Embrace the simmering salvation of the Slow Cooker, your culinary knight in shining armor! In our bustling lives, this countertop champion offers a delectable paradox: the slower it cooks, the faster you get to kick back. Our guide, “Slow Cooker Success: Choosing the Perfect Kitchen Companion for Easy Gourmet Dinners,” is your golden ticket to navigating the vast realm of slow cooker products.
Whether you’re a newbie to the world of tender roasts and hearty stews or a seasoned pro looking to upgrade your slow-cooking game, we’ve got the lowdown on the gadgets that transform raw ingredients into mouthwatering masterpieces while you’re out living your life. Prepare to be regaled with tales of knobs, settings, and pot sizes—oh my! Let’s embark on this culinary quest where convenience meets flavor, one slow-cooked spoonful at a time.
We all love a delicious home-cooked meal, but with busy schedules, it can be challenging to find the time to prepare and cook a meal from scratch. This is where a slow cooker comes in. A slow cooker, also known as a crockpot, is a countertop appliance that allows you to prepare a meal in advance and let it cook slowly over several hours. This means you can come home to a hot, ready-to-eat meal without having to spend hours in the kitchen.
When it comes to purchasing a slow cooker, there are a few key things to consider. The first is size. Slow cookers come in various sizes, ranging from 1.5 quarts to 8 quarts. The size you choose will depend on the number of people you’re cooking for and the types of meals you plan to make. If you’re cooking for a large family or want to make big batches of soups or stews, a larger slow cooker may be the best option.
Another thing to consider is the shape of the slow cooker. Some slow cookers are round, while others are oval. Oval-shaped slow cookers are ideal for cooking larger cuts of meat, such as roasts, while round slow cookers are better suited for soups and stews.
When it comes to features, some slow cookers come with programmable timers and temperature settings, while others have manual controls. Programmable slow cookers allow you to set the cooking time and temperature, so you can prepare your meal in advance and have it ready when you get home. Manual slow cookers require more attention, but they’re often more affordable.
At Gastrocoach, we spent countless hours researching and testing various slow cookers to identify the ones that make cooking easy and hassle-free. We looked at factors such as cooking time, temperature control, ease of use, and overall performance.
In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at the top slow cookers on the market and highlight their features and benefits. Whether you’re a busy parent, a working professional, or just looking for an easier way to cook, a slow cooker can be an essential tool in your kitchen arsenal.
Overview
Best Slow Cookers
Slow cookers are a must-have kitchen appliance for anyone who loves to cook. These versatile machines allow you to create delicious, healthy meals with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy parent, a working professional, or a student on a budget, a slow cooker can help you save time and money while still enjoying delicious, home-cooked meals.
In this article, we’ve put together a list of the best slow cookers on the market. We’ve tested and reviewed each one to help you find the perfect model for your needs. Our selection includes a range of sizes, styles, and features, so you’re sure to find the perfect slow cooker for your kitchen.
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker
If you’re looking for a slow cooker that can handle large meals and keep your food warm, the Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker is a great option.
Pros
- With a spacious 7-quart capacity, this slow cooker can serve up to 9 people or fit a 7-pound roast.
- The high and low settings allow for flexibility in cooking time, and the warm setting keeps your food at an ideal serving temperature.
- The removable oval stoneware and lid are dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.
Cons
- The manual controls may require some trial and error to get the perfect cooking time and temperature.
- The stainless steel exterior may be prone to fingerprints and smudges.
- This slow cooker is on the larger side, so it may take up more counter space than smaller models.
We recently used this slow cooker to make a hearty beef stew, and it did not disappoint. The large capacity allowed us to add plenty of vegetables and meat, and the high and low settings gave us the option to cook it for 4 hours or 8 hours depending on our schedule. The warm setting kept the stew at the perfect temperature until we were ready to serve.
Cleanup was a breeze thanks to the removable stoneware and lid being dishwasher safe. The stainless steel exterior did show some fingerprints, but a quick wipe down with a damp cloth took care of that.
Overall, we would recommend the Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker for anyone in need of a large capacity slow cooker that can handle big meals and keep food warm until it’s time to serve.
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
If you’re looking for a versatile kitchen appliance that can replace multiple appliances, then the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is a great option.
Pros
- The Instant Pot Duo replaces 7 kitchen appliances, saving you money and counter space.
- The 13 built-in smart programs make cooking your favorite dishes a breeze.
