10 Safety Rules Every Beginner Slow-Cooker Should Follow

Thanks to This Is Us, slow-cooker safety has been on everyone’s mind since the Super Bowl. Will it catch on fire? Will it burn your house down? Will it implode?! Don’t worry, slow cookers are truly safe these days, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take extra precautions. If you follow our tips below, the only things you’ll have to worry about is which slow cooker to buy and which slow-cooker recipe to make. Before we jump in, just remember a few things: Always place your slow cooker on a flat surface, preferably on a countertop. Don’t fill it more than two-thirds full, and make sure to add some liquid or plenty of water-filled veggies so the bottom of the slow cooker does not scorch. As for the nitty-gritty, see below.

Is it safe to cook frozen chicken/meat in a slow cooker? No, make sure you thaw all frozen meat before putting it in your slow cooker. Since these appliances are designed to cook meat slowly, it spends too much time in the food safety danger zone (40-140°F).

Can a slow cooker be left unattended in the house? Yes, but you should make sure you have read and followed the instructions for your particular model. Most will say exactly how long you can leave it on and plugged in.

Is it OK to leave a slow cooker on overnight? Yes! Breakfast can be a breeze by slow-cooking overnight. Just make sure you’re not leaving it on longer than recommended for your specific model.

How long can a slow cooker remain on? It depends on your model, so make sure you read the directions. Some can be left on for up to 24 hours, but most recommend eight to 12 hours.

For exactly how many hours can food be left on warm in a slow cooker? Typically, it is safe to keep cooked food “warm” for one to four hours. The key is to make sure the temperature is in the safe zone, or 145°F or over. It’s a good idea to use a probe thermometer to test the temperature every hour or so.

How long does a slow cooker last? Contrary to what This Is Us made us believe, most vintage slow cookers are totally safe. However, if your hand-me-down slow cooker has a fabric-wrapped cord or isn’t consistent in its heating, it’s probably time to look for a new one.

Are those plastic slow-cooker liners really designed to be put on a slow cooker? Yes! Just make sure you opt for options that are BPA-free and made of high temperature-safe materials. Lastly, be sure the size fits your slow cooker properly.

Can a slow-cooker insert go in the microwave or oven? Most ceramic inserts are safe up to 400°F — just make sure you leave off the lid as most have a plastic handle or rubber liner.

What about the refrigerator or freezer?Refrigerator — yes. It’s okay to temporarily store your dish in the fridge before cooking. Freezer — no. The ceramic may crack, and it’s not safe to cook meat from a frozen state.

Is it dishwasher-safe? Most slow-cooker inserts and lids are dishwasher-safe. Double check your instruction manual to be sure.

What temperature is low? High? Again, this depends on your slow cooker. Temperature settings on Crock-Pot slow cookers are based on how long it takes food to reach the simmer point of 209°F.

Does the lid need to be left on when cooking? Yes, unless the recipe you are making calls for the lid off. Keeping the lid on your slow cooker helps your meal from drying out and prevents burning. If you are leaving your slow cooker unattended, we recommend keeping the lid on.

Ready to get slow-cooking? Follow Brit + Co on Pinterest for recipes!

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(Illustration via Marisa Kumtong / Brit + Co)

It seems Thanksgiving is barely a week away by the time we start thinking about the menu. But while ovens all over the country will be working overtime this year, don't forget your secret weapon — the crock pot! Kitchen strategy is key when you're trying to factor various cook and prep times for both oven and stovetop dishes. There just never seems to be enough time (or counter space).

Whether you're already finalizing your menu for the day or are just in charge of a few side dishes, we've scoured the web and found 18 Thanksgiving crock pot recipes that are perfect for any gathering.

Creamed Corn

Damn Delicious

Cornis a standard side dish for most Thanksgiving meals, but this recipe is a total game-changer. Five simple ingredients go in your crock pot, and three hours later you’re greeted by corn that is so creamy and delicious, you’ll never be able to eat the canned stuff again.

Wheat Bread Stuffing

Recipe Runner

Free up some room in your oven and cook the stuffing right on the counter this year. Crusty whole wheat bread, celery, onions and chicken broth will have you going back for seconds. Once it’s cooked, turn the heat to low and it will be ready whenever you are.

Brussels Sprouts

Damn Delicious

These aren’t Grandma’s Brussels sprouts. Covered in a brown sugar balsamic reduction and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, these sprouts will have you converted after just one bite.

Sweet Potatoes

The Magical Slow Cooker

This one takes minimal effort, but packs maximum flavor. Wash and dry your sweet potatoes before wrapping them in tinfoil and piling into the crock pot. Cook on high for six hours, and resist the urge to open the lid so the steam doesn’t escape. Serve with butter, brown sugar and mini marshmallows.

Apple Cider

Damn Delicious

Your guests are going to need something to sip on. Made 100% from scratch, this apple cider recipe will definitely steal the show: Combine apples, cinnamon sticks and spices and cover with water, and drink in the delicious smell while it simmers in the slow cooker.

