As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, there’s something comforting about the flavors of fall. This time of year always reminds me of warm kitchens filled with the rich aromas of hearty meals. I found myself craving cozy, hands-off recipes that not only satisfy my hunger but also allow me to enjoy the season’s beauty without spending hours in the kitchen.
If you’re someone who loves to gather around the dinner table with family and friends, this one’s for you. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or just someone who values a simple and delicious meal after a long day, these recipes cater to your need for ease and flavor. You don’t have to sacrifice time for a wholesome dinner; with a slow cooker, you can create wonderful fall meals that practically cook themselves.
I pulled together 12 fall dinner crockpot recipes that are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with seasonal flavors. From hearty lentil soup to pumpkin chili, each recipe is designed to bring warmth and comfort to your evenings. You’ll discover vibrant dishes that are packed with nutrition and flavor, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals.
With these slow cooker fall meals, you can savor autumn without the stress. Each recipe is simple, allowing you to set it and forget it while you go about your day. Embrace the joy of cooking with minimal effort and maximum taste, and enjoy the delightful scents wafting through your home as you unwind from the day.
So grab your slow cooker and let’s dive into these cozy dinner ideas that will warm your heart and home this fall!
Key Takeaways
– Discover 12 easy autumn recipes perfect for busy weeknights that require minimal prep time.
– Each recipe showcases seasonal ingredients, ensuring your meals are both delicious and nutritious.
– Most dishes can be prepped in advance, allowing you to enjoy a hassle-free dinner during the week.
– These recipes are vegetarian-friendly, making it easy to cater to a variety of dietary preferences.
– From soups to stews, there’s a cozy option for every palate, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
1. Hearty Lentil Soup
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lentils (green or brown)
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils under cold water
2. Combine all ingredients in the crockpot
3. Stir well, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours
4. Check seasonings and adjust salt/pepper as needed before serving
For extra depth, consider sautéing the onion and garlic before adding to the crockpot.
FAQs:
– Can I add meat? Yes! Try cooked sausage or chicken.
– How can I store leftovers? Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Hearty Lentil Soup
Editor’s Choice
Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:07 PM
Food to Live Organic Whole Green Lentils, 5 Pounds – Non-GMO, Dried Raw …
Amazon$28.90
Bob’s Red Mill Green Lentils, 24oz (Pack of 4) – Non GMO, Vegan, Kosher
Amazon$25.70
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer, Food Warm…
Amazon$78.48
Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker, Portable Programmable with Timer, Locking…
Amazon$109.99
2. Pumpkin Chili
Ingredients:
– 1 can pumpkin puree (not sweetened)
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 bell peppers, diced
– 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In your crockpot, combine all ingredients and mix well
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours
4. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro or avocado if desired
For extra protein, consider adding quinoa during cooking.
FAQs:
– Can I use fresh pumpkin? Yes, roast and puree first.
– How long will leftovers last? Up to 5 days in the fridge.
Pumpkin Chili
Editor’s Choice
Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:06 PM
6-Quart Manual Slow Cooker, Features Three Settings (Low, High, Warm), N…
Amazon$37.24
7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatil…
Amazon$47.99
Pioneer Woman 6 QT Slow Cooker, Locking Lid, Digital ~ Brilliant Blooms …
Amazon$84.85
Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stai…
Amazon$70.99
6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer Stainle…
Amazon$64.993. Butternut Squash Risotto
Ingredients:
– 1 cup arborio rice
– 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3-4 cups vegetable broth (as needed)
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil and sauté onion until translucent
2. Add rice and squash to the crockpot and stir
3. Pour in broth and season with salt and pepper
4. Cook on low for 4 hours, stir occasionally
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese before serving
For extra flavor, top with fresh sage or more cheese.
FAQs:
– Can this be vegan? Omit cheese or use a vegan alternative.
– What other vegetables fit? Mushrooms and spinach work well.
