11 Slow Cooker Fall Family Dinners

fall family dinner recipes

Hearty Beef Stew

comforting slow cooked beef stew

Hearty Beef Stew is the quintessential fall family dinner that brings warmth and comfort to your table. This savory dish is packed with tender chunks of beef, root vegetables, and a rich broth, making it perfect for gathering around with loved ones on those chilly evenings. Let your slow cooker work its magic as the flavors meld together for a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef chuck, cut into cubes 2 pounds
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, chopped 1 large
Garlic, minced 4 cloves
Carrots, sliced 3 medium
Celery, chopped 2 stalks
Potatoes, diced 4 medium
Beef broth 4 cups
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Bay leaves 2
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Pepper 1/2 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides, then transfer to the slow cooker.
  2. In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until translucent, then add them to the slow cooker.
  3. Add carrots, celery, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours, until the beef and vegetables are tender.
  5. Remove bay leaves before serving, and enjoy your hearty beef stew with crusty bread!
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Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta

slow cooker creamy pasta

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta is a comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner. Made in the slow cooker, this meal combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious cream sauce tossed with pasta, creating a satisfying meal that is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Ingredients Quantity
Chicken breast, boneless 2 pounds
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, chopped 1 large
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Mushrooms, sliced 8 ounces
Chicken broth 4 cups
Heavy cream 1 cup
Parmesan cheese, grated 1 cup
Pasta (penne or rotini) 12 ounces
Dried oregano 1 teaspoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Fresh parsley, chopped Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. In the slow cooker, combine the chicken breast, olive oil, onion, garlic, mushrooms, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix well.
  2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  3. Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks; return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream and cooked pasta, then add the Parmesan cheese. Mix until combined and warm through.
  5. Serve topped with fresh parsley, if desired, and enjoy your creamy chicken and mushroom pasta!
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Slow Cooker Chili

hearty slow cooker chili recipe

Slow Cooker Chili is a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. This classic dish combines ground meat, kidney beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices to create a warm, flavorful chili that simmers in your slow cooker while you go about your day. It’s great served with cornbread or over rice, making it versatile and filling.

Ingredients Quantity
Ground beef (or turkey) 1 pound
Onion, chopped 1 large
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Bell peppers, diced 2 (mixed colors)
Canned diced tomatoes 28 ounces
Canned kidney beans (drained) 15 ounces
Canned black beans (drained) 15 ounces
Chili powder 2 tablespoons
Ground cumin 1 tablespoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions

Cooking Steps:

  1. In the slow cooker, add the ground beef, onion, garlic, bell peppers, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine.
  2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the meat is cooked through and the flavors meld together.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, then serve hot with your choice of toppings. Enjoy your delicious slow cooker chili!
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Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Tenderloin

honey garlic pork tenderloin

Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Tenderloin is a mouthwatering dish perfect for fall family dinners. The tender pork loin is coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze that caramelizes beautifully as it cooks in the slow cooker. This dish is simple to prepare yet impressive enough for any family gathering, ensuring everyone at the table will enjoy a flavorful and comforting meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Pork tenderloin 2 pounds
Honey 1/2 cup
Soy sauce 1/4 cup
Garlic, minced 4 cloves
Fresh ginger, grated 1 tablespoon
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Optional garnish: green onions For serving

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  2. Place the pork tenderloin in the slow cooker and pour the marinade over it, ensuring it’s well coated.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and cooked through.
  4. Remove the pork from the slow cooker, slice, and drizzle with the remaining sauce before serving, garnished with green onions if desired. Enjoy your delightful honey garlic glazed pork tenderloin!
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Vegetable and Quinoa Casserole

hearty vegetable quinoa casserole

Vegetable and Quinoa Casserole is a hearty and nutritious dish that’s perfect for fall family dinners. This comforting casserole is packed with seasonal vegetables and protein-rich quinoa, creating a wholesome meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be tailored to suit your family’s taste preferences.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Zucchini, diced 1 cup
Bell pepper, diced 1 cup
Carrots, diced 1 cup
Spinach 2 cups
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Shredded cheese 1 cup
Optional garnish: fresh parsley For serving

Cooking Steps:

  1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water, then combine it with vegetable broth in a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
  2. Meanwhile, in a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant, then add zucchini, bell pepper, and carrots. Cook for 5-7 minutes, then stir in spinach until wilted. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa and sautéed vegetables. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
  4. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your vegetable and quinoa casserole!
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Apple Cider Pulled Pork

tender apple cider pulled pork

Apple Cider Pulled Pork is a deliciously tender and flavorful dish that’s perfect for fall family dinners. This recipe slowly cooks pork in a savory apple cider sauce, infusing the meat with a hint of sweetness and a rich blend of spices. It’s an ideal meal for gatherings or busy weeknights, pairing beautifully with crusty bread or seasonal sides.

