Looking to revolutionize your cooking routine? Say goodbye to the hassle of spending hours in the kitchen and say hello to the Best Slow Cooker! In this blog post, we’re on a mission to uncover the top picks for slow cookers that will not only simplify your meal prep but also elevate your culinary creations to a whole new level. From hearty stews to tender roasts, these slow cookers are poised to become your kitchen’s new best friend. So, get ready to embark on a journey of delicious and effortless cooking with the best slow cooker by your side!
Slow cookers, also known as crockpots, are versatile kitchen appliances that can help you create delicious, hearty meals with minimal effort. They work by cooking food at a low temperature over a long period of time, allowing the flavors to meld together and resulting in tender, juicy meats and perfectly cooked vegetables. Slow cookers are especially useful for busy families or individuals who want to prepare meals in advance and come home to a hot, home-cooked dinner.
When it comes to choosing the best slow cooker, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important is size – slow cookers come in a range of sizes, from small 2-quart models to large 8-quart ones. The right size for you will depend on your needs and the size of your family. Other important factors include the type of heating element (some models have a heating base while others have a heating element in the sides), the type of lid (glass or plastic), and the presence of additional features like timers and programmable settings.
At Gastrocoach, we understand how overwhelming it can be to choose the best slow cooker for your needs. That’s why we’ve done the research and testing for you, so you can be confident in your purchase. In this article, we’ll share our top picks for the best slow cookers on the market, based on factors like performance, ease of use, and value for money. Whether you’re a busy parent, a working professional, or just someone who loves delicious, home-cooked meals, we’ve got you covered.
Best Slow Cookers
As cooking enthusiasts, we know the importance of having a reliable and efficient slow cooker in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking to prepare a hearty stew, tender meat, or a flavorful soup, a slow cooker can make your life a lot easier. With so many options available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your needs. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best slow cookers that you can consider for your next meal. Our selection criteria include durability, size, ease of use, and overall performance. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks.
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker
If you’re looking for a slow cooker that can handle large meals, the Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker is a great option. With its spacious capacity, you can cook for a crowd or meal prep for the week. This slow cooker is perfect for busy families or those who want to save time and money by cooking at home.
Pros
- The 7-quart capacity can serve up to 9 people or fit a 7-pound roast, making it great for large families or meal prepping.
- The manual settings allow you to set the cooking time to high or low, so you can have a hot meal waiting for you when you get home from work.
- The warm setting keeps your food at an ideal serving temperature until you’re ready to eat, so you don’t have to worry about your food getting cold.
Cons
- The manual settings mean you have to be more hands-on with your cooking, so it’s not as convenient as some digital slow cookers.
- The oval shape can be difficult to store in smaller kitchens or cabinets.
- The stainless steel exterior may show fingerprints and smudges more easily than other finishes.
We recently tried out the Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker and were impressed with its performance. The spacious capacity allowed us to cook a large pot roast with plenty of leftovers for the week. The manual settings were easy to use and allowed us to customize our cooking time, so our meal was perfectly cooked and ready when we needed it. We also appreciated the warm setting, which kept our food at the right temperature until we were ready to eat.
One thing to keep in mind is that the manual settings mean you have to be more hands-on with your cooking. You’ll need to set the cooking time and adjust the temperature yourself, which may not be as convenient as some digital slow cookers. Additionally, the oval shape may not be the best option if you have limited storage space in your kitchen.
Overall, we think the Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker is a great option for those who want a spacious slow cooker that can handle large meals. Its manual settings and warm feature make it a versatile tool for busy families or meal preppers. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable slow cooker, this one is definitely worth considering.
Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box
If you’re looking for a convenient and reliable way to heat up your food on the go, the Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box is a great option. With its modern-vintage aesthetic and elegant Moonshine Green color, it’s stylish and perfect for carrying and warming meals while you’re on the go.
Pros
- The 20-ounce size is perfect for taking your favorite leftovers, soups, chili, and more, then easily warming them up when you’re ready to eat.
- The detachable cord makes it easy to store and transport the lunch box without any clutter.
- The tight-sealing lid and removable storage container help prevent spills while on the go.
Cons
- The lunch box is only suitable for one person.
- The plastic material may not be as durable as some other lunch boxes on the market.
- The voltage of 220 Volts may not be compatible with all power outlets.
