40+ Cold Weather Recipes for the Slow Cooker to Keep you Warm
On a cold day, there’s nothing better than a hot and ready meal waiting for you at home. Assemble these family-friendly cold-weather recipes hours before dinner and let the slow cooker do the work, filling your kitchen and table with coziness this season!

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Quick Tips for Making the Most of Your Slow Cooker
- Every slow cooker will vary slightly in heating capacity. Get to know your slow cooker model and make adjustments as needed.
- For the best results, do not fill your slow cooker more than about two-thirds full. This ensures even cooking and helps the food reach the recommended internal temperature within the specified timeframe.
- If you plan to use your slow cooker while away from home, I recommend choosing one with a timer so it can switch to the warm setting when done, preventing overcooking.
- In general, you can leave the slow cooker on the warm setting for up to 2 hours.
- Before storing your leftovers in the fridge or freezer, allow the food to cool slightly.
- Batch-cook these satisfying meals for easy reheating throughout a chilly week!
40+ Cold Weather Recipes for the Slow Cooker to Keep You Warm
Slow Cooker Comfort Soups & Stews for Chilly Days
A classic soup or stew is my go-to meal for those cold-weather months. With this list, you won’t get bored – there’s a tasty twist or flavor combination for everyone!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon jarred minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Pinch red pepper flakes
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz lasagna noodles
- Ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan for serving optional

Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 12 –14 oz smoked sausage sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1 15 oz can pinto beans drained and rinsed
- 1 15 oz can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 15 oz can corn drained
- 1 15 oz can sliced potatoes drained (or 2 medium fresh potatoes, peeled and diced)
- 1 14.5 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes undrained
- 1 10 oz can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel) undrained
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 –3 tablespoons homemade chili seasoning

Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
- 4 celery ribs 1 cup chopped
- 5 carrots 2 cups peeled and chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 12 oz Reames frozen Homestyle Egg Noodles for later
- salt & pepper for later

Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs chopped
- 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
- 1 jalapeno pepper seeded and diced
- 1/2 cup diced sweet onion
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 cup diced zucchini
- 4 oz canned green chiles
- 14.5 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese room temperature

Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian Sausage
- 1/2 pound Yukon gold potatoes
- 1/2 sweet yellow onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper
- 1 cup frozen kale
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 pieces thick-cut cooked bacon chopped
- Salt and pepper

Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 carrots peeled and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon herb and garlic seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 12 oz evaporated milk for later
- 18 oz dried gnocchi 1 package, for later
- 2 oz baby spinach for later

Ingredients
- 2.5 lbs russet potatoes peeled and diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 8 oz whipped cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Cooked crumbled bacon, chives, sour cream, and shredded cheese for garnish

Ingredients
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
- 1 pound gold potatoes
- 16 oz frozen corn kernels
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 cup heavy cream

Ingredients
- 3/4 pound boneless skinless breasts chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 1/2 cup frozen mixed veggies
- 4 oz baby potatoes diced
- 1 small yellow onion diced
- 1 tablespoon herb and garlic seasoning
- 2 tablespoons tapioca flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream

Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 8 oz package frozen sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup frozen crinkle cut carrots heaping cup
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream for later
- 1 1/2 cups wild rice blend for later

Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
- 15 oz black beans drained and rinsed
- 14.5 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 10 oz homemade enchilada sauce or store-bought
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin if using store-bought sauce
- 1 teaspoon ancho chili powder if using store-bought sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried cilantro
- 1 cup frozen sweet corn
- 10 oz baby tomatoes halved
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 4-8 oz whipped cream cheese depending on creaminess desired

Easy All-in-One Meals for Cozy Dinners
Save time in the kitchen after a long day with these cozy all-in-one dinners. They require only a few steps and are packed with wholesome ingredients to feed the family!
Ingredients
Soup:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
- ½ cup diced yellow onion
- ½ cup chopped baby bella mushrooms
- 2 cups frozen mixed veggies
- 2 teaspoons homemade Italian dressing mix
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with equal parts water, optional
Dumplings:
- 1 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt

Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons jarred minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 16 oz pasta noodles choose your favorite
- 8 oz shredded parmesan cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese
- ¼ heavy cream

Ingredients
- 2 pounds bone-in center cut pork chops
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 teaspoon jarred minced garlic
- 1 1/2 cups basmati rice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream

Ingredients
- 2- pound chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon herb and garlic seasoning
- 1/2 sweet yellow onion cut into quartered pieces
- 2 cloves garlic
- 8 oz baby carrots
- 16 oz gold potatoes halved or quartered if large
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup tapioca pearls

Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken or sub ground beef if you prefer a more traditional flavor
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup half and half
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried minced onion
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 3 cups beef broth
- 5 tablespoons butter divided
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup seedless blackberry preserves
- 16 oz Reames Frozen Egg Noodles

Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 sweet yellow onion diced
- 3 teaspoons jarred minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 2 teaspoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 14.5 oz can coconut milk
- 6 oz can tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream for later
- 2 cups Basmati Rice

Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons course or grainy mustard
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 1 1/2 pounds gold potatoes scrubbed clean
- 1 pounds carrots peeled
- 1/2 of a small yellow onion peeled and sliced

Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 oz baby potatoes halved or quartered
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 2 teaspoons jarred minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon homemade curry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons red curry paste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 15 oz canned coconut milk
- 2 oz baby spinach

Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken thighs (4 pieces)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon seasoned pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 1/2 cups jasmine rice
- 3 1/2 cups broth

Hearty Slow Cooker Chili Recipes for Cold Weather
Is there a more classic choice than a steaming bowl of chili for those cold-weather days? Try these hearty variations on flavor and protein, and don’t forget to add your favorite crackers, chips, or cornbread.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 jalapeno pepper seeded and diced
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 2 teaspoons jarred minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons homemade chili seasoning
- ½ teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- 28 oz canned fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken bone broth
- 12 oz frozen cubed butternut squash

Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 15 ounces canned white kidney beans drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup canned pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 pound parsnips peeled and chopped
- 1 pound butternut squash peeled and chopped

Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground turkey or use all beef if preferred
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1 –2 jalapeños seeded and finely diced (optional, for heat)
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups tomato sauce no chunks
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth add up to ½ cup more if needed for consistency
- 2 tablespoons homemade chili seasoning blend of chili powder, ancho chili powder, cumin, salt
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for depth
- Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 2 cans fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon ancho chili powder
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon roasted garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup beer
- 1 teaspoon cilantro
- 1 tablespoon chocolate powder

Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder roast
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 jalapeno peppers diced, ribs and seeds removed
- 15 ounces pinto beans drained and rinsed
- 30 ounces diced tomatoes
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
- 8 ounces Mexican beer chicken broth can be substituted

Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 15 oz canned navy beans drained and rinsed
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 oz whipped cream cheese

Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ancho chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 15 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes
- 15 ounces black beans drained and rinsed
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 3 jalapeño peppers seeded and diced

Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes That Are Warm & Filling
These veggie-packed dishes deliver incredible flavor and comfort, all with the ease of a single slow cooker meal! Try these warm soups, casseroles, and more to add variety to your weekly menu.
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup quinoa
- 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed (canned)
- 15 ounces pinto beans, drained and rinsed (canned)
- 1 cup frozen sweet corn kernels
- 29 ounces diced tomatoes (canned)
- 15 ounces tomato sauce (canned)
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 1/2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning blend
- 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
- sour cream, cheese and lime juice for garnish, if desired

Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups dried green lentils
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 3 medium carrots peeled and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon herb and garlic seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 15 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach for later
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for later

Ingredients
- 15 oz can black beans drained and rinsed
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 12 oz enchilada sauce
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 2 cups dry orzo pasta

Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups arborio rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 12 oz bag frozen butternut squash
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried rubbed sage
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 3 tablespoons Gorgonzola cheese
- 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter

Ingredients
- 6 oz about half a bag tortilla chips gently crushed
- 15 oz can black beans drained and rinsed
- 14.5 oz can diced fire roasted tomatoes drained
- 1 jalapeño seeded and diced
- 1 red bell pepper seeded and diced
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 8 oz can enchilada sauce
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped cilantro or 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
- 2 cups shredded cheese

Ingredients
Ingredients for slow cooker black beans
- 2 pounds dried black beans
- water enough to cover the beans
Ingredients to make refried beans
- 1 ¾ cup of the cooked beans
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon homemade taco seasoning

Ingredients
- 1 small yellow sweet onion diced
- 2 teaspoons jarred minced garlic
- 1 green bell pepper seeded and diced
- 1 jalapeno pepper seeded and diced
- 1 zucchini squash quartered and diced
- 12 oz frozen butternut squash
- 15 oz canned northern beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 14.5 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 14.5 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ancho chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon chipotle chili powder

Slow Cooker Desserts & Sweet Treats for Cold Nights
A sweet treat can bring extra coziness and warmth to your days – especially if you need a little pick-me-up during long cold-weather stretches! Whether a delicious snack or a hot drink, these desserts and treats are suitable for holidays, parties, or simple nights at home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian loaf slightly stale
- 4 eggs lightly beaten
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/4 teaspoon salt

Ingredients
- ½ cup basmati rice
- ½ cup sugar
- 3 cups canned coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons butter

Ingredients
Apple Filling
- 2 1/2 pounds apples peeled and sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1/4 cup cornstarch or tapioca flour
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
Apple Crisp Topping
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour can be gluten-free or almond flour for lower carb
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 8 tablespoons butter

Ingredients
- 2 sticks unsalted butter room temperature
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 egg
- 2 cups flour
- 11 oz package Kraft Caramel Bits
- 1/2 tablespoon sea salt

Ingredients
Dough:
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 packet instant yeast
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
- 1 large egg
- 2 3/4 cups flour
For filling:
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin (not pie filling)
- 3 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
For glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (plus more if needed)

Ingredients
- 8 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder or cacao powder
- ¾ cup granulated sugar adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder or instant coffee granules
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Ingredients
- 4 cups AE Dairy Eggnog (regular or lower sugar)
- 1 1/2 cup AE Dairy Whole Milk
- 3 cups strong brewed coffee (I used espresso blend)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/2 cup AE Dairy Heavy Whipping Cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar






