15 THANKSGIVING CROCKPOT SIDE DISH RECIPES FOR 2024

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, togetherness, and, of course, a table filled with incredible food. But with all the hustle and bustle of holiday prep, why not let your slow cooker handle some of the heavy lifting? Crockpot side dishes bring ease and deliciousness to your celebration, freeing up oven space and ensuring every bite is perfectly warm and flavorful.

From the creamy decadence of Comforting Cheesy Potatoes to the sweet, fragrant charm of Orange Spice Carrots, these recipes are designed to impress. Imagine the silky richness of Creamed Corn with Cream Cheese, a dish so luscious it feels like a holiday treat all on its own.

Or take a trip south of the border with Mexican Pintos with Cactus, offering a smoky, tangy twist that complements any main course. And no Thanksgiving table is complete without Scalloped Taters, where tender potatoes meet a golden, bubbly topping that screams comfort food.

What makes these slow cooker recipes so special is their simplicity and ability to deliver complex flavors. Whether you’re looking for traditional favorites or something a bit more adventurous, these dishes combine the convenience of hands-off cooking with the magic of slow, steady flavor development.

Plus, studies show that slow cooking retains nutrients better than some faster methods, so you can feel good about serving wholesome, delicious sides to your loved ones.

Let the aromas of your crockpot fill your home as you gather with family and friends. Which side dish will be the star of your Thanksgiving table this year? Let me know in the comments below!

1. Comforting Cheesy Potatoes

Rich, velvety, and utterly decadent, creamed corn with cream cheese transforms a simple vegetable into a luxurious side dish. Sweet corn kernels are simmered in a luscious blend of cream cheese, butter, and milk, creating a silky, flavorful base.

A dash of garlic and pepper adds a subtle depth, while the natural sweetness of the corn shines through. This dish is perfect for holiday dinners or cozy weeknight meals, complementing everything from roasted turkey to grilled steak. Its irresistible creaminess and effortless preparation make it a favorite for family gatherings.

Servings: 6 people

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup chopped onions
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 package (30 oz) frozen hash brown potatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, sour cream, and condensed cream of chicken soup until smooth.
3. Add the chopped onions and shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture; stir well.
4. Fold in the frozen hash brown potatoes, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your preference.
6. Transfer the potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.

2. Creamed Corn with Cream Cheese

Rich, velvety, and utterly decadent, creamed corn with cream cheese transforms a simple vegetable into a luxurious side dish. Sweet corn kernels are simmered in a luscious blend of cream cheese, butter, and milk, creating a silky, flavorful base.

A dash of garlic and pepper adds a subtle depth, while the natural sweetness of the corn shines through. This dish is perfect for holiday dinners or cozy weeknight meals, complementing everything from roasted turkey to grilled steak. I

Servings: 8 people

Ingredients:

• 1 (24-ounce) bag of frozen corn (about 5 ½ cups)
• 1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese, cut into small cubes
• 4 tablespoons butter, diced
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 to 2 fresh jalapeños, minced (seeds & membranes removed), optional
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. In a medium to large slow cooker, combine the frozen corn, cream cheese cubes, diced butter, milk, sugar, salt, pepper, and minced jalapeños (if using).
2. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4 hours.
3. After 4 hours, add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the mixture.
4. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
5. Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt and/or pepper if desired.
6. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit more milk to reach the desired consistency.
7. Transfer the creamed corn to a serving dish and serve immediately, or keep it warm in the slow cooker set to WARM until ready to serve.

3. Orange Spice Carrots

Bright and vibrant, orange spice carrots bring a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors to your plate. Tender carrots are glazed with a mix of fresh orange juice, brown sugar, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

The result is a fragrant, slightly caramelized side dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfect for holiday spreads or weekday dinners, these carrots add a touch of elegance to any meal. Their natural sweetness is balanced with a citrusy tang, making them a hit with kids and adults alike.

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients:

• 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the sliced carrots in a steamer basket over boiling water and cover. Steam until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
2. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Stir in the honey, orange juice, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
4. Add the steamed carrots to the saucepan and toss to coat them evenly with the sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are glazed and heated through.
7. Transfer to a serving dish and serve warm.

4. Scalloped Taters

Scalloped taters are a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with a creamy, seasoned sauce and baked until bubbly and golden brown. Each bite is rich, hearty, and loaded with flavor, thanks to the addition of butter, garlic, and a hint of cheese.

This dish is perfect for pairing with roasted meats or grilled vegetables, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Ideal for potlucks and holiday dinners, scalloped taters are sure to bring smiles to the table.

Servings: 8 people

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 cup chopped cooked ham
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• ½ cup chopped onion
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup water
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Place the thinly sliced potatoes into the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, mix together the chopped cooked ham, shredded Cheddar cheese, and chopped onion.
3. Add the ham and cheese mixture to the slow cooker with the potatoes; mix well to combine.
4. In the same bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup and water.
5. Season the soup mixture with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper; stir until smooth.
6. Pour the seasoned soup mixture evenly over the potato and ham mixture in the slow cooker.
7. Cover and cook on HIGH for about 4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
8. Once cooked, stir gently and serve hot.

