20 Crockpot Christmas Dinner Ideas to Free the Oven

Hosting Christmas dinner often turns into a high-stakes game of oven Tetris. You are juggling a turkey, trying to keep casseroles warm, and praying your stuffing does not burn. I have spent years stressing over oven space until I realized my slow cooker could handle more than just chili. By moving half your holiday menu to your countertop, you save your sanity and actually get to sit down with your family.

1. Slow Cooker Leg of Lamb with Herbs and Garlic

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 6 hrs | Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Easy

This leg of lamb transforms into a tender, aromatic masterpiece that rivals any oven-roasted centerpiece. The slow cooking process allows the garlic and fresh rosemary to infuse deep into the meat.

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Ingredients Needed

• 1 leg of lamb (about 4 lbs), bone-in
• 4 cloves garlic, slivered
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp sea salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup beef broth

How to Prepare:

• Pierce the lamb all over with a sharp knife and insert the garlic slivers into the holes.
• Rub the surface of the lamb thoroughly with the rosemary, salt, and pepper.
• Place the lamb into your Hamilton Beach Set & Forget slow cooker.
• Pour the beef broth into the bottom of the vessel to prevent scorching.
• Cover and cook on low heat for 6 hours until the meat pulls away from the bone easily.
• Rest the meat on a carving board for 15 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Serve this with a side of mint sauce to cut through the richness of the meat.

Nutrition (per serving): 380 kcal, 42g protein, 0g carbs, 22g fat

Pro Tip: Do not skip the resting stage, as it keeps the juices inside the meat rather than on your cutting board.

2. Christmas Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 8 hrs | Total Time: 8 hrs 10 mins | Serves: 8 | Difficulty: Easy

This brisket uses warm spices to create a festive, melt-in-the-mouth main course. It is a fantastic way to serve a large crowd without spending all morning in the kitchen.

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Ingredients Needed

• 4 lbs beef brisket, trimmed
• 2 star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/2 cup red wine
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar

How to Prepare:

• Combine the red wine, soy sauce, and brown sugar in a small bowl.
• Place the brisket in the Crock-Pot Cook & Carry slow cooker.
• Add the star anise and cinnamon stick around the edges of the meat.
• Pour the liquid mixture evenly over the beef.
• Cover and cook on low for 8 hours until fork-tender.
• Remove the meat carefully and let it rest before slicing against the grain.

Serve this with a reduction of the cooking liquid poured over the top for extra flavor.

Nutrition (per serving): 410 kcal, 38g protein, 5g carbs, 25g fat

Warning: Be careful when removing the brisket, as it may be so tender that it falls apart upon lifting.

3. Slow Cooker Pork Loin with Boozy Honey-Mustard Gravy

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 5 hrs | Total Time: 5 hrs 15 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Medium

Pork loin stays perfectly moist in a slow cooker, especially when swimming in this sweet and tangy glaze. It feels elegant enough for a holiday meal yet requires very little effort.

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Ingredients Needed

• 3 lbs pork loin roast
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup bourbon or apple cider
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme

How to Prepare:

• Whisk the honey, mustard, bourbon, garlic, and thyme in a medium bowl.
• Place the pork loin into the slow cooker.
• Drizzle the glaze mixture over the entire roast, ensuring it is well coated.
• Cover and cook on low for 5 hours.
• Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Slice the roast and serve with the warm juices from the bottom of the pot.

This pairs wonderfully with roasted root vegetables or a crisp green salad.

Nutrition (per serving): 320 kcal, 35g protein, 12g carbs, 14g fat

Good to Know: If you prefer a thicker gravy, whisk a teaspoon of cornstarch into the leftover juices and heat on high for 10 minutes.

4. Crockpot Ribs with Rich BBQ Glaze

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 6 hrs | Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins | Serves: 4 | Difficulty: Easy

Most people associate ribs with summer grilling, but these slow-cooked ribs are a fantastic, casual option for a holiday gathering. They are tender enough to fall off the bone without any smoke or fire.