- The tri-ply, stainless steel inner pot offers quick and even heating performance.
Cons
- The learning curve can be steep for first-time users.
- The lid can be difficult to clean.
- The stainless steel finish may show fingerprints easily.
We’ve used the Instant Pot Duo for a variety of meals, and it has consistently delivered delicious results. The pressure cooking function is especially impressive, cooking meals up to 70% faster than traditional methods. We also appreciate the versatility of the 7-in-1 functionality, allowing us to sauté, steam, and warm food as well.
However, we do wish that the lid was easier to clean, as it can be difficult to get into all the crevices. Additionally, the stainless steel finish may show fingerprints easily, so it may require more frequent cleaning than other appliances.
Overall, we highly recommend the Instant Pot Duo for anyone looking for a versatile and efficient kitchen appliance.
Crock-Pot MyTime Slow Cooker
If you’re looking for a slow cooker that can adjust to your exact mealtime, the Crock-Pot MyTime Slow Cooker might be the one for you.
Pros
- With MyTime Technology, you can customize the precise time of day you want your meal to be served, the type of food, and the amount.
- The Cook & Carry lid prevents leaks and spills for mess-free travel.
- The 7-quart capacity serves 7+ people, making it perfect for the entire family.
Cons
- The slow cooker might get too warm, so you need to monitor the temperature carefully.
- The automatic function needs refinement, as it doesn’t have a setting for 4+ lbs of meat.
- The digital countdown control screen might be difficult to read in low light conditions.
We recently had the opportunity to try out the Crock-Pot MyTime Slow Cooker, and we were impressed by its features. The MyTime Technology is a game-changer, as it allows you to adjust the cooking cycle so that the food is perfectly done when you need it to be. We found it easy to use, and the flat digital countdown control screen was intuitive and user-friendly.
The Cook & Carry lid is a great addition, as it prevents leaks and spills while on the go. We also appreciated the easy carry handles, which made lifting and carrying a breeze. The 7-quart capacity is perfect for large families or for those who like to meal prep for the week.
However, we did notice that the slow cooker might get too warm, so you need to monitor the temperature carefully to avoid overcooking. Additionally, the automatic function needs refinement, as it doesn’t have a setting for 4+ lbs of meat. Lastly, the digital countdown control screen might be difficult to read in low light conditions.
Overall, we would recommend the Crock-Pot MyTime Slow Cooker to anyone who wants to customize their mealtime and enjoy delicious home-cooked meals, ready on their time.
Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box, Portable Food Warmer for Travel, Car, On-the-Go, 20-Ounce, Blush Pink | Keeps Food Warm & Spill-Free | Dishwasher-Safe | Gifts for Women Blush Pink Food Warmer
If you’re looking for a convenient and stylish way to take your favorite meals with you wherever you go, the Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box is a great option. With its 20-ounce capacity, this heated lunch box is perfect whether you’re in the office, working from home, or on a road trip. It features a modern-vintage aesthetic and elegant Sphinx Pink color, making it a stylish addition to your lunch routine.
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 for clutter-free storage.
- The tight-sealing lid and removable storage container help prevent spills while on the go.
Cons
- The 20-ounce capacity may not be enough for some people’s needs.
- The matte rubberized coating may not be everyone’s preferred texture.
- The aluminum and stainless steel construction may not be suitable for those with metal sensitivities.
We found that the Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box was easy to use and kept our food warm and spill-free. The detachable cord made it easy to pack and store, and the tight-sealing lid and removable storage container helped prevent spills while on the go. Cleanup was a breeze, as the food storage container and inner lid were dishwasher-safe.
Overall, we would recommend the Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box to anyone looking for a convenient and stylish way to take their favorite meals with them on the go.
Crock-Pot Large 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting and Cookbook, Black Stainless Steel
If you’re looking for a slow cooker that can handle large batches of food and keep it warm for hours, the Crock-Pot Large 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker is an excellent option.
Pros
- The 8-quart capacity is perfect for large families or meal prep.
- The digital timer can count down cook times of up to 20 hours.
- The automatic warming function ensures your food stays warm even after cooking is done.
Cons
- The size of the slow cooker may be too large for some kitchens.
- The stoneware and lid cannot withstand sudden temperature changes.
- The slow cooker may cook hotter than expected.
