As the chill of autumn settles in, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm, hearty stew. I remember the first time my slow cooker filled the kitchen with the sweet and savory aromas of my Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew. Tender chunks of chicken or turkey meld perfectly with creamy butternut squash and the subtle sweetness of apples, creating a cozy dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; you can easily customize it based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re a devoted carnivore, a novice chef, or exploring vegetarian options, this dish works beautifully with various ingredients. Plus, it’s gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a family-friendly choice that everyone will enjoy.
So, grab your slow cooker and join me in whipping up this autumn-inspired delight that celebrates the season’s bounty with minimal effort! You’ll want to savor every spoonful, surrounded by loved ones, making memories around the dinner table.
Why is this Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew a must-try?
Comforting Warmth: There’s nothing like a hearty stew to warm you up on those chilly autumn nights.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap out proteins and vegetables to suit your taste or what’s in your pantry.
Effortless Cooking: Simply layer your ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do all the hard work for you.
Family-Friendly Flavor: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, catering to all palates.
Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s low in fat and fits gluten-free and dairy-free diets beautifully.
Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew Ingredients
• Discover the essential components for a cozy creation!
For the Stew
- Boneless Chicken Thighs or Turkey Breast (900 g) – Main protein source providing flavor and structure; consider swapping for chunks of pork shoulder or vegetarian chickpeas/beans.
- Butternut Squash (400 g) – Adds creaminess and natural sweetness; you can replace it with pumpkin or acorn squash if preferred.
- Sweet Potatoes (2 large) – Provides sweetness and fiber; use regular potatoes for a different texture.
- Carrots (2) – Contributes earthiness and sweetness; feel free to add other root vegetables for more flavor variety.
- Apple (1) – Imparts subtle sweetness to balance savory herbs; any sweet variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji works wonders.
- Onion (1) – Essential for depth of flavor; shallots can be a great alternative if you have them on hand.
- Garlic (3 cloves) – Adds aroma and flavor; adjust based on preference to suit your taste.
- Chicken Broth (710 ml) – The cooking liquid that flavors the entire dish; swap for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.
For the Seasoning
- Dried Thyme (1 tsp) – Enhances savory notes beautifully; feel free to substitute with fresh thyme for a more vibrant flavor.
- Dried Rosemary (1 tsp) – Complements the dish with a woodsy aroma; perfect for that cozy, autumn feel.
- Ground Cinnamon (0.5 tsp) – Adds warmth and autumnal flavor; omit if you prefer a less spiced dish.
- Salt and Ground Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing overall flavor; adjust to taste for your perfect seasoning.
Optional Sweet Touch
- Maple Syrup (1 tbsp, optional) – Balances savory elements with a touch of sweetness; highly recommended to bring out the flavors of this Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew.
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to let your slow cooker work its magic! Enjoy crafting this delightful dish that warms the heart and nourishes the soul.
How to Make Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew
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Layer Ingredients: Begin by evenly layering the boneless chicken thighs or turkey breast, butternut squash, sweet potatoes, carrots, apple, onion, and garlic in your slow cooker. This helps ensure uniform cooking and flavors.
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Add Broth: Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the layered ingredients. This will create a savory base for your stew, allowing all the delicious flavors to meld together.
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Season Generously: Sprinkle the dried thyme, rosemary, cinnamon, salt, and pepper on top of the ingredients. If you’re using maple syrup, drizzle it over now for that lovely autumn touch.
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Stir Gently: With a wooden spoon, gently stir to combine the seasonings with the ingredients. You want everything to be well-coated for the best flavor.
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Cook Slowly: Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. The stew is ready when the poultry is tender and the vegetables are soft.
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Shred and Mix: Once cooked, shred the chicken or turkey if you prefer that texture, and give everything a good mix before serving. This helps to distribute the flavors even more.
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Serve Warm: Ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or an additional drizzle of maple syrup if desired for extra sweetness.
Optional: Top with toasted pumpkin seeds for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen and improve with each reheating, making it even more comforting.
- Freezer: Freeze leftover stew in single-serving containers for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy a homemade meal anytime!
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Prevent Freezer Burn: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to keep the Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew fresh and prevent freezer burn.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew
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Choose Quality Ingredients: Selecting fresh, seasonal vegetables and high-quality protein enhances the flavor of your Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew significantly.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Keep an eye on the quantity of ingredients; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
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Monitor Cooking Time: Different proteins may require varying cooking times. Using a meat thermometer can ensure your poultry is perfectly cooked without drying out.
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Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap ingredients, but be mindful that moisture levels can change. If using drier vegetables, consider adding a splash more broth.