Butternut Squash Risotto
Editor’s Choice
Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:06 PM
Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stai…
Amazon$70.99
6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer Stainle…
Amazon$64.99
Pioneer Woman Digital Slow Cooker, 6 Qt, Locking Lid, Brilliant Blooms P…
Amazon$87.99
Pioneer Woman 6 QT Slow Cooker, Locking Lid, Digital ~ Brilliant Blooms …
Amazon$84.85
7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatil…
Amazon$47.99
4. Apple Cider Glazed Root Vegetables
Ingredients:
– 3 cups assorted root vegetables, cubed
– 1 cup apple cider
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Toss everything in a bowl
2. Transfer to crockpot and cover
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally
4. Serve warm, with extra maple syrup if desired
For extra flavor, add rosemary or thyme during cooking.
FAQs:
– Can I use sweet potatoes? Yes, it adds a different depth
– How long to store leftovers? Up to 4 days in the fridge.
Crockpots turn busy fall nights into cozy dinners with minimal effort. Toss root vegetables with apple cider and maple syrup, then let the pot do the magic. This is why fall dinner crockpot recipes feel like a warm hug in a bowl.
Apple Cider Glazed Root Vegetables
Editor’s Choice
Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:06 PM
Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stai…
Amazon$70.99
8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Three Temperature Settings, Dishwa…
Amazon$87.57
7-Quart Slow Cooker, Portable Programmable with Timer, Locking Lid, Stai…
Amazon$109.99
6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer Stainle…
Amazon$64.99
Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Di…
Amazon$87.995. Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Mix spinach, rice, feta, and seasonings
2. Stuff pepper halves with the filling
3. Place in crockpot and drizzle with marinara
4. Cook on low for 5-6 hours
5. Serve with fresh herbs if desired
A few olives or sun-dried tomatoes boost flavor.
FAQs:
– Can I use quinoa instead of rice? Yes
– Other cheeses? Goat cheese works well.
Weeknights call for cozy, hands-off meals, and these fall dinner crockpot recipes deliver. Spinach and feta stuffed peppers prove you can enjoy veggie-packed comfort without fiddling over the stove. Just set it, stroll away, and come back to a flavorful, effortless dinner.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers
Editor’s Choice
Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:07 PM
6.0 Qt Programmable Slow Cooker, Ceramic Nonstick Coating, Adjustable Te…
Amazon$49.99
6.0 Qt Programmable Slow Cooker, Ceramic Nonstick Coating, Adjustable Te…
Amazon$39.98
6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer Stainle…
Amazon$64.99
Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stai…
Amazon$70.99
Hamilton Beach 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Three Temperature S…
Amazon$87.57
6. Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry
Ingredients:
– 1 head cauliflower, florets
– 1 can chickpeas, drained
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Combine all ingredients in the crockpot
2. Stir to coat cauliflower in spices
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours
4. Season and serve with rice or naan
For extra heat, add chili flakes or fresh ginger.
FAQs:
– Can I add other vegetables? Peppers and peas work well
– Leftovers last? Up to 4 days in the fridge.
Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry
Editor’s Choice
Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:07 PM
Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting …
Amazon$70.99
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer, Food Warm…
Amazon$78.48
Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker, Portable Programmable with Timer, Locking…
Amazon$109.99
Hamilton Beach 6 Quart 9-in-1 Programmable Slow Cooker with Sear, Browni…
Amazon$126.95
Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Tim…
Amazon$64.99
7. Quinoa and Black Bean Stew
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
– 1 can black beans, drained
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2-3 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Combine all ingredients in the crockpot
2. Add broth to cover quinoa by about an inch
3. Cook on low for 5-6 hours
4. Adjust seasonings before serving
Serve with a squeeze of lime or a dollop of yogurt for extra brightness.
FAQs:
– Can I swap beans? Yes, kidney or pinto beans work
– Storing leftovers? Up to 4 days in the fridge.
Quinoa and Black Bean Stew
Editor’s Choice
Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:07 PM
Bob’s Red Mill Organic White Quinoa, 26oz (Pack of 4) – Non GMO, Whole G…
Amazon$76.50
Bob’s Red Mill Organic Tri-Color Quinoa, 13oz (Pack of 5) – Non GMO, Who…
Amazon$34.35
CEREAUSLY Organic Black Quinoa – Premium Royal Quinoa from Bolivia – Kos…
Amazon$46.95
Pacific Foods Low Sodium Organic Vegetable Broth, 32 oz Carton (Case of 12)
Amazon$36.84
8. Sweet Potato and Corn Chowder
Ingredients:
– 2 sweet potatoes, diced
– 2 cups corn (frozen or fresh)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tsp thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Combine all ingredients in the crockpot
2. Cook on low for 6-7 hours
3. Use an immersion blender for a smooth texture or leave chunky
4. Adjust seasonings before serving
Top with smoked paprika or chili flakes for a kick.