We recently tried out the Crock-Pot Large 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker and were impressed with its performance. The size of the slow cooker was perfect for cooking large batches of food, and the digital timer made it easy to keep track of cook times. We also appreciated the automatic warming function, which kept our food warm even after the cooking was done.
However, we did notice that the slow cooker may cook hotter than expected, so it’s important to keep an eye on your food while it’s cooking. Additionally, the size of the slow cooker may be too large for some kitchens, so make sure you have enough counter or storage space before purchasing.
Overall, we would recommend the Crock-Pot Large 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker to anyone in need of a large-capacity slow cooker that can handle big batches of food and keep it warm for hours.
Elite Gourmet Slow Cooker
If you’re looking for a small and versatile slow cooker, the Elite Gourmet 1.5 qt. Mini Slow Cooker is a great option.
Pros
- The adjustable temperature settings allow for ultimate control of meal preparation, making it easy to set and forget while you continue with your day.
- The removable inner stoneware pot and dishwasher-safe clear tempered glass lid make for fast and easy clean-up, while the stainless steel exterior is rust-proof and easy to clean.
- The sleek and stylish stainless steel finish makes it a great addition to any kitchen, while the cool-touch handles and knob ensure safe handling.
Cons
- The 1.5 qt. capacity may be too small for larger families or gatherings.
- The mechanical knob control may not be as precise as digital controls.
- The keep-warm setting may not keep food as hot as desired for extended periods of time.
We found that the Elite Gourmet Slow Cooker was perfect for cooking and serving small one-pot meals and appetizers such as soups, stews, meatballs, dips, and sauces. It’s also a great kickoff for a fondue party or where everyone prepares their favorite dip in their own mini slow cooker. The low and high temperature settings, along with the keep-warm setting, allowed us to easily control the cooking process and keep our meals hot and fresh before serving. The removable inner stoneware pot and dishwasher-safe clear tempered glass lid made clean-up a breeze, while the stainless steel finish gave it a sleek and stylish look.
Overall, we would recommend the Elite Gourmet Slow Cooker for those looking for a small and versatile slow cooker option. Its adjustable temperature settings, easy clean-up, and stylish design make it a great addition to any kitchen.
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 crowd, the Hamilton Beach 10 quart slow cooker is a great option. With its large capacity, you can easily cook enough food for a gathering of 12 or more people, and it can even fit a 10 lb. turkey or a 12 lb. roast.
Pros
- 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.
- 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.
- The large slow cooker is easy to lift and hold onto when carrying to the table to serve a meal or when taking food to gatherings.
Cons
- It tends to cook on the high end, even the warm setting is too high.
- The outside shell is a bit flimsy, so try not to bang it around.
- It doesn’t have digital controls, but it’s easy to work without them.
We recently had the opportunity to try out the Hamilton Beach 10 quart slow cooker, and we were impressed with its performance. The slow cooker was easy to use, and we appreciated the simple controls that allowed us to create flavorful meals with minimal effort. We also liked the full-grip handles, which made it easy to carry the slow cooker to the table or to take it to gatherings.
One thing to keep in mind is that the slow cooker tends to cook on the high end, so we recommend keeping an eye on your food to make sure it doesn’t overcook. Additionally, the outside shell is a bit flimsy, so you’ll want to be careful not to bang it around too much.
Overall, we think the Hamilton Beach 10 quart slow cooker is a great option for anyone who needs to cook for a crowd. It’s easy to use, has a large capacity, and is portable enough to take to gatherings.
Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use slow cooker, the Hamilton Beach 4-Quart Slow Cooker is a great option.
Pros
- The manual controls are simple and easy to use, making it effortless to create flavorful meals with minimal effort and great results.
- The 4-quart size is perfect for family meals and can hold a 4 lb. chicken or 2 lb. roast, serving 4+ people.
- The removable stoneware crock makes it easy to carry meals from the slow cooker to the table, and it’s dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
Cons
- The lack of digital controls may not be suitable for those who prefer more precise temperature settings.
- The oval shape of the slow cooker may not fit well in some cabinets or storage spaces.
- The glass lid can be fragile and may break if not handled with care.
We recently used the Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker to make a delicious beef stew. The manual controls were straightforward and allowed us to choose between Low or High settings. We chose Low and let the slow cooker work its magic for several hours.
When it was time to serve, the removable stoneware crock made it easy to transfer the stew to a serving dish. The size was perfect for our family of four, and we had plenty of leftovers for the next day.
