The Best Slow Cookers Of 2022
Irine and Andrew/Shutterstock By Lucia Capretti/Updated: March 30, 2022 10:05 am EST
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. Preparing a meal with a slow cooker can be as easy as tossing in a handful of ingredients and setting the device to the right temperature and cook time. It’s no wonder that busy home cooks love these convenient appliances. Not only are there minimal dishes to clean, but coming home to a ready-made meal with very little effort is a treat in itself. We’re not talking about bland food either; slow cookers are all about blending flavors for a multilayered result that tastes as though you’ve been cooking