5. Mexican Pintos with Cactus

Transport your taste buds to Mexico with this bold and flavorful dish of Mexican pintos with cactus. Tender pinto beans are simmered with strips of tangy cactus, onions, and a medley of spices for an authentic, earthy flavor.

A hint of smoky chili adds depth, while a squeeze of lime brightens the dish. Perfect as a side or a hearty vegetarian main, this recipe pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or fresh salsa. It’s a healthy and protein-packed option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Servings: 10 people

Ingredients:

• 2 large flat cactus leaves (nopales)
• 2 slices onion
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
• 3 tablespoons salt, divided
• 3 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 cups dry pinto beans, rinsed

Instructions:

1. Add the pinto beans to the slow cooker and fill with hot water.
2. Stir in bacon, jalapeno, onion, and 2 tablespoons of salt. Cover and cook on High for 3-4 hours, adding water as needed.
3. Remove thorns from cactus leaves and slice into small pieces.
4. Boil cactus in a saucepan with 1 tablespoon salt for 15 minutes.
5. Drain the cactus, rinse with cold water, and add to the beans.
6. Cook on High for 15 more minutes until the beans are tender.

6. Slow-cooked Collard Greens

Slow-cooked collard greens are a Southern classic that boasts rich, savory flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Simmered low and slow with smoky ham hocks or turkey, these greens absorb every bit of seasoning, from tangy vinegar to a hint of spice.

The result is a tender, flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with cornbread and fried chicken. Nutritious and satisfying, collard greens are a staple for family gatherings or comforting weeknight dinners.

Servings: 16 people

Ingredients:

• 4 bunches of collard greens, rinsed, trimmed, and chopped
• 1 pound ham shanks
• 4 pickled jalapeno peppers, chopped
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Fill a large pot halfway with water and add ham shanks. Bring to a boil.
2. As the greens wilt, transfer them to the slow cooker, layering with ham shanks and jalapenos.
3. Stir in baking soda, olive oil, black pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Cover and cook on High until boiling, then reduce heat to Low.
5. Cook for 8-10 hours, checking tenderness before serving.

7. Grandpa’s Classic Coney Sauce

Grandpa’s Classic Coney Sauce is a nostalgic favorite, packed with rich, meaty flavor that transforms any hot dog into a hearty delight. This savory sauce combines ground chicken, tangy tomato paste, and a perfect blend of spices for an authentic, diner-style taste.

Simmered to perfection, it’s thick, flavorful, and just the right amount of messy. Ideal for backyard barbecues or game day, it’s also versatile enough to top burgers or fries.

Servings: 12 people

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of ground chicken
• ¾ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup chopped onion
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups ketchup
• ¼ cup white vinegar
• ¼ cup white sugar

Instructions:

1. Brown ground chicken with onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat; drain.
2. Transfer chicken and onion to the slow cooker.
3. Stir in ketchup, sugar, vinegar, mustard, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper.
4. Cover and cook on Low for 3 hours. Stir occasionally and serve when ready.

8. Slow Cooker Spicy Black-Eyed Peas

Slow-cooker spicy black-eyed peas are a comforting and flavorful dish with a kick of heat. These tender legumes are cooked with smoky sausage, garlic, and chili spices for a deeply satisfying flavor.

A hint of tomato adds brightness, while slow cooking ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for New Year’s Day or any occasion, they pair beautifully with cornbread or rice. This protein-packed recipe is as nutritious as it is delicious, offering a convenient, hands-off cooking method.

Servings: 10 people

Ingredients:

• 6 cups water
• 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeño chile, minced
• 8 ounces diced ham
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 cube chicken bouillon
• 1 ½ teaspoons cumin

Instructions:

1. Add water and a bouillon cube to the slow cooker. Stir to dissolve.
2. Stir in black-eyed peas, ham, bacon, onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, garlic, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and cook on Low for 6-8 hours until peas are tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

9. Slow-cooker Sriracha Corn

Slow-cooker Sriracha corn is a bold and spicy twist on a classic side dish. Sweet corn kernels are simmered in a creamy, buttery base with a generous drizzle of Sriracha for a tangy, fiery kick.

The heat is perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the corn, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Easy to prepare and perfect for potlucks or barbecues, this dish adds a unique touch to any meal. It’s a great way to bring some spice to the table without overpowering other dishes.

Servings: 6 people

Ingredients:

• 4 cups frozen corn kernels
• 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste
• Chopped green onions (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Add frozen corn kernels to the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, mix melted butter, Sriracha, honey, and garlic powder.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the corn and stir to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and cook on LOW for 2-3 hours until tender.
6. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
7. Garnish with green onions before serving, if desired.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!

