Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and, most importantly, delicious food. While the turkey often takes center stage, the sides are what truly make the meal memorable.
But juggling multiple dishes in the oven and on the stovetop can be overwhelming.
Enter the crockpot: your secret weapon for a stress-free holiday feast. From creamy mashed potatoes to comforting green bean casseroles.
These crockpot sides will save you time, space, and effort while ensuring your guests are thoroughly impressed.
1. Slow Cooker Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic flavor. A foolproof classic that stays warm until serving.
2. Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole
Topped with marshmallows or a pecan streusel, this dish offers the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
3. Cheesy Crockpot Mac and Cheese
This creamy, cheesy delight will be a hit with kids and adults alike. No baking required!
4. Green Bean Casserole
A Thanksgiving staple made even easier in the crockpot. Perfectly cooked green beans in a creamy mushroom sauce with crispy onion topping.
5. Cornbread Dressing
Save oven space by making your traditional Southern-style cornbread dressing in the crockpot.
6. Slow Cooker Cranberry Sauce
Fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a hint of cinnamon meld beautifully in this set-it-and-forget-it recipe.
7. Glazed Carrots
Tender carrots coated in a buttery brown sugar glaze, made effortlessly in the crockpot.
8. Crockpot Creamed Corn
Rich, creamy, and slightly sweet, this side dish is always a crowd-pleaser.
9. Sweet and Savory Brussels Sprouts
Slow-cooked Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze and crispy bacon for the ultimate umami flavor.
10. Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
A comforting combination of potatoes, cheese, bacon, and sour cream—all cooked to perfection in the crockpot.
11. Wild Rice Pilaf
Earthy wild rice with cranberries, pecans, and herbs, slow-cooked to perfection for a nutty, festive flavor.
12. Buttery Herb Stuffing
Aromatic herbs like sage and thyme make this crockpot stuffing a must-have on your Thanksgiving table.
13. Honey Glazed Sweet Potatoes
Soft, caramelized sweet potatoes with a hint of honey and cinnamon.
14. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
A creamy, cheesy dip that doubles as a unique Thanksgiving side dish.
15. Scalloped Potatoes
Thinly sliced potatoes layered with a creamy sauce and cooked until tender and golden.
16. Slow Cooker Ratatouille
A vibrant mix of vegetables, like zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes, cooked slowly to enhance their flavors.
17. Cranberry Apple Chutney
A tangy-sweet side that pairs perfectly with turkey and adds a pop of color to your plate.
18. Maple Bourbon Glazed Carrots
Add a touch of elegance to your meal with these carrots infused with maple syrup and bourbon.
19. Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower
A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that’s just as creamy and delicious.
20. Zesty Corn and Black Bean Salad
A Southwestern-inspired side that’s fresh, colorful, and full of flavor.
21.Crockpot Beef Tips and Mushroom Gravy
This Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy is the perfect Thanksgiving meal with family & friends.
22. Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice
Another variation of wild rice featuring crunchy pecans and tangy cranberries for added texture and flavor.
23. Slow Cooker Creamy Spinach
Velvety spinach cooked with cream and garlic makes for an indulgent, yet easy, side.
FAQs
Can I make these dishes ahead of time?
Yes! Most of these recipes can be prepped the night before. Just refrigerate the ingredients and start your crockpot in the morning for a stress-free cooking experience.
How do I keep crockpot dishes warm until serving?
Set your crockpot to the “Warm” setting. It will maintain the ideal serving temperature without overcooking your food.
Are these sides suitable for vegetarians?
Many of these recipes, such as creamed corn, mashed potatoes, and wild rice pilaf, are vegetarian. Simply swap out chicken broth for vegetable broth where needed.
Can I double these recipes for a large crowd?
Absolutely! Just ensure your crockpot is large enough, and adjust cooking times slightly if needed.
Bottom Line
Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be a juggling act between oven racks and stove burners.
These 23 crockpot sides are your ticket to a smoother, more enjoyable holiday. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, they’ll leave your guests raving about your culinary skills long after the plates are cleared.
Happy Thanksgiving and happy slow cooking!