10 Easy Thanksgiving Crock Pot Side Dishes Everyone Loves

Thanksgiving dinner doesn’t have to mean kitchen chaos! These 10 thanksgiving crock pot side dishes are here to rescue your holiday, giving you more time with family and less time tied to the stove. Imagine creamy, flavorful sides that practically make themselves while you focus on the turkey.

From velvety mashed potatoes to sweet glazed carrots, these slow cooker recipes deliver restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Just like our popular “One-Pot Holiday Casseroles,” these dishes prove that simplicity and deliciousness go hand-in-hand, making your Thanksgiving celebration stress-free and absolutely delicious.

What Are Thanksgiving Crock Pot Side Dishes?

Ever wondered why we torture ourselves with a dozen pots on Thanksgiving when a trusty crock pot could do half the work? Thanksgiving crock pot side dishes are traditional holiday favorites transformed into hands-off masterpieces.

They’re the answer to every host’s prayer, keeping sides warm and ready while freeing up precious oven space. As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” but the way to a stress-free Thanksgiving is definitely through your slow cooker! Ready to revolutionize your holiday cooking?

Why You’ll Love These Thanksgiving Crock Pot Side Dishes

Free Up Your Oven Space

The biggest lifesaver of thanksgiving crock pot side dishes? They don’t compete for oven real estate! While your turkey takes center stage in the oven, your slow cooker quietly works its magic on the counter. You can prepare 3-4 sides simultaneously using multiple crock pots, creating a feast without the frantic juggling act. The gentle, even heat creates incredibly tender vegetables and impossibly creamy casseroles that taste like they simmered all day (because they did!).

Save Money Without Sacrificing Quality

Making sides at home in your crock pot costs a fraction of ordering catered dishes or buying expensive pre-made options. Fresh ingredients transformed slowly develop deeper, richer flavors than anything store-bought. Plus, you can buy ingredients on sale ahead of time and prep everything the night before. The energy efficiency of slow cookers also means lower electricity bills compared to running your oven all day.

Incredible Flavors That Develop Naturally

The magic of slow cooking intensifies every flavor naturally. Butter melts into sweet potatoes creating caramelized perfection. Herbs and seasonings infuse throughout dishes for complex, layered taste. Cheese becomes luxuriously melted and incorporated. Much like our “Slow Cooker Holiday Ham,” these sides prove that patience creates extraordinary flavor. The gentle heat prevents burning while encouraging ingredients to meld beautifully. You’ll taste the difference in every bite, and your guests will definitely notice the elevated flavors!

Ready to transform your Thanksgiving prep? Let’s dive into these game-changing recipes that’ll make you wonder why you ever did it any other way.

How to Make These 10 Thanksgiving Crock Pot Side Dishes

Quick Overview

These thanksgiving crock pot side dishes are surprisingly simple to master. Each recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimum effort, perfect for busy hosts. The slow, gentle cooking creates tender vegetables, creamy casseroles, and perfectly seasoned sides that stay warm throughout your entire meal.

Total Time Breakdown:

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes per dish
• Cook Time: 3-6 hours (depending on recipe)
• Hands-on Time: Under 30 minutes total

Key Ingredients for Thanksgiving Crock Pot Side Dishes

For Creamy Mashed Potatoes:

• 5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup butter
• ½ cup sour cream
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh chives for garnish

For Green Bean Casserole:

• 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup crispy fried onions
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Sweet Potato Casserole:

• 4 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ⅓ cup butter, melted
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• Marshmallow topping (optional)

For Corn Casserole:

• 2 cans whole kernel corn (15 oz each), drained
• 1 can creamed corn (15 oz)
• 1 box Jiffy corn muffin mix
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup butter, melted
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For Glazed Carrots:

• 3 pounds baby carrots
• ½ cup butter
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• Fresh parsley for garnish

For Cranberry Sauce:

• 4 cups fresh cranberries
• 1½ cups sugar
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 cinnamon stick
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

For Stuffing:

• 12 cups bread cubes, dried
• 1 cup butter
• 2 cups diced onion
• 2 cups diced celery
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Mac and Cheese:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 can evaporated milk (12 oz)
• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup butter, cubed
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Brussels Sprouts:

• 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halve
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Candied Yams:

• 4 pounds yams, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup butter, melted
• ¼ cup orange juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup mini marshmallows (optional)
• ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Creamy Crock Pot Mashed Potatoes

Start by spraying your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Add the cubed Yukon Gold potatoes evenly across the bottom. Pour in ½ cup of water to create steam. Dot the butter pieces on top of the potatoes and sprinkle the minced garlic over everything.

Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until potatoes are fork-tender. Check by piercing a cube with a fork; it should slide in easily. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid from the crock pot.

Add the heavy cream, sour cream, salt, and pepper directly to the slow cooker. Use a potato masher to mash everything together until smooth and creamy. For extra smooth potatoes, use a hand mixer on low speed for 30 seconds. Adjust seasonings to taste, then keep warm on the “keep warm” setting until serving. Garnish with fresh chives right before serving.

2. Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

Layer the trimmed green beans in the bottom of your greased crock pot. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the green beans, making sure all beans are coated. Use a spoon to gently mix and ensure even distribution. Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese on top.

Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1½-2 hours. The beans should be tender but still have a slight bite. About 15 minutes before serving, top with the remaining cheese and crispy fried onions. Cover again and let the cheese melt. Serve hot directly from the crock pot.

3. Sweet Potato Casserole

Place the cubed sweet potatoes in your slow cooker. In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and everything is well blended.

Pour this sweet mixture over the sweet potatoes and stir gently to coat all pieces evenly. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the sweet potatoes are very tender and can be easily mashed.

Mash the sweet potatoes directly in the crock pot using a potato masher until smooth and creamy. Some small chunks are fine for texture. If using marshmallows, spread them on top during the last 15 minutes of cooking with the lid off, allowing them to lightly brown and melt. You can also use a kitchen torch for extra caramelization.

4. Crock Pot Corn Casserole

Spray your slow cooker generously with cooking spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine both cans of corn (whole kernel and creamed), the Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, melted butter, and beaten eggs. Stir everything together until just combined; don’t overmix.

Pour the mixture into the prepared slow cooker and spread evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1½-2 hours.

The casserole is done when the edges are golden and pulling away slightly from the sides, and the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Cut into squares and serve warm.

5. Honey Glazed Carrots

Add the baby carrots to your slow cooker. In a small saucepan, melt together the butter, brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.

Pour this glaze over the carrots and toss to coat evenly. Every carrot should glisten with the sweet mixture. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2 hours, stirring once halfway through if possible.

The carrots are ready when they’re tender but not mushy, and the glaze has thickened into a beautiful coating. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

6. Slow Cooker Cranberry Sauce

Rinse the fresh cranberries and remove any stems or soft berries. Place them in your slow cooker along with the sugar, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon stick, and ground cloves.

Stir everything together to coat the cranberries in the sugar mixture. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-1½ hours. As the cranberries cook, they’ll pop and release their juices, creating a beautiful sauce.

After cooking, remove the cinnamon stick. Use a potato masher to gently mash some of the cranberries for a chunkier sauce, or leave whole for a more rustic texture. The sauce will thicken as it cools. Transfer to a serving bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve. This can be made up to 3 days ahead.

7. Crock Pot Stuffing

Spread the dried bread cubes in your slow cooker. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Pour the cooked vegetables and butter over the bread cubes. Add the chicken broth, beaten eggs, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use a large spoon or your hands to toss everything together gently. The bread should be moistened but not soggy; add more broth if needed.

Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1½-2 hours. The stuffing is done when it’s heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. For extra crispy top, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking.

8. Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

Spray your slow cooker well with cooking spray. Add the cooked and drained macaroni to the crock pot. In a large bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, whole milk, beaten eggs, and mustard powder until smooth.

Add 3 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and all of the mozzarella cheese to the crock pot. Pour the milk mixture over everything and stir gently to combine. Dot the butter cubes on top.

Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-1½ hours, stirring once halfway through. The mac and cheese is ready when it’s hot, bubbly, and creamy. Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese on top during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Let it melt, then serve immediately.

9. Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Place the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts in your slow cooker. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Pour this mixture over the Brussels sprouts and toss well to coat every piece. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2 hours. The sprouts should be tender but not mushy, with slightly caramelized edges.

10. Candied Yams

Layer the sliced yams in your slow cooker, overlapping slightly to create even layers. In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, melted butter, orange juice, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined.

Pour half of this mixture over the first layer of yams. Add the remaining yams and pour the rest of the mixture on top. Sprinkle with chopped pecans if using.

Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the yams are tender and the sauce is bubbly and thick. If using marshmallows, add them during the last 15 minutes with the lid off, allowing them to toast lightly.

What to Serve Thanksgiving Crock Pot Side Dishes With

These thanksgiving crock pot side dishes pair beautifully with the traditional roasted turkey, creating a complete holiday feast. Serve them alongside herb-crusted prime rib or honey-glazed ham for variety.