Candied Sweet Potato Casserole

Creme de la Crumb

Okay, so this does require a little oven time, but it’ll be the last thing you heat up before you can dig in (and it’s totally worth it). Peel and chop 5lbs of sweet potatoes and let your slow cooker do all the work for the next four hours. Transfer to a casserole dish, spread a layer of pecans over the sweet potato mixture then bake for 20 minutes to achieve maximum crunch before adding the mini marshmallows. Bake for five more minutes (or until marshmallows are golden brown) and dig in.

Caramel Fondue

Creme de la Crumb

From apple slices to pretzels, there’s no wrong way to dunk with this dip, made from only three ingredients — caramels, heavy cream and marshmallows. Say hello to your new post-Thanksgiving party trick.

Garlic Ranch Potatoes

The Cookie Rookie

Tender red potatoes are a great alternative to the typical mashed variety. Top the wedges with ranch seasoning, chives and garlic for a fresh side dish that no one will believe you made entirely in the crock pot.

Cranberry Sauce Crock Pot Recipe

Gimme Some Oven

This is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it recipe. Toss in the ingredients and come back in three hours for cranberry sauce that is the perfect combination of tart and sweet. Add a splash of vanilla extract right before serving.

Cinnamon Apples

A Spicy Perspective

The best side dishes double as dessert. Cover thinly sliced apples in brown sugar, cinnamon and bourbon, then simmer for four hours. Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy as is — they’re delicious either way.

Cranberry Meatballs

Spicy Southern Kitchen

Trade out the usual jar of grape jelly in your famous meatball recipe for cranberry sauce to give it a holiday update. The sweet and tangy flavor will keep you coming back for more. In fact, you better double the recipe.

Maple Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix

Averie Cooks

This tasty party snack is perfect for clearing out your cabinets: cereal, peanuts, pretzels, dried fruit and graham crackers all come together in a salty sweet crunch. Drench the mix in butter, maple syrup and pumpkin pie spices before testing your willpower for the next two hours.

Apple Pie Oatmeal

The Healthy Maven

Breakfast is still the most important meal of the day (especially on Thanksgiving), but this oatmeal couldn’t be easier: Toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker before you go to bed and you’ll wake up to the aroma of nutmeg and maple syrup.

Buttery Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creme de la Crumb

A pile of fresh herbs, butter and garlic make these mashed potatoes stand out on the buffet table. Use red potatoes and leave the skins on for a rustic flair that not only adds a ton of flavor, it also saves you some work.

Spinach + Artichoke Dip

Damn Delicious

Keep your guests from getting hangry while they wait for dinner: Serve this creamy spinach and artichoke dip with bread, pretzels or pita for a Thanksgiving staple made super easy, thanks to your crock pot.

Butternut Squash Soup

Life Made Sweeter

Combine coconut milk with chunks of butternut squash and sweet potato, then cook in the crockpot for four hours. Once everything is fork tender, break out your immersion blender to make the texture velvety smooth. Top with extra coconut milk and toasted pumpkin seeds before devouring.

Pumpkin Cobbler

The Gunny Sack

Trade in your standard pumpkin pie for a cobbler that is made in the crock pot from start to finish. Pro tip: place a paper towel underneath the lid to keep the condensation off the food and ensure a crispy crust. Top the plated perfection with a dollop of whipped cream and caramel syrup.

Dinner Rolls

Lil Luna

The slow cooker might be the last place you'd think to bake dinner rolls, but trust us on this one. This trick comes in handy year-round, especially on hot summer days when you don't feel like blasting that oven. Genius.

Don't miss out on knocking out a dish or two this year with these Thanksgiving crock pot recipes and if you need more inspiration, join our newsletter or explore our new cooking classes on B+C Classes.

Party on! Game nights are the best nights, at least in our opinions. Seriously, what's more fun than sitting around the table playing a game, drinking a cocktail or two and laughing with friends?! We'd totally take that over a night sweating (and very awkwardly dancing) at the club.

We know you've made it through that Cards Against Humanity deck too many times to count, so refresh your adult game night stash with some of the best new party games around.

Game of Phones

Uncommon Goods

This techy card game prompts you and your friends to compete in smartphone-based tasks. With assignments ranging from “Find your best #selfie” to “Create an emoji masterpiece,” you’re guaranteed belly laughs and conversation starters galore. Just like with Cards Against Humanity, each round has a judge that picks the winner, so get your phone stacked with game changers now.

hella awk-ward Card Game

Shopify

If you want to spark real conversations with your guests, this is the game for you. By the end of this game, you’ll be surrounded by plenty of new pals. Play by drawing a card and answering the prompt to get to know friends and strangers alike on a deeper level.

What Do You Meme?

Amazon

This is the perfect game for anyone who has spent way too much time on the internet. Match funny captions with well-known internet memes (a rotating judge picks the best one) to create an afternoon or evening of hilarity.

Exploding Kittens Party Card Game

Amazon

This card game is like Russian Roulette “for people who are into kittens and explosions and laser beams and sometimes goats.” Count us in.