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Season to Taste: Always taste the stew before serving. Seasoning can depend on the broth’s saltiness, so adjust salt and pepper levels to your preference.
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Let It Rest: Allowing the stew to sit for a few minutes before serving enhances the flavors. This is especially helpful when making ahead of time!
Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and tweak this cozy stew to your liking!
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Meatless Delight: Replace chicken or turkey with chickpeas or white beans for a filling vegetarian option. They add protein without sacrificing texture!
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Seasonal Squash Swap: If butternut squash isn’t your thing, try pumpkin or acorn squash for a unique spin—each brings its own delicious sweetness.
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Root Veggie Boost: Incorporate parsnips or turnips for a deeper flavor profile. These root vegetables not only add variety but also enhance the stew’s heartiness.
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More Greens: Toss in a couple of handfuls of spinach or kale in the last 10 minutes for a fresh burst of color and nutrients—perfect for those looking to amp up the health factor!
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Extra Sweetness: Feel free to substitute the apple with slices of pear or even dried fruits like apricots for an interesting twist on sweetness and texture.
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Herbal Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or sage in addition to thyme and rosemary. This adds an aromatic freshness that brightens every bite!
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Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño while cooking to bring warmth to the dish.
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Thicker Texture: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix in a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last hour of cooking, stirring to combine for a satisfying finish.
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew preparations are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy homemade comfort food without last-minute stress. You can chop and layer the vegetables (like butternut squash, sweet potatoes, and carrots) and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours—this not only saves time but also lets the flavors meld beautifully. If you’re feeling particularly organized, you can assemble the entire stew in the slow cooker insert, cover it, and refrigerate it for the same amount of time. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the broth, seasonings, and protein, then let it slowly simmer for scrumptious results just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
What to Serve with Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew?
Nothing pairs better with a comforting bowl of stew than complementary sides that enhance the meal’s warmth and flavor.
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Thick Rustic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious broth, this hearty bread adds a delightful texture that rounds out the meal.
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Quinoa: Served underneath the stew, quinoa adds a nutty flavor and complete protein, making for a satisfying and healthful combination.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts provide a lovely contrast to the stew’s softness, adding a touch of earthy flavor. Plus, the slight bitterness enhances the sweetness of the dish beautifully.
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Apple Salad: A fresh apple and kale salad with a hint of lemon brightens the palate, offering a refreshing crunch that balances the rich flavors of the stew.
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Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of cranberry sauce introduces a sweet-tart burst that complements the autumn ingredients, creating a delicious flavor harmony with the savory stew.
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Toasted Pumpkin Seeds: Sprinkle these on top of your stew for a lovely crunch, adding a delightful nuttiness that elevates every spoonful.
Enjoy these pairings with your Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew for a complete and fulfilling autumn meal that delights the senses!
Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew Recipe FAQs
What type of squash works best for this stew?
Absolutely! Butternut squash is the star for its creaminess and natural sweetness. However, you can easily swap it out for pumpkin or acorn squash if you prefer a different flavor profile. Each type will add its unique touch to the dish, so feel free to experiment based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.
How should I store leftovers of the stew?
Your Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing it; this allows the flavors to deepen and improves the taste with each reheating.
Can I freeze the stew for later?
Yes, you can! To freeze your leftovers, portion the stew into single-serving containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. This way, you can enjoy a homemade meal anytime. Just be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. The stew will maintain its quality for up to 3 months in the freezer.
What can I do if my stew comes out too thick?
Very good question! If you find the stew has thickened more than you’d like, simply stir in additional broth or water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. This will help retain the delicious flavors while adjusting the texture to your preference.
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
This stew is both gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a wonderful option for those with certain dietary restrictions. However, if you have a nut allergy, be cautious with any optional toppings you choose to add, like toasted pumpkin seeds. Always check labels on pre-packaged ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
How can I enhance the flavor of my stew?
To take your Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew to the next level, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the broth before cooking. This adds depth and brightness to the flavors. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro added just before serving can further enhance the taste and freshness of your dish.
Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew: A Cozy Hug in a Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Layer Ingredients: Begin by evenly layering the boneless chicken thighs or turkey breast, butternut squash, sweet potatoes, carrots, apple, onion, and garlic in your slow cooker.
- Add Broth: Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the layered ingredients.
- Season Generously: Sprinkle the dried thyme, rosemary, cinnamon, salt, and pepper on top of the ingredients.
- Stir Gently: With a wooden spoon, gently stir to combine the seasonings with the ingredients.
- Cook Slowly: Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
- Shred and Mix: Once cooked, shred the chicken or turkey and mix everything together.
- Serve Warm: Ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot.