Crock Pot Buyer's Guide

How to Choose the Best Slow Cooker or Crock Pot for Your Cooking Needs

Slow cookers, also known as crock pots, are essential kitchen appliances for anyone looking to prepare healthy, flavorful meals with minimal effort. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to figure out which one is best suited for your cooking needs. This guide will help you choose the best slow cooker by outlining key features to look for, frequently asked questions, and tips to make an informed decision.

Key Features to Look for When Choosing a Slow Cooker

1. Size and Capacity
The size of your slow cooker is one of the most important factors to consider. Slow cookers come in a range of sizes, from 1.5 quarts for small meals or dips, to 8 quarts or more for larger families or meal prepping.

• 1.5-3 quarts: Best for cooking for one or two people, making small side dishes, or preparing dips.

• 4-6 quarts: Ideal for families of 3-5 people and is the most versatile size for preparing full meals like soups, stews, and casseroles.

• 7-8+ quarts: Great for larger families or if you plan on cooking big batches for meal prep or gatherings.

2. Temperature Settings
Most slow cookers come with basic temperature settings like low, high, and a warm function. Some advanced models may also have additional settings such as medium or even customizable temperature controls for more precise cooking.

• Low: Typically used for cooking over extended periods (8+ hours).

• High: Cooks food faster (around 4-5 hours).

• Warm: Keeps food at a safe temperature after cooking without overcooking it.

3. Programmable Features
If you have a busy schedule, look for slow cookers with programmable settings. These allow you to set the cooking time and temperature, and the slow cooker will automatically switch to the "warm" setting once cooking is complete. This feature is especially useful for those who work outside the home or have a busy day planned.

4. Shape
Slow cookers typically come in two shapes: oval and round.

• Oval slow cookers: Better for larger cuts of meat, like roasts or whole chickens. They also offer more surface area, which helps with even cooking.

• Round slow cookers: More compact and ideal for soups, stews, and casseroles.

5. Lid Type
Most slow cookers come with glass or plastic lids.

• Glass lids: More durable and allow you to see the food as it cooks without lifting the lid, which can affect cooking times.

• Locking lids: Some models come with lids that lock in place, which is helpful if you need to transport the slow cooker, such as taking a dish to a potluck or party.

6. Timer and Digital Controls
Slow cookers with built-in timers are convenient, especially when you want to ensure your food doesn't overcook. Digital models often come with easy-to-read displays and preset cooking times for common recipes, making the cooking process more streamlined.

7. Material and Durability
The quality of the crock is also important. Most slow cookers come with ceramic or stoneware inserts, which are highly durable and retain heat well. Some models may have non-stick coatings, which make cleaning easier but may not last as long as ceramic or stoneware inserts.

8. Ease of Cleaning
Look for slow cookers with removable, dishwasher-safe inserts to make cleaning as easy as possible. Non-stick coated inserts can also reduce cleanup time, but they may require more care to avoid scratching or damaging the surface.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What size slow cooker should I buy?
The size depends on your cooking needs. If you're cooking for one or two people, a 3-quart slow cooker is usually sufficient. For families of 3-5 people, a 4-6 quart model is recommended. Larger families or those who want to prepare big batches should opt for a 7-8 quart slow cooker.

2. Can I leave my slow cooker on while I'm not home?
Yes, slow cookers are designed for long, unattended cooking. If you're using a modern model with programmable settings, it will automatically switch to the "warm" setting once the cooking is complete, ensuring your food stays at a safe temperature.

3. Is it better to cook on low or high in a slow cooker?
Cooking on low allows the flavors to develop more fully and is ideal for tougher cuts of meat that need more time to tenderize. Cooking on high is faster, but it can sometimes lead to overcooked or dry food if not monitored closely.

4. Can you put frozen meat in a slow cooker?
While it is possible, it's not recommended to cook frozen meat in a slow cooker, as it takes longer to reach a safe temperature, potentially allowing bacteria to grow. It's best to thaw meat in the refrigerator before adding it to the slow cooker.

5. What can you cook in a slow cooker?
Slow cookers are incredibly versatile. You can make soups, stews, roasts, casseroles, chili, pulled meats, desserts, and even bread. The slow cooking process is great for infusing deep flavors into dishes over several hours.

6. Are expensive slow cookers worth it?
It depends on your needs. Expensive models often come with additional features such as programmable timers, multiple temperature settings, or extra functions like searing and sautéing. However, if you only need a basic model for simple meals, a more affordable option will work just fine.

Tips for Choosing the Right Slow Cooker

1. Consider Your Cooking Style
If you like to meal prep or make large batches of food, opt for a larger model (6 quarts or more). If you only plan on making small meals or side dishes, a smaller slow cooker may be more suitable.

2. Look for Versatility
Some slow cookers offer more than just slow cooking. Models with multi-cooker features allow you to sauté, brown, or steam food, providing more cooking options and versatility in the kitchen.

3. Evaluate Your Counter Space
Make sure the slow cooker you choose fits comfortably on your countertop or in storage. Larger models take up more space, so consider whether your kitchen has enough room for storage.

4. Choose a Programmable Model for Convenience
If you lead a busy life, a programmable slow cooker can be a lifesaver. It allows you to set the cooking time and temperature, and it will automatically switch to the "warm" setting once cooking is finished.

Ready to try some recipes?

We've got delicious, easy recipes for your crockpot exploits! Check these out for some yummy inspiration!

• Healthy Slow Cooker Recipes

• Slow Cooker Mexican Shredded Chicken Tacos

• Crock Pot Chili

• Crock Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

• Crock Pot Tomato Basil Soup

The Top 5 Slow Cookers on Amazon: A Comprehensive Review with Pros and Cons

With so many slow cookers available on Amazon, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. Here’s a detailed review of the top 5 slow cookers on Amazon, complete with their pros and cons to help you make the right decision.

1. Crock-Pot 6-Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker

This Crock-Pot is a popular and affordable option that’s perfect for families or larger gatherings. Its 6-quart capacity allows you to cook meals for up to 7 people, and its programmable feature lets you set cook times up to 20 hours in advance.

Pros:

• Large Capacity: Great for family meals or entertaining.

• Programmable: Set it and forget it with automatic shut-off and "keep warm" function.

• Portable: Locking lid ensures no spills when transporting, making it ideal for potlucks.

• Affordable: Great value for a programmable model.

Cons:

• Limited Cooking Functions: Only offers basic low, high, and warm settings.

• No Digital Display: Some users may prefer a more modern digital interface.

• Locking Mechanism: Some users report the lid’s locking mechanism can be difficult to secure.

2. Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker (Includes Slow Cooker)

While best known for its pressure cooking function, the Instant Pot Duo also doubles as a slow cooker. Its multi-functional design makes it one of the most versatile kitchen appliances available. It can pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, and even make yogurt.

Pros:

• 7-in-1 Functions: Offers a wide range of cooking methods in one appliance.

• Programmable: The slow cook function can be set for various hours, with an auto "keep warm" feature.

• Large Capacity: Available in 6-quart and 8-quart sizes for bigger meals.

• Time-Saver: You can slow cook or switch to pressure cook for quicker meals.

Cons:

• Steeper Learning Curve: The multi-functions can be overwhelming for beginners.

• Not a Dedicated Slow Cooker: While it slow cooks, it may not be as optimized for slow cooking as traditional models.

• Bulkier: Larger and heavier than other slow cookers due to its multi-functional design.

3. Hamilton Beach 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Temperature Probe

This slow cooker from Hamilton Beach comes with a built-in temperature probe, making it perfect for cooking large cuts of meat. It also features a “set and forget” programmable system with automatic shifts to the “keep warm” mode once your food is cooked.

Pros:

• Temperature Probe: Allows for precise temperature control, especially for meats like roast or chicken.

• Easy to Use: Simple controls and display make it beginner-friendly.

• Programmable Settings: Customize cook times with automatic shifts to “keep warm” once finished.

• Locking Lid: Makes it easy to transport to parties or gatherings.

Cons:

• No Multi-Cooker Functions: Unlike the Instant Pot, it’s only a slow cooker.

• Large Size: Takes up considerable counter space.

• Slow to Heat Up: Some users have reported that it takes a while to reach cooking temperatures.

4. Cuisinart MSC-800 7-Quart Cook Central 4-in-1 Multi-Cooker

The Cuisinart MSC-800 is a premium multi-cooker offering slow cooking, steaming, sautéing, and browning in one appliance. Its 7-quart capacity makes it ideal for large meals, and the ability to sauté directly in the pot before slow cooking adds flavor and convenience.

Pros:

• Multi-Functionality: Sauté, steam, brown, and slow cook all in one pot.

• Sauté Feature: No need to use a separate pan for browning meats before slow cooking.

• Large Capacity: 7-quart size is great for larger families or meal prepping.

• Digital Display: Easy-to-read display and intuitive controls.

Cons:

• Pricey: More expensive than traditional slow cookers.

• Heavy: The large capacity and premium materials make it heavier and bulkier.

• No Pressure Cooking: While it offers multiple functions, it doesn’t have a pressure-cooking option.

5. BLACK+DECKER 7-Quart Digital Slow Cooker

The BLACK+DECKER 7-Quart Digital Slow Cooker is another great option for those who need a large-capacity cooker at an affordable price. It features a digital display with programmable settings and an easy-to-read control panel for precise cooking.

Pros:

• Budget-Friendly: A large-capacity digital slow cooker at a low price point.

• 7-Quart Capacity: Great for cooking large meals for families or batch cooking.

• Digital Controls: Offers precise control over time and temperature, with a convenient "keep warm" setting.

• Removable Stoneware Pot: Dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.

Cons:

• Plastic Lid: Some users prefer glass lids for better durability.

• Slow Heating: Some users report that it takes a while for the slow cooker to reach the desired temperature.

Conclusion

Choosing the right slow cooker depends on your specific needs. If you’re looking for a traditional, family-sized slow cooker at an affordable price, the Crock-Pot 6-Quart Cook & Carry is a solid choice. For those who want multi-functionality beyond slow cooking, the Instant Pot Duo is hard to beat with its versatility. If precision is your priority, the Hamilton Beach 6-Quart with Temperature Probe is perfect for perfectly cooked roasts. If you’re willing to invest in premium features, the Cuisinart MSC-800 offers sautéing, steaming, and browning, while the BLACK+DECKER 7-Quart Digital Slow Cooker provides excellent value for larger meals on a budget. No matter which model you choose, all of these slow cookers will make preparing healthy, delicious meals easier than ever!