We recently tried out the Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box and were impressed with its performance. The 20-ounce capacity is perfect for a single serving, and the container is removable for effortless filling, carrying, and storage. The tight-closing outer lid helps reduce spills, and the easy-carry handle and soft-touch coating make it comfortable to hold and transport.
One of the standout features of this lunch box is its detachable cord, which makes it easy to store and transport without any clutter. The matte rubberized coating gives it a modern soft-touch exterior, and the Moonshine Green finish adds a touch of elegance to the design.
Cleanup is easy too, as the food storage container and inner lid are dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup. Overall, we highly recommend the Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box for anyone looking for a convenient and stylish way to heat up their food on the go.
Crock-Pot Large 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting and Cookbook, Black Stainless Steel
If you are looking for a slow cooker that can feed a large group of people, the Crock-Pot Large 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting and Cookbook, Black Stainless Steel is a great choice. It has a sleek and modern design that can complement any kitchen decor. We have used this slow cooker and here are our thoughts.
Pros
- The 8-quart capacity is perfect for preparing food for 10 plus people, making it ideal for large families or gatherings.
- The digital timer counts down cook time up to 20 hours, and the automatic warming function kicks in when your countdown is done, ensuring that your food is always at the perfect temperature.
- The removable, dishwasher-safe lid and stoneware pot make cleaning up a breeze.
Cons
- In case of a brief power outage or blinking, all the previous settings will be cleared, and a reset is necessary.
- As with any fine ceramic, the stoneware and lid will not withstand sudden temperature changes, so do not wash them with cold water when they are hot.
- It is a bit bulky and may take up more counter space than smaller models.
We found that this slow cooker was easy to use and clean. The digital timer was accurate, and the automatic warming function was a nice touch. The included cookbook was a great bonus, providing us with some delicious recipe ideas. Overall, we would recommend the Crock-Pot Large 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting and Cookbook, Black Stainless Steel to anyone looking for a high-capacity slow cooker that is easy to use and clean.
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, Warmer & Sterilizer, Includes App With Over 800 Recipes, Stainless Steel, 6 Quart 6QT Duo
The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is a versatile and convenient kitchen appliance that replaces seven different appliances, making it perfect for busy families or meal prepping for singles. With 13 built-in smart programs, you can cook your favorite dishes with the press of a button, and its tri-ply, stainless steel inner pot offers quick, even heating performance.
Pros
- The Instant Pot Duo is incredibly versatile, replacing seven different appliances and allowing you to cook a wide variety of meals with ease.
- Its 13 built-in smart programs make it easy to cook your favorite dishes with the press of a button, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
- The tri-ply, stainless steel inner pot offers quick, even heating performance, ensuring that your food is cooked to perfection every time.
Cons
- The Instant Pot Duo can be a bit intimidating at first, and it may take some time to learn how to use all of its features effectively.
- While the Instant Pot Duo is dishwasher safe, it can be a bit cumbersome to clean due to its size and shape.
- The Instant Pot Duo is a bit on the expensive side, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.
We recently purchased the Instant Pot Duo and have been thoroughly impressed with its performance. We’ve used it to make everything from hearty stews and soups to delicious rice dishes and even homemade yogurt. The smart programs are incredibly easy to use, and we love how quickly it can cook meals compared to traditional cooking methods.
One thing to keep in mind is that the Instant Pot Duo can be a bit intimidating at first, especially if you’re not used to using pressure cookers. However, we found that with a bit of practice and experimentation, we were able to master all of its features and create delicious meals with ease.
Another thing to note is that the Instant Pot Duo is quite large and may take up a fair amount of counter space. While it is dishwasher safe, we found that it can be a bit cumbersome to clean due to its size and shape.
Overall, we highly recommend the Instant Pot Duo to anyone looking for a versatile and convenient kitchen appliance that can help them save time and effort in the kitchen. Its wide range of features and capabilities make it a must-have for any home cook, and we’re confident that you’ll love it as much as we do.
Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195) 10-Quart Black Slow Cooker
If you’re looking for a slow cooker that can handle cooking for a large gathering, the Hamilton Beach 10-quart slow cooker is a great option. With its simple controls and three heat settings, it’s easy to create flavorful meals with minimal effort and great results. The lid clips tightly to the slow cooker handles to reduce messy spills when transporting food, making it easy to carry hot meals to family gatherings, potlucks, or to serve at the table without worrying about spills.
