11 Crockpot Christmas Potluck Recipes That Practically Cook Themselves

Hosting Christmas potlucks is such a joy, but let’s be real, holiday cooking can get a bit hectic. That’s where these 11 Crockpot recipes come to the rescue, making it all feel easy-breezy. Picture a Slow-Cooker Holiday Ham that’s tender and flavorful, or a Gingerbread Pudding Cake that fills your home with the coziest aromas. Curious how these dishes practically take care of themselves while I spend quality time with family? Keep reading to discover these simple and delightful recipes.

Slow-Cooker Holiday Ham

Embrace the spirit of the season with a delicious Slow-Cooker Holiday Ham, a centerpiece guaranteed to impress at your Christmas potluck. This dish combines the rich, savory flavors of ham with a sweet glaze, creating a perfect balance that will have your guests coming back for seconds. By utilizing a crockpot, you guarantee that the ham remains tender and juicy, absorbing all the flavors of the glaze while freeing up your oven for other holiday treats.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people and requires minimal preparation, allowing you to focus on enjoying the company of your family and friends. The slow-cooker method is a stress-free way to achieve a perfectly cooked ham, guaranteeing that even novice cooks can produce a festive dish with ease. Gather your ingredients and follow these simple steps for a holiday main course that’s as easy as it’s delightful.

Ingredients:

• 1 (4-5 pound) boneless ham
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/2 cup apple cider
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup water

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preparation: Place the ham in the slow cooker, fat side up. This orientation allows the fat to melt down into the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
2. Make the Glaze: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the brown sugar, maple syrup, apple cider, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Mix until all ingredients are well blended and the sugar is mostly dissolved.
3. Apply the Glaze: Pour the glaze over the ham, guaranteeing that it’s evenly coated. Use a spoon or a brush to spread the glaze over the surface, making sure it drips down into the nooks and crannies of the ham for maximum flavor.
4. Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Allow the ham to cook for 4-6 hours. If your slow cooker has a timer, you can set it to switch to the “warm” setting once the cooking time is complete.
5. Baste the Ham: Every hour or so, carefully remove the lid (watch out for steam!) and baste the ham with the juices collected at the bottom of the cooker. This helps to enhance the flavor and keep the ham tender.
6. Finish and Serve: Once the cooking time is complete, remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve the ham with the glaze from the slow cooker poured over the top or in a separate bowl for dipping.

Extra Tips: For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a few whole cloves to the surface of the ham before applying the glaze. This will infuse the meat with a warm, aromatic spice that complements the sweetness of the glaze.

If you prefer a thicker glaze, transfer the liquid to a saucepan after the ham is cooked and simmer it on the stove until it reduces to your desired consistency. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a light, crisp salad to balance out its rich flavors.

Enjoy the simplicity and festivity of this dish, and watch as it becomes a beloved holiday tradition.

Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs

Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs are a delightful holiday treat that’s perfect for your Christmas potluck. These savory and sweet meatballs are simmered to perfection in a tangy cranberry sauce, offering a unique twist that will surely impress your family and friends. The combination of flavorful meatballs with the tartness of cranberries and the subtle sweetness of brown sugar creates a harmonious blend that’s both comforting and festive.

Whether you’re hosting a party or attending one, these crockpot meatballs will be a hit and can be easily prepared ahead of time, freeing you up to enjoy the holiday festivities.

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and convenience. Using a crockpot allows the flavors to meld together slowly, guaranteeing each meatball is infused with the rich, zesty sauce. The slow cooking process also guarantees that the meatballs are tender and juicy. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it an ideal dish for a small gathering.

With minimal preparation and a few hours of cooking time, you can have a delicious dish that requires little attention while cooking, allowing you to focus on other preparations.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 can (14 oz) jellied cranberry sauce
• 1 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small, uniform-sized balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. This should yield about 20-24 meatballs.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and well combined.
4. Arrange in the Crockpot: Place the meatballs in the bottom of the crockpot, guaranteeing they’re evenly spaced in a single layer. Pour the prepared cranberry sauce mixture over the meatballs, covering them completely.
5. Cook the Meatballs: Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to guarantee the meatballs are evenly coated with the sauce.
6. Serve: Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. These are ready to be served hot, making them perfect for your festive gathering.

