18 Cozy Winter Slow Cooker Recipes Perfect for Chilly Nights

As the temperature drops and winter’s chill sets in, there’s nothing like coming home to a warm, comforting bowl of goodness. And what better way to achieve that than with a slow cooker full of delicious, simmered-to-perfection recipes? In this collection of 18 cozy winter slow cooker recipes, we’ll guide you through the process of creating hearty, flavorful meals that are perfect for chilly nights in.

From classic beef stew and creamy soups to sweet and savory treats like spiced apple cider and maple glazed ham, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick and easy dinner solution or a foodie seeking new inspiration for your next meal prep session, these slow cooker recipes are sure to become your go-to source for cozy winter comfort food.

Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables

Perfect for a chilly evening, this slow cooker beef stew is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare. With tender chunks of beef, root vegetables, and a rich broth, it’s a meal that will warm your heart and belly.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds beef chuck or round, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a slow cooker, combine the beef, onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and parsnip.
2. Pour in the beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on Low for 8-10 hours or High for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (Low) or 4-6 hours (High)

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

This hearty soup combines the flavors of tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and creamy goodness, all slow-cooked to perfection. Perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed wild rice blend
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, wild rice, chicken broth, onion, garlic, peas and carrots, thyme, and paprika.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If desired, stir in heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)

Slow Cooker Spiced Apple Cider

Warm up with a mug of Slow Cooker Spiced Apple Cider!

This recipe is perfect for the fall season, and can be easily customized to your taste preferences. Simply combine apple cider, spices, and sugar in a slow cooker, then let it simmer all day.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Add the apple cider, cinnamon stick, and whole cloves to a slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add the sugar mixture to the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Strain the cider into mugs before serving.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Hearty Slow Cooker Lentil and Sausage Stew

This comforting stew is a perfect blend of tender lentils, flavorful sausage, and aromatic spices, all slow-cooked to perfection. Perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large slow cooker, combine lentils, onion, garlic, sausage, bell pepper, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup with Sage

This recipe is a perfect blend of fall flavors, featuring roasted butternut squash, savory sage, and a hint of nutmeg. Serve hot, garnished with crispy sage leaves and crusty bread for a comforting meal.

Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)
– Fresh sage leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the butternut squash for 45 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a slow cooker, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil until softened.
3. Add roasted squash, cumin, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in broth and heavy cream (if using). Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with crispy sage leaves and crusty bread.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Roast

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Roast: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Tender pork roast infused with the sweet and savory flavors of honey, garlic, and herbs – perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 2-3 lb boneless pork roast
– 1/4 cup honey
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season pork roast with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
4. Place the honey-garlic mixture on top of the pork roast.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove from slow cooker and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Cooking Time: 4-10 hours

Enjoy your tender and flavorful Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Roast!

Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili with Black Beans

This hearty chili recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender black beans, aromatic spices, and a medley of colorful vegetables. It’s a great option for a comforting and healthy meal that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat

Instructions:

1. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, and cumin.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Slow Cooker Pot Roast with Carrots and Potatoes

This hearty slow cooker pot roast recipe combines tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich gravy for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs beef pot roast
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3-4 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the pot roast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, potatoes, and garlic to the slow cooker.
3. Place the pot roast on top of the vegetables.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the beef broth and tomato paste. Pour over the pot roast.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove the pot roast from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Slow Cooker Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili

This recipe is a perfect blend of comfort food and nutritious goodness, with tender turkey, sweet potatoes, and beans simmered together in a rich and flavorful broth.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Slow Cooker Creamy Potato and Leek Soup

Warm up with a comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Creamy Potato and Leek Soup!

Ingredients:

– 2 large leeks, cleaned and sliced into thin rings
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add sliced leeks, cubed potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in chicken broth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
4. Stir in heavy cream about 30 minutes before serving.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)

Slow Cooker Moroccan Lamb Tagine

This slow-cooked tagine is a flavorful and aromatic North African-inspired dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. The tender lamb, rich spices, and sweet dried fruits will transport your taste buds to the vibrant souks of Marrakech.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chopped dried apricots
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

Instructions:

1. Season the lamb with salt, black pepper, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; sear the lamb until browned on all sides. Transfer to slow cooker.
3. Add onion, garlic, apricots, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes to the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and crusty bread, if desired.

Cooking Time: 4-10 hours

Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Tortellini Soup

Warm up with a comforting bowl of slow-cooked goodness! This recipe combines flavorful Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and vegetables in a rich chicken broth.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 14 oz canned diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup frozen cheese-filled tortellini
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker; add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and tortellini.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste; garnish with parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Ham

Transform a classic ham into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this slow cooker recipe. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this dish is sure to impress!

Ingredients:

– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, mustard, cloves, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the ham in the slow cooker and score the fat layer with a knife.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook for 6-8 hours or until the glaze is caramelized and the ham is tender.
6. If using pineapple juice, pour it over the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours

Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

This classic recipe is a warm hug on a cold day, with tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich broth that’s easy to make in your slow cooker.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups whole wheat dumpling mix (or homemade dumplings)
– 2 tbsp butter

Instructions:

1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, broth, flour, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir in dumpling mix and butter until just combined.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, check the dumplings are cooked through and the soup has thickened slightly.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Slow Cooker Vegetable and Barley Stew

This comforting stew is perfect for a cozy night in or as a nutritious meal prep option. With its rich flavors and tender vegetables, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup pearl barley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a slow cooker, combine barley, olive oil, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper.
2. Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Slow Cooker Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff

A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening, this slow cooker beef and mushroom stroganoff is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With tender beef, sautéed mushrooms, and a rich sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz sour cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a slow cooker, combine beef, mushrooms, onion, garlic, tomato paste, beef broth, heavy cream, mustard, and paprika.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve over cooked noodles (such as egg noodles) and top with sour cream if desired.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)

Slow Cooker Pumpkin and Coconut Curry

This recipe combines the comfort of pumpkin with the creaminess of coconut and the warmth of curry spices, perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening. Simply toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work while you’re busy with other tasks.

Ingredients:

– 1 can (14 oz) pumpkin puree
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Slow Cooker Spiced Hot Chocolate

Cozy up on a chilly day with this indulgent slow cooker spiced hot chocolate recipe, perfect for snuggling up by the fire or sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a slow cooker, combine milk, water, cocoa powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until smooth.
2. Add brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice as needed.
5. If desired, add heavy cream to give a richer texture.
6. Serve hot, topped with whipped cream or marshmallows if desired.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)

Summary

Get cozy this winter with these 18 delicious slow cooker recipes, perfect for chilly nights. From hearty beef stews and creamy soups to sweet treats like spiced apple cider, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Discover how easy it is to prepare a mouthwatering meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy families, singles, or anyone looking to warm up on a cold winter day.