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Ingredients Needed

• 3 lbs pork baby back ribs
• 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

How to Prepare:

• Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs.
• Rub the paprika and garlic powder into both sides of the meat.
• Arrange the ribs in the slow cooker, curling them around the edges.
• Pour the apple cider vinegar into the pot.
• Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
• Brush the ribs with BBQ sauce and finish under the oven broiler for 5 minutes if you like them sticky.

Serve these with coleslaw or cornbread for a comforting winter meal.

Nutrition (per serving): 550 kcal, 40g protein, 18g carbs, 35g fat

Storage: Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator.

5. Crock-Pot Apple Cider Ham

Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 4 hrs | Total Time: 4 hrs 5 mins | Serves: 10 | Difficulty: Easy

Using apple cider as the braising liquid gives your holiday ham a sweet, festive depth that a simple glaze cannot achieve. It is a foolproof way to prepare a large cut of meat.

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Ingredients Needed

• 1 bone-in spiral ham (approx 6-8 lbs)
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 4 whole cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick

How to Prepare:

• Place the ham in the slow cooker, trimming if necessary to get the lid on.
• Pour the apple cider over the ham.
• Sprinkle the brown sugar over the top of the ham.
• Tuck the cloves and cinnamon stick into the liquid at the base of the ham.
• Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, basting occasionally with the liquid.
• Remove from the cooker and let sit for 20 minutes before serving.

This goes perfectly with mashed potatoes or roasted carrots.

Nutrition (per serving): 290 kcal, 25g protein, 15g carbs, 14g fat

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the glaze mixture a day in advance to save time on Christmas morning.

6. Slow Cooker Lazy Cranberry Pumpkin Seed Stuffing

Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 3 hrs | Total Time: 3 hrs 20 mins | Serves: 8 | Difficulty: Easy

Stuffing usually dries out in the oven, but the slow cooker keeps it moist and savory. The cranberries add a bright, festive pop of color that looks beautiful on any holiday table.

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Ingredients Needed

• 1 loaf stale bread, cubed
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup roasted pumpkin seeds
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup butter, melted

How to Prepare:

• Sauté the celery and onion in a pan with a little butter until soft.
• Combine the cubed bread, cranberries, seeds, and cooked vegetables in a bowl.
• Pour the melted butter and broth over the mixture and stir well.
• Transfer the mixture to the greased slow cooker.
• Cook on low for 3 hours, stirring once halfway through.
• Fluff with a fork right before serving to keep it light.

Pair this with roasted turkey or a vegetarian lentil loaf.

Nutrition (per serving): 280 kcal, 5g protein, 45g carbs, 10g fat

Substitution: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken to make this dish vegetarian-friendly for your guests.

7. Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Corn

Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 2 hrs | Total Time: 2 hrs 5 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Easy

This side dish is pure comfort in a bowl. Using frozen corn means you do not have to worry about the season, and the slow cooker ensures the cheese melts into a velvety sauce.

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Ingredients Needed

• 2 bags frozen corn (16 oz each)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp salt

How to Prepare:

• Add the frozen corn, cream, butter, and salt to your slow cooker.
• Stir the ingredients until they are combined.
• Cook on high for 2 hours.
• Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese during the last 20 minutes.
• Keep on the warm setting until your guests are ready to eat.
• Serve immediately with a slotted spoon.

Top this with a pinch of paprika or fresh parsley for a bit of color.

Nutrition (per serving): 310 kcal, 8g protein, 22g carbs, 22g fat

Pro Tip: Use sharp cheddar rather than mild for a more intense flavor that balances the sweetness of the corn.

8. Old Bay Mac and Cheese

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 3 hrs | Total Time: 3 hrs 10 mins | Serves: 8 | Difficulty: Medium

Classic mac and cheese gets an elevated twist with Old Bay seasoning. This is a crowd-pleaser that stays creamy even after sitting out for a while on the buffet table.