Extra Tips:

When rolling the meatballs, you can lightly grease your hands to prevent the mixture from sticking, which makes the process much smoother.

If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought frozen meatballs as a substitute. Simply adjust the cooking time as necessary, guaranteeing they’re heated through thoroughly.

Finally, these crockpot cranberry meatballs can be kept warm in the crockpot on the “keep warm” setting, allowing guests to enjoy them at their leisure throughout the event.

Festive Beef Brisket

This Festive Beef Brisket is the perfect centerpiece for your Christmas potluck, bringing warmth and rich flavors to the holiday table. Slow-cooked to perfection in a crockpot, the brisket becomes tender and juicy, absorbing the savory blend of spices and a hint of sweetness that makes it a standout dish. Its deep, hearty flavor is ideal for sharing with friends and family, providing a comforting meal that’s bound to impress.

Whether you’re hosting or contributing to a holiday gathering, this brisket is a delightful addition that captures the spirit of the season. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and minimal hands-on time, allowing you to focus on other holiday preparations while it cooks. The slow cooking process guarantees that the brisket is infused with all the aromatic spices and flavors, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Serve it with your favorite sides to complete the meal, and watch as your guests savor each bite of this festive treat. Perfect for serving 4-6 people, this recipe assures everyone gets to enjoy the hearty and festive flavors of the season.

Ingredients:

• 3 to 4 pounds beef brisket
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 bay leaves

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Brisket: Begin by patting the brisket dry with paper towels. Season it generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.
2. Sear the Brisket: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the brisket and sear it for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until a brown crust forms. This step enhances the flavor by caramelizing the surface.
3. Prepare the Crockpot: Place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the crockpot. This will serve as a flavorful bed for the brisket.
4. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the beef broth, red wine (if using), soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Stir in the paprika, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to create a smooth sauce.
5. Assemble in the Crockpot: Place the seared brisket on top of the onions and garlic in the crockpot. Pour the sauce mixture over the brisket, ensuring it’s well coated. Add the bay leaves on top.
6. Cook the Brisket: Cover and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours or on high heat for 4-5 hours. The brisket is done when it’s fork-tender and easily pulls apart.
7. Serve the Brisket: Once cooked, remove the brisket from the crockpot and let it rest for about 15 minutes. Slice against the grain and serve with the onions and the rich sauce from the crockpot.

Extra Tips: For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the brisket overnight in the sauce mixture before cooking. While searing the brisket is optional, it does enhance the flavor greatly by adding a layer of caramelization.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the brisket once cooked and reduce the sauce on the stovetop by simmering it until it reaches your desired consistency. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves before serving, as they’re not meant to be eaten. Enjoy this delightful dish with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete festive meal.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a delightful addition to any holiday spread, especially during the festive Christmas season. This crockpot version guarantees that you have more time to focus on entertaining your guests and less time fussing over the stove.

The slow-cooking process allows the potatoes to become incredibly tender, absorbing the rich flavors of creamy butter and fragrant garlic, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor. With the ease of preparation in a crockpot, this recipe is perfect for a Christmas potluck or family gathering, making it seamless to transport and serve.

Using a crockpot for these mashed potatoes not only simplifies the cooking process but also enhances the overall taste, as the potatoes slowly soak in the buttery and garlicky goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and delivers a classic holiday side dish that everyone will love.

Serve these Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes alongside your favorite holiday entrees, and watch them become a staple at your Christmas celebrations.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 3 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup of sour cream
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Start by peeling and dicing the Yukon Gold potatoes into uniform pieces. This guarantees even cooking and a smooth texture in your mashed potatoes.
2. Add to Crockpot: Place the diced potatoes in the crockpot. Add the minced garlic, chicken broth, and cubed butter. Stir to combine, coating the potatoes with the butter and broth.
3. Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6-7 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash them directly in the crockpot to your desired consistency.
5. Add Cream and Seasonings: Stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure everything is well combined and creamy.
6. Garnish and Serve: If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Keep the mashed potatoes warm in the crockpot on the ‘warm’ setting until ready to serve.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, choose Yukon Gold potatoes as they provide a creamy texture ideal for mashing. If you prefer a chunkier texture, mash the potatoes slightly less.

