This collection of fall slow cooker recipes is all the inspiration you need to make delicious, comforting dinners during the coziest months of the year. From hearty soups and stews to family-friendly casseroles, tacos, and crowd-pleasing game day favorites, these recipes make it easy to get a home-cooked meal on the table on busy weeknights.
Table of contents
Slow Cooker Tips
Before you dive in to the recipes, here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your slow cooker.
- Skip the broiler with ceramic inserts. Most ceramic inserts are not oven-safe at high temps. If you want a crispy finish, transfer to a baking sheet or oven-safe dish before broiling. For crumb toppings, toast regular or panko bread crumbs on a baking sheet and sprinkle over the dish at the end.
- Prep the night before. You can assemble some recipes in the insert and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let the insert sit on the counter for about 30 minutes to take the chill off before cooking. Chilled ingredients will lengthen the total cook time, so plan for that.
- Fill level matters. For even cooking, aim to fill the slow cooker at least halfway and no more than three-quarters full. If a recipe is an exception, it will note it.
- Resist lifting the lid. Every peek releases heat and can extend the cook time. Check near the end of the suggested window rather than throughout.
Slow Cooker Classic Comfort Food
When you’re craving cozy, home-cooked meals, these slow cooker classics deliver every time. Think fall-apart tender pot roast, saucy chicken cacciatore, and rich beef tips with gravy, all cooked low and slow for busy weekday dinners or lazy Sunday suppers.
Slow Cooker Soups and Stews
There’s something extra comforting about a bowl of soup or stew on a chilly day, and your slow cooker makes it so easy. From hearty, veggie-packed soups to a rich, meaty stew, these recipes are warm and so satisfying.
Mexican-Inspired Slow Cooker Meals
These are the recipes I reach for most when I’m feeding a group. Each one is a comforting, crowd-pleasing favorite. From crispy pork carnitas and stacked chicken enchiladas to the BEST chicken tacos, they’re versatile, satisfying, and perfect for everything from casual dinners to weekend gatherings.
Slow Cooker Game Day and Party Favorites
These slow cooker recipes are perfect for parties, potlucks, and game day spreads. Think tender shredded sandwiches, crowd-pleasing sliders, and a hearty taco chili. They’re all easy to make ahead and ready when you are.
Slow Cooker Take-Out Inspired Dinners
Skip the takeout trap with these slow cooker dinner recipes. They bring cozy, restaurant-style comfort to your table with inspiration from a variety of cuisines.
Browse my full collection of slow cooker recipes for more easy dinner inspiration. And if you’re looking for even more to try, my cookbook The Foolproof Family Slow Cooker and Other One Pot Solutions is filled with exclusive recipes you won’t find anywhere else.
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