The Best Crock Pot for Irresistibly-Smelling Slow Cooked Meals
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BELLA 1.5 Qt Quart Slow Cooker Crock Pot -
Hamilton Beach 6-Quart Set Crock Pot -
Crock-Pot 6-Quart Slow Cooker Crock Pot -
Hamilton Portable 6-Quart Crock Pot -
Frigidaire Professional 7-Quart Programmable Crock Pot -
Buyer's Guide
Who can resist the comforting smell of home cooked food. Walking into your home to the smells of a crock pot meal that has been simmering all day is irresistible. Foods that are slow cooked have more time to develop flavor and tenderize meats. Autumn is here and this is the perfect time to check out these picks and explore the joys of crock pot cooking. The best crock pots in 2022 on this list were chosen because they have multiple, programmable temperature settings and have at least a six quart capacity.
Explore the Top Crock Pots of 2022 for easy home-cooked meals
BELLA 1.5 Qt Quart Slow Cooker Crock Pot - Best Crock Pot Overall
This well designed crock pot will make cooking simple. TheBella 13722 6 quart Slow Cooker is great. It is stainless steel and has a locking lid to seal in heat and moisture. The locking lid will also prevent spills when traveling. It boasts a programmable panel for your convenience. It comes with a large spoon and the lid has a spoon rest made into it for ease of storage and use. It has three temperature settings, allowing for diverse cooking. Fix your favorite stew or braised meat with confidence. It's easy to clean and can be travels well.
Hamilton Beach 6-Quart Set Crock Pot - Runner Up
This slow cooking dynamo has all of the features to make cooking a breeze. The Hamilton Beach Simplicity 6 Quart Slow Cooker is versatile and easy to operate. The generous size allows you to fix large roasts, chickens, chili or anything else that is enhanced by slow cooking. This crock pot has a timer and is programmable. It even automatically switches to warm once cooking is complete to prevent over cooking. The lid straps prevent spilling and makes it easy to travel with. Remove the inside for easy cleaning in the dishwasher.
Crock-Pot 6-Quart Slow Cooker Crock Pot - Honorable Mention
Get a 2 for one with this awesome crock pot. TheCrock-Pot Cook & Carry Manual Slow Cooker with Little Dipper Warmer is a rare find. The main crock pot has a multiple temperature setting dial and a stoneware interior. You can expect all of your slow cooked meals to be evenly and perfectly cooked. The locking sides ensure the lid is secure for traveling and prevents spills. What I love about this one is the mini crock that comes it with. The little dipper warmer is similar to the main crock except it has no dial nor the locking lid. It simply warms smaller portions which is great for individual servings.
Hamilton Portable 6-Quart Crock Pot - Consider
This hands down is my favorite. The versatility of the Hamilton Beach 6 Quart Programmable Insulated Slow Cooker makes it outshine the rest. The removable nonstick aluminum insert of this crock can be used to sear meats or start any dish on the stove. Place back into the base and continue cooking slowly in the crock pot. You can program cooking times and the insulated base is cool to the touch. The sleek and innovative design has a digital timer and multiple temperature settings. Remove insert for easy cleaning with soap and water.
Frigidaire Professional 7-Quart Programmable Crock Pot - Best Crock Pot
This large crock pot is great for people who cook for a crowd. The Frigidaire Professional 7-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker has a glass lid and comfortable handles for easy maneuvering. The large bright display on the programmable base makes it easy to read. The beautiful stainless steel exterior makes for an attractive and high performing pot. Enjoy the versatile buffet, soup, low, medium high and warm temperature settings for the perfect outcome. Keep foods warm for up to three hours. The ceramic insert is also oven safe can be easily cleaned with soap and water.
Buyer's Guide
Life is relentless. If you work full time, constantly try to keep your home clean, and care for children or pets, you’ll understand how short the day can feel. As such, the temptation for convenient food is ever-present. Few people have enough time in their day to stand over a stove for 30 minutes and watch something cook. If you do, you live a blessed life.
Crock pots have allowed people who lack time, energy, or intent to make delicious and nutritious meals with less effort. This piece of kitchenware is something every busy individual should have in their home.