Cleaning up was a breeze thanks to the dishwasher-safe stoneware crock and glass lid. We were impressed with how easy it was to clean, and it looked as good as new after just one cycle in the dishwasher.
Overall, we highly recommend the Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker for anyone looking for a simple and reliable slow cooker that gets the job done.
Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer
If you’re looking for a slow cooker that is perfect for transporting your food, the Crock-Pot Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker is a great option.
Pros
- The 6 quart capacity makes it perfect for serving 7 or more people.
- The digital countdown control allows you to program cook times between 30 minutes to 20 hours and automatically shifts to the Warm setting once the cook time is complete.
- The locking lid with a gasket provides an airtight seal, making it easy to transport your food without worrying about spills.
Cons
- The slow cooker may boil food on the low setting, so it’s important to monitor it carefully.
- The seal around the cover may look thin, which may cause concern for some users.
- The product contains aluminum, which may not be suitable for some users.
We recently tried out this slow cooker and were impressed with its performance. The 6 quart capacity was perfect for serving our family of six, and the digital countdown control made it easy to customize the cooking time to our needs. We loved that the slow cooker automatically shifted to the Warm setting once the cook time was complete, which made it easy to keep our food at the perfect temperature until we were ready to eat.
One thing to note is that we did experience some boiling on the low setting, so we had to monitor it carefully to prevent overcooking. Additionally, the seal around the cover may look thin, which may cause concern for some users. However, we found that the locking lid with a gasket provided an airtight seal, making it easy to transport our food without worrying about spills.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Crock-Pot Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker to anyone looking for a reliable slow cooker that is perfect for transporting food.
Instant Pot Pro (8 QT)
If you’re looking for a versatile kitchen appliance that can replace multiple devices, the Instant Pot Pro is a great option.
Pros
- The Instant Pot Pro replaces 10 kitchen appliances, making it a space-saving and convenient choice.
- With 28 smart cooking programs and 5 new favorite program settings, you can easily cook a variety of dishes.
- The upgraded gentle steam release is quieter and less messy with the diffusing cover.
Cons
- The Instant Pot Pro is more expensive than some other slow cookers on the market.
- The 8-quart size may be too large for some households.
- Some users have reported issues with the sealing ring wearing out quickly.
We recently tried out the Instant Pot Pro and were impressed with its versatility. We were able to use it as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice/grain cooker, steamer, sauté pan, sous vide, yogurt maker, sterilizer, and warmer. The 28 smart cooking programs made it easy to prepare a variety of meals, and we appreciated the 5 new favorite program settings that we could customize to our own recipes.
One of the standout features of the Instant Pot Pro is the upgraded gentle steam release. It was much quieter than other pressure cookers we’ve used, and we didn’t experience any countertop splashing. The diffusing cover was a thoughtful addition that made a big difference in the overall user experience.
While the Instant Pot Pro is more expensive than some other slow cookers on the market, we think it’s worth the investment for its versatility and convenience. The 8-quart size may be too large for some households, but it’s perfect for larger families or meal prepping and batch cooking for singles and smaller families.
Overall, we would recommend the Instant Pot Pro to anyone looking for a versatile kitchen appliance that can save time and space.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a slow cooker, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Size
Slow cookers come in a range of sizes, from small 1-2 quart models to large 8-10 quart models. Consider the number of people you will be cooking for and the amount of space you have available in your kitchen. A good rule of thumb is to choose a slow cooker that can hold at least 1 quart per person you will be feeding.
Shape
Slow cookers come in two main shapes: round and oval. Round slow cookers are great for soups and stews, while oval models are better for cooking larger cuts of meat, such as roasts.
Temperature Settings
Look for a slow cooker with adjustable temperature settings, so you can choose the right setting for your recipe. Some models have a “keep warm” setting, which is great for keeping food at a safe temperature until you are ready to serve.
Timer
A timer is a handy feature that allows you to set the cooking time and then walk away. Some models have a programmable timer, which allows you to set the cooking time and temperature in advance.
Removable Insert
A removable insert makes it easy to clean your slow cooker. Look for a model with a non-stick coating for easy cleaning.
Lid
Make sure the lid fits securely on your slow cooker to prevent spills and ensure even cooking. Some models have a clear glass lid, which allows you to check on your food without lifting the lid and letting heat escape.
By considering these features, you can choose the best slow cooker for your needs and enjoy delicious, easy meals at home.
