Whether you call it a crockpot or a slow cooker, we couldn’t live without this genius of a kitchen tool – especially as cooler temperatures start to creep in and the days get shockingly shorter. There’s nothing more comforting than coming home after a long day at work to the rich aroma of dinner already simmering away. And for the most part, all you have to do is toss all your ingredients in the pot in the morning, set it and forget it! Here are a few of our go-to fall slow cooker recipes to get you thinking.

Slow Cooked Bison Brisket and Bacon:

Bison brisket meets bacon in this simple, yet sensational, slow cooker recipe. This slow cooked bison brisket and bacon has to be one of our all-time favorites and is requested at almost every family gathering we have.

Filipino Style Picadillo:

If your taste buds are looking for something different, try this Filipino Style Picadillo. With fresh ingredients like shredded cabbage, jicama, and torn kale, this slow cooker meal will bring an entirely different flavor to your table.

Bison Chili:

Chilly? What better way to warm up than with a bowl of bison chili! This fall favorite is loved by all, so be sure to make a big batch and freeze any leftovers for future meals.

*Although this recipe calls for preparation on a stove top, you can add all of the listed ingredients into your slow cooker and simmer on low for 2-4 hours until ready to serve.

Beer-Braised Bison Brisket.

Beer-braised bison brisket makes the perfect Sunday dinner. Sit down with family or friends and enjoy this savory dish before the week begins. The touch of color from the carrots and turnips makes this dish the perfect fall-themed meal.

*Although this recipe calls for cooking with an oven, you can add all of the listed ingredients to your slow cooker then cover and cook on low for 10 hours. 

Bison Marinara:

Nothing is more comforting on a brisk fall day than a bowl of hearty homemade bison marinara sauce. Remember, the thicker the better so throw in as many extra veggies as you want! Serve over a plate of pasta for a family dinner or opt for a low carb option like zoodles (zucchini noodles) or spaghetti squash.

Looking for more slow cooker meals and recipes? Visit our Pinterest page and check out our Slow Cooker Recipes Pinterest board.

Tips for Using a Slow Cooker

Whether you are a first-timer or a seasoned pro, here are some tips to keep in mind when using your slow cooker:

Low and Slow: Most vegetables are delicate and will melt into nothing if cooked at a high heat for a long period of time. Take it low and slow and only use the high setting when you want to quickly warm up a meal.

Liquids that Last: Too much broth or liquid in your crockpot? Don’t sweat it. Simply transfer the excess liquid into a saucepan then cook it on your stovetop on low to medium heat. Use this extra liquid for a sauce or glaze and drizzle on top of your final dish before serving for an added touch.

Fine Wine: If you think you can repurpose that turned wine by adding it to a slow cooker meal, you can’t. A long cooking process is not going to make up for a bad product.

Browning Before: Browning your meat before adding it to your slow cooker? Don’t forget the small pieces at the bottom of the pan. These little bits pack a flavor punch!

Serve on the Second Day: Some dishes, like stews and chilis, are actually best served the second day once the flavors have time to melt together. (But if you’re like us, waiting that extra day is just too hard when it smells so good!) 

Want more tips for using a slow cooker? Check out these 14 tips from Food Network.