How to Make Slow-Cooked Veggies You’ll Actually Want to Eat

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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!

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!

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.

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 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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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?

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!

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

​What is Mercury Retrograde?

To grasp the significance of Mercury in retrograde, it’s essential to first understand what retrogrades are. As planets orbit the Sun, they follow specific paths, with some moving faster than others. Generally, the closer a planet is to the Sun, the quicker it travels. Occasionally, these planets appear to veer off their usual course; during this time, the Sun's gravitational pull brings them back into alignment, marking the onset of a retrograde period. While this phenomenon is astronomical, it resonates on a collective level, prompting reflection and introspection here on Earth.

Mercury, often referred to as the planet of communication, plays a crucial role in our thought processes, decision-making, and interactions. During its retrograde phase, which occurs multiple times each year, it's important to navigate this period with care. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do’s:

• Reflect on past decisions and learn from previous experiences.
• Revisit unfinished projects or ideas that require reassessment.
• Take time for introspection and self-examination.

Don’ts:

• Avoid making significant decisions, such as buying a home or starting major renovations. These choices may face unexpected delays and complications.
• Steer clear of launching new projects, as they may not proceed as planned.

By being mindful during Mercury in retrograde, you can work its energy for thoughtful reflection rather than potential miscommunication and disruption. Remember, as above, so below.

​What is happening during this Mercury Retrograde in Sagittarius in 2024?

This Mercury retrograde in Sagittarius begins on November 25 and wraps up on December 15, 2024 — just in time for the holidays! During this quirky period, you might find communication and travel resembling a game of charades — confusing and full of surprises! Sagittarius, with its adventurous spirit and knack for big ideas, nudges you to reflect on your beliefs and long-term goals while dodging any miscommunication like a pro at a holiday buffet. Stay open-minded about new concepts, and by reflecting on past experiences, you can turn any holiday hiccups into cherished memories, making your connections with loved ones more meaningful — just double-check your travel plans.

Here are some common themes to expect during this period:

1. Miscommunication in Beliefs: Discussions around ethics and worldviews may lead to misunderstandings, so clarifying intentions is crucial.
2. Revisiting Travel Plans: If you have holiday trips or adventures in mind, be prepared for potential delays or changes. This is a good time to reassess your travel goals or revisit cherished destinations.
3. Reflecting on Learning: You might feel drawn to revisit past studies or explore new philosophies, making this a valuable time for self-reflection.
4. Adventurous Spirit: This retrograde may ignite a desire to break free from routine. However, be cautious about making impulsive decisions during the holiday rush.
5. Open to New Perspectives: While confusion may arise, this is also an opportunity to reevaluate your beliefs and explore fresh ideas with an open mind.

Overall, this period encourages you to slow down, reflect, and be mindful of how you communicate and receive information, enhancing your holiday experiences.

Read Your Sun & Rising Sign Mercury Retrograde Horoscopes For November 25-December 15, 2024

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

Prepare for some soul-searching between sips of eggnog and lively family chatter this holiday season. You might start to wonder if that “special holiday sweater” is really as special as you thought. Conversations could get a bit awkward, so take a deep breath and remember: that patience is key—especially when stories start to loop. Welcome any travel mishaps as unexpected adventures; they’ll turn into hilarious tales to share later!

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

This season, it’s all about sharing—whether it’s your holiday spirit or your budget! You may need to tiptoe around sensitive topics, like who gets the last piece of the pie, so choose your words wisely. If plans get delayed, think of it as a chance to cozy up with loved ones instead of stressing out. Reflect on what matters, and don’t be afraid to indulge a little—after all, holiday treats are basically a form of self-care.

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

Your relationships might resemble a game of charades, with everyone trying to decipher what everyone else really wants. Whether you’re flying solo or in a couple, keep an eye on those festive planning talks—they could definitely use some clarity. Use this time for personal growth, turning any communication slip-ups into lessons that brighten your celebrations and keep the fun rolling. Just remember: clarity is key, so make sure everyone’s on the same page.

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

Prioritize your well-being and avoid the pressure of overworking yourself amidst the holiday hustle. As you juggle party prep, try not to get swept away in the festive chaos. Communication might feel like decoding a toddler’s drawing, so be clear with family and friends about what you need. Focus on self-care and balance, and you’ll navigate the whirlwind like a pro—maybe with a cozy blanket and a good movie on standby.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Get ready for a holiday season where your creative flair might take a few unexpected turns, like a well-rehearsed dance that suddenly goes off-script. As plans shift, practice your patience and remember what truly sparks joy for you. Reflect on those passions that make you shine, and don’t shy away from the mistakes--they often lead to the best holiday tales. Plus, a little extra glitter never hurt anyone—just try not to get it everywhere!

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Prepare for some family dynamics that might feel like a reality show reunion! Miscommunication could lead to some comedic misunderstandings about plans or traditions, so keep your cool. Take this time to reflect on your emotional needs and find a little order in the chaos. Strengthen those family bonds, because nothing says “holiday spirit” quite like sharing a laugh over that one family photo everyone wants to forget!

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Expect your conversations to get a little tangled, like last year’s string lights. Short trips or outings could pop up, so embrace the unexpected adventures! Before sharing your brilliant ideas, take a moment to clarify your thoughts; nobody wants to accidentally volunteer to host the next family gathering (unless you really want to). Use these moments to deepen connections, and remember: the best holiday memories are often born from a bit of chaos.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

This season, keep an eye on your spending—it’s easy to get swept up in the holiday cheer! As you tackle gift lists, take a moment to reflect on what truly matters—like the joy of giving without the post-holiday financial headache. Budgeting conversations may get tricky, so approach them with care. Mindful spending will help you enjoy a holiday filled with laughter and love, not a mountain of bills come January!

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Expect a bit of soul-searching this holiday, as you clarify your goals amidst the festive bustle. Conversations may go sideways, so take a moment to sort out your intentions before diving in. Cherish this chance for introspection and focus on what truly matters. Meaningful connections will blossom even in the chaos, turning challenges into opportunities for growth—and maybe a few good laughs along the way!

Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)

This holiday season, get ready for some introspection that might feel like unearthing old holiday memories. Past issues could bubble up, so keep your communication open to avoid any misunderstandings. Use this time to recharge and reflect on your needs. By seeing challenges as opportunities for growth, you can craft a more peaceful holiday experience—one that sets a cheerful tone for the New Year!

Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

Friendships may take center stage, with old connections popping back up like holiday cheer. Just be ready for some communication blunders that might leave you scratching your head! Reflect on your social circles and decide who truly aligns with your vibe. Navigating these dynamics thoughtfully can lead to more meaningful connections and memorable festivities—after all, nothing beats laughter with friends over a cup of hot cocoa.

Pisces (February 20 – March 21)

This season, your career and public image might demand a bit of attention—like that one holiday decoration that always needs fixing. Communication with colleagues may hit a few snags, so be prepared for some delays. Reflect on your goals and ensure they match your true self. Staying clear and confident during festive gatherings will help you set the right tone for the year ahead—preferably one filled with good vibes and fewer awkward silences!