The Latest Best Slow Cookers of 2024
Best Slow cookers have become essential in modern kitchens, offering a simple and convenient way to prepare delicious and satisfying meals. Whether you’re a busy professional, a multitasking parent, or someone who appreciates the ease of slow cooking, choosing the right slow cooker can greatly enhance your culinary adventures. In 2024, there is a wide range of advanced models available on the market, designed to meet diverse needs and preferences. Let’s now discover the latest and most exciting offerings in the world of slow cookers this year.
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My life’s goal is to bring you a wide range of convenient, nutritious, and tasty slow cooker recipes. However, it’s also important to consider the appliance itself.
That’s why I decided to thoroughly test various Best Slow Cooker machines on the market to determine which ones would best meet our needs. Investing in a good one can truly make a difference.
We rigorously tried them all to identify the ones that passed our tests and could potentially be the best slow cookers for you.
6 Best Slow Cookers
1
Best Overall Slow Cooker
West Bend-Slow Cooker Large Capacity Non-stick Vessel with Variable Temperature Control
Credit Goes to West Bend
Pros
- With a 5-quart capacity, it is perfect for cooking meals for families or gatherings.
- The non-stick surface makes cleaning easy and prevents food from sticking.
- The base can also be used as a griddle for additional cooking options.
Cons
- May be too large for small kitchens or for those who cook for one or two people.
- A few users have noted that the temperature control can be inconsistent.
During our tests, we found the West Bend Versatility Cooker to be truly versatile. It can accommodate meal sizes ranging from intimate dinners for two to larger quantities fit for a crowd. The 5-quart non-stick crock pot performed exceptionally well both in the oven and on the stovetop. Additionally, we appreciated the convenience of it being freezer and dishwasher safe.
The standout feature of this cooker is the included griddle base, which makes preparing pancakes and grilled cheese sandwiches a breeze. We also liked the transparent, heat-resistant glass cover, which allowed us to easily monitor the progress of our meals as they cooked.
However, we did notice that, unlike some other models, it tends to bring the broth for soups to a boil, which can result in slightly overcooked meat and vegetables.
| Capacity |
| Item Weight |
| Voltage |
| 5 Quarts |
| 6.6 Pounds |
| 120 |
2
Best Design Slow Cooker
Crock-Pot Large 8 Quart Express Crock Slow Cooker and Food Warmer
Credit Goes to Crock-Pot
Pros
- Allows you to prepare a meal early and let it cook all day, providing convenience for busy schedules
- The 8-quart capacity is ideal for larger families or entertaining, capable of serving 10+ people
- The WARM setting keeps your dish at an ideal serving temperature until you're ready to eat.
Cons
- Being a manual slow cooker, it lacks programmable features that can offer more precise control over cooking times and settings.
- Only having HIGH, LOW, and WARM settings might be limiting for users looking for more advanced cooking options or precise temperature control.
During our Research , we found the Crock-Pot Large 8 Quart Express Crock Slow Cooker and Food Warmer to be an excellent option for those who need to prepare large meals with minimal effort. Its 8-quart capacity is perfect for family gatherings or meal prepping, comfortably serving 10+ people. The removable oval stoneware performed well in our tests, consistently cooking meals evenly on both HIGH and LOW settings.
We particularly appreciated the flexibility offered by the WARM setting, which kept our dishes at the ideal serving temperature without overcooking. The polished silver, stainless steel exterior with black accents gives it a sleek look that fits well in any kitchen.
One of the standout features of this slow cooker is its simplicity and ease of use. The manual controls are straightforward, making it easy to set your cooking time and walk away. Additionally, the stoneware and glass lid are dishwasher safe, which made cleanup hassle-free.
However, we did notice a couple of drawbacks. The manual controls, while simple, require you to monitor cooking times or use an external timer for precise results. Also, due to its large size, it takes up considerable counter and storage space, which might be an issue for those with smaller kitchens.
Overall, the Crock-Pot 8-Quart Manual Slow Cooker is a reliable and convenient kitchen appliance that excels in preparing large, delicious meals with ease. While it may lack some advanced features of newer models, its performance and simplicity make it a valuable addition to any busy household.
| Brand |
|---|
| Capacity |
|---|
| Item Weight |
|---|
| Product Dimensions |
|---|
| Crock-Pot |
| 8 Quarts |
| 8 Pounds |
| 9.5″D x 15.3″W x 15.4″H |
3
Top-rated programmable slow cookers
Hamilton Beach 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Three Temperature Settings
Credit Goes to Hamilton Beach
Pros
- Suitable for big meals and batch cooking
- Simple control panel and clear instructions.