Ingredients Quantity
Pork shoulder (butt) 3-4 pounds
Apple cider 1 cup
Onion, sliced 1 medium
Garlic, minced 4 cloves
Brown sugar 1/4 cup
Apple cider vinegar 1/4 cup
Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Optional: hamburger buns For serving

Cooking Steps:

  1. Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. Rub the pork shoulder with salt, black pepper, paprika, ground cumin, and brown sugar, then place it in the slow cooker.
  3. In a bowl, mix together apple cider, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Pour the mixture over the pork.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
  5. Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks and mix it with the juices in the slow cooker. Serve on hamburger buns if desired. Enjoy your Apple Cider Pulled Pork!
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Savory Shepherd’s Pie

hearty shepherd s pie recipe

Savory Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together layers of tender meat and vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a perfect choice for a cozy fall family dinner, offering robust flavors that warm the soul. This dish can be made with either beef or lamb, and is a wonderful way to use leftover meat or vegetables, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.

Ingredients Quantity
Ground beef or lamb 1 pound
Onion, diced 1 medium
Carrots, diced 2 medium
Peas 1 cup
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Beef broth 1 cup
Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 pounds
Butter 4 tablespoons
Milk 1/2 cup
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Optional: fresh herbs For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onions, garlic, and carrots until softened.
  2. Add ground beef or lamb, cooking until browned. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and peas, then pour in beef broth. Simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Meanwhile, boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter and milk; season with salt and pepper.
  4. Spread the meat mixture in a baking dish, then layer the mashed potatoes on top, smoothing with a spatula.
  5. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm. Enjoy your Savory Shepherd’s Pie!
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Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal

warm comforting pumpkin oatmeal

Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal is a warm and comforting breakfast dish that embodies the flavors of fall with its rich pumpkin puree, aromatic spices, and creamy oats. It’s an easy, nutritious choice for busy mornings or a leisurely weekend breakfast, providing energy and satisfaction for the whole family.

Ingredients Quantity
Rolled oats 1 cup
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Milk (dairy or non-dairy) 2 cups
Brown sugar 2 tablespoons
Pumpkin pie spice 1 teaspoon
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Salt A pinch
Optional toppings: nuts, seeds, or dried fruit As desired

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine rolled oats, milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  3. Once boiling, reduce heat and let simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the oats are tender and creamy.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Serve warm, adding your choice of optional toppings if desired. Enjoy your Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal!
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Classic Potato Leek Soup

creamy potato leek soup

Classic Potato Leek Soup is a creamy and hearty dish that perfectly captures the essence of comforting fall flavors. This soup combines tender potatoes and fragrant leeks, creating a warm and velvety texture that’s ideal for family dinners. It’s easy to prepare in a slow cooker, allowing the savory flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.

Ingredients Quantity
Leeks 2 large, sliced
Potatoes 4 medium, diced
Chicken or vegetable broth 4 cups
Heavy cream 1 cup
Butter 2 tablespoons
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Fresh chives For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a slow cooker, combine the sliced leeks, diced potatoes, minced garlic, and broth.
  2. Add butter, salt, and black pepper, then cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are soft.
  3. Once cooked, blend the soup using an immersion blender or in batches until smooth.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh chives. Enjoy your Classic Potato Leek Soup!
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Tuscan Garlic Chicken

creamy tuscan chicken delight

Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a delectable and hearty dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your dinner table. This recipe showcases tender chicken breasts cooked in a creamy garlic sauce infused with Italian herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, all made easy in a slow cooker. It’s the perfect comfort food for cool fall evenings and is sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients Quantity
Chicken breasts 4 boneless, skinless
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic 4 cloves, minced
Chicken broth 1 cup
Heavy cream 1 cup
Sun-dried tomatoes 1/2 cup, chopped
Fresh spinach 2 cups, packed
Italian seasoning 1 tablespoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Grated Parmesan cheese For serving
Fresh basil For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a slow cooker, combine the chicken breasts, olive oil, minced garlic, chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
  3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach, allowing the spinach to wilt.
  4. Serve the chicken topped with the creamy sauce, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Enjoy your Tuscan Garlic Chicken!

Chocolate Lava Cake

slow cooker chocolate dessert

Chocolate Lava Cake is an indulgent dessert that features a gooey, molten center surrounded by a rich, chocolate cake. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings, this dessert can be easily prepared in a slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy a warm, decadent treat without the hassle of a conventional oven. Ideal for fall family dinners, this dessert will impress both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients Quantity
Semi-sweet chocolate 1 cup (6 oz)
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup (1 stick)
Granulated sugar 1/2 cup
Eggs 2 large
Egg yolks 2 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
All-purpose flour 1/4 cup
Pinch of salt To taste
Powdered sugar For dusting
Vanilla ice cream For serving (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate and butter together, stirring until smooth.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture and mix well. Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined.
  4. Grease the slow cooker insert with cooking spray, and pour the batter into the insert.
  5. Cover and cook on high for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly soft.
  6. Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar and accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired. Enjoy your Chocolate Lava Cake!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.