Holiday-Spiced Mulled Cider

As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of spices wafting through your home to set the festive mood. Holiday-Spiced Mulled Cider is a classic warm beverage that can be served at any Christmas potluck or holiday gathering. This delicious drink is made effortlessly in a crockpot, allowing you to focus on other preparations while it simmers and fills the air with its delightful scent.

The blend of sweet apple cider, warm spices, and citrus creates a cozy drink that everyone will enjoy. This recipe is perfect for serving 4-6 people, making it an ideal choice for a small gathering or a family night in. The crockpot method guarantees that the flavors meld beautifully over time, producing a rich and inviting drink.

Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, this Holiday-Spiced Mulled Cider is sure to become a favorite holiday tradition.

Ingredients (Serving size: 4-6 people):

• 8 cups apple cider
• 1 orange, sliced into rounds
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon allspice berries
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by gathering all the ingredients. Slice the orange into thin rounds, making sure they’re even to release maximum flavor.
2. Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Place the apple cider, orange slices, and brown sugar into your crockpot. Stir gently to make certain the sugar is evenly distributed.
3. Add Spices: Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, allspice berries, and ground nutmeg to the crockpot. These spices are essential for creating the warm, festive flavor of the cider.
4. Simmer the Cider: Set your crockpot to low heat and let the cider slowly simmer for 3-4 hours. This allows the spices to infuse the cider fully, enhancing its taste.
5. Add Vanilla Extract: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the vanilla extract. This adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the cider.
6. Strain and Serve: Before serving, use a fine mesh strainer to remove the spices and orange slices. Pour the mulled cider into mugs and serve warm.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of rum or brandy to each mug before serving for an adult twist. You can also garnish with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange for a decorative touch.

If you prefer a less sweet cider, adjust the amount of brown sugar to taste. For those who like a stronger spice flavor, you can let the cider sit on the “warm” setting for an additional hour to enhance the flavors.

Remember that using fresh, high-quality apple cider will yield the best results regarding taste.

Savory Stuffing With Sausage

Cooking this stuffing in a crockpot not only makes it easy to transport to a potluck but also keeps it warm and ready to serve throughout the event. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish.

With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of preparation, you can create a stuffing that’s certain to be a hit at your holiday celebration.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (12-ounce) package of cubed stuffing mix
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and cook the ground sausage until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
2. Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet with the sausage drippings, add the chopped onion and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and translucent.
3. Combine Ingredients: In the crockpot, combine the cooked sausage, sautéed onion and celery, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the cubed stuffing mix until everything is evenly distributed.
4. Add Liquid: Pour the chicken broth and melted butter over the stuffing mixture. Gently stir to make sure that all the stuffing cubes are moistened and the ingredients are well mixed.
5. Cook in Crockpot: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the stuffing is hot and cooked through. Stir occasionally to make sure even cooking.
6. Finish and Serve: Just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm directly from the crockpot.

Extra Tips: For the best results, use a sausage with a flavor profile that complements the stuffing, such as a sage or herbed sausage.

If you prefer a crispier texture, you can transfer the cooked stuffing to a baking dish and bake in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes before serving. Additionally, feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like cranberries, nuts, or apple chunks to customize the stuffing to your taste.

Slow-Cooked Green Bean Casserole

Slow-Cooked Green Bean Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic holiday favorite, perfect for any Christmas potluck. This dish combines the comforting flavors of tender green beans, savory mushrooms, and crispy onions, all melded together in a creamy sauce. By preparing this dish in a crockpot, you free up precious oven space and guarantee that your casserole remains warm and ready to serve throughout your gathering.

Plus, the slow cooking process allows the flavors to fully develop, resulting in a dish that’s rich, hearty, and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying this recipe for the first time, the simplicity of the crockpot method will make this dish a stress-free addition to your holiday menu.

The convenience of being able to set it and forget it means you can focus on enjoying the festivities and spending time with loved ones. This Slow-Cooked Green Bean Casserole serves 4-6 people, making it an ideal side dish for a small family gathering or a contribution to a larger potluck spread.

