35+ Easy and Delicious Holiday Rice Cooker Recipes for Stress-Free Cooking

The holidays are the perfect time to gather with loved ones and enjoy delicious meals together.

However, as we know, preparing a holiday feast can be a stressful and time-consuming task. Between the main dishes, appetizers, and sides, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

But what if you could simplify the process and still serve flavorful, impressive meals? That’s where the rice cooker comes in!

This humble kitchen appliance is perfect for holiday cooking, offering a hassle-free way to prepare everything from savory sides to sweet rice-based desserts.

Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or looking for quick yet festive dishes, a rice cooker can help you save time, space, and energy.

In this blog, we’ve compiled over 35 delicious holiday rice cooker recipes, from classic savory dishes to sweet treats, so you can enjoy a stress-free holiday feast without sacrificing flavor.

35+ Easy and Delicious Holiday Rice Cooker Recipes for Stress-Free Cooking

With these 35+ holiday rice cooker recipes, you now have the perfect solution to reduce stress and maximize flavor during the holiday season.

The rice cooker offers a hands-off, efficient way to create delicious dishes that everyone will love.

From hearty, savory sides to delightful desserts, these recipes will ensure that your holiday meals are both easy to make and full of festive flavor.

So, why not make this holiday season a little easier by letting your rice cooker do the hard work?

Holiday Cranberry Almond Rice Pudding

This creamy, comforting rice pudding brings festive flavors to the table with tangy cranberries and crunchy almonds. It’s a perfect dish for holiday dinners or as a cozy breakfast. The rice cooker simplifies the cooking process, making this a hassle-free treat to serve family and friends.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the Arborio rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.
2. Place the rinsed rice, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt into the rice cooker. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid of the rice cooker and set it to the “white rice” setting. Let it cook for about 30-35 minutes, stirring once or twice during the process if possible.
4. Once the rice cooker signals it’s done, open the lid and stir the pudding. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk and stir until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Add the dried cranberries and almonds into the pudding and stir. Let it rest for a few minutes to allow the cranberries to soften and the almonds to warm through.
6. For extra creaminess, stir in butter before serving.

This Holiday Cranberry Almond Rice Pudding is a delicious and indulgent dessert or breakfast option that beautifully balances sweet, tart, and nutty flavors. The rice cooker method ensures that the pudding comes out creamy and smooth, with minimal effort. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season with ease and flavor!

Savory Holiday Rice with Roasted Vegetables

This savory rice dish with roasted vegetables is the ideal side for any holiday feast. Packed with seasonal flavors and easy to prepare in a rice cooker, it takes the hassle out of cooking while adding depth and color to your holiday spread. The blend of roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips pairs perfectly with the aromatic rice.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups long-grain rice
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced sweet potatoes
• 1 cup diced parsnips
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips with olive oil, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
2. In the meantime, rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear. Add the rinsed rice and vegetable broth to the rice cooker.
3. When the vegetables are done, stir them into the rice cooker along with the diced onion and garlic.
4. Close the lid and cook on the “white rice” setting. Once the rice cooker finishes, let the rice sit for about 10 minutes before opening the lid.
5. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and serve warm.

Savory Holiday Rice with Roasted Vegetables is a flavorful and colorful dish that enhances any holiday meal. The roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness, while the rice cooker makes it incredibly simple to prepare. Whether served alongside roasted meats or as a standalone vegetarian dish, it’s a comforting and satisfying addition to your holiday menu.

Holiday Spiced Rice with Apples and Cinnamon

This warm and fragrant spiced rice dish combines the sweetness of apples with the comforting flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect for a festive breakfast or dessert, this rice cooker recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy holiday mornings or gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 4 cups apple juice or cider
• 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then add it to the rice cooker.
2. Pour in the apple juice or cider, and stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar.
3. Add the diced apples and raisins (if using) to the rice cooker. Close the lid and cook on the “white rice” setting.
4. Once the rice cooker finishes cooking, let the rice sit for 5-10 minutes to absorb any excess liquid.
5. For extra richness, stir in the butter just before serving.