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Ingredients Needed

• 1 lb macaroni, cooked al dente
• 3 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1/4 cup butter

How to Prepare:

• Grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter.
• Whisk the milk, cream, and Old Bay seasoning in a large bowl.
• Combine the cooked macaroni, cheese, and liquid mixture in the slow cooker.
• Stir thoroughly to ensure all noodles are coated.
• Cook on low for 3 hours, stirring halfway through the process.
• Serve hot, adding a little extra milk if it seems too thick.

This is a great side for seafood or a simple holiday roast.

Nutrition (per serving): 420 kcal, 18g protein, 35g carbs, 24g fat

Warning: Watch the heat level; if the edges start to brown, turn the setting down to warm.

9. Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes with Thyme

Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 4 hrs | Total Time: 4 hrs 20 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Medium

Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate holiday side, but they usually hog the oven. These are tender, aromatic, and cook beautifully in the slow cooker while the main course finishes elsewhere.

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Ingredients Needed

• 3 lbs russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp sea salt

How to Prepare:

• Layer one third of the potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker.
• Sprinkle with garlic, salt, and thyme, then drizzle with some cream.
• Repeat the layers twice more until all potatoes are used.
• Sprinkle the parmesan cheese over the top layer.
• Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
• Check for tenderness by piercing with a fork before serving.

Pair these with a simple roast chicken or ham for a balanced meal.

Nutrition (per serving): 340 kcal, 9g protein, 38g carbs, 18g fat

Good to Know: Use a mandoline slicer to get uniform potato thickness, which helps them cook at the same rate.

10. Slow Cooker Vegan Butternut Squash Soup

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 5 hrs | Total Time: 5 hrs 15 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Easy

Start your Christmas meal with this velvety, vibrant soup. It is a light and healthy way to balance out the richer dishes on your holiday menu.

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Ingredients Needed

• 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp nutmeg

How to Prepare:

• Add the squash, onion, broth, and ginger to the slow cooker.
• Cover and cook on high for 5 hours.
• Blend the mixture using an immersion blender until completely smooth.
• Stir in the coconut milk and nutmeg.
• Heat through for another 15 minutes.
• Serve in individual bowls with a garnish of toasted seeds.

This soup works well as a starter or a side to a main course.

Nutrition (per serving): 190 kcal, 3g protein, 25g carbs, 9g fat

Variation: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer a little heat to balance the sweetness of the squash.

11. Slow Cooker Brussels Sprouts with Pecans

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 3 hrs | Total Time: 3 hrs 10 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Easy

Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, but this preparation changes everything. The pecans and cranberries add a nice crunch and sweetness that makes these sprouts stand out.

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Ingredients Needed

• 2 lbs Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze

How to Prepare:

• Place the halved sprouts in the slow cooker.
• Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
• Cover and cook on high for 3 hours.
• Stir in the cranberries and pecans during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Drizzle with the balsamic glaze right before serving.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve alongside roasted meat for a festive and colorful vegetable dish.

Nutrition (per serving): 180 kcal, 5g protein, 15g carbs, 12g fat

Make-Ahead: You can prep the sprouts by trimming and halving them the day before.

12. Slow Cooker Candied Yams

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 4 hrs | Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Easy

Candied yams are a staple for many, and the slow cooker does an excellent job of caramelizing them. This method ensures they are tender without turning into mush.

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Ingredients Needed

• 3 lbs yams, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup butter, cubed
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves

How to Prepare:

• Layer the sliced yams in the slow cooker.
• Sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, and cloves over the layers.
• Dot the top with cubes of butter.
• Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
• Stir gently to coat the yams in the syrup that has formed.
• Serve immediately, spooning extra syrup over each portion.

These are a sweet treat that works perfectly with a savory holiday roast.

Nutrition (per serving): 260 kcal, 2g protein, 55g carbs, 4g fat

Pro Tip: Ensure the yams are sliced to a consistent thickness so they cook evenly.

13. Brown Sugar Bacon Green Beans

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 4 hrs | Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Easy

Fresh green beans cooked with bacon and a hint of brown sugar offer a savory and sweet flavor profile. This is much better than the traditional canned version.

