30+ Flavorful Holiday Paleo Slow Cooker Recipes to Make Effortles Meals

The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and a celebration of flavors.

Yet, with so many dishes to prepare, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of holiday cooking.

Luckily, if you’re following a paleo diet or simply looking for healthier holiday options, there’s a solution that can make your festive meals easier and more enjoyable: the slow cooker.

With its ability to infuse flavors and tenderize ingredients, the slow cooker is a holiday hero.

Whether you’re looking for a hearty main dish, a festive side, or a sweet dessert, we’ve rounded up over 30 paleo slow cooker recipes that are perfect for your holiday table.

These recipes are made with simple, wholesome ingredients and are designed to cater to a paleo lifestyle, ensuring your meals are nutritious without sacrificing flavor. Say goodbye to last-minute stress and hello to flavorful, perfectly cooked holiday dishes.

From savory entrees to mouthwatering sides and even holiday treats, there’s something for everyone in this collection.

30+ Flavorful Holiday Paleo Slow Cooker Recipes to Make Effortles Meals

With these 30+ holiday paleo slow cooker recipes, you can bring joy to your holiday celebrations while sticking to your dietary goals.

The convenience of using a slow cooker allows you to focus on spending quality time with loved ones, rather than stressing in the kitchen.

From savory main courses like herb-roasted chicken and beef stew to sides like maple-glazed Brussels sprouts and sweet potato mash, and even sweet treats like spiced pumpkin soup, these recipes have you covered from start to finish.

So, set up your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy holiday meals that are as nourishing as they are delicious.

With these recipes, your holiday celebrations will be full of flavor, comfort, and a touch of effortless elegance.

Paleo Slow Cooker Cranberry Orange Chicken

This cranberry orange chicken is a festive and flavorful dish perfect for holiday meals. With a rich blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, it’s easy to make in your slow cooker and pairs beautifully with a simple side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 orange, juiced and zested
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon coconut aminos (or low-sodium soy sauce)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, combine the cranberries, orange juice and zest, honey, coconut aminos, garlic, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Mix well.
3. Pour the cranberry-orange sauce over the chicken, ensuring the meat is well coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken and set aside. Use a spoon to remove any excess liquid from the slow cooker.
6. If desired, shred the chicken and return it to the slow cooker to absorb the flavors further before serving.
7. Serve with a garnish of fresh parsley if you like.

The combination of cranberries and orange creates a beautiful, vibrant sauce that highlights the chicken’s natural flavor while adding a festive flair to your holiday table. This dish is perfect for serving at a gathering or as a comforting centerpiece to a cozy family dinner.

Slow Cooker Paleo Beef Stew

This hearty and warm beef stew is a perfect paleo option for a holiday meal. Packed with nutrient-dense vegetables and tender chunks of beef, it’s both satisfying and nourishing.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil or ghee
• 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the beef chunks in the coconut oil or ghee. Remove and set aside.
2. Add the diced onion and garlic to the slow cooker. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the browned beef, carrots, celery, and tomato paste to the slow cooker.
4. Pour in the beef broth, apple cider vinegar, thyme, and rosemary. Stir to combine and season with salt and black pepper.
5. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together.
6. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

This paleo beef stew is rich, hearty, and perfect for holiday celebrations. It’s a nourishing dish that’s easy to make ahead of time and tastes even better the next day. Serve it as a main course with a side of cauliflower rice or alongside a simple salad for a wholesome holiday feast.

Paleo Slow Cooker Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes

These maple pecan sweet potatoes are a great holiday side dish that’s both sweet and savory, made effortlessly in the slow cooker. They add a touch of indulgence without compromising the paleo diet.

Ingredients

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup ghee or coconut oil, melted
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Place the cubed sweet potatoes in the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, mix the maple syrup, melted ghee or coconut oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pour over the sweet potatoes and toss to coat evenly.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
4. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the chopped pecans on top to let them toast slightly.
5. If using, sprinkle coconut flakes over the sweet potatoes during the final 10 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional pecans and coconut flakes if desired.

This dish is a delightful blend of sweet and nutty flavors that complement the holiday spirit. It pairs well with your main protein, whether it be turkey, beef, or chicken. The slow cooker ensures that all the flavors are absorbed, making every bite tender and infused with a warm holiday aroma.

Paleo Slow Cooker Herb-Rubbed Turkey Breast

This herb-rubbed turkey breast is a show-stopping dish for any holiday gathering. Juicy, tender, and infused with aromatic herbs, it’s made easy with the help of your slow cooker.

