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As the days grow cooler and the nights draw in, there’s nothing quite like a hearty meal to warm you up. Slow cookers are perfect for autumn; they let you create delicious, comforting dishes with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy parent or just want to make the most of seasonal ingredients, here are ten tasty autumn recipes to try in your slow cooker.

1. Butternut Squash Soup

A classic autumn dish, butternut squash soup is the perfect way to make use of seasonal squash. With a slow cooker, you can create a velvety, rich soup without needing to keep an eye on the pot. Add a splash of coconut milk for creaminess, and season with cinnamon and nutmeg for a warming touch. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

2. Beef Stew with Root Vegetables

Few things are more comforting than a bowl of beef stew on a chilly day. Load up your slow cooker with chunks of beef, carrots, potatoes, parsnips, and onions. Add beef stock, a touch of red wine, and fresh rosemary for extra flavour. The long, slow cooking process makes the beef tender and allows the flavours to blend beautifully.

3. Apple Cinnamon Oats

Autumn mornings are made for warm breakfasts, and slow-cooked apple cinnamon oats are a family favourite. Add oats, diced apples, a dash of cinnamon, and a bit of maple syrup to your slow cooker. Let it cook overnight on low, and you’ll wake up to a warm, fragrant breakfast that’s ready to go. It’s the perfect way to start a crisp autumn morning.

4. Pumpkin and Chickpea Curry

Pumpkin is another autumn favourite, and it works wonderfully in a creamy curry. Add diced pumpkin, chickpeas, coconut milk, curry paste, and a handful of spinach to your slow cooker. Let it simmer until the pumpkin is tender, and serve with rice or naan bread. This curry is both hearty and packed with flavour, making it ideal for meat-free Mondays.

5. Pulled Pork

Pulled pork is a versatile dish that’s surprisingly easy to make in the slow cooker. Rub a pork shoulder with spices like paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar. Place it in the slow cooker with a splash of apple cider or barbecue sauce and cook on low until it’s tender enough to shred. Serve it in buns with coleslaw, or use it as a filling for tacos or jacket potatoes.

6. Stuffed Peppers with Wild Rice

For a wholesome, colourful dish, try stuffed peppers with wild rice. Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with a mixture of wild rice, black beans, chopped tomatoes, and spices. Arrange them in your slow cooker, and let them cook until the peppers are soft and the rice is tender. These make a delicious vegetarian option that’s packed with autumn flavours.

7. Chicken and Sweet Potato Curry

Slow-cooked chicken and sweet potato curry is the ultimate comfort food for autumn. Combine chicken thighs, cubed sweet potatoes, coconut milk, curry powder, and spices in your slow cooker. Cook until the chicken is tender and the sweet potatoes are melt-in-your-mouth soft. This curry is mild enough for the whole family but can be spiced up with a pinch of chili for extra warmth.

8. Spiced Apple Cider

For a cosy autumn drink, try making spiced apple cider in your slow cooker. Combine apple juice, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a few slices of orange. Let it simmer for a few hours, and your home will be filled with the warming scent of autumn spices. This drink is perfect for bonfire night or any autumn gathering, and you can even add a splash of rum for an adult twist.

9. Lentil and Vegetable Stew

Packed with fibre and nutrients, a lentil and vegetable stew is a great way to enjoy a wholesome autumn meal. Add lentils, carrots, celery, potatoes, and tomatoes to your slow cooker, along with vegetable broth and a bay leaf. The result is a thick, hearty stew that’s both satisfying and budget-friendly. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for an ideal autumn supper.

10. Slow-Cooked Apple Crumble

End your meal with a classic autumn dessert – apple crumble. Layer sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and a buttery oat topping in your slow cooker. Let it cook until the apples are soft and the topping is golden. Serve with a dollop of custard or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert that’s both comforting and delicious.

Final Thoughts

With a slow cooker, you can create a range of delicious autumn recipes that capture the season’s flavours and bring warmth to every meal. From stews and curries to comforting desserts, these recipes make the most of autumn ingredients while saving you time and effort. Try these ten dishes this season, and you’ll be rewarded with meals that taste like a cosy autumn hug.

Enjoy experimenting with these slow cooker recipes, and let the comforting aromas of autumn fill your kitchen!