10. Italian Mushrooms

Italian mushrooms are a savory, herby delight that’s perfect as a side or appetizer. Plump mushrooms are sautéed with garlic, olive oil, and a medley of Italian herbs like oregano, thyme, and parsley. A splash of balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese elevate the flavors, adding richness and tang.

These mushrooms are versatile and can complement pasta dishes, grilled meats, or even a crusty piece of bread. Their tender texture and bold flavor make them a standout addition to any meal.

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients:

• 1 pound button mushrooms, cleaned and stems trimmed
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss mushrooms in the seasoned oil until coated.
4. Arrange mushrooms on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the mushrooms.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until tender and golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving dish.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

11. Slow Cooker Creamed Corn

Slow cooker creamed corn is the ultimate comfort food, combining sweet, tender kernels with a rich and creamy sauce. Butter, cream cheese, and a touch of sugar blend seamlessly to create a luxurious texture that melts in your mouth.

This dish is a stress-free addition to holiday spreads or casual family dinners, requiring minimal prep for maximum flavor. A sprinkle of black pepper or paprika adds a hint of spice to balance the sweetness. Serve it alongside turkey, ham, or fried chicken for a side that’s sure to impress.

Servings: 12

Ingredients:

• 1 ¼ (16 oz) packages of frozen corn kernels
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese
• 1 tablespoon white sugar
• ½ cup butter
• ½ cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine frozen corn, cream cheese, butter, milk, and sugar in the slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and cook on Low for 4-6 hours or High for 2-4 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Once the corn is tender and the flavors are blended, stir and adjust seasoning.
5. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, flavorful corn.

12. Rebellion Sauerkraut

Rebellion sauerkraut takes traditional fermented cabbage to a whole new level with bold, unexpected flavors. Infused with spices like caraway seeds, smoky paprika, and a touch of chili, this sauerkraut has a fiery edge. It’s perfect for adding a tangy kick to sausages, sandwiches, or even tacos.

The fermentation process enhances its health benefits, making it a gut-friendly, probiotic-rich addition to your meals. Serve it warm or cold to complement a variety of dishes, from hearty German classics to modern fusion cuisine.

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients:

• 1 (16 oz) jar sauerkraut
• 1 cup hard apple cider

Instructions:

1. Combine sauerkraut and hard apple cider in a small slow cooker.
2. Cook on High for about 3 hours, or until the sauerkraut is very tender.
3. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning if needed.

13. Slow Cooker Spaghetti Squash

Slow-cooker spaghetti squash is a healthy and effortless alternative to traditional pasta. The squash cooks to tender perfection in the slow cooker, making it easy to shred into noodle-like strands. A simple seasoning of olive oil, garlic, and herbs enhances its natural sweetness while keeping it light and versatile.

This dish pairs beautifully with marinara, Alfredo, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a quick, satisfying meal. It’s low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients, making it a favorite for health-conscious eaters.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 whole spaghetti squash
• 1 ½ cups water

Instructions:

1. Prick the outside of the squash with a fork 10-15 times.
2. Place the squash in the slow cooker and pour in the water.
3. Cook on Low for 4-6 hours.
4. Once done, transfer the squash to a cutting board and allow it to cool for 15-30 minutes.
5. Slice the squash in half, discard the seeds, and shred the flesh with a fork to create strands.

14. Kale in the Slow Cooker

Kale in the slow cooker is a nutrient-packed side dish that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare. The kale leaves become tender as they slowly cook with onions, garlic, and a splash of broth. A touch of vinegar adds brightness, while smoky bacon or ham enhances the dish with savory richness.

Perfect for pairing with roasted meats or grilled fish, it’s a versatile addition to any meal. This recipe is great for meal prep, as the flavors only deepen over time.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon minced lemongrass
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• 6 cups tightly packed kale, stems removed
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine broth, garlic, soy sauce, lemongrass, and ginger in the slow cooker.
2. Heat on High for about 30 minutes until the flavors are well combined.
3. Add kale and stir to coat with the broth mixture.
4. Reduce the heat to Low and cook for approximately 2 hours.
5. Add a splash of rice vinegar before serving, if desired.

15. Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Potatoes

Slow cooker garlic Parmesan potatoes are a savory, melt-in-your-mouth side dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Baby potatoes are tossed in olive oil, minced garlic, and a generous amount of Parmesan cheese, then slow-cooked until tender and golden.

A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness to this rich, comforting dish. Perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or weeknight meals, these potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats or seafood. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs. red potatoes (cut into wedges)
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tsp. minced garlic
• ¼ tsp. salt
• ¼ tsp. pepper
• 1 tsp. dried thyme
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• ¼ cup parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Wash and cut potatoes, placing them in the slow cooker.
2. Mix olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano in a small bowl.
3. Pour the mix over the potatoes and stir to coat evenly.
4. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top.
5. Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 hours.
6. Garnish with extra parmesan before serving.