Christmas is a time for joy, family, and of course, delicious food! But with all the holiday hustle and bustle, who has time to spend hours in the kitchen? This year, ditch the stress and embrace the ease and deliciousness of crock pot cooking. These simple crock pot Christmas recipes will allow you to enjoy more time with loved ones while still serving up festive and flavorful meals that everyone will adore. Get ready to create heartwarming memories around the table with minimal effort.
Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Ham
This show-stopping ham is surprisingly easy to make in your slow cooker, resulting in tender, juicy perfection with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for Christmas dinner or any holiday gathering. This easy recipe is a true testament to delicious and effortless homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 4-6 pound bone-in ham, spiral-sliced
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- Place the ham in your slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, orange juice, cloves, and cinnamon.
- Pour the glaze over the ham, ensuring it's evenly coated.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the ham is heated through and the glaze is bubbly.
- Remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze.
- You can substitute pineapple juice for orange juice for a different flavor profile.
- Leftover ham can be used in sandwiches, salads, or quiches – making this recipe even more versatile.
Crock Pot Cheesy Potatoes
These creamy, cheesy potatoes are the perfect side dish to complement your Christmas ham or roast. Simple to prepare and requiring minimal effort, this recipe is a quick dinner idea that will impress even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds small red potatoes, halved or quartered
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (or substitute with more cheddar)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place the potatoes in your slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together the milk, cheddar cheese, Gruyere cheese, butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the potatoes.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of chopped chives or green onions before serving.
- You can use any type of cheese you prefer. A blend of cheeses adds depth of flavor.
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a heartier side dish.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, may vary based on ingredients and portion size):
Cranberry Glazed Ham: High in protein, moderate in fat. Nutritional values will vary significantly depending on the ham's cut and fat content.
Cheesy Potatoes: High in carbohydrates, moderate in fat and protein. Consider using lower-fat milk and cheese for a healthier option.
These delicious and easy crock pot Christmas recipes will free up your time during the busy holiday season, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: spending quality time with your loved ones. Enjoy your festive feast!