FAQs:
– Is it vegan? Yes
– Leftovers storage? Up to 5 days in the fridge.
Fun fact: Sweet potatoes and corn thicken chowder naturally, making this cozy bowl a standout in fall dinner crockpot recipes. Slow-cooking for 6–7 hours brings out sweetness, saving you time for cozy hands-off meals.
Sweet Potato and Corn Chowder
Editor’s Choice
Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:07 PM
Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Tim…
Amazon$64.99
Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting …
Amazon$70.99
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer, Food Warm…
Amazon$78.48
Hamilton Beach 6 Quart 9-in-1 Programmable Slow Cooker with Sear, Browni…
Amazon$126.95
Pacific Foods Low Sodium Organic Vegetable Broth, 32 oz Carton (Case of 12)
Amazon$36.84
9. Roasted Vegetable Pasta
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of choice
– 2 cups chopped vegetables (zucchini, peppers, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toss vegetables with oil and garlic
2. Add pasta and stir
3. Pour enough water or broth to cover the pasta
4. Cook on low for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally
5. Serve with Parmesan if desired
Try adding herbs you love for extra flavor.
FAQs:
– Can I use whole wheat pasta? Yes
– Leftovers stored? Up to 3 days in the fridge.
Roasted Vegetable Pasta
Editor’s Choice
Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:07 PM
Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stai…
Amazon$70.99
6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer Stainle…
Amazon$64.99
6.0 Qt Programmable Slow Cooker, Ceramic Nonstick Coating, Adjustable Te…
Amazon$49.99
Pioneer Woman 6 QT Slow Cooker, Locking Lid, Digital ~ Brilliant Blooms …
Amazon$84.85
7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatil…
Amazon$47.99
10. Mushroom Stroganoff
Ingredients:
– 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 2 tbsp flour
– 2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Sauté onions and mushrooms until soft
2. Transfer to crockpot with broth and seasonings
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours
4. Stir in a flour slurry and sour cream; cook 30 minutes more
For depth, add a splash of white wine during cooking.
FAQs:
– Can I use different mushrooms? Yes, mixed mushrooms add flavor
– Leftovers? Up to 4 days in the fridge.
Mushroom Stroganoff
Editor’s Choice
Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:08 PM
7-Quart Slow Cooker, Portable Programmable with Timer, Locking Lid, Stai…
Amazon$109.99
Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stai…
Amazon$70.99
Pioneer Woman 6 QT Slow Cooker, Locking Lid, Digital ~ Brilliant Blooms …
Amazon$84.85
Pioneer Woman 6-Quart Stoneware Slow Cooker – 3 Heat Settings + Keep-War…
Amazon$106.28
6-Quart Manual Slow Cooker, Features Three Settings (Low, High, Warm), N…
Amazon$37.2411. Creamy Polenta with Autumn Vegetables
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 cups assorted vegetables (Brussels sprouts, carrots, squash)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Stir polenta into broth in the crockpot
2. Toss vegetables in oil and season
3. Layer vegetables over polenta and cover
4. Cook on low for 6 hours until creamy
5. Stir and serve warm
A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a nice finish.
FAQs:
– Is it vegan? Yes
– Can I use quick-cooking polenta? Yes, adjust time accordingly.
Creamy Polenta with Autumn Vegetables
Editor’s Choice
Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:08 PM
Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stai…
Amazon$70.99
7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatil…
Amazon$47.99
6-Quart Manual Slow Cooker, Features Three Settings (Low, High, Warm), N…
Amazon$37.24
Pioneer Woman 6-Quart Stoneware Slow Cooker – 3 Heat Settings + Keep-War…
Amazon$106.28
Pioneer Woman 6 QT Slow Cooker, Locking Lid, Digital ~ Brilliant Blooms …
Amazon$84.8512. Carrot and Ginger Soup
Ingredients:
– 1 lb carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2-3 inches fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Combine all ingredients in the crockpot
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours
3. Blend until smooth with an immersion blender
4. Taste and adjust seasonings, serve warm
A splash of coconut milk adds extra creaminess if desired.
