Who doesn’t love the holidays? Sitting by the fire, reminiscing about past years, laughing about how Uncle Joe got a little too tipsy, and indulging in Aunt Mary’s amazing apple pie. Mmmmm.

With the holidays, however, comes a lot of prep-work and effort to feed an army of people. Until now! I’ve discovered 12 delicious holiday recipes that can be made in a crockpot – effectively reducing the time you need to stand over the stove, and at the sink scrubbing dishes afterwards.

Breakfast

Sausage & Egg Breakfast Casserole

This is personally my family’s favorite breakfast dish. Sausage, red pepper, hash browns and cheese, this all-in-one recipe is perfect for the men that need “man food” and those that are picky eaters.

Not into slicing a whole bunch of peppers & chilis? Try substituting those for a 10oz can of tomatoes & chilis. It’ll taste just as good, with less work up front. Perhaps the best part? You can make this one overnight. Get the Food Network recipe.

Nutella French Toast Casserole

While french toast is enjoyed anytime of the year, it’s especially delicious around the Holidays when you make it like this. O.M.G.

Appetizers

Spicy Spinach & Artichoke Dip

The easiest (and best) way to make artichoke dip is in a crockpot. While your oven may crisp the top layer of your dip, the crockpot will keep it warm as long as it’s turned on. I don’t know about you, but artichoke dip isn’t nearly as yummy when it’s room temperature.

This recipe calls for the addition of crushed red pepper flakes. I add some zing to mine by adding about 1/2 cop of diced jalapeños to my dip. Get this yummy recipe from Little Spice Jar.

Hanky Panky Dip

Commonly known as “sausage and cheese dip,” at my house, we call this “hanky panky dip.” Traditionally, this dip is put on small pieces of rye toast and heated in the oven. But if you’re short on space, making it in a crock-pot and serving with the Fritos “Scoops” is just as delish. Get details from Jimmy Dean.

Main Dishes

Apple & Honey Pork Tenderloin

Honey can be used in more an just desserts. Your family is sure to love this savory dish – so be sure to buy enough for seconds! Get the recipe from P. Allen Smith.

Beef Burgundy With Egg Noodles

A recipe passed down from my Grandma, this is my all-time favorite Holiday dinner dish. Warm, gooey, and absolutely amazing, you’ll want to make a double batch and have extra tupperware, because everyone will want to take some home. Get the recipe from Taste of Home.

Harvest Chicken & Potatoes

A healthier, lighter alternative to red meat and pasta-based dishes. Get the recipe from Family Circle.

Sides

Bacon Cheddar Potatoes

While it seems like there’s a lot of steps, this recipe is super simple, and comes out perfect, every time. Delegate this recipe to a family member that (ahem) may not have the best cooking skills. That’s one less thing for you to make! Get the instructions from Recipes that Crock.

Creamed Corn

At work, someone always brings this recipe to our Holiday pot-luck. And there’s never any leftovers. Make it just once and you’ll see why. Get the recipe from All Recipes.

Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potatoes with a marshmallow topping, this side dish can’t be beat! Get the recipe from Betty Crocker.

Dessert

Chocolate Lava Cake

You can stop drooling now. Super simple and super delicious, all you need is a box of chocolate cake mix and a package of pudding (+ the ingredients needed to make those). Watch the how-to video:

Apple Crisp

Keep your oven unoccupied and your stress levels low by simply making your apple crisp dessert in a crockpot. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and fresh apples will not only make your home smell heavenly as it cooks, but be even better with a scoop of icecream on the side. Get the scoop from All Recipes.