and packed with flavor. The slow cooker does the work, letting the flavors meld together perfectly. This soup is perfect for a healthy, satisfying meal on a cold winter day.
Slow Cooker Beef and Sweet Potato Chili
This slow cooker beef and sweet potato chili is a healthy twist on a traditional chili, combining lean beef with nutrient-packed sweet potatoes. It’s loaded with hearty vegetables and spices, creating a flavorful and filling meal. Perfect for winter, this chili is easy to make and perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning meat)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
- Add the diced sweet potatoes, onion, bell peppers, garlic, diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
- Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
This beef and sweet potato chili is a flavorful, nutritious dish that’s perfect for warming up on a cold winter evening. The sweetness of the potatoes balances the spices, while the beans and beef provide heartiness. It’s a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks, and it will keep you full and satisfied.
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers
This slow cooker Italian sausage and peppers recipe is a delicious and simple dish that’s full of savory flavor. With Italian sausage, bell peppers, onions, and a rich tomato sauce, it’s a perfect dish for winter, as it’s both hearty and satisfying. You can serve it as a sandwich or over pasta or rice for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 Italian sausages (mild or spicy)
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Hoagie rolls or pasta (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Place the sausages, bell peppers, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine, cover, and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the sausages are fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
- Remove the sausages and slice them into bite-sized pieces.
- Stir the sausages back into the tomato and pepper mixture.
- Serve hot, either in hoagie rolls for a sandwich or over pasta or rice for a filling meal. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
This slow cooker Italian sausage and peppers dish is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for winter. The combination of savory sausages, sweet peppers, and a rich tomato sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that can be served in various ways, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
This slow cooker chicken tortilla soup is a warm, comforting dish with a perfect blend of spices, tender chicken, and crunchy tortilla strips. It’s a filling and hearty soup that’s great for winter meals. With minimal prep and a rich, flavorful broth, it’s a perfect dish to come home to after a cold day.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (4 oz) green chilies
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips (for serving)
- Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and add the diced tomatoes, green chilies, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, chicken broth, corn, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine, cover, and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return them to the soup.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and tortilla strips or chips. Add lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
This slow cooker chicken tortilla soup is the ultimate winter comfort food—spicy, hearty, and packed with flavor. The slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld together into a rich, flavorful broth. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner, and the optional tortilla strips or chips add a satisfying crunch.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This classic slow cooker beef stew is a cozy and hearty meal that’s ideal for cold winter nights. The tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich broth come together in the slow cooker to create a flavorful dish with minimal effort. It’s perfect for meal prepping and provides leftovers that taste even better the next day.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cut into cubes
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
- Place the beef stew meat, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker.
- Add the beef broth, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine, cover, and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- If you’d like to thicken the stew, mix the flour with a bit of water to form a slurry and stir it into the stew about 30 minutes before serving.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
This slow cooker beef stew is a classic winter meal that’s both hearty and comforting. The tender beef and vegetables in a savory broth are perfect for cold weather. It’s easy to make, requires minimal prep, and is a great dish for meal prepping. Leftovers only improve in flavor, making this stew even better the next day.
Slow Cooker Baked Ziti
This slow cooker baked ziti is a delicious and hearty Italian-inspired dish that combines pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and melted mozzarella for a comforting winter meal. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and requires little hands-on time, making it perfect for busy nights when you want a flavorful, filling dish without much effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the slow cooker, combine the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, basil, and oregano. Stir to combine.
- Add the cooked ziti pasta to the slow cooker and mix to coat with the sauce.
- In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Spread this mixture evenly over the pasta in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
This slow cooker baked ziti is the perfect winter comfort food. With its layers of pasta, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, it’s both hearty and satisfying. The slow cooker makes it simple to prepare, and the flavors meld beautifully over time, making it an easy, family-friendly dinner.
Slow Cooker Vegetable and Lentil Soup
This slow cooker vegetable and lentil soup is a healthy, filling, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cold winter days. Packed with protein, fiber, and vegetables, it’s a nutrient-dense meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully over time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Add the lentils, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
- Stir everything to combine, cover, and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the chopped spinach or kale, if using, and stir it in.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
This slow cooker vegetable and lentil soup is a perfect winter meal for anyone looking for a hearty and healthy dish. Packed with lentils and vegetables, it’s a nourishing option that will warm you from the inside out. With minimal prep and the slow cooker doing most of the work, this soup is a great choice for busy days when you want something filling and flavorful.
Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas
These slow cooker pork carnitas are a deliciously tender and flavorful dish that’s perfect for winter meals. The pork cooks low and slow until it’s fall-apart tender, and the combination of spices gives it a rich, savory flavor. Serve it in tacos, burritos, or over rice for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds pork shoulder (boneless)
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and top with the quartered onion, smashed garlic, diced green chilies, cumin, chili powder, paprika, coriander, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the orange juice and lime juice over the pork.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds.
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the juices.
- Serve hot in tacos, burritos, or over rice, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
These slow cooker pork carnitas are a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for winter meals. The slow cooking process ensures that the pork is tender and full of flavor. Whether you serve it in tacos or on its own, this dish will become a family favorite that’s easy to make and always satisfying.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!