FAQs:
– Can I use dried ginger? Yes, fresh gives best flavor
– How long will it keep? Up to 5 days in the fridge.
Carrot and Ginger Soup
Editor’s Choice
Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:08 PM
KitchenAid Variable Speed Corded Hand Blender KHBV53, Matte Black
Amazon$44.95
Pacific Foods Low Sodium Organic Vegetable Broth, 32 oz Carton (Case of 12)
Amazon$36.84
Crock-Pot 6 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Timer and Auto Food Warm…
Amazon$99.74
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer, Food Warm…
Amazon$78.48
Conclusion
With these 12 fall dinner crockpot recipes, you can savor the essence of autumn without spending hours in the kitchen. Each recipe is designed to be easy, hearty, and bursting with seasonal flavors that make hands-off cooking a joy. From comforting soups to robust stews, your slow cooker can help you create meals that bring warmth and satisfaction, perfect for crisp evenings spent at home.
So, gather your favorite ingredients, fire up that crockpot, and enjoy the cozy meals that define the fall season!
Note: We aim to provide accurate product links, but some may occasionally expire or become unavailable. If this happens, please search directly on Amazon for the product or a suitable alternative.
This post contains Amazon affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best fall dinner crockpot recipes for cozy hands-off meals?
These 12 fall dinner crockpot recipes are designed for vegetarian eaters and cozy hands-off dinners. They feature hearty beans, lentils, squash, and seasonal vegetables that simmer into comforting bowls. To get started, try dishes like lentil and pumpkin stew, white bean chili, or mushroom barley soup. They fit slow cooker fall meals and are perfect as easy autumn recipes you can set and forget. Practical tips: prep veggies the night before, layer ingredients so everything cooks evenly, and use the low setting for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Want variety? swap in root vegetables or greens to keep these hearty fall recipes exciting.
How can I adapt these fall dinner crockpot recipes for weeknight crockpot dinners?
For busy weeks, these fall dinner crockpot recipes shine as weeknight crockpot dinners. Prep in about 15 minutes, use pantry staples, and choose one-pot meals. Cooking times can stay efficient: low for 6–8 hours while you’re at work, or 3–4 hours on high if you’re home earlier. Lean on quick-sauté aromatics, canned beans, and pre-cut vegetables to speed things up. Freeze extras in portions for future easy autumn recipes nights. You’ll come home to a fragrant, comforting meal that feels like a hug.
What substitutions work well in vegetarian fall crockpot meals if I run out of ingredients?
No problem—these recipes are forgiving. Use chickpeas or lentils in place of meat, swap in mushrooms for texture, or use quinoa or barley for heft. If squash is scarce, swap in sweet potatoes or carrots. Canned tomatoes or coconut milk can stand in for broth to keep creaminess and moisture. Always taste and adjust salt, since broth can be salty. This approach fits easy autumn recipes and keeps your hearty fall recipes intact.
How long do these fall crockpot recipes take to cook, and how can I prevent mushy veggies?
Most vegetarian fall crockpot recipes cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. To keep veggies from turning mushy, add sturdier ingredients first—potatoes, carrots, onions—and stir in delicate greens (spinach, kale) in the last 15–30 minutes. Layer spices and aromatics at the start so flavors bloom. If you need extra creaminess, whisk in a little cornstarch slurry or coconut milk near the end. This approach helps deliver reliable fall dinner crockpot recipes and cozy dinner ideas.
Are these recipes freezer-friendly and suitable for make-ahead meal planning?
Yes! Most of these vegetarian fall crockpot meals freeze beautifully. Freeze raw ingredients in a bag to dump into the slow cooker later, or cook fully and freeze in portions for quick reheats. Thaw overnight if possible, or add frozen ingredients directly to the slow cooker and extend the cook time by about 1–2 hours. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until steaming. It’s an easy way to build a stash of easy autumn recipes and cozy dinner ideas for weeknight crockpot dinners.
Related Topics
fall dinner recipes
slow cooker meals
vegetarian crockpot
easy autumn dinners
cozy meals
weeknight cooking
hearty fall dishes
hands-off recipes
autumn comfort food
simple weeknight meals
seasonal recipes
family-friendly dinners