My Ex [A Deck of Conversation Starters]

Amazon

Gather your closest BFFs and spend the night with some good ol’ trash talking (therapeutically, of course). You’ll definitely find out who had the craziest ex. Gather friends that are down for the drama and start by pulling a card. Some of the topics you’ll fill-in-the-blank include: 1. The biggest red flag. 2. What is your ex up to now? 3. The worst rebound.

WHAT DO YOU MEME? for The Girls

Shopify

Grab your girlfriends and stir the pot with this hilarious card game. To play, whoever has the most Instagram followers goes first and rolls the die. “Whichever side of the die lands face-up, take the top card from the corresponding color deck. Read it aloud to the group & perform whatever action is on the card,” the instructions read. “Some cards involve just that player, some require the whole group. The player to their left then rolls the die & the game continues like this. Every winning card gets you a point. 1 Card = 1 Point. The player with the most cards at the end wins!”

Say Anything

Walmart

If you’re looking to reeeally get to know your friends, this is the game for you and your group (um, and maybe an invite to the new person you’ve been dating is in order). By reading questions and providing answers, you’ll quickly and creatively get inside the mind of all your party guests fast.

BAD CHOICES - The Have You Ever? Game + After Dark Edition Set

Amazon

You’ll really get to know the other party guests with this game. This might not be one to play with your new coworkers or mother-in-law!

To play, each player will draw six cards. “When it's your turn, choose one of your six question cards, then ask it to the player you think is most likely to answer YES. If they say YES, you get to discard your card. If they say NO you have to keep the card and try to use it again later,” the instructions read. With Skip Cards, Draw +1, Draw +2, and ALL PLAY cards, there's a surprising amount of strategy. The player who discards all of their cards first becomes the winner.

The Game of Things

Amazon

This provocative game will leave your jaw on the floor from the hilarious, creative and outrageous things your friends say. Simply by drawing topic cards like “Things a chimp thinks about when he sees you at the zoo,” responses are sure to be out of this world. After everyone writes down a response, and the best part starts — you all guess who said what. Let the finger pointing begin.

What’s Yours Like?

Walmart

Tell it like it is and you’ll excel at this one. Players have to guess words based off of creative word clues after asking the question, “What’s yours like?” Seriously, we wanna know.

If You Know You Know IYKYK - The Question Card Game

Amazon

Who knows each other best? This card game will (literally) put everyone’s cards on the table.

Getting started and playing this card game is super simple. A rotating judge asks the group a question about themselves from each of the three levels (indicated on the chosen card). Then, everyone chooses their answer. If you guess the judge's answer correctly, you get a point. The player with the most points wins.

That’s What She Said

Amazon

Are you basically Michael Scott from The Office? Any sucker for jokes and innuendos will love this saucy game.

Bananagrams

Shopify

This one is fun to do with the kids or you can spice it up with an adults-only game. Like speed scrabble, the game comes in a convenient banana-shaped pouch making it great to play on the go.

Never Have I Ever

Amazon

You and your friends can put your trust to the test by sharing your deepest, most embarrassing secrets in this revealing game.

Secret Confessions Game- Adult Version

Amazon

Get ready to laugh the night away with this far too funny game. Each group member will take turns reading the cards’ prompts. With each prompt, every player will answer “yes” or “no.”

The Voting Game

Amazon

In this game, instead of voting for the funniest answer, you vote for the player each card seems to describe. Talk about finding out who your real friends are.

Drawing Without Dignity

Amazon

It’s part Cards Against Humanity, part Pictionary. If you have friends who are particularly good artists (or even if they’re not), this game will bring you hours of fun.

Catan Strategy Board Game

Target

Like a medieval monopoly, full of knights, peasants, robbers and everything prehistoric. This game is focused around building settlements and protecting your land.

Relative Insanity

Walmart

Created by comedian Jeff Foxworthy, this game is based around familial interactions gone wrong with a Cards Against Humanity style of playing.

Influencers in the Wild

Amazon

If you follow the popular Instagram account, then you can probably guess the basics of this board game. Go places, gain followers and get famous to win this pop culture game.

We hope you've enjoyed this round-up of our favorite adult card games, and even if Cards Against Humanity is now somehow worth $500 Million your memories from these nights will always be priceless!

Keep you party going with Brit + Co.

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

There's always one kitchen gadget you can count on when you want your meal to be as easy as ordering takeout, yet way healthier: the slow cooker. With prep as easy as "toss in, and step away for the day," it's a fuss-free way to eat healthy on your busiest days. Spice up your soups, chicken, and veggies with these easy and healthy Crockpot recipes.

Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili 

The Real Food Dietitians

Healthy crockpot recipes that are loaded with hearty ingredients like sweet potato, diced green chiles, cumin, and ground bison. It's going to take some time to for this chili to cook, but you'll enjoy the slightly smoky and sweet flavors as they combine.

