7 Delicious Slow Cooker Recipes to Make This Winter

About Laura Gooch

chicken and dumplings, a baguette and a spoon on a wooden cutting board

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping meals to freeze for later, slow cookers are the perfect low-effort way to make some of your favorite dishes. From hearty comfort foods and cozy soups to flavorful dinners and even sweet breakfasts, these seven easy and delicious slow cooker recipes will help warm you up this winter.

Chicken and Dumplings by Allrecipes

Nothing says cozy like chicken and dumplings. Perfect for cold days when you’re craving something hearty, this easy slow-cooker recipe features tender chicken and fluffy dumplings, is simple to prepare and is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Make it your own by adding different spices like garlic and onion powder, chopped celery and carrots and chicken stock instead of water.

Healthy Chicken Soup by Sweet and Savory Steph

Warm up your soul this winter with some delicious chicken soup. Whether you’ve got the sniffles and don’t want to cook multiple meals or you’re simply looking for a healthier alternative to canned soups, this recipe makes it easy to put together a nourishing, filling meal with minimal effort. Pair it with some French bread for dipping and dig in.

Roast Beef and Gravy by Taste of Home

A handful of ingredients and a whole lot of flavor is exactly what you’ll get with this roast beef and gravy dish. With minimal prep time, it's a great weeknight dinner you can toss together before heading to work. It also works beautifully for Sunday dinner. Simply start it before breakfast, and by the time the family arrives, it’ll be hot, tender and ready to be devoured.

Butternut Squash and Lentil Curry by Sweet Peas and Saffron

A true set-it-and-forget-it recipe, this butternut squash and lentil curry takes easy cooking to a whole new level. Simply put your ingredients in the pot, set your heat level and cook time and sit back while the slow cooker does all the work. Vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free, this curry is one everybody can enjoy without a lot of effort in the kitchen.

Cranberry Apple French Toast Casserole by Dizzy Busy and Hungry

Slow cookers aren’t just meant for dinners—they also make whipping up a large breakfast that much easier. This cranberry apple French toast casserole is the ultimate treat and a great way to start any morning. Top it with maple syrup, whipped cream or any of your favorite toppings. Sweet and decadent, it’s sure to be a hit at your next brunch gathering.

Bagel Breakfast Casserole by Inquiring Chef

If a sweet breakfast isn’t your thing, this bagel breakfast casserole might be more your speed. A mouthwatering combination of breakfast sausage, eggs, melty Monterey Jack cheese and your favorite savory bagel flavor makes for one satisfying bite. Cooked overnight, this breakfast is ready to eat as soon as you wake up.

Pecan Pie by Desserts on a Dime

Looking for a new go-to dessert for all your gatherings? Then you’re in luck! This pecan pie recipe is as delicious as it is easy to make. With a rich, buttery filling and toasted pecans to add that wonderful crunch, this pie is simply wonderful. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that perfect finishing touch.

You don’t have to be the best chef to make an amazing meal that everyone will love. Slow cooker recipes help take the stress out of cooking, making it easier for you to savor comforting, delicious home-cooked meals all winter long.