13 Slow Cooker Meals That Help You Stay Warm All December

As the weather gets colder, there is nothing better than coming home to a warm, hearty meal. Slow cookers make it easy to prepare meals ahead of time without much effort. These meals are perfect for those busy days when you want comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you are in the mood for something savory or a bit spicy, a slow cooker can create magic. 

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Beef Stew

Beef stew is a classic winter meal that fills your kitchen with inviting smells as it cooks. With tender chunks of beef, carrots, potatoes, and hearty broth, this dish is sure to satisfy on chilly nights. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to develop over time for a rich, comforting meal. It is also a great option for meal prepping, as it reheats well and gets even better the next day.

For this stew, you will need beef stew meat, carrots, potatoes, onions, garlic, beef broth, and herbs like thyme and rosemary. A touch of tomato paste adds depth to the broth, while salt and pepper bring out the flavors. You can also toss in some peas for added texture and color. Consider using a thicker cut of beef to ensure it stays tender throughout the slow cooking process.

To make the stew, start by searing the beef in a hot pan to create a caramelized exterior. Then, add the beef to the slow cooker along with the vegetables, broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally if desired. When the meat is tender, serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley or another herb of your choice.

Chicken and Rice Soup

Chicken and rice soup is the perfect comfort food that provides warmth and nutrition in every spoonful. This soup combines tender chicken with hearty rice and vegetables in a savory broth that keeps you full and satisfied. The slow cooker makes this recipe incredibly simple, allowing the flavors to meld together as the ingredients cook slowly over time. It is the ideal meal for busy evenings when you want something easy and wholesome.

You will need chicken breasts or thighs, long-grain rice, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, and low-sodium chicken broth. For added richness, a touch of cream or milk is optional, along with seasonings such as thyme, bay leaves, and salt. The rice absorbs the flavors of the broth, making each bite delicious and comforting. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a dash of cayenne or chili flakes.

To prepare the soup, add the chicken, rice, vegetables, and broth to the slow cooker. Season with the herbs, salt, and pepper, then cook on low for about 6-7 hours. Shred the chicken before serving, either using two forks or a hand mixer for a finer texture. The soup can be served as is or with a side of crusty bread for extra comfort.

Vegetable Chili

For those who enjoy a hearty yet meatless dish, vegetable chili is a flavorful and filling option. Packed with beans, tomatoes, and a variety of vegetables, it is perfect for warming up during the colder months. The slow cooker brings out the rich flavors of each ingredient, creating a deeply satisfying meal that is both healthy and hearty. It is also a great way to use up leftover vegetables and incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet.

You will need canned kidney beans, black beans, tomatoes, corn, bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. Chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic will season the dish, while vegetable broth ties everything together. Feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for a more robust flavor profile. Top the chili with shredded cheese or sour cream for extra richness, if desired.

To cook the chili, simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and stir well. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally, and adjust the seasoning toward the end of cooking to taste. Serve with your favorite chili toppings or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Pulled pork sandwiches are a crowd-pleaser, offering tender, juicy meat that is packed with flavor. The slow cooker makes this recipe a breeze, as it slowly breaks down the pork, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Served on a toasted bun with coleslaw, it is the perfect hearty meal for a cold December evening. It also makes for great leftovers that can be used in various dishes like tacos or wraps.

For the pulled pork, you will need a pork shoulder roast, onions, garlic, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and spices such as paprika and brown sugar. You can adjust the sauce to your liking, whether you prefer it tangy, sweet, or spicy. If you like a smoky flavor, try adding some liquid smoke or smoked paprika to the mix. The pork will absorb the sauce, resulting in a flavorful and tender outcome.

Start by seasoning the pork shoulder and placing it in the slow cooker with the onions, garlic, and vinegar. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is easily shredable. Once done, remove the pork, shred it with forks, and mix it with the barbecue sauce. Serve on toasted buns with coleslaw for an extra crunch.

Beef and Barley Soup

Beef and barley soup is another excellent slow cooker recipe for staying warm all December. The hearty barley pairs perfectly with tender beef and vegetables, creating a soup that is filling and satisfying. The slow cooking process enhances the depth of the broth, making it even more flavorful. It is an ideal meal for those who want something both comforting and nourishing.

For this soup, you will need beef stew meat, pearl barley, carrots, onions, celery, and beef broth. Fresh herbs like thyme and bay leaves add a savory flavor, while salt and pepper round out the seasoning. You can also add frozen peas or corn for an additional texture contrast. If you want a creamier soup, stir in some heavy cream near the end of cooking.

Add all the ingredients to the slow cooker, ensuring the barley and beef are submerged in the broth. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 7-8 hours, stirring occasionally if desired. Once the beef is tender and the barley has absorbed the broth, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot for a satisfying meal.

Chicken Tacos

Chicken tacos are a quick and flavorful meal that can be prepared easily in the slow cooker. This recipe allows you to create a delicious taco filling with minimal effort, using simple ingredients that deliver bold flavors. Whether for a family dinner or a small gathering, chicken tacos are always a hit. The slow cooker ensures the chicken stays juicy and flavorful, making each taco a delightful experience.

You will need chicken breasts, onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and lime. For the toppings, use tortillas, shredded lettuce, cheese, salsa, and avocado. You can customize the seasoning and toppings to suit your taste. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility.

Place the chicken, onions, garlic, and spices in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours, then shred the chicken with forks. Assemble the tacos by placing the chicken in tortillas and adding your desired toppings. Serve with a side of lime wedges for added flavor.