Slow Cooker Thai Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Vikalinka

If you haven't gotten into Thai food yet, this chicken and wild rice soup will make you appreciate it! You'll need Thai red curry paste, wild rice, minced garlic, and chicken breasts to help fill out the base of this soup. It's the perfect cold-weather dish that'll accompany cozy nights by the fireplace.

Slow Cooker Marry Me Chickpea Soup

Live Eat Learn

This chickpea soup is so good it'll melt in you and partner's mouth which may be your goal. It may be gorgeous to look at, but it's the soft chickpeas, potatoes, spicy vegan sausage, and Tuscan sauce that are the stars of the show. By the time you're done eating this soup, there won't be any evidence you had anything to eat at all.

Crockpot Corn On The Cob 

Brit + Co

A homemade garlic butter mix gives our favorite cookout side dish a serious flavor upgrade. Using tin foil for this slow cooker recipe will let your corn cook and marinate at the same time.

Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Vegetable Soup

Brit + Co

Full of a variety of veggies and herbs, everything about this soup is a good idea – including the white wine. Pour some in the soup, then pour yourself a glass to enjoy alongside dinner. This is the perfect dish to make when you want Italian but are looking for something that feels warm and healthy.

Vegan Slow Cooker Hot Cocoa

Brit + Co

Give your favorite warm weather drink a healthy and easy upgrade by one, making it vegan, and two, making it in the slow cooker! Our favorite nondairy milk to use for this are soy and oat, but almond works great too. Bonus points if you throw on some vegan whipped cream and marshmallows!

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

Brit + Co

Instead of sour cream or other heavy cream-based products, this recipe calls for Greek yogurt to make the sauce, which will make things a bit healthier without changing up the flavor too much. It remains the ultimate comfort food, while only requiring four-ingredients and being much healthier.

Supercharged Slow Cooker Apple Cider

Brit + Co

The best thing about making a drink like apple cider yourself is you know (and can control) exactly what's in it. Plus, the ACV gives it a little extra health boost! It can aid digestion, fight infections, and help you feel full.

Vegetarian Slow Cooker Stuffed Mushrooms

Brit + Co

These mushrooms make for a great appetizer, and while the recipe is vegetarian, it's incredibly easy to swap regular cream cheese for an alternative one to make it vegan. The ingredient list seems lengthy but the recipe only takes 2 hours to cook after you've thrown it all into your Crock-Pot.

Chana Masala

Brit + Co

Chickpeas are great for strong bones and better digestion, and the mix of ginger, cumin, and turmeric work together so well.This meal is healthy and filling but doesn't weigh you down. Don't forget to squeeze some fresh lime juice over the top once it comes out of the Crock Pot for even more flavor!

Slow Cooker Keto Chicken

Brit + Co

Add some spice to your summer nights with this delicious shredded Mexican chicken recipe. If it's a bit too spicy for you, you can leave out the jalapeños and just add more avocados. The recipe is keto-friendly and can be further customized by putting it over cauliflower rice or wrapping it in romaine lettuce.

Chicken, Kale, and Sweet Potato Stew

Real Food Whole Life

There's always time to reset with a stew (or soup). This hearty recipe, starring clean ingredients (bonus because there's only 6 of them) like kale and sweet potato, leaves you full all day, and it freezes like a charm for leftovers.

Creamy Ranch Mashed Cauliflower

All Day I Dream About Food

Looking for a creamy side that'll soak up all manner of sauces? Your brain might immediately go to mashed potatoes but there are other great alternatives. Your search ends with this low-carb ranch cauliflower mash. It's rich and creamy and oh-so-flavorful!

Coconut Quinoa Curry Healthy Crockpot Idea

Simply Quinoa

There's a double dose of protein from chickpeas and quinoa in this curry recipe. It all simmers in a bath of sweet tomatoes and coconut milk for a recipe that's simply too delish for words.

Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

Culinary Hill

You can use frozen green beans in this crock pot recipe to keep things simple, but still add a touch of homemade cooking in the dish by whipping up an easy mushroom sauce. Don't forget the best part – crispy fried onions!

Slow Cooker Lamb Chops

Where Is My Spoon?

When you're feeling fancy, but not 'spending three hours in the kitchen' fancy, leverage this easy lamp chops recipe that pairs well with pasta, rice, and veg. It only takes 3 steps and has less than 10 minutes of prep time!

Chicken Coconut Korma

Completely Delicious

This one will warm you up like no other. It is made with tomato paste, coconut milk, and lots of spices that combine to create a heavenly flavor profile. Make sure to prep it with some naan for the full dining experience!

Crockpot Maple Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix

Averie Cooks

When the clock strikes for something sweet, reach for this Crockpot snack mix recipe that yields a whole lot of yum. It's so easy to make and my favorite part is that it is so easy to customize and utilize whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Easy Crockpot Enchiladas

Clean Cuisine

These streamlined enchiladas make an excellent dish for sharing! They swap out certain ingredients for a cleaner choice but still manage to remain the delicious treat you know and love.