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Ingredients Needed

• 2 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1/2 cup water

How to Prepare:

• Place the green beans, chopped bacon, and onion in the slow cooker.
• Sprinkle the brown sugar over the top.
• Add the water to the bottom of the pot.
• Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
• Stir before serving to ensure the bacon bits are distributed.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve as a classic side to turkey or roast beef.

Nutrition (per serving): 150 kcal, 6g protein, 18g carbs, 7g fat

Good to Know: If you want extra crispy bacon, sauté the bacon in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker.

14. Crockpot Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 3 hrs | Total Time: 3 hrs 15 mins | Serves: 8 | Difficulty: Medium

Dessert does not have to be complicated. This bread pudding is warm, spiced, and perfect for the holidays when your oven is full of other bakes.

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Ingredients Needed

• 1 loaf brioche bread, cubed
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

How to Prepare:

• Whisk the pumpkin, eggs, milk, sugar, and spices in a large bowl.
• Toss the bread cubes in the liquid until fully soaked.
• Pour the mixture into a greased slow cooker.
• Cook on low for 3 hours.
• Check that the center is set but still moist.
• Serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

This is a wonderful alternative to traditional holiday pies.

Nutrition (per serving): 310 kcal, 9g protein, 50g carbs, 8g fat

Warning: The pudding will continue to set as it cools, so do not overcook it.

15. Slow Cooker Gingerbread Pudding Cake

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 2 hrs | Total Time: 2 hrs 10 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Medium

Gingerbread is the quintessential Christmas flavor. This cake is gooey, warm, and fills the house with an incredible aroma while it cooks.

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Ingredients Needed

• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ginger
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 cup boiling water

How to Prepare:

• Mix the flour, brown sugar, ginger, and cinnamon in the slow cooker.
• Stir in the molasses and boiling water until the batter is smooth.
• Cover and cook on high for 2 hours.
• Watch for a cake-like texture with a sauce developing at the bottom.
• Let cool for 15 minutes before serving.
• Serve warm with whipped cream.

Pair this with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for the perfect finish to dinner.

Nutrition (per serving): 280 kcal, 4g protein, 60g carbs, 2g fat

Substitution: Use maple syrup instead of molasses if you prefer a lighter, more floral flavor profile.

16. Slow Cooker Cheesecake

Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 3 hrs | Total Time: 3 hrs 20 mins | Serves: 8 | Difficulty: Hard

Yes, you really can make cheesecake in a slow cooker. It comes out incredibly creamy and saves you from the stress of a water bath in the oven.

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Ingredients Needed

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tbsp butter, melted

How to Prepare:

• Mix the crumbs and butter, then press into the bottom of a springform pan that fits your cooker.
• Beat the cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
• Pour the filling over the crust.
• Place the pan in the slow cooker and add an inch of water to the base.
• Cover with a towel under the lid to catch condensation and cook on low for 3 hours.
• Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.

Serve with fresh berries or a fruit compote on top.

Nutrition (per serving): 350 kcal, 7g protein, 25g carbs, 26g fat

Pro Tip: Always use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter.

17. Slow Cooker Pumpkin Spiced Apples

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 3 hrs | Total Time: 3 hrs 10 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Easy

These warm, spiced apples are a light dessert option that feels very comforting. They are essentially a crustless apple pie in a bowl.

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Ingredients Needed

• 6 large apples, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp butter

How to Prepare:

• Toss the apple slices with lemon juice in the slow cooker.
• Sprinkle with brown sugar and pumpkin pie spice.
• Dot the top with butter.
• Cover and cook on low for 3 hours.
• Stir occasionally to ensure the apples are evenly coated in the glaze.
• Serve warm in bowls with a drizzle of cream.

These are a fantastic, healthy-leaning dessert choice.

Nutrition (per serving): 160 kcal, 1g protein, 35g carbs, 3g fat

Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.