Beef Stroganoff

Beef stroganoff is a rich and creamy dish that feels indulgent while still being easy to prepare in the slow cooker. The combination of tender beef, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce makes this meal a luxurious comfort food. Served over egg noodles or rice, it is the perfect dish to warm up with on a cold day. The slow cooking method ensures that the beef becomes tender and the sauce thickens to perfection.

To make this dish, you will need beef stew meat, mushrooms, onions, garlic, beef broth, and sour cream. A bit of flour helps thicken the sauce, while Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance the flavor. This dish can be made ahead of time and stored for leftovers.

Brown the beef in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker along with the vegetables, broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the beef is tender. Before serving, stir in sour cream for a creamy texture and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve over noodles or rice for a complete meal.

Split Pea Soup

Split pea soup is a hearty, nutrient-dense meal that is perfect for the cold weather. Packed with split peas, vegetables, and ham, it provides a fulfilling and savory option to keep you warm. The slow cooker does the work, allowing the flavors to develop and the peas to soften into a rich, creamy base. It is a great way to use up leftover ham from holiday meals, making it both cost-effective and delicious.

You will need dried split peas, ham (bone-in or diced), carrots, onions, celery, garlic, and vegetable broth. Herbs such as thyme and bay leaves add depth to the soup, while salt and pepper balance the flavors. For a thicker consistency, you can blend part of the soup before serving, or leave it chunky for a more rustic feel.

Add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours, stirring occasionally. Once the peas have softened and the broth has thickened, taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side for a comforting meal.

Sausage and Sauerkraut

Sausage and sauerkraut is a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be made effortlessly in the slow cooker. The combination of savory sausage and tangy sauerkraut is a classic pairing that warms you up with every bite. This dish is rich in flavor, and the slow cooker ensures the sausages remain tender while the sauerkraut infuses the dish with its distinctive taste. It is perfect for those who enjoy hearty, traditional meals.

For this recipe, you will need smoked sausage, sauerkraut, onions, garlic, and chicken broth. Adding apples or caraway seeds can provide a subtle sweetness or an extra layer of flavor. You can adjust the seasoning with mustard, salt, and pepper to taste. This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes or a side of rye bread.

Place the sausage, sauerkraut, onions, and garlic in the slow cooker. Pour in the broth and season with mustard, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 6-7 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve hot with your favorite side dish for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is a nutritious and warming meal, perfect for those colder months. The combination of lentils, vegetables, and spices creates a hearty and satisfying dish that is both healthy and filling. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together, producing a rich, comforting soup that can be enjoyed for several meals. It’s also a great option for vegetarian or vegan diets, as it packs in protein and fiber without the need for meat.

You will need dried lentils, carrots, onions, celery, garlic, tomatoes, vegetable broth, and a variety of spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. You can also add leafy greens like spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for added nutrition. Salt and pepper are essential to bring the flavors together. If you like a creamier texture, a dollop of sour cream or coconut milk can be added before serving.

Start by adding all the vegetables, lentils, and broth to the slow cooker. Season with spices, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or until the lentils are tender. Serve with a squeeze of lemon or a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken cacciatore is a comforting, rustic dish that is perfect for a slow cooker. The tender chicken, stewed in a tomato-based sauce with onions, bell peppers, and herbs, creates a flavorful meal that is both satisfying and full of warmth. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic Italian dish with minimal effort. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb the sauce, making every bite a burst of flavor.

For chicken cacciatore, you will need bone-in chicken thighs, bell peppers, onions, garlic, canned tomatoes, and herbs like oregano and basil. You can also add olives or mushrooms for extra depth. The richness of the sauce comes from the tomatoes, garlic, and a splash of red wine or chicken broth. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning.

To make the dish, place the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Pour in the tomatoes and season with herbs, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 6-7 hours until the chicken is tender and falling off the bone. Serve over pasta, rice, or polenta for a complete meal.

Beef Tacos

Beef tacos made in the slow cooker are an easy way to enjoy a flavorful, filling meal with minimal work. The slow cooking process allows the beef to absorb all the spices and become incredibly tender, creating a delicious taco filling that everyone will love. This recipe is perfect for a casual dinner or even a taco night with friends and family. You can customize the toppings to suit your preferences, making each taco unique.

You will need ground beef, onions, garlic, taco seasoning, tomatoes, and beef broth. Toppings such as shredded lettuce, cheese, salsa, and avocado add extra flavor and freshness. You can also add beans or corn for a more substantial taco filling. Soft tortillas are ideal for wrapping up the beef, but you can use hard shells if preferred.

Brown the ground beef and onions in a pan before transferring them to the slow cooker. Add the tomatoes, garlic, taco seasoning, and broth. Cook on low for 5-6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once the beef is tender, serve with your favorite taco toppings.

Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie made in the slow cooker is a comforting meal that is perfect for colder weather. With tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite. The beauty of this recipe is in the versatility, as you can swap out vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. It’s a simple way to create a hearty and fulfilling meal that will feed a crowd.

You will need chicken breasts, carrots, peas, potatoes, onions, garlic, chicken broth, and cream. For the crust, use store-bought puff pastry or biscuit dough for a quick and easy option. The combination of cream and broth creates a rich and flavorful base for the filling. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley for added flavor.

Place the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker, then pour in the broth and cream. Cook on low for 5-6 hours until the chicken is cooked through. Top with the puff pastry or biscuit dough and bake in the oven for about 20 minutes to golden perfection. Serve hot for a satisfying meal.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.