Lasagna Soup in the Crockpot

The Edgy Veg

Lasagna is always a no-fail dinner. Eat it in soup form for some real comfort! It takes 30 minutes to make and only uses one pot, which is definitely a win in my book. Plus, the noodles can be switched out for gluten-free ones to accommodate different diets!

Healthy Slow Cooker Turmeric Chicken and Potatoes

SweetPhi

Anti-inflammatory turmeric is so good for you, we've started adding it to pretty much everything. It gives a golden glow to chicken and potatoes in this recipe, with tender green beans adding just the right amount of green.

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwich with Apple Slaw

Salt & Lavender

Pork gets simmered in the slow cooker for about 10 hours to really tenderize the meat, and ensure all the flavors soak in. Then, the pulled pork sandwich is balanced with a fresh and crunchy apple slaw. Yum!

Low-Carb Lasagna 

Well Plated

Pile your plate high with layers upon layers of zucchini and eggplant slices, substituting lasagna noodles. Bell peppers and onions form this recipe's sauce, and low-fat cottage cheese adds extra depth to each serving.

Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies

Damn Delicious

There's almost no prep work involved for this dish (besides chopping the potatoes), so you can just throw in all the ingredients and forget about it for the next eight hours. Remove the chicken right before it's time to eat, and broil for a quick three minutes to get the skin nice and crispy.

Crockpot Thai Broccoli Rabe Chicken Curry

Half-Baked Harvest

Red curry gets a healthy boost from broccoli rabe, but with chicken, this healthy slow cooker recipe still completely filling. It makes a comforting and cozy meal, perfect for the fall season and beyond.

Slow Cooker Honey Sriracha Chicken Healthy Crockpot Recipes

Show Me the Yummy

We can hardly contain ourselves. Something about that sweet and spicy honey-sriracha combo, when it's slathered over yummy chicken and paired with fluffy quinoa, keeps us coming back for more. It doesn't hurt that there's such little prep time, and it's a healthy meal!

Low-Carb Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken

My Life Cookbook

Monk fruit's the secret to keeping this barbecue sauce delightfully sweet while still low-carb. Use with with chicken, pork, or even tofu. Despite it being so flavorful, its surprisingly easy to make.

Sausage, Spinach, and White Bean Soup

Damn Delicious

You're going to be in ecstasy after one spoonful of this chicken broth-based soup with tender beans, soft vegetables, and smoky andouille sausage. It's the perfect hearty, yet healthy meal and only requires 10 minutes of prep! Is anybody else thinking about NOLA?

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Soup

A Spicy Perspective

Enjoy all the same amazing flavors as buffalo chicken wings, without the heavy feelings. This slow-cooker soup is healthy and keeps things light. The bit of blue cheese dressing that gets blended in really adds to the flavor and makes you feel like you're eating wings at a tailgate!

Jackfruit Butter Chicken

Chef Bai

Who knew jackfruit could make for such a delicious meal? This vegan butter chicken recipe is going to become your new favorite dinner dish. It uses tons of fresh elements, including ginger, garbanzo beans, and coconut milk, to form an ultra-comforting bowl – all within the crock pot.

Prep Our Slow Cooker Recipes For An Easy Dinner

Skinny Slow Cooker Kung Pao Chicken

The Recipe Critic

A sure way to stop ordering consistent takeout meals is to make this Kung Pao recipe at home. The key is to coat the chicken chunks with cornstarch so that it browns before you dump it in the sauce with plenty of veggies for an unbelievable home order.

Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup

Gimme Some Oven

Packed with protein and naturally vegan and gluten-free, this soup can do no wrong. Garnish with thick slices of avocado, a dollop of sour cream, crushed tortilla chips — or all three.

Slow Cooker Asian Meatballs

A Spicy Perspective

The guests at your next party will be inhaling these flavorful meatballs. Just prep a spicy-sweet sauce, and form the meatballs, then let cook in the crock pot for about four hours for a delicious snack.

Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore 

Well Plated

Tomatoes always taste best after cooking low and slow all day. The richness of this easy slow cooker chicken dish is why it's a personal favorite and is perfect for dinner parties and beyond.

Healthy Crockpot Chicken Pesto Vegetables Recipe

365 Days of Slow + Pressure Cooking

When your chicken and veggies are this well seasoned, you won't even miss pasta. If you are craving noodles, though, try tossing everything with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

Parmesan White Bean Chicken Soup with Roasted Delicata Squash

Half-Baked Harvest

This slow cooker soup is absolutely chock full of veggies and your favorite noodles. HBH's Tieghan recommends orzo, and we are totally on board with that.

Crockpot Chickpea Curry

A Spicy Perspective

This vegetarian recipe is also gluten-free *and* can be made dairy-free! Whichever way you decide to fix it, the flavors of honey, ginger, and cumin will not disappoint.

Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Show Me the Yummy

Skip the heavy takeout, and recreate one of your favorite meals at home with a healthy twist. Whip up a quick orange sauce, and pour it over two boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Serve with your choice of rice.

