10 slow cooker sides for perfect Sunday roasts

A Sunday roast is a classic meal that brings family and friends together around the table. While the main course often takes center stage, the sides play an equally important role in creating a memorable dining experience. Using a slow cooker can not only save time but also enhance the flavors of your favorite side dishes, making your Sunday roast a truly effortless feast.

Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a quintessential side dish, and when infused with garlic and herbs, they elevate any roast dinner. In the slow cooker, you can easily simmer potatoes with garlic, butter, and a selection of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Once tender, mash them directly in the pot for a creamy consistency. This method keeps the potatoes warm and flavorful until you’re ready to serve.

Creamy Corn Casserole

This creamy corn casserole combines the sweetness of corn with a rich, custard-like base. Preparing it in the slow cooker ensures a perfectly moist texture. Simply mix together corn kernels, eggs, milk, and cheese, then let the slow cooker work its magic. The end result is a side dish that’s both comforting and indulgent, perfect for accompanying your Sunday roast.

Honey Glazed Carrots

Carrots glazed with honey add a touch of sweetness to your meal and are incredibly easy to prepare in a slow cooker. Toss the carrots with honey, butter, and a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warming flavor profile. Cook on low heat until the carrots are tender and the glaze is beautifully caramelized. This dish is a crowd-pleaser with its delightful balance of sweet and savory.

Savory Stuffing

Savory stuffing, rich with herbs and aromatic vegetables, is a must-have for any roast dinner. Preparing it in a slow cooker allows the bread to absorb all the flavors, resulting in a deliciously moist stuffing. Combine cubed bread, onions, celery, and seasonings, then let the slow cooker do the rest. This method keeps the stuffing warm and ready to serve alongside your roast.

Cheesy Broccoli and Rice

For a comforting side that pairs well with roast meats, consider cheesy broccoli and rice. The slow cooker method allows the rice to absorb the flavors of cheese and broccoli, creating a creamy, satisfying dish. Mix together rice, broccoli florets, cheddar cheese, and a touch of cream, then let it cook until the rice is tender. This side is sure to be a hit.

Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Balsamic Brussels sprouts are a flavorful addition to any roast dinner. Cooking them in a slow cooker allows the sprouts to soak up the tangy balsamic glaze, resulting in a tender and flavorful side. Combine Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Let them cook slowly until they reach the desired tenderness.

Rosemary Infused Green Beans

Green beans infused with rosemary provide a fresh and aromatic side dish option. By using a slow cooker, the green beans have ample time to absorb the rosemary’s essence. Simply toss fresh green beans with olive oil, fresh rosemary sprigs, and a squeeze of lemon juice. This dish offers a delightful burst of flavor and complements any roast.

Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole brings a hint of sweetness and a touch of spice to your meal. In the slow cooker, sweet potatoes cook to perfection with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. Top the casserole with marshmallows or pecans for a tasty contrast in texture. This side dish is a wonderful addition to your Sunday roast spread.

Lemon Butter Asparagus

Lemon butter asparagus is a fresh and zesty side that pairs beautifully with roasted meats. The slow cooker method allows the asparagus to soak in the lemon and butter flavors fully. Toss asparagus spears with melted butter, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Cook until the asparagus is tender but still crisp, offering a refreshing bite to your meal.

Mushroom and Onion Gravy

A rich mushroom and onion gravy can transform any roast into a comforting feast. In the slow cooker, onions and mushrooms simmer with broth and seasonings, creating a deep, savory flavor. Use this gravy to complement your roast meats and other sides, adding a luscious finish to your meal. This slow cooker method ensures a smooth and flavorful gravy every time.