8 Slow Cooker Recipes for a Hassle-Free Holiday, Because Who Wants to Spend the Whole Day Cooking?
With the holidays quickly approaching, finding time to hunker down in the kitchen for a lavish, home-cooked meal can be problematic. Enter these show-stopping slow cooker recipes. If you don't have a slow cooker already, it's not too late to ask for one for Christmas. This inexpensive marvel is a must-have for any kitchen, and you'll find it even more helpful when those holiday errands start to pile up. These quick-and-easy recipes are sure to satisfy a variety of palates, and the slow cooker will do most of the work for you, leaving you free to run out for a last minute gift or even steal away some precious quiet time before the in-laws start to invade your turf.
Image: Mom On Time Out
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Spinach and artichoke dip is ideal for a variety of holiday functions, from Christmas potlucks to a New Year’s Eve party. This twist by Damn Delicious is, well, pretty damn delicious. Serve with bread or chips, and let the holiday fun ensue.
Image: Damn Delicious
Turkey Pumpkin Chili
2014 has been the year of pumpkin-flavored edibles, but don’t turn your back on this hearty dish just yet. Table for Two’s recipe — which combines pumpkin purée, jalapeños, kidney beans, and other filling ingredients — is perfect for cold nights huddled by the Christmas tree.
Image: Table For Two
Jambalaya
Filled with ham, shrimp, and a nice kick thanks to cayenne pepper, this jambalaya recipe makes a marvelous meal for up to eight people. So toss all of your ingredients in your slow cooker, and finish wrapping all those presents! Head on over to A Spicy Perspective for the recipe.
Image: A Spicy Perspective
5 Spice Chicken
This recipe is the holiday gift that keeps on giving. It’s packed full of flavor thanks to a spice rub, and it’s easy on the bank account. Budget Bytes shows us how it’s done.
Image: Budget Bytes
Cocktail Meatballs
You only need three ingredients to make these savory meatballs by Mom On Time Out. This comfort food will make a great addition to a party spread, and will keep hungry guests at bay when you need a little extra time for your main course.
Image: Mom On Time Out
Balsamic Glazed Roast Beef
This recipe — which boasts balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and honey — yields a pot full of tender meat that can be enjoyed by itself or with a variety of side dishes like mashed potatoes. Visit the Comfort of Cooking for the complete recipe, which includes a tasty glaze.
Image: The Comfort of Cooking
Spanish Rice
This ridiculously easy recipe is done in two to three hours, and serves up to 10 people. And with a preparation time of just five minutes, you’ll be free to tackle the more laborious items on your holiday to-do list. Visit Taste and Tell for the complete, no-nonsense recipe.
Image: Taste and Tell
Broccoli and Cheddar Soup
This tasty soup is already rich with flavor, and can be enjoyed with bacon or diced ham. Vegetarians can, of course, choose not to garnish with meat — it’s just as delicious! Visit Closet Cooking for the complete slow cooker recipe.
Image: Closet Cooking