Fresh dinner rolls or buttermilk biscuits are perfect for soaking up all those delicious sauces and gravies. A crisp autumn salad with mixed greens, dried cranberries, and candied pecans adds brightness and balance.

For beverages, consider mulled apple cider, cranberry spritzers, or a selection of wines including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, or a crisp Riesling. Sparkling water with fresh herbs makes a refreshing non-alcoholic option.

Don’t forget dessert! Classic pumpkin pie, pecan pie, or apple crisp are traditional endings that guests expect. These sides also work wonderfully for Christmas dinner, Easter celebrations, or any large family gathering.

Top Tips for Perfecting Thanksgiving Crock Pot Side Dishes

Choose the Right Size Slow Cooker

Match your crock pot size to your recipe and guest count. A 6-quart slow cooker works for most side dishes serving 8-10 people. For smaller gatherings, use a 4-quart model to prevent dishes from drying out. If serving a crowd, consider using multiple smaller slow cookers rather than one oversized one for better heat distribution and temperature control.

Don’t Overfill Your Crock Pot

Fill your slow cooker only two-thirds to three-quarters full for optimal cooking. Overfilling prevents proper heat circulation and can lead to uneven cooking. If you have too much food, split it between two smaller crock pots for better results.

Layer Ingredients Strategically

Place harder vegetables like potatoes and carrots on the bottom where heat is most direct. Delicate ingredients like cheese and herbs go on top or are added near the end. This prevents overcooking and ensures even doneness throughout.

Resist Lifting the Lid

Every time you peek, you add 15-20 minutes to cooking time! The escaping steam drops the internal temperature significantly. Trust the process and only check when the recipe specifically instructs.

Prep Ingredients the Night Before

Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and combine dry ingredients the evening before Thanksgiving. Store prepped items in airtight containers in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply dump everything in the slow cooker and turn it on. This saves precious time on the busy holiday morning.

Use Liners for Easy Cleanup

Slow cooker liners are a game-changer for sticky sides like sweet potato casserole or mac and cheese. They make cleanup instant and prevent burnt-on residue. If you don’t have liners, spray generously with cooking spray before adding ingredients.

Adjust Seasonings at the End

Slow cooking can mellow flavors, so always taste and adjust seasonings before serving. Add an extra pinch of salt, a squeeze of lemon, or fresh herbs to brighten dishes. This final touch makes a noticeable difference in the overall flavor.

Prevent Condensation Drips

Place a clean kitchen towel under the lid to absorb condensation, preventing water from dripping into your dish. This is especially important for stuffing and casseroles where excess moisture can make them soggy.

Keep Dishes Warm Without Overcooking

Once cooking is complete, switch to the “warm” setting rather than “low.” This maintains the perfect serving temperature without continuing to cook and potentially drying out your sides. Most dishes can stay warm for 2-3 hours safely.

Make Ahead and Reheat

Many thanksgiving crock pot side dishes can be made a day ahead, refrigerated, and reheated in the slow cooker. Add 30-60 minutes to the original cooking time when reheating from cold. This strategy drastically reduces holiday day stress.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Proper Storage Methods

Allow all thanksgiving crock pot side dishes to cool completely before storing, which takes about 30-45 minutes at room temperature. Don’t leave sides out longer than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth. Transfer leftovers to airtight containers, removing as much air as possible.

For best results, store different sides separately rather than mixing them together. This preserves individual flavors and textures. Label each container with the dish name and date using masking tape and a permanent marker.

Most sides stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Creamy dishes like mashed potatoes and mac and cheese maintain quality for 3 days, while vegetable sides like green beans and Brussels sprouts last up to 4 days.

Freezing Guidelines

Most thanksgiving crock pot side dishes freeze beautifully for 2-3 months. Mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, stuffing, and corn casserole are excellent freezer candidates. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing all excess air.

Avoid freezing sides with high water content like cranberry sauce or dishes with mayonnaise-based dressings, as they become watery and separated when thawed. Mac and cheese can be frozen but may require extra milk when reheating to restore creaminess.

Reheating in the Slow Cooker

The slow cooker is perfect for reheating thanksgiving crock pot side dishes while maintaining moisture and flavor. Place refrigerated leftovers in the crock pot, add a splash of broth, milk, or cream to prevent drying. Cover and heat on low for 2-3 hours or until heated through to 165°F.

Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Frozen sides need 4-5 hours on low or can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator first for faster reheating.

Alternative Reheating Methods

For quicker reheating, use the microwave in 2-minute intervals at 50% power, stirring between each interval. Add a tablespoon of liquid to prevent drying. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Oven reheating works well for casserole-style sides. Preheat to 350°F, place the dish in an oven-safe container, cover with foil, and heat for 20-30 minutes until warmed through. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the top.

