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Thanksgiving Sides You can Make in Your Crockpot

ByLauren Tingley - M.Ed./CFLE

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and for all you busy parents out there, the thought of preparing a full feast might seem daunting. But fear not—your trusty crockpot is here to save the day! With these easy-to-make Thanksgiving recipes, you can enjoy a stress-free holiday meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.

The best Thanksgiving side dish recipes you can make in your crockpot or slow cooker.

Why Use a Crockpot for your Thanksgiving Side Dishes?

Using a crockpot can be a game-changer for holiday cooking. Here’s why:

  • Hands-Free Cooking: Set it and forget it! Spend more time with your family rather than hovering over the stove.
  • Space Saver: Free up your oven for the turkey or other recipes.
  • Flavor Enhancer: Slow cooking allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
  • Stress Reduction: Simplify your cooking process and reduce the tasks you need to juggle.
  • Easy Transport: A crockpot makes transporting a dish and keeping it warm so easy – especially if you have a locking lid.

Now, let’s get to those mouth-watering recipes!

Our Favorite Crock Pot Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes

A Thanksgiving table with traditional side dish recipes that were made in the crockpot. Stuffing, green beans and cranberry sauce.

1. Slow Cooker Cranberry Sauce

Bring some zing to your Thanksgiving table with this easy cranberry sauce that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness. All you need is a bag of cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and some spices. Let it cook in the crockpot for a few hours and you’ll have a sauce that’s bursting with flavor.

2. Crockpot Sausage and Herb Stuffing


Take your stuffing game to the next level with this delicious recipe! Sautéed sausage, herbs, onions, celery, and bread cubes are cooked together in the crockpot until crispy on top and moist on the inside. Your guests will be begging for more.

3. Easy Cranberry Apple Slow Cooker Carrots


Add a pop of color to your Thanksgiving spread with this vibrant fruit and vegetable dish. The combination of cranberries, apples, carrots, brown sugar, and spices create a sweet and tangy glaze that will have everyone asking for th recipe.

4. Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Mashed Pototatoes

No holiday meal is complete without mashed potatoes! Elevate your spuds with these creamy garlic mashed potatoes are made in the crockpot with just 6 ingredients.

5. Mashed Sweet Potatoes


There’s no such thing as too many potatoes on Thanksgiving right? Try this delicious recipe with brown butter, garlic, maple syrup, bacon and fresh sage. No need to take up space on the stove, just let it cook away in the slow cooker while you focus on other dishes.

6. Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

A Thanksgiving classic made even easier with this slow cooker version! Creamy mushroom soup, green beans, and onions come together for a comforting and flavorful casserole that will be devoured by all.

7. Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Bacon Potatoes

Add something new to your Thanksgiving table this year with these delicious cheesy ranch and bacon potatoes.  The perfect combination of potatoes, cheese, and savory bacon, all cooked to perfection in your Crockpot.

8. Crockpot Stuffing

Crock Pot Stuffing is a favorite Thanksgiving recipe that saves oven space and time by cooking separately from the turkey. It captures many of the same flavors and soft texture of traditional stuffing, making it a delicious side dish for Thanksgiving.

9. Slow Cooker Creamed Corn


Add this traditional comforting side dish to your Thanksgiving spread and watch as it gets gobbled up. This Crock Pot Creamed Corn recipe is delicious and incredibly easy to make. Prepare a tasty batch with just 5 simple ingredients and about 5 minutes of prep time.

10. Crockpot Collard Greens

Tender slow cooker collard greens are here to bring some deliciousness to your table! This classic comfort food is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love the added flavor of bacon?

11. Slow Cooker Rosemary Dinner Rolls

These delicious rolls are simple to prepare using frozen bread dough, offering a homemade touch to any meal. They turn out fluffy and perfect for holiday tables and casual dinners, allowing you to save prep time and oven space while still enjoying the delicious taste of fresh herbs.

Slow Cooker Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Enjoy Thanksgiving with these delicious and easy crockpot recipes that allow you to spend quality time with your loved ones while the cooking takes care of itself. Simplify your holidays, while you create special memories around the table, and proudly share a delicious Turkey Day spread that everyone will rave about!

May your Thanksgiving be filled with gratitude, laughter, and joy. Happy Thanksgiving from our kitchen to yours!

Hi! I’m Lauren Tingley M.Ed. and Certified Family Life Expert who empowers overwhelmed families to thrive in their modern lives. As a veteran educator and mother, I understand the pressures and challenges of juggling careers, raising children, and having fun as a family. As an experienced home cook and parenting expert, I love sharing ideas for family-friendly meals, kid-friendly activities, and simplifying family life. My advice and ideas have been featured in major publications like Parents Magazine, Good Housekeeping, and Care.com. I’m passionate about connecting with mothers and inspiring them to create a simpler, more balanced life. Click here to learn more about my background, experience, and philosophies.