18. Crockpot Chocolate Peanut Butter Marshmallow Bark

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 1 hr | Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins | Serves: 12 | Difficulty: Easy

Need a quick, impressive gift or dessert? This bark is incredibly easy to make and looks like you spent all day on it.

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Ingredients Needed

• 2 lbs chocolate almond bark
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 cups miniature marshmallows
• 1/2 cup salted peanuts

How to Prepare:

• Place the chocolate almond bark and peanut butter in the slow cooker.
• Cook on low for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes until melted.
• Stir in the marshmallows and peanuts.
• Spread the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Chill in the freezer for 30 minutes until set.
• Break into irregular pieces for serving.

This works well as a post-dinner treat or a homemade holiday gift.

Nutrition (per serving): 450 kcal, 8g protein, 40g carbs, 28g fat

Variation: Sprinkle sea salt on top before the chocolate sets for a savory-sweet balance.

19. Slow Cooker Apple Pie Filling

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 4 hrs | Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Easy

Having apple pie filling ready to go is a huge time-saver. You can use this for pies, crumbles, or even just as a topping for pancakes on Christmas morning.

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Ingredients Needed

• 5 large apples, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water

How to Prepare:

• Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker.
• Stir well to ensure the cornstarch is incorporated.
• Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
• Check the thickness after 4 hours and cook longer if you prefer it thicker.
• Let it cool completely before using in a pie crust.
• Store in the refrigerator if not using immediately.

Serve over vanilla ice cream for a quick and easy dessert.

Nutrition (per serving): 140 kcal, 0g protein, 35g carbs, 0g fat

Pro Tip: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for the best flavor profile.

20. Slow Cooker Cranberry Orange Glazed Carrots

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 3 hrs | Total Time: 3 hrs 10 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Easy

These carrots are glazed in a festive orange and cranberry sauce. They are the perfect side dish for any holiday ham or turkey.

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Ingredients Needed

• 2 lbs carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

How to Prepare:

• Place the carrots in the slow cooker.
• Whisk the cranberry sauce, orange juice, butter, and ginger together.
• Pour the mixture over the carrots and toss to coat.
• Cover and cook on low for 3 hours until tender.
• Stir halfway through to ensure even glazing.
• Serve hot with a garnish of orange zest.

The bright colors look stunning on a Christmas table.

Nutrition (per serving): 120 kcal, 1g protein, 25g carbs, 3g fat

Make-Ahead: You can peel and slice your carrots the night before to save time on the big day.

Mastering Your Holiday Slow Cooker Strategy

Getting your timing right is the key to successfully using your crockpot for a big meal. I always recommend placing your main course in the cooker first thing in the morning. This way, it is done and ready to rest while you finish up the smaller items in the oven. If you have limited counter space, think about where you will plug in your device early. You do not want to be moving a heavy, hot pot full of food at the last minute.

Another thing I have learned is that slow cookers vary in their heat levels. Some models run hotter than others, so if you are using an older device, keep a close eye on the liquid levels. If you see the edges starting to brown or dry out, just add a splash more broth or water. Most importantly, resist the urge to peek too often. Every time you lift the lid, you lose about twenty minutes of cooking time. Trust the process, let it do its work, and you will have a much more relaxed Christmas dinner.

Equipment You’ll Need

The right gear makes this recipe easier. Here is the essential kitchen equipment we recommend:

chef knife

FAQ

Can I leave a slow cooker unattended while I am at church or out shopping?

Yes, slow cookers are designed to be left alone during the cooking process. Just make sure the device is on a heat-resistant, flat surface away from curtains or other flammable materials.

What should I do if my sauce is too thin at the end?

If you have extra liquid, you can either take the lid off during the last hour of cooking to let it evaporate or stir in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken it up.

Can I use frozen meat in my slow cooker?

It is best to thaw your meat completely before adding it to the slow cooker. Cooking frozen meat can keep it in the food safety danger zone for too long, which increases the risk of bacteria growth.

Is it necessary to preheat the slow cooker?

Most modern slow cookers do not need to be preheated. You can simply add your ingredients and start the cooking cycle right away.