Ingredients for 4-6 people:

• 1 ½ pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• ¾ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (6 ounces) French-fried onions
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Green Beans: Start by washing and trimming the fresh green beans. Cut them into approximately 2-inch pieces to guarantee even cooking.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
3. Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot: Place the prepared green beans in the bottom of the crockpot. Pour the mushroom soup mixture over the top, guaranteeing that the beans are evenly coated.
4. Add Cheese and Onions: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the green bean and soup mixture. Save half of the French-fried onions for later use and add the remaining half on top of the cheese.
5. Cook the Casserole: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 4-5 hours. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 2-3 hours. The casserole is ready when the green beans are tender and the sauce is bubbly.
6. Final Touch: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining French-fried onions on top of the casserole. Drizzle the melted butter over the onions to enhance their crispiness. Cover and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes to allow the onions to crisp up.

Extra Tips: To make this dish even more irresistible, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the soup mixture for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re using frozen green beans, there’s no need to thaw them; just add an additional 30 minutes to the cooking time.

For a more decadent spin, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream. And finally, if you’re feeding a larger crowd, simply double the ingredients and use a larger crockpot to accommodate the increased volume.

Cranberry-Orange Glazed Pork Loin

Crockpot cooking is a lifesaver during the bustling holiday season, allowing you to prepare a delicious dish with minimal effort. One standout recipe perfect for a Christmas potluck is Cranberry-Orange Glazed Pork Loin. This dish combines the festive flavors of tart cranberries and bright citrus to create a succulent and aromatic pork loin that will impress your guests.

The slow-cooking process guarantees the pork is tender and infused with the rich glaze, making it a memorable addition to your holiday spread. With a few simple ingredients and your trusty crockpot, you can easily prepare this dish for a cozy gathering of 4-6 people.

The cranberry-orange glaze not only adds a beautiful color to the pork loin but also imparts a depth of flavor that balances both sweet and savory notes. Once you’ve tried this dish, it will quickly become a favorite go-to for any holiday occasion.

Ingredients for Cranberry-Orange Glazed Pork Loin (Serves 4-6):

• 3-4 pound pork loin
• 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 orange, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork Loin: Start by seasoning the pork loin generously with salt and pepper on all sides to enhance its natural flavor. Set the seasoned pork aside.
2. Make the Glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger. Whisk these ingredients together until they’re well combined and smooth.
3. Assemble the Crockpot: Place the seasoned pork loin into the crockpot. Pour the cranberry-orange glaze over the pork, making sure it’s evenly covered. Arrange the orange slices on top and around the pork for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
4. Cook the Pork: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and is tender to the touch.
5. Rest and Serve: Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, assuring each slice is moist and flavorful. Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme if desired, and serve with the remaining glaze from the crockpot.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, try to use a pork loin that’s evenly sized and not too thick, guaranteeing uniform cooking. If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can remove the pork from the crockpot once cooked and simmer the glaze in a saucepan on the stove until it reaches your desired consistency.

Additionally, if you want to add a bit more zest to the flavor, consider grating some orange zest into the glaze before cooking. This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, making it a complete festive meal.

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a delightful addition to any holiday potluck, bringing warmth and comfort to the table with their creamy texture and rich flavors. This dish combines thinly sliced potatoes with a luscious cheese sauce, creating layers of savory goodness that are slow-cooked to perfection in a crockpot.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or contributing to a festive spread, these cheesy scalloped potatoes are bound to be a crowd-pleaser, providing a hearty and satisfying side dish that complements any main course.

Preparing Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes in a crockpot not only frees up oven space for other dishes but also guarantees that your potatoes cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors of the cheese sauce. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for small to medium-sized gatherings.

The combination of cheddar and Gruyère cheeses adds a depth of flavor, while hints of garlic and onion enhance the overall taste profile. With minimal prep work and the convenience of a slow cooker, you’ll have more time to enjoy the festivities without sacrificing the quality of your dish.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 2 pounds of russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of milk
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves
• Cooking spray

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly coat the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will make cleaning up easier and guarantee the potatoes don’t adhere to the sides.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a small pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until they’re soft and fragrant. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Mix the Cheese Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the heavy cream, milk, sautéed garlic and onion, salt, pepper, and half of the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses. Stir until well-mixed.
4. Layer the Ingredients: Begin by placing a layer of sliced potatoes in the bottom of the crockpot. Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, then sprinkle some of the remaining shredded cheeses and fresh thyme leaves. Repeat this process until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of cheese.
5. Cook the Potatoes: Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat. Allow the potatoes to cook for 4-5 hours, or until they’re tender and fully cooked through. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, creating a creamy sauce.
6. Serve: Once the potatoes are done, turn off the crockpot and let them sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This rest period helps the sauce thicken slightly, making it easier to serve.