But what is the right crock pot for you? Check out our buying guide below to help you decide.
What is a crock pot?
The crock pot (generically known as a slow cooker) first made its appearance in the 1970s. Crock pots have a stoneware pot, surrounded by a heating element. When the heating element heats up, it gradually cooks your food.
Crock pots are a cooking device that was made with convenience in mind. Most recipes are made in one pot and can be left to cook whilst you get on with other jobs around the house.
Why do you need a crock pot?
Crock pots have become a modern necessity. There are many reasons why a person may not have the time or energy to stand over a stove. There is no reason to let your busy schedule affect the nutrition or flavor of your meals.
You work full time
After a 10 hour shift, you ideally want to spend your evening winding down. You might want to watch a film or enjoy a relaxing bubble bath. The crock pot allows you to do this. Swap those wasted minutes in front of the stove for something a little more pleasant.
You have children
Between that part-time job and running your children to and from school, you’ll have no time left to prepare a meal that is both healthy and satisfying. You may have resorted to microwave or tinned meals, which are usually full of salt and sugar. Crock pots are a much healthier time saver. There are plenty of recipes available to ensure you get a variety of enjoyable meals.
You are on a diet
It is proven that water-based meals such as stews and soups assist with weight loss. Using a crock pot correctly means you will be well-prepared for when you are famished and craving a hearty, delicious dinner. With a ready-prepared meal waiting for you when you get home from work, you will be able to resist a takeaway and eat fewer snacks.
You want to spend more quality time with your partner
If your relationship is on the rocks, you may need to spend some time together to fix things. Many couples spend a lot of time in their home in different rooms. An extra 30 minutes dedicated to your partner every day might make all the difference. Of course, it may still take more than just a crock pot to save your relationship!
Things to consider before buying a crock pot?
There are a variety of slow cookers with different features. Read on to discover what features you should be looking for when choosing your perfect crock pot.
Size
Crock pots can range from 1 liter to 6.5 liters. 1-liter crock pots are ideal for one or two people with a small appetite. For more individuals, you will need a crock pot that can easily hold 3-4.5 liters. For larger families of six or more, 6.5 liters is the most appropriate size.
Bear in mind, when cooking, the full space of the crock pot will not be utilized. Although the size may state 6.5 liters, it will not produce 6.5 liters worth of food.
The space available
You may wish to buy a round and tall slow cooker as these take up less counter space. An oval-shaped crock pot takes up more counter space but less height. It is also considered a more versatile cooking solution than many other designs.
Heating capabilities
Some crock pots heat up and cool down quicker than others. Buying a crock pot is all about saving time. If you can, why not buy one that saves you even more time than other models? Crock pots that cool down quickly are also much safer, especially if you have children or pets.
Manual or programmable slow cookers
A manual slow cooker usually has four settings - on/off, high, low, and warm. You will need to be present to turn the heat down once your meal is cooked. Manual slow cookers are only an option if you are home to keep an eye on them. It is not recommended to leave manual slow cookers unattended. For these reasons, they are often a cheaper option than programmable slow cookers.
Programmable slow cookers allow you to control the times your slow cooker starts and stops cooking without being present. With these crock pots, you can enter the time you wish for it to begin cooking and for how long.
After the specified time, the slow cooker will go to heat mode. This will keep your meal warm and ready for you to enjoy. Programmable slow cookers are perfect if you need to go out to work, then return to a delicious meal.
Availability of spare parts
Check the availability of spare parts for the particular crock pot you wish to buy. If you break the lid it would be beneficial to be able to buy a new lid easily, instead of forking out for an entirely new crock pot.
Crock pots price range
Prices for a crock pot range from $20 to $250. The more you pay, the more features you can expect. Programmable crock pots start from around $70.
FAQ
How long can you leave a crock pot on high?
It is recommended that a slow cooker be left on high for no more than 8-12 hours. Some slow cookers claim you can leave them on high for 24 hours.
How long can you leave a crock pot cooker on warm?
It is safe to leave your food on warm for one to four hours. Any longer and you will spoil the food. You may wish to check the temperature of your food before you serve. To prevent food poisoning, it should be kept at a temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