Holiday Spiced Rice with Apples and Cinnamon offers a warm, fragrant dish that’s perfect for holiday mornings. The blend of apple, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a cozy, festive atmosphere, while the rice cooker ensures the dish comes out perfectly every time. Whether served as a dessert or a sweet breakfast, this dish is sure to be a seasonal favorite in your home.

Holiday Rice Cooker Stuffing

This Rice Cooker Holiday Stuffing combines the savory flavors of traditional stuffing with the convenience of using a rice cooker. With a mix of bread cubes, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it’s a delicious side dish for any holiday meal. This simple recipe will save you time and space in the kitchen while still delivering on flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of French bread, cut into cubes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. In the rice cooker, add the bread cubes, vegetable broth, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Add the sautéed vegetables to the rice cooker and mix everything together.
4. Close the lid and cook on the “white rice” setting. The rice cooker will blend the flavors and moisture while cooking the bread to a delicious, soft stuffing consistency.
5. Once the rice cooker finishes, stir in the fresh parsley for added color and freshness, if desired.

Holiday Rice Cooker Stuffing is an effortless and flavorful alternative to traditional oven-baked stuffing. With the help of your rice cooker, you can achieve perfectly moist and aromatic stuffing without the hassle of babysitting the oven. It’s a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with turkey, ham, or any holiday entrée.

Holiday Rice Cooker Rice Pilaf with Pistachios and Cranberries

This festive rice pilaf features a perfect blend of flavors from the sweet and tart cranberries, crunchy pistachios, and fragrant herbs. The rice cooker makes it easy to prepare, resulting in a rice dish that’s both colorful and full of seasonal charm. This side dish adds a lovely touch to your holiday dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Place it in the rice cooker.
2. Add the chicken or vegetable broth, dried cranberries, pistachios, onion, cinnamon, cumin, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the rice cooker. Stir well to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the rice cooker to the “white rice” setting.
4. Once the rice cooker finishes, fluff the rice gently with a fork. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This Holiday Rice Cooker Rice Pilaf with Pistachios and Cranberries is a perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and savory flavor. The rice cooker makes it easy to create a stunning dish without much effort. It pairs beautifully with a variety of holiday proteins and is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant colors and complex flavors.

Holiday Rice Cooker Sweet Potato and Apple Pilaf

Sweet potatoes and apples are a classic holiday pairing, and this rice cooker pilaf brings them together in a warm, hearty dish. The sweet and savory combination is perfect for a holiday dinner, and the rice cooker simplifies the process, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups brown rice
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 apples, peeled and diced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the brown rice under cold water and place it in the rice cooker.
2. Add the vegetable or chicken broth, diced sweet potatoes, diced apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir everything together and close the rice cooker lid. Set it to the “brown rice” setting and let it cook.
4. Once the rice cooker finishes, open the lid and fluff the rice. The sweet potatoes and apples should be tender and infused with the spices.
5. If desired, sprinkle with chopped pecans for extra crunch and flavor before serving.

Holiday Rice Cooker Sweet Potato and Apple Pilaf is a comforting dish that combines the best flavors of the season. It’s a great way to use fresh ingredients in a simple, delicious side dish that complements any holiday entrée. The rice cooker ensures perfect rice with tender, flavorful vegetables, making this a must-try for your next festive meal.

Holiday Rice Cooker Maple Pecan Rice

Sweet and nutty, this rice dish combines the rich flavor of maple syrup with the crunch of toasted pecans for a decadent holiday side dish. The rice cooker helps to achieve a perfectly tender rice with a syrupy sweetness that is ideal for pairing with both savory and sweet holiday meals. It’s a simple yet elegant addition to your festive spread.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups white rice
• 4 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear and add it to the rice cooker.
2. Add the water or vegetable broth, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt to the rice cooker. Stir to combine.
3. Toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, until fragrant and lightly browned. Set aside.
4. Close the lid of the rice cooker and cook on the “white rice” setting.
5. Once the rice cooker finishes, fluff the rice with a fork and gently stir in the toasted pecans and butter.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.

Holiday Rice Cooker Maple Pecan Rice is a delightful combination of sweet and savory that complements a wide range of holiday dishes. The creamy texture of the rice with the maple syrup and the crunch of pecans creates a festive dish that’s as comforting as it is elegant. It’s perfect for holiday dinners, bringing both flavor and a touch of holiday cheer to the table.