Pros
- Perfect for a large gathering: The 10-quart slow cooker lets you cook enough food for a gathering of 12 or more people and fits a 10 lb. turkey or a 12 lb. roast.
- Reduce spills: The lid clips tightly to the slow cooker handles to reduce messy spills when transporting food. Carry hot meals to family gatherings, potlucks or to serve at the table without worrying about spills.
- Cook flavorful meals with minimal effort: This Hamilton Beach slow cooker has simple controls that make it easy for you to create flavorful meals with minimal effort and great results. Just turn the dial. No watching needed.
Cons
- Heavy: At 15.7 pounds, this slow cooker can be a bit heavy to lift and transport.
- Limited settings: While the three heat settings are sufficient for most dishes, some users may prefer more control over the cooking process.
- No timer: This slow cooker doesn’t have a timer, so you’ll need to keep an eye on your cooking times.
We recently used the Hamilton Beach 10-quart slow cooker to cook a delicious pot roast for a family gathering. The large capacity was perfect for cooking a 6 lb. roast with plenty of room to spare. The lid locked securely in place, making it easy to transport the cooked roast to the table without any spills. The controls were easy to use, and we appreciated the simplicity of the three heat settings. Cleanup was a breeze thanks to the dishwasher-safe crock.
Overall, we would recommend the Hamilton Beach 10-quart slow cooker for anyone looking to cook for a large gathering. Its large capacity, secure lid, and simple controls make it a great choice for family dinners, potlucks, and more.
Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer, Stainless Steel (SCCPVL610-S-A)
If you’re looking for a slow cooker that’s perfect for transporting food, the Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer is a great choice. With its secure locking lid and rubber gasket, this slow cooker creates an airtight seal, preventing spills while you’re on the go. The digital panel allows you to customize your cooking time between 30 minutes and 20 hours, and set the temperature on High, Low, and Warm. After cooking is complete, the slow cooker will automatically shift to Warm for up to 6 hours to help maintain food temperature and flavor. With dishwasher safe components, this is the perfect digital slow cooker just about anytime you need to transport food prepared at home. Recipes included.
Pros
- The secure locking lid and rubber gasket create an airtight seal, making it perfect for transporting food.
- The digital panel allows you to customize your cooking time between 30 minutes and 20 hours, and set the temperature on High, Low, and Warm.
- The slow cooker will automatically shift to Warm for up to 6 hours after cooking is complete, helping to maintain food temperature and flavor.
Cons
- The slow cooker is relatively heavy, weighing in at 16.18 pounds.
- The cord length is only 24 inches, which may be too short for some users.
- The slow cooker works on 240 Watts at 120V A.C, which may not be suitable for all users.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer, and we were impressed with its performance. The secure locking lid and rubber gasket created an airtight seal, preventing spills while we were on the go. The digital panel was easy to use, allowing us to customize our cooking time and set the temperature to our desired level. After cooking was complete, the slow cooker automatically shifted to Warm, helping to maintain food temperature and flavor.
One thing to note is that the slow cooker is relatively heavy, weighing in at 16.18 pounds. Additionally, the cord length is only 24 inches, which may be too short for some users. Finally, the slow cooker works on 240 Watts at 120V A.C, which may not be suitable for all users.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer to anyone looking for a slow cooker that’s perfect for transporting food. Its secure locking lid, digital panel, and automatic shift to Warm make it a great choice for potlucks, family gatherings, tailgating, parties, and more.
Hamilton Beach Portable 7 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Three Temperature Settings, Lid Latch Strap for Easy Travel, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33474)
If you’re looking for a versatile slow cooker with a large capacity, the Hamilton Beach Programmable 7 Quart Slow Cooker is worth considering. With 15 programmable options, you can mix and match warm, low, or high heat settings with your choice of 2, 4, 6, 8, or 10 hours of cooking time. You can even set it and forget it, as the programmable slow cooker automatically switches to the warm heat setting after cooking is complete.
Pros
- The unique Lid Latch strap anchors onto the base to hold the lid securely in place when carrying meals in the slow cooker, reducing messy spills. You can take hot meals to parties, potlucks, or serve at the table without worrying about spills.
- The 7 quart slow cooker has a stoneware crock that can fit a variety of foods, from lasagna and desserts to large cuts of meat. It will hold a 7 lb. chicken or a 5 lb. roast, making it perfect for family meals.