Extra Tips

For the best results, choose potatoes of similar size to guarantee even cooking. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform slices quickly and easily, which is key to the dish’s texture.

If you prefer a slightly crispier top, you can transfer the cooked potatoes to an oven-safe dish and broil them for a few minutes before serving. Be cautious with the seasoning; the cheese adds saltiness, so taste the sauce and adjust as needed.

Finally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor to your liking.

Gingerbread Pudding Cake

Gingerbread Pudding Cake is a delightful treat that combines the warm, spicy flavors of gingerbread with the rich, comforting texture of pudding, all cooked to perfection in a crockpot. This dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings, offering a cozy and nostalgic flavor that embodies the spirit of Christmas.

The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a moist and flavorful cake with a delectable pudding-like sauce at the bottom. This crockpot recipe is ideal for a Christmas potluck as it requires minimal effort and keeps your oven free for other holiday dishes.

The aroma of spices wafting through your home as this cake slowly cooks is sure to evoke fond memories and build anticipation for the treat to come. Plus, it’s easily transportable, making it a convenient option to bring to any festive gathering. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it perfect for a small group or family celebration.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Confirm the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar. Stir in the molasses, milk, egg, and vanilla extract until well mixed. The mixture should be smooth and homogenous.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix to avoid a dense cake.
4. Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent the cake from sticking.
5. Assemble the Cake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared crockpot, spreading it evenly. Carefully pour the boiling water over the batter without stirring. This creates the pudding-like layer as the cake cooks.
6. Cook the Cake: Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the top of the cake is set and the edges pull away slightly from the sides of the crockpot. The pudding layer should be bubbling around the edges.
7. Let it Rest: Once cooked, turn off the crockpot and let the cake sit for about 15 minutes before serving. This allows the pudding to thicken slightly.

Extra Tips:

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter, which complements the spices beautifully. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the granulated sugar to 1/3 cup.

Serve the Gingerbread Pudding Cake warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent holiday treat. Additionally, using a crockpot liner can make cleanup a breeze, allowing you more time to enjoy the festivities.

Warm Chocolate Lava Cake

Indulge in the rich, gooey delight of Warm Chocolate Lava Cake, a perfect dessert for a Christmas potluck. This decadent treat is ideal for those who want to impress with minimal effort. Cooking this dessert in a crockpot guarantees that each bite is filled with warm, molten chocolate, creating a luxurious experience for your taste buds.

The slow cooking process allows the cake to develop a sumptuous texture, with a slightly crisp exterior and a luscious, flowing center that everyone will adore. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it an excellent choice for sharing with friends and family during the festive season.

The simplicity of the ingredients and the convenience of using a crockpot make this dessert a stress-free addition to your holiday menu. With just a few steps, you’ll have a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to be the highlight of your Christmas gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 3/4 cups boiling water
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for topping)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the cake from sticking and facilitate easy removal once it’s done.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir until all the dry ingredients are well mixed.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: To the dry mixture, add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
4. Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in the semisweet chocolate chips into the batter, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
5. Transfer Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared crockpot, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
6. Prepare Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and 1/4 cup cocoa powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter in the crockpot.
7. Add Boiling Water: Gently pour the boiling water over the top of the batter. Don’t stir. The water will help create the molten center as the cake cooks.
8. Cook the Cake: Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to high heat. Cook for 2 to 3 hours, or until the edges are firm and the center is set but still slightly soft when touched.
9. Serve: Once cooked, turn off the crockpot and let the cake rest for about 10 minutes. Serve the cake warm, scooping portions into bowls and ensuring each serving has some of the molten chocolate sauce from the bottom.

Extra Tips:

For an even more indulgent experience, serve the Warm Chocolate Lava Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

If you’re preparing this dessert ahead of time, you can keep it on the “warm” setting for up to an hour before serving. Just make sure to check the consistency occasionally to guarantee it doesn’t overcook.

When adding the boiling water, be careful not to stir it into the batter, as this will disrupt the lava effect. Enjoy this delightful and easy-to-make dessert that will surely become a holiday favorite!