Ingredients

• 1 boneless, skinless turkey breast (about 3-4 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or ghee
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh sage, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix the olive oil or ghee with the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, lemon zest, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to form a paste.
2. Rub the herb mixture evenly over the turkey breast, ensuring all sides are coated.
3. Place the turkey breast in the slow cooker and pour the chicken broth around it.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the turkey is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove the turkey breast and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve with a drizzle of the cooking juices from the slow cooker.

This turkey breast is full of fragrant herbs and a hint of citrus, making it perfect for holiday feasts. The slow cooker keeps it moist and flavorful, ensuring every bite is a tender and delicious experience. Serve it alongside a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a meal that’s both festive and healthy.

Slow Cooker Paleo Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin

The sweet and tangy flavors of cranberries and orange infuse this pork tenderloin, creating a perfect holiday dish. With minimal prep, this recipe makes an impressive main course that’s both flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1.5-2 pounds pork tenderloin
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 orange, juiced and zested
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and black pepper, then place it in the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the cranberries, orange juice and zest, honey, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, cinnamon, and ground ginger. Stir well.
3. Pour the cranberry-orange mixture over the pork tenderloin, ensuring it’s well coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is cooked through and tender.
5. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve slices of pork drizzled with the cranberry-orange sauce and garnish with fresh rosemary if desired.

This dish balances sweet and savory flavors beautifully and is perfect for a holiday meal. The slow cooking process ensures the pork is juicy and infused with the cranberry-orange sauce, making each bite packed with flavor. Serve with mashed cauliflower or a simple green vegetable for a complete, paleo-friendly holiday feast.

Paleo Slow Cooker Spiced Pumpkin Soup

This spiced pumpkin soup is rich, creamy, and full of warm, festive flavors. It’s the perfect starter for a holiday meal or can be served as a light main course.

Ingredients

• 2 cups canned pure pumpkin (unsweetened)
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium)
• 1 can full-fat coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Place the diced onion and minced garlic in the slow cooker.
2. Add the pumpkin, chicken or vegetable broth, coconut milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Stir until well combined.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the flavors are well melded.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the slow cooker until smooth. Alternatively, transfer in batches to a high-speed blender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.

This creamy, spiced pumpkin soup is perfect for cozy holiday meals. It combines the heartiness of pumpkin with aromatic spices, creating a velvety texture that warms the soul. The slow cooker ensures that all the flavors are deeply infused, making it an impressive and delicious start to any holiday feast.

Paleo Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Salmon

This garlic herb salmon is a simple and elegant dish that brings a touch of freshness and luxury to your holiday table. Made in the slow cooker, it remains tender and flavorful, perfect for a festive occasion.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted ghee
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Mix the olive oil or ghee with the minced garlic, dill, parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
2. Place the salmon fillets in the slow cooker and rub the herb mixture over the top of each fillet.
3. Cover and cook on low for 1.5-2 hours or on high for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Serve the salmon with a garnish of lemon slices and a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs if desired.

This garlic herb salmon is perfect for holiday meals, offering a light and healthy main course option. The slow cooking method allows the salmon to absorb the aromatic herbs, creating a moist and flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Slow Cooker Paleo Stuffed Bell Peppers

These stuffed bell peppers are loaded with a delicious blend of ground turkey, cauliflower rice, and spices, making them a hearty and wholesome paleo-friendly dish. They’re perfect for a holiday meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers, any color
• 1 pound ground turkey or ground chicken
• 1 cup cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground turkey or chicken until browned. Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper and cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Stir in the cauliflower rice and diced tomatoes. Mix until evenly combined.
4. Fill each bell pepper with the meat mixture and place them in the slow cooker.
5. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the peppers are tender.
6. Serve the stuffed peppers warm, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley.

These stuffed bell peppers are a festive and colorful addition to your holiday meal spread. The combination of ground turkey, cauliflower rice, and tomatoes makes them hearty and flavorful, while the slow cooking ensures that the peppers are perfectly tender. Serve them with a simple avocado salad or a side of steamed greens for a well-rounded holiday meal.

Paleo Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Carrots

These honey-glazed carrots are an easy and sweet side dish that pairs well with any holiday main course. The slow cooker brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots and melds it perfectly with the honey and spices.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons ghee or coconut oil, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt to taste
• Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Place the carrots in the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, mix the honey, melted ghee or coconut oil, cinnamon, and ginger. Pour over the carrots and toss until they are evenly coated.
3. Season with a pinch of salt and stir again.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the carrots are tender and glazed.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.

These honey-glazed carrots are a simple and tasty side dish that’s perfect for the holiday season. The slow cooker enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots while allowing the glaze to caramelize slightly, creating a delicious and visually appealing dish. Serve them with roasted meats or alongside other holiday sides for a complete, paleo-friendly feast.