Slow Cooker Chicken and Chickpea Tagine

Cooking Classy

Even if you don't have a real tagine, capture the flavors of Morocco in your slow cooker with a hearty, protein-filled stew. Serving it over rice or couscous elevates the meal even further and makes it one you'll crave again and again.

Easy Slow Cooker Chili

Barley & Sage

With this healthy crockpot recipe recipe, you'll get plenty of protein from the ground beef, nutrients from the veggies, and flavor from all the spices. Since it's so packed with beans and corn, removing the meat is totally viable and makes it vegetarian! Pro tip: it freezes and reheats really well!

Slow Cooker Healthier Beef Stew

Primavera Kitchen

Quickly brown the stew meat in a skillet before dumping it in your slow cooker for an extra layer of flavor you won't want to miss. Then, make beef stew lighter by adding more in-season veggies like parsnips and turnips, and by using low-sodium broth.

Enjoy Easy Soups, Chilis, Stews, and Curry Dishes Straight From The Crockpot

Slow Cooker Lentil and Vegetable Soup 

SweetPhi

If you've ever been sick, you know that soup has superpowers. The lentils in this dish gently nourish you, while the warm salty broth will soothe your soul. The red lentils allow for the texture to be almost creamy, giving it the oomph you need to feel satisfied.

Honey Glazed Carrots

Salt & Lavender

When you cook carrots in any capacity, they're already nice and sweet, but adding a honey glaze really brings out that natural flavor even more. They're the perfect side dish for the holiday season or any family dinner. These are so good, you might not even want dessert.

Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Pozole

Half-Baked Harvest

Great for when corn and zucchini are in season, this salsa verde pozole is loaded with veggies and topped with avocado, cotija, toasted pumpkin seeds, tortilla strips, and a squeeze of lime. The textures and the flavors all come together so well to create a fiesta in your mouth.

Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Cooking Classy

Satisfy your Chinese food cravings without leaving the house. It requires a mere 10 minutes of prep time before being tossed into the slow cooker. The beef drips in flavor and is so tender, you'll never want to order takeout again.

Healthy Slow Cooker Turkey and White Bean Chili

Half-Baked Harvest

Chili is always a good go-to dinner for utmost comfort. This healthy recipe loads up on all of the flavors without overdoing it. The ingredients are clean and good for you, including ground turkey, bell peppers, chipotle peppers, and white beans.

Slow Cooker Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs

All Day I Dream About Food

Who knew that you didn't need to roast spaghetti squash in the oven? Just cut it in half, dig out the seeds, and place it in the slow cooker with a trusted tomato sauce. Needless to say, Italian night got a whole lot lighter.

Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers

Damn Delicious

Not only are these stuffed peppers healthy, but they're also completely customizable. You can switch out the ground beef for turkey (or leave it out altogether), and choose between white rice, brown rice, and even quinoa for an extra punch of protein in the filling. Make as many peppers as will fit in your slow cooker to prep lunch for the rest of the week.

Slow Cooker Summer Vegetable Soup

The Seasoned Mom

Add all of your favorite veggies to your slow cooker (plus beans for a boost of protein), and let them simmer away to create a compellingly complex soup. A little sprinkle of parmesan on top wouldn't hurt either.

Sweet Potato and Cauliflower Soup

Peas and Crayons

Combine cauliflower, sweet potatoes, vegetable broth, and a touch of cream cheese for indulgence. Five hours later, you'll be devouring bowl after bowl of this scrumptious soup.

Slow Cooker Thai Chicken Soup 

Show Me The Yummy

A mix of creamy coconut milk and rich peanut butter make this one soup you won't be able to get off your mind. Loaded up with protein and veggies, this is the ultimate feel-good meal that is also good for you. Serve with an extra-large spoon for easy slurping.

Slow Cooker Whole Roasted Chicken

The Little Kitchen

Making a whole roast chicken in your slow cooker will give you enough tender, fall-off-the-bone meat to feed you like a queen for the week. Place your seasoned chicken on a bed of veggies, like onions, celery, and carrots, and let it cook for the next six hours. If you prefer crispier skin, carefully remove the chicken from your slow cooker and broil for a few minutes at the end.

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potato

The Real Food Dietitians

Buffalo chicken wings might not be the healthiest choice, but this dairy-free, dietitian-approved version means you can go there, minus the guilt. Tuck it into a lettuce wrap or into a baked sweet potato for an even more satisfying dish!

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

The Seasoned Mom

Get that home-cooked fix without having to stand over the stove stirring a pot all day. Even though it's soup, this meal is bright and fresh thanks to the variety of veggies, and garnish of cilantro.

Smoked Bacon Veggie Soup

Cotter Crunch

Snuggle up with a bowl of this hearty soup on a frigid winter day, and you'll warm up from the inside out. The smoky bacon helps balance out the earthiness of the Brussels sprouts and mushrooms.