Holiday Rice Cooker Wild Rice with Mushrooms and Sage

This earthy and aromatic wild rice dish with mushrooms and sage brings depth and warmth to any holiday meal. With wild rice as the base, combined with the umami richness of mushrooms and the earthy fragrance of sage, this dish is a flavorful, healthy side that will impress guests at your holiday gathering.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups wild rice
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dried wild mushrooms (or fresh if available)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried sage (or fresh if available)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or sage leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the wild rice under cold water and place it in the rice cooker.
2. Add the vegetable or chicken broth, dried mushrooms, onion, garlic, sage, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and close the rice cooker lid.
4. Set the rice cooker to the “brown rice” setting and allow it to cook for approximately 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the flavors have melded.
5. Once done, fluff the rice gently with a fork and taste for seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or sage leaves and serve warm.

Holiday Rice Cooker Wild Rice with Mushrooms and Sage is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for the holiday season. The wild rice absorbs the rich, savory broth while the mushrooms and sage add an irresistible depth of flavor. This dish is a wonderful alternative to traditional stuffing and a great way to bring earthy, comforting flavors to your holiday table.

Holiday Rice Cooker Rice Pudding with Pumpkin and Spices

This creamy pumpkin rice pudding is a delicious holiday dessert that blends the warmth of pumpkin pie spices with the comforting creaminess of rice pudding. Prepared easily in the rice cooker, it’s a rich and festive treat that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or as a sweet ending to a holiday feast.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Whipped cream or cinnamon for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the Arborio rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then add it to the rice cooker.
2. Pour in the milk, canned pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid of the rice cooker and set it to the “white rice” setting.
4. Let the rice cooker cook for about 30-35 minutes, stirring once halfway through, if possible.
5. Once the rice cooker finishes, open the lid and stir the pudding. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk and stir until you reach the desired consistency.
6. Add vanilla extract and stir well. Serve warm, garnished with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.

Holiday Rice Cooker Rice Pudding with Pumpkin and Spices is a warm and indulgent dessert that celebrates the flavors of fall and winter. The pumpkin adds a rich, velvety texture, while the spices bring a festive, aromatic warmth to each bite. This dish is perfect for those looking for a comforting and easy-to-make holiday dessert that will leave guests craving more.

Holiday Rice Cooker Cranberry Orange Rice

This bright and festive cranberry orange rice is the perfect combination of tart, sweet, and savory flavors. With fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a hint of cinnamon, this rice dish brings a pop of color and flavor to your holiday meal. The rice cooker makes it effortless to prepare, ensuring a fragrant and flavorful side dish for your celebration.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 4 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped if large
• Zest and juice of 1 orange
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water and place it in the rice cooker.
2. Add the water or vegetable broth, fresh cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, honey (if using), cinnamon, and salt to the rice cooker. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the rice cooker to the “white rice” setting.
4. Once the rice cooker finishes, fluff the rice gently with a fork, incorporating the cranberries and orange zest evenly throughout.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for added color and freshness.

Holiday Rice Cooker Cranberry Orange Rice is a vibrant and tangy side dish that brings a burst of freshness to your holiday spread. The cranberries and orange zest infuse the rice with a delightful sweetness and tartness, making it a perfect pairing with savory meats or roasted vegetables. With minimal effort thanks to the rice cooker, this dish is a beautiful and delicious addition to your holiday feast.

Holiday Rice Cooker Sweet Corn and Bell Pepper Pilaf

This colorful and flavorful pilaf features the sweetness of corn, the crunch of bell peppers, and the heartiness of rice, all cooked together in one pot. A perfect balance of textures and flavors, this holiday side dish is quick to make in your rice cooker, saving you time and space while delivering a satisfying and vibrant addition to your meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen sweet corn
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water and add it to the rice cooker.
2. Add the vegetable or chicken broth, frozen sweet corn, diced bell peppers, onion, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the rice cooker. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the rice cooker to the “white rice” setting.
4. Once the rice cooker finishes, fluff the rice gently with a fork to mix the vegetables evenly throughout.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving, if desired.