- Flexible timing options enhance convenience.
Cons
- Its large size can be a drawback for those with limited kitchen space
- While it covers essential functions well, it lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models, such as precise temperature control or digital displays.
The Hamilton Beach 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker is a reliable and practical choice for those looking to prepare large meals with minimal effort. While it lacks some advanced features found in more expensive models, it offers excellent value and convenience for everyday use.
| Brand |
|---|
| Capacity |
|---|
| Item Weight |
|---|
| Product Dimensions |
|---|
| Hamilton Beach |
| 8 Quarts |
| 13 Pounds |
| 11.5″D x 17.5″W x 10″H |
4
Best slow cookers for meal prepping
BLACK+DECKER 7-Quart Slow Cooker
Credit Goes to BLACK+DECKER
Pros
- Versatile cooking options.
- Secure transport for potlucks and gatherings
- Easy cleanup with removable stoneware crock.
Cons
- Tendency to boil broth, leading to slightly overcooked ingredients.
- Lacks some advanced options found in higher-end models.
The BLACK+DECKER 7-Quart Slow Cooker (Model SCD4007) is a reliable and user-friendly appliance that delivers excellent results for a variety of meals. Its unique chalkboard exterior, locking lid, and ample capacity make it a standout choice for busy households and those who enjoy hosting gatherings. While it has a few minor drawbacks, its overall performance and convenience make it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
| Brand |
| Capacity |
| Item Weight |
| Product Dimensions |
| BLACK+DECKER |
| 7 Quarts |
| 14.9 Pounds |
| 14.09″D x 17.32″W x 9.65″H |
5
Best Slow Cooker for Bulky Meals
GreenPan Elite 8 - in -1 Programmable 6QT Electric Slow Cooker
Credit Goes to GreenPan
Pros
- 8-in-1 functionality covers a wide range of cooking methods.
- PFAS-free surface ensures healthy cooking and easy cleanup.
- Adds versatility for steaming vegetables and fish.
Cons
- Requires careful handling to avoid scratches.
- 6-quart size might be limiting for larger families or bulk cooking.
The GreenPan Elite 8-in-1 Programmable 6QT Electric Slow Cooker is a versatile and healthy choice for those who want to simplify their cooking process. With its multiple functions, programmable settings, and easy-to-clean design, it is a valuable addition to any kitchen.
While it does need some care to maintain the nonstick surface and may be a bit small for larger households, its overall performance and flexibility make it an excellent option for everyday cooking needs.
| Brand |
| Capacity |
| Product Dimensions |
| Item Weight |
| GreenPan |
| 6 Quarts |
| 12″D x 12″W x 12″H |
| 13.7 Pounds |
6
Best Quart Multi-Cooker
Ninja Foodi Possible PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker
Credit Goes to Ninja
Pros
- Handles slow cooking, steaming, Dutch oven baking, and more.
- Practical features for added convenience
- Pot withstands temperatures up to 500°F.
Cons
- Requires careful handling to avoid scratches
- Size: May be bulky for small kitchens or limited storage space.
The Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker is an exceptional multi-functional appliance that delivers on its promise of versatility and performance. Its large capacity, variety of cooking modes, and user-friendly features make it an excellent choice for busy households and cooking enthusiasts. While it requires some care to maintain the nonstick surface and may take up significant counter space, its overall functionality and convenience make it a worthy investment for any kitchen.
How to conduct a slow cooker test
During our side-by-side analysis, our culinary experts tested slow cookers by preparing traditional dishes and meals. Additionally, we conducted web research to gather information about our recommended products.
To assess temperature control and consistency, we measured the temperature of the food and liquid throughout the cooking process. Thermocouples (temperature sensors) were inserted into the breasts and thighs of whole chickens.
To test the heat distribution of each cooker and identify any hot spots (areas where parts of the food cook faster than others), we coated the pot with shortening and a thin layer of flour. We then heated the slow cooker until the flour browned, comparing the level of browning to a standardized chart.
We also evaluated the design, safety features, and ease of use of each slow cooker without referring to the instruction manual. Furthermore, we assessed the “keep warm” function, the tenderness of the meat, and the flavor development of the dishes.
Our findings were interesting: Traditional slow cookers performed well and consistently. Pressure cooker models with slow cook functions also performed well, albeit with slightly lower scores.