White Chicken Chili Healthy Crockpot Recipes

Simply Whisked

Sticking to your healthy eating resolution will be a breeze with meals as good as this one. An hour before dinner, shred the chicken and then distract yourself for the next 60 minutes while it keeps cooking. Top with crushed tortilla chips and fresh cilantro.

Shredded Chicken Tacos

A Spicy Perspective

With only two ingredients — chicken and salsa verde — this taco meat just needs tortillas and whatever toppings you want to have dinner on the table.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortellini Soup

Culinary Hill

Loaded with carrots, celery, and onion, this chicken soup gets a filling twist from cheese tortellini. It's a great choice for when you're under the weather or just want something that feels nourishing for your soul. Plus, it's super easy to whip up and can be frozen for leftovers!

Follow us on Pinterest or join our newsletter for more healthy crockpot recipes and eating inspiration or explore our new cooking classes on B+C Classes!

Additional reporting by Ashley Tyler, Chloe Williams, and Meredith Holser.

This post has been updated.

The holidays are here! Well, kind of. Thanksgiving isn’t until November 28 but as far as I’m concerned, November 1 is the day the festivities can begin. I’m pulling out my holiday candles, Christmas PJ’s, and even my How the Grinch Stole Christmas vinyl to make the dreary seasonal blues a little more cheerful. And a huge part of getting into the spirit is stacking up the perfect holiday movie marathon. Thankfully Netflix already has a bunch of holiday titles coming out over the next few weeks. Here are the best (new!!) holiday movies and specials coming to Netflix starting November 1.

Dinner Time Live With David Chang: Holiday Edition — On Netflix Now Until December 10

Adam Rose/Netflix

Nothing says the holidays like tons of delicious meals, and Chef David Chang is cooking some amazing food for his celebrity friends — and he's doing it all live. (Because, a lot of TV cooking uses swaps and stylists to make it look better than it actually is). I'm getting hungry just thinking about it!

Dinner Time Live With David Chang: Holiday Edition is hosted by David Chang.

Meet Me Next Christmas — On Netflix November 6

Sophie Giraud/Netflix

Christmas in New York City is truly a magical experience, and Layla's looking for her own fairytale romance this holiday season. And believe it or not, the ticket to finding her one true love is getting into the Pentatonix Christmas Eve Concert.

Meet Me Next Christmas streams November 6 and stars Christina Milian, Devale Ellis, Kofi Siriboe, Tymika Tafari, Mitch Grassi, Scott Hoying, Kirstin Maldonado, Kevin Olusola, Matt Sallee, Kalen Allen, Nikki Duval, and Wesley French.

Hot Frosty — On Netflix November 13

Petr Maur/Netflix

Nobody puts me in the holiday spirit like seeing Lacey Chabert onscreen, and this year, she's playing Kathy, a widow who happens to bring a handsome snowman to life. (I don't remember this in the "Frosty the Snowman" lyrics!). He helps Kathy reconnect with her emotions as they begin to fall for each other — and as he begins to melt.

Hot Frosty will stream on Netflix beginning November 13 and stars Lacey Chabert, Dustin Milligan, Craig Robinson, Joe Lo Truglio, Katy Mixon, Lauren Holly, and Chrishell Stause.

Netflix Stories: A Virgin River Christmas — On Netflix November 19

Petr Maur/Netflix

It's almost time for Virgin River season 6, which means we're getting closer to the ultimate cozy TV show. I mean, just look at those twinkly lights and pine trees in this preview image! It gives me the same exact feeling as drinking a mug of hot cocoa. This year, we're getting closer to Mel and Jack’s wedding, and confronting some serious secrets and drama along the way. This might not count as a Netflix holiday movie but I couldn't NOT include it!!!

Virgin River season 6 hits Netflix November 19 and stars Alexandra Breckenridge, Martin Henderson, John Allen Nelson, Tim Matheson, Annette O’Toole, Colin Lawrence, Benjamin Hollingsworth, Zibby Allen, Sarah Dugdale, Marco Grazzini, Mark Ghanimé, Kai Bradbury, Kandyse McClure, Jessica Rothe, and Callum Kerr.

The Merry Gentlemen — On Netflix November 20

Katrina Marcinowski/Netflix

Remember that One Tree Hill episode where the Ravens take part in the "Boy Toy" charity auction? Complete with a shirtless fashion show? Consider this the Netflix holiday movie response. When former dancer Ashley learns her parents' performing venue is in danger, she puts together the ultimate Christmas-themed show to raise money. Shirts not included.

The Merry Gentlemen hits Netflix November 20 and stars Britt Robertson, Chad Michael Murray, Marla Sokoloff, Beth Broderick, Michael Gross, Maxwell Caulfield, Hector David Jr., Colt Prattes, and Marc Anthony Samuel

Spellbound — On Netflix November 22

Skydance Animation/Netflix

Okay, this fantasy movie might not technically be a Christmas movie, but it has everything I need in my Netflix holiday movies: family, hope, and love. After her parents are turned into monsters, princess Ellian must go on the ultimate quest to put everything right.