Stovetop reheating is ideal for mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, and glazed carrots. Use low heat, add extra liquid as needed, and stir frequently to prevent sticking and burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prep thanksgiving crock pot side dishes the night before?

Absolutely! Prep work is the secret to stress-free holiday cooking. Chop all vegetables, measure ingredients, and even combine dry ingredients the night before. Store prepped items separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. In the morning, assemble everything in the slow cooker and turn it on. Avoid adding dairy products until cooking time to prevent spoilage.

How do I prevent my crock pot sides from getting watery?

Excess moisture is a common slow cooker challenge. Use the towel-under-the-lid trick to absorb condensation. Reduce liquid amounts by about 25% compared to stovetop recipes since slow cookers trap moisture. If your dish is too watery at the end, remove the lid for the last 30-45 minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate. You can also thicken with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water).

What size slow cooker do I need for Thanksgiving sides?

A 6-quart slow cooker is the sweet spot for most thanksgiving crock pot side dishes serving 8-10 people. This size handles standard recipes without overcrowding. For larger crowds, use multiple 4-6 quart slow cookers rather than one giant one. Smaller gatherings work well with a 4-quart model. Remember the two-thirds rule: never fill more than 2/3 full for optimal results.

Can I cook multiple sides in one slow cooker?

While tempting, it’s not recommended. Different dishes require different cooking times and temperatures, and flavors can mix undesirably. Invest in multiple slow cookers (they’re inexpensive and worth it!) or stagger your cooking. Make one side ahead and reheat it while cooking another fresh. This approach gives you better control and superior results.

How long can I keep sides warm in the crock pot?

Most thanksgiving crock pot side dishes stay safe and delicious on the “warm” setting for 2-4 hours. Beyond that, they may dry out or develop off-flavors. Add a splash of broth or cream if dishes start looking dry. For food safety, don’t hold sides at warm temperatures longer than 4 hours total. If your dinner runs longer, refrigerate sides and reheat as needed.

Do slow cooker sides taste as good as oven-baked?

Often, they taste even better! The long, gentle cooking develops deeper flavors and creates incredibly tender textures that oven cooking can’t match. Slow cookers also keep dishes moist and prevent burning. The only trade-off is the lack of crispy tops, but you can achieve this by broiling dishes briefly or using a kitchen torch for that golden finish.

What’s the best way to transport crock pot sides to someone else’s house?

Keep your thanksgiving crock pot side dishes in the slow cooker for transport. Secure the lid with rubber bands or the crock pot’s travel clips. Wrap the entire unit in towels or place it in an insulated carrier to maintain temperature. Plug it in immediately upon arrival and switch to “warm” setting. Alternatively, transport cold and reheat at your destination, allowing 2-3 hours on low.

Can I double crock pot recipes for a larger crowd?

Doubling is tricky in slow cookers due to volume and heat distribution issues. Instead of doubling in one pot, use two separate slow cookers with the original recipe amounts. This ensures even cooking and better results. If you must double, use a very large (8+ quart) slow cooker and add 30-60 minutes to the cooking time, checking frequently for doneness.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (Average)
Calories	180-320
Total Fat	8-18g
Saturated Fat	4-10g
Cholesterol	15-45mg
Sodium	280-520mg
Total Carbohydrates	24-48g
Dietary Fiber	2-5g
Sugars	6-24g
Protein	4-12g

Note: Nutrition values vary significantly between different side dishes. Values shown are averages. Creamy casseroles and sweet dishes tend toward the higher end, while vegetable-based sides are on the lower end.

Final Thoughts

These 10 thanksgiving crock pot side dishes will revolutionize your holiday cooking forever. No more kitchen stress, no more timing disasters, and no more cold sides on the table. Your slow cooker becomes your secret weapon for a relaxed, enjoyable Thanksgiving where you actually get to spend time with your guests.

The beauty of these recipes lies in their flexibility and forgiveness. Slow cooking is incredibly forgiving, making it perfect for both experienced cooks and nervous beginners. You can prepare components ahead, cook while you sleep, or let dishes stay warm all afternoon without worry.

This Thanksgiving, free yourself from oven gridlock and embrace the ease of thanksgiving crock pot side dishes. Your family will love the food, you’ll love the extra time and reduced stress, and your kitchen will stay cleaner and cooler. That’s a holiday win all around!

Start planning your menu today, dust off those slow cookers, and get ready for your most organized, delicious Thanksgiving yet. Happy cooking, and may your holiday be filled with amazing food, minimal stress, and maximum family time!

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