13 Crockpot Thanksgiving Sides Everyone Will Love

Thanksgiving sides are often the heart of the meal, but limited oven space can make cooking a challenge. That is where your slow cooker comes to the rescue. With a Crockpot, you can create creamy casseroles, savory stuffings, and sweet desserts while keeping everything warm until serving time. These recipes let you focus on family instead of juggling pans. From cheesy potatoes to honey-glazed carrots, these set-it-and-forget-it dishes deliver all the comforting flavors of Thanksgiving with none of the chaos.

1. Slow Cooker Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving must-have, and using a slow cooker makes them stress-free. Simply combine peeled potatoes, butter, garlic, and broth, then let them cook until tender. Mash right in the pot with cream or sour cream for smooth, fluffy perfection. The low, even heat lets the flavors blend beautifully while keeping the potatoes warm until serving. Each bite is rich, buttery, and perfectly seasoned. They pair with turkey, gravy, or stuffing and are sure to be the first dish to disappear.

2. Crockpot Green Bean Casserole

This holiday staple turns out creamy and flavorful in the slow cooker. Green beans combine with mushroom soup, milk, and seasonings, then simmer gently until tender. Just before serving, stir in crispy fried onions for crunch. The Crockpot keeps the sauce silky and prevents burning or drying out. It delivers the same classic taste everyone expects but frees up precious oven space. Serve it right from the pot for an easy, mess-free side that feels nostalgic and freshly made at once.

3. Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy, and comforting, this mac and cheese practically cooks itself. Uncooked pasta, milk, butter, and shredded cheese go straight into the pot, forming a rich sauce as they simmer together. A dash of garlic powder and a little mustard deepen the flavor while the noodles soak up every drop of creaminess. It comes out silky, smooth, and full of warmth. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this side stays deliciously gooey for hours and adds a cozy touch to any holiday spread.

4. Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans

This sweet potato casserole brings dessert-level satisfaction to your dinner plate. Softened sweet potatoes mash together with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for a sweet, buttery filling. Pecans and mini marshmallows go on top near the end of cooking, turning golden and crisp. The slow cooker keeps the potatoes creamy while letting the topping caramelize slightly. The aroma fills the kitchen with holiday cheer. Every scoop offers a mix of soft, sweet comfort and nutty crunch that guests will love.

5. Crockpot Sausage and Herb Stuffing

Classic stuffing gets a flavorful, moist upgrade in the Crockpot. Bread cubes absorb a mixture of browned sausage, onions, celery, and aromatic herbs like sage and thyme. Chicken broth keeps everything tender while slow, steady heat develops incredible depth. The sides brown just enough to add texture while the center stays soft and savory. You can prepare it the night before and let it cook Thanksgiving morning. It stays warm for hours and tastes like a true homemade favorite.

6. Slow Cooker Creamed Corn

This slow-cooked version of creamed corn turns a simple dish into pure comfort. Corn kernels simmer with butter, milk, and cream cheese until they transform into a rich, velvety blend. The sweetness of the corn shines through while the sauce thickens perfectly. Add a pinch of black pepper or cayenne for depth and color. The slow cooker ensures even texture without scorching. It’s a reliable, crowd-pleasing side that complements everything from roasted turkey to baked ham beautifully.

7. Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes

These creamy scalloped potatoes are as delicious as they are convenient. Thinly sliced potatoes layered with melted butter, garlic, and cheese in a luscious sauce that thickens as it cooks. The Crockpot’s low heat helps the potatoes soften evenly without overbrowning. Sprinkle extra cheese during the final minutes for a bubbling, golden finish. Each serving delivers melt-in-your-mouth comfort. It’s hearty, flavorful, and the perfect make-ahead side for when your oven is busy with the main course.

8. Honey-Glazed Carrots

Sweet, buttery, and slightly spiced, these carrots bring color and balance to the Thanksgiving table. Baby carrots cook slowly in honey, butter, and cinnamon until they turn glossy and tender. The glaze forms a rich coating that enhances their natural sweetness without overpowering it. Sprinkle chopped parsley or thyme for a fresh finish. They pair wonderfully with roasted turkey or ham and stay warm in the slow cooker throughout dinner. Simple, elegant, and crowd-friendly, this side always impresses.

9. Slow Cooker Cranberry Sauce

Homemade cranberry sauce has never been easier. Fresh cranberries cook gently with orange juice, sugar, and a hint of cinnamon until they burst into a thick, glossy sauce. The slow cooker’s steady heat prevents scorching while deepening the tangy-sweet flavor. You can prepare it early and serve it warm or chilled. It tastes fresher than store-bought versions and adds a bright, zesty contrast to all the savory dishes. This classic side is a small effort with big holiday payoff.

10. Crockpot Cornbread Casserole

This cornbread casserole combines sweetness, creaminess, and old-fashioned comfort. Corn muffin mix blends with creamed corn, eggs, butter, and sour cream, then bakes slowly into a moist, pudding-like dish. The edges brown slightly while the center stays soft and tender. Serve it as a side for turkey or ham, or drizzle with gravy for extra indulgence. It’s warm, flavorful, and ideal for guests who love both sweet and savory dishes. Plus, it holds beautifully on the warm setting all meal long.

11. Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

This cheesy broccoli rice casserole turns simple ingredients into a creamy, satisfying side. Cooked rice, chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, and a can of cream soup blend together in the slow cooker, creating a dish that feels rich and comforting. As it simmers, the cheese melts into every grain of rice while the broccoli softens but keeps its color. A sprinkle of extra cheese and black pepper at the end adds the perfect finishing touch. It stays hot and creamy for hours, making it ideal for potlucks or large family dinners.

12. Crockpot Apple Cider Glazed Brussels Sprouts

These Brussels sprouts are proof that the right glaze can convert any skeptic. They cook slowly in apple cider, butter, and maple syrup until tender and slightly caramelized. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds contrast, while chopped pecans or bacon give crunch. The glaze thickens as it simmers, coating every sprout in sweet-savory flavor. The result is festive, aromatic, and wonderfully balanced. Serve them directly from the slow cooker for a side that looks impressive and tastes even better.

13. Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding

End the meal with a side that doubles as dessert. Cubes of bread soak in a custard of milk, eggs, pumpkin puree, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. As it cooks, the edges crisp slightly while the center stays soft and custardy. The scent of pumpkin and vanilla fills the room, wrapping everyone in holiday warmth. Top with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or toasted nuts for extra flair. It’s a sweet, comforting finish that brings Thanksgiving to a perfect close.