Holiday Rice Cooker Sweet Corn and Bell Pepper Pilaf is a simple, yet colorful dish that adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to your holiday table. The combination of bell peppers and corn makes it both visually appealing and tasty, while the rice cooker ensures the rice is perfectly cooked every time. This side dish is versatile, making it a great pairing for a variety of proteins or other vegetables.

Holiday Rice Cooker Butternut Squash and Sage Rice

This warm and comforting butternut squash and sage rice dish is the perfect addition to any holiday table. With the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash, the aromatic flavor of fresh sage, and the comforting texture of rice, this dish is a delicious side that brings the flavors of autumn to your holiday meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups white or brown rice
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage (or fresh if available)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh sage leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread it in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
2. While the squash is roasting, rinse the rice under cold water and place it in the rice cooker.
3. Add the vegetable or chicken broth, roasted butternut squash, onion, garlic, sage, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the rice cooker.
4. Close the lid and set the rice cooker to the “white rice” or “brown rice” setting, depending on the type of rice used.
5. Once the rice cooker finishes, fluff the rice gently with a fork to incorporate the squash and sage.
6. Garnish with fresh sage leaves before serving.

Holiday Rice Cooker Butternut Squash and Sage Rice is a rich and savory side dish that is both flavorful and visually appealing. The roasted butternut squash adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor, while the fresh sage brings an aromatic, earthy note to the dish. This easy-to-make recipe is a fantastic way to showcase seasonal vegetables and will be a comforting addition to your holiday table.

Holiday Rice Cooker Garlic Parmesan Rice

This rich and savory garlic Parmesan rice is a comforting and flavorful side dish that complements any holiday meal. The creamy, cheesy richness of Parmesan combined with the savory, aromatic garlic is perfectly cooked in the rice cooker, making it a hands-off yet delicious addition to your holiday spread. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and indulgent.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups white rice
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water and place it in the rice cooker.
2. Add the chicken or vegetable broth, minced garlic, butter, salt, and pepper to the rice cooker. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the rice cooker to the “white rice” setting.
4. Once the rice cooker finishes, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring the cheese melts into the rice, creating a creamy texture.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Holiday Rice Cooker Garlic Parmesan Rice is a luxurious side dish that’s both flavorful and comforting. The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering experience with every bite, making it a perfect complement to any main course. This rice is easy to prepare and will quickly become a holiday favorite at your dinner table.

Holiday Rice Cooker Cinnamon Apple Rice

This sweet and aromatic cinnamon apple rice is a perfect holiday side dish that blends the natural sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon. With the rice cooker doing most of the work, this dish is both easy to prepare and full of festive flavors, making it a great addition to your holiday meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups white or brown rice
• 4 cups water or apple cider
• 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water and add it to the rice cooker.
2. Add the water or apple cider, diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and butter to the rice cooker. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the rice cooker to the “white rice” or “brown rice” setting.
4. Once the rice cooker finishes, fluff the rice gently with a fork to incorporate the softened apples and spices.
5. Garnish with chopped pecans or walnuts, if desired, before serving.

Holiday Rice Cooker Cinnamon Apple Rice is a sweet and comforting side dish that brings the flavors of autumn into your holiday meal. The combination of tender apples, warm cinnamon, and soft rice makes for a delightful addition to any festive spread. This easy recipe is a great way to add a touch of sweetness and spice to your holiday table without much effort.

Holiday Rice Cooker Herb and Lemon Rice

This bright and zesty herb and lemon rice is a refreshing addition to your holiday table. The tangy lemon and fresh herbs create a light yet flavorful side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to seafood. Made in the rice cooker, this dish is simple to prepare but full of vibrant flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups white rice
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water and place it in the rice cooker.
2. Add the chicken or vegetable broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the rice cooker to the “white rice” setting.
4. Once the rice cooker finishes, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the fresh parsley, thyme, and olive oil or butter.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired.

Holiday Rice Cooker Herb and Lemon Rice is a light, fresh, and aromatic side dish that adds a burst of flavor to your holiday spread. The citrusy lemon and fragrant herbs make it a perfect companion to heavier main courses, providing a refreshing contrast. This easy-to-make dish brings a festive, bright note to your holiday meal without taking up much time or effort.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!