Paleo Slow Cooker Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

This cranberry orange glazed chicken is a vibrant, sweet, and tangy dish that adds a festive touch to your holiday table. Slow cooking makes the chicken tender and infuses it with a rich, citrusy glaze that pairs beautifully with seasonal sides.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 orange, juiced and zested
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh rosemary or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper and place it in the slow cooker.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the cranberries, orange juice and zest, honey, chicken broth, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Stir until well combined.
3. Pour the cranberry orange mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, making sure the chicken is well coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
5. Remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Spoon the cranberry orange sauce over the top and garnish with fresh rosemary or parsley if desired.

This dish is a delightful holiday main course that’s full of bright flavors and makes use of seasonal ingredients. The slow cooking method ensures that the chicken is infused with the sweet and tangy glaze, while the cranberries add a lovely texture and tartness. Serve with mashed sweet potatoes or a green bean almondine for a well-rounded holiday meal.

Slow Cooker Paleo Beef Stew with Sweet Potatoes

This hearty and comforting beef stew with sweet potatoes is perfect for holiday gatherings. Packed with tender beef, vegetables, and warm spices, it’s paleo-friendly and full of flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds stew beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or ghee
• 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or ghee over medium-high heat. Brown the beef pieces in batches, then transfer them to the slow cooker.
2. Add the sweet potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
3. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, paprika, and cumin. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

This beef stew with sweet potatoes is an ideal dish for a cozy holiday meal. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and satisfying stew that’s perfect for serving to family and friends. The sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the beef and spices. Enjoy this warm, hearty dish with a side of crusty paleo bread or a simple green salad.

Paleo Slow Cooker Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

These balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts are a flavorful side dish that’s perfect for holiday meals. With a slight sweetness and tang from the balsamic glaze, they’re an easy, healthy addition to any festive spread.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Crumbled bacon or chopped pecans for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Place the halved Brussels sprouts in the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Pour the mixture over the Brussels sprouts and toss until evenly coated.
3. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours, until the Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized.
4. Serve warm, garnished with crumbled bacon or chopped pecans if desired.

These balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts are a sweet and tangy side that’s both elegant and simple. The slow cooker helps develop the rich flavors, allowing the Brussels sprouts to absorb the balsamic glaze and become tender without losing their texture. Perfect as a side for roasted meats or served alongside other holiday dishes, they add a bright and festive touch to your meal.

Paleo Slow Cooker Spiced Pumpkin Soup

This spiced pumpkin soup is a comforting and rich dish, ideal for holiday gatherings. The slow cooker allows the flavors to develop deeply, creating a smooth and velvety soup that’s perfect as a starter or even as a main course.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) pure pumpkin puree
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh sage leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Place the pumpkin puree, chicken or vegetable broth, coconut milk, chopped onion, and minced garlic in the slow cooker.
2. Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice. Season with salt and black pepper.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to blend together.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the slow cooker until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh sage leaves if desired.

This spiced pumpkin soup is the perfect holiday appetizer that balances warm, rich flavors with a creamy texture. The slow cooking process helps the spices infuse deeply into the pumpkin, resulting in a bowl full of comfort and warmth. It’s a simple dish that can be served with a side of paleo-friendly bread or a light salad to complete your meal.

Paleo Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs

These lemon herb chicken thighs are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for holiday feasts. The slow cooker makes them tender and infused with the fresh flavors of lemon and herbs, perfect for serving with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad.

Ingredients

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 lemons, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil or ghee
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper.
2. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil or ghee, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Rub the herb mixture evenly over the chicken thighs and place them in the slow cooker, skin side up. Arrange lemon slices on top of and around the chicken.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.

These lemon herb chicken thighs are a festive main dish that brings a bright and aromatic flavor profile to your holiday meal. The slow cooking ensures the chicken stays moist and infused with the herbaceous, citrusy glaze, making each bite full of flavor. Pair it with roasted sweet potatoes, sautéed greens, or a crisp salad for a balanced holiday spread.

Paleo Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash

This side dish combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the earthiness of Brussels sprouts and butternut squash. The slow cooker enhances the flavors, creating a dish that’s perfect for the holiday season.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped pecans for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Place the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash in the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour the maple mixture over the vegetables and toss until they are well coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped pecans if desired.

These maple-glazed Brussels sprouts and butternut squash are a sweet and savory holiday side that will impress your guests. The slow cooking method brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables while the maple syrup adds an irresistible caramelized touch. Perfect alongside roast turkey, prime rib, or a holiday ham, this dish will become a favorite addition to your festive table.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!