Spellbound hits Netflix November 22 and stars Rachel Zegler, John Lithgow, Jenifer Lewis, Nathan Lane, Tituss Burgess, Javier Bardem, and Nicole Kidman.

Our Little Secret — On Netflix November 27

Bob Mahoney/Netflix

If EXmas taught us anything, it's that spending the holidays with your ex is anything but calm. And in Lindsay Lohan's new movie, she finds herself at the same Christmas celebration as her ex when they realize their new SO's are siblings. No, that's not awkward at all.

Our Little Secret hits Netflix November 27 stars Lindsay Lohan, Ian Harding, Tim Meadows, Jon Rudnitsky, Henry Czerny, Judy Reyes, Chris Parnell, Kristin Chenoweth, Dan Bucatinsky, Katie Baker, Jake Brennan, Ash Santos, and Brian Unger.

Is It Cake? Holidays — On Netflix November 28

Netflix

The only thing more enjoyable than eating delicious food is watching master bakers create beautiful food. This holiday special features edible ice skates, nutcrackers, and reindeer that will change the way you look at baking forever. Watch it in one sitting and it definitely counts as a holiday movie ;).

Is It Cake? Holidays hits Netflix November 28 and stars Jonny Manganello, Andrew Fuller, April Julian, Elizabeth Rowe, Miko Kaw Hok Uy, Danya Smith, Henderson Gonzalez, Grace Pak, and Jujhar Mann, with judges Rachel Bloom, Hannah Berner, Tiffany Haddish, Devon Walker, James Austin Johnson, Chris Witaske, Sasheer Zamata, Terry Crews, Punkie Johnson, and Randall Park.

The Snow Sister — On Netflix November 29

Netflix

Julian's turning 11 on Christmas Eve, and even though it's usually the best day ever, this year is overshadowed by the death of his older sister. A newfound friendship with Hedwig helps him heal, but he can't help but feel like Hedwig's house — and the old man that's always around — are hiding secrets.

The Snow Sister hits Netflix November 29 and stars Mudit Gupta, Celina Meyer Hovland, Ole Steinkjer Øyen, Jan Sælid, Samsaya, Gunnar Eiriksson, and Advika.

Which Netflix holiday movie are you excited to watch? Let us know in the comments!

This edible crescent-roll cornucopia is our way of making a normal cheese boardmore festive — and definitely more fun — during the holiday season. Our go-to this time of year is a massive cheese plate that can stand alone and be the main attraction, or the starter for a larger meal. Press on for the surprisingly easy steps to braid a breaded cornucopia.

Chris Andre

Materials + Tools:

  • 1 roll of tin foil
  • 2 packages of crescent rolls
  • 1 egg (for egg wash before cornucopia goes into the oven), optional

Chris Andre

Instructions:

Start by sculpting tin foil into the shape of a cornucopia (it looks like a cone with an upturned tail). Pro tip: Lightly pack tin foil so it's easier to remove later from your baked cornucopia. Crescent rolls should be buttery enough that this shouldn't be difficult.

Chris Andre

Your tin foil mold should look a little something like this.

Chris Andre

Pop open the crescent rolls and cut the triangles into strips. Pinch together the ends of strips to make strips longer.

Chris Andre

Braid crescent roll strips. You can make these as fancy as you want. Not a braiding pro? Skip this step and leave those strips alone.

Chris Andre

Wrap tin foil cornucopia with braids/strips. Make sure you cover all the tin foil. Leave a little wiggle room at the opening of the cornucopia, so that when you’re done baking you can pull some of that tin foil out.

Chris Andre

Use any extra dough to cover the bottom of your cornucopia. Pinch the sides and anchor those braids/strips in.

Chris Andre

Brush on egg wash before placing your cornucopia in the oven. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes. Take out of oven and cover spots of cornucopia that are already golden brown with extra tin foil. Bake for another 20 minutes at 250 degrees Fahrenheit.

Chris Andre

Let it cool down until it’s easy to handle. Remove tin foil.

Chris Andre

Place cornucopia in corner of your cheese plate. Arrange cheese on your serving tray.

Chris Andre

Add crackers — we like to have two or three options.

Chris Andre

Don’t forget to fill up your cornucopia. It's called "the horn of plenty" for a reason. Fill with fresh fruit like grapes, apples, and pears.

Chris Andre

Add nuts like walnuts and pistachios to fill in any empty spaces. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary and sage to finish it off.

Chris Andre

Voilà! Invite over your friends, open a bottle of wine, and dig in!

Chris Andre

A cornucopia cheese board will become your new favorite holiday tradition.

Show us your crescent-roll cornucopias on Instagram and check out our baking classes (and our Easy Thanksgiving Desserts piece) for more holiday food inspo!

DIY Production and Styling: Paris Fried

Paris Fried: Paris loves any excuse to celebrate and throw a themed party. She loves experimenting in the kitchen and has a terrible sweet tooth. When she's not crafting in her studio, she's at the farmers' market buying seasonal produce or at her favorite local theater watching double features.

This post has been updated.