- The full-grip handles make it easy to lift and carry the slow cooker, even when it’s full.
Cons
- The slow cooker only has three temperature settings: warm, low, and high. If you’re looking for more precise temperature control, this may not be the best option.
- The slow cooker’s exterior can get quite hot during use, so it’s important to be careful when handling it.
- The slow cooker’s oval shape may make it difficult to store in some kitchens.
Overall, we recommend the Hamilton Beach Programmable 7 Quart Slow Cooker for its large capacity, versatile programming options, and Lid Latch strap for easy transport. While it may not offer the most precise temperature control, it’s a solid choice for family meals and potlucks.
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
The Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is a versatile and convenient kitchen appliance that replaces nine separate cooking appliances, including a pressure cooker, slow cooker, and sous vide. With 15 Smart Programs, it’s easy to get started quickly and easily. Whether you’re cooking ribs, soups, beans, rice, poultry, yogurt, desserts, or more, this pressure cooker has you covered.
Pros
- The pressure cooker can cook delicious one-pot meals up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods, or slow cook your favorite traditional recipes – just like grandma used to make.
- The easy-to-read display includes a full cooking progress bar that lets you know what stage of the cooking program you’ve reached.
- The Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker includes over 10 safety features, plus overheat protection and a safe-locking lid.
Cons
- The Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is a bit on the heavy side, weighing in at 12.35 pounds.
- The inner pot can be a bit tricky to clean, especially if you’re cooking something that’s particularly sticky or greasy.
- The Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker can be a bit intimidating to use at first, especially if you’re not used to pressure cooking.
We highly recommend the Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker for anyone looking for a versatile and convenient kitchen appliance that can replace multiple cooking appliances. With its 15 Smart Programs, it’s easy to get started quickly and easily, and the pressure cooker can cook delicious one-pot meals up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods. The easy-to-read display includes a full cooking progress bar that lets you know what stage of the cooking program you’ve reached, and the Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker includes over 10 safety features, plus overheat protection and a safe-locking lid.
The Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is a bit on the heavy side, weighing in at 12.35 pounds, and the inner pot can be a bit tricky to clean, especially if you’re cooking something that’s particularly sticky or greasy. Additionally, the Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker can be a bit intimidating to use at first, especially if you’re not used to pressure cooking. However, once you get the hang of it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a versatile and convenient kitchen appliance that can replace multiple cooking appliances, we highly recommend the Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker. With its 15 Smart Programs, it’s easy to get started quickly and easily, and the pressure cooker can cook delicious one-pot meals up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods. The Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is a must-have for any home cook who wants to save time and effort in the kitchen.
Elite Gourmet Slow Cooker
If you’re looking for a slow cooker that’s perfect for cooking and serving small one-pot meals and appetizers, then the Elite Gourmet 1.5 qt. Mini slow cooker is a great option to consider. It’s a versatile small appliance that can be a single person’s best companion or the All-Star at your next Super Bowl party.
Pros
- The adjustable temperature settings with versatile Low / High / Keep Warm settings give you ultimate control of meal preparation. Simply set it and forget it while you continue on with your busy day, entertain guests, or prepare other dishes.
- The removable inner stoneware pot is easy to clean, and the dishwasher-safe clear tempered glass lid and stainless steel exterior heating base can be wiped clean with a damp cloth to maintain its pristine appearance.
- The sleek and stylish design of the stainless steel finish is rust-proof and easy to clean, making it a great addition to any kitchen.
Cons
- The 1.5 qt. capacity may not be enough for larger families or bigger meals.
- The lack of a timer may be inconvenient for some users who prefer to set a specific cooking time.
- The absence of a light indicator to let you know that it’s on may be a minor issue for some users.
Overall, we highly recommend the Elite Gourmet Slow Cooker for its compact size, adjustable temperature settings, and easy-to-clean features. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a small group of people, this slow cooker is a reliable and convenient kitchen appliance that won’t disappoint.
Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO
If you’re looking for a versatile and efficient cooking tool, the Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO is a great option. With its 8-in-1 functionality, it can replace up to 14 cooking tools and appliances. You can use it as a slow cooker, steam oven, food warmer, nonstick pot, sauté pan, cast iron skillet, saucier, steamer, saucepan, stock pot, Dutch oven, roasting pan, bread maker, and utensil. It’s perfect for busy people who want to cook healthy and delicious meals without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Pros
- The Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO is a versatile and efficient cooking tool that can replace up to 14 cooking tools and appliances.
- You can sear and sauté directly in the pot using the bottom heating elements, which saves you time and effort.
- The 8.5-quart cooking capacity is perfect for entertaining and allows you to make large batches of your favorite dishes.
Cons
- The Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO is a bit bulky and may take up a lot of counter space.
- The nonstick pot may not be as durable as other materials, and you need to hand-wash it to extend its life.
- The Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO is not dishwasher safe, which may be inconvenient for some users.
We love using the Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO to cook a wide variety of dishes. It’s incredibly versatile and can replace many cooking tools and appliances, which saves us a lot of space and money. We also appreciate the fact that we can sear and sauté directly in the pot, which adds more flavor and texture to our meals. The 8.5-quart cooking capacity is perfect for entertaining, and we can make large batches of chili, spaghetti and meatballs, or pulled pork with ease.
One thing to keep in mind is that the Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO is a bit bulky and may take up a lot of counter space. If you have a small kitchen, you may need to find a dedicated spot for it. Additionally, the nonstick pot may not be as durable as other materials, and you need to hand-wash it to extend its life. Finally, the Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO is not dishwasher safe, which may be inconvenient for some users.
Overall, we highly recommend the Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO to anyone who wants a versatile and efficient cooking tool that can help them save time and effort in the kitchen. With its 8-in-1 functionality, you can cook a wide variety of dishes with ease and confidence.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best slow cooker, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the right one for your needs. We’ve put together a buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Capacity
One of the most important things to consider is the capacity of the slow cooker. You’ll want to choose a size that suits your household’s needs. If you’re cooking for a family, a larger capacity slow cooker will be necessary, while a smaller one will be sufficient for a single person or couple. Make sure to check the product specifications to ensure the capacity is suitable for your needs.
Features
Another important factor to consider is the features of the slow cooker. Look for features such as programmable settings, automatic shut-off, and a keep-warm function. These features will make the slow cooking process easier and more convenient. Additionally, consider the material of the slow cooker, whether it’s ceramic, stainless steel, or non-stick. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, so choose the one that suits your needs.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
You’ll want to choose a slow cooker that’s easy to use and clean. Look for a cooker with a simple interface and easy-to-read controls. Additionally, consider the cleaning process. Some slow cookers have removable parts that can be washed in the dishwasher, while others require hand-washing. Make sure to check the product specifications to see what the cleaning process entails.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the slow cooker. While you don’t want to overspend, you also don’t want to sacrifice quality for a lower price. Look for a slow cooker that’s within your budget but still has the features and capacity you need.
By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose the best slow cooker for your needs. Happy slow cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should we look for when choosing a high-quality slow cooker?
When selecting a slow cooker, there are several features to consider. First, look for a model with a programmable timer, which allows you to set the cooking time and temperature. This feature ensures that your food is cooked to perfection and prevents overcooking. Second, choose a slow cooker with a removable, dishwasher-safe stoneware insert for easy cleaning. Third, consider a model with a locking lid to prevent spills during transportation. Finally, look for a slow cooker with a keep-warm function, which keeps your food at a safe temperature until you are ready to serve.
What size slow cooker is ideal for small households?
If you are cooking for a small household, a 2- to 4-quart slow cooker is ideal. This size is perfect for making soups, stews, and casseroles for two to four people. However, if you prefer to make larger meals or want to have leftovers, a 6-quart slow cooker may be a better option.
How do different slow cooker brands compare in terms of reliability and performance?
There are several reputable slow cooker brands on the market, and each has its strengths and weaknesses. Some of the most popular brands include Crock-Pot, Hamilton Beach, and Instant Pot. In general, these brands are known for their durability, ease of use, and consistent performance. However, it’s important to read reviews and compare features before making a purchase.
Are there any health benefits or concerns associated with cooking in a slow cooker?
Cooking in a slow cooker can offer several health benefits. Because slow cooking allows food to cook at a low temperature for an extended period, it can help retain more nutrients than other cooking methods. Additionally, slow cooking can help reduce the amount of fat in your meals by allowing you to cook with leaner cuts of meat. However, it’s important to follow food safety guidelines, such as properly thawing meat before cooking and ensuring that your slow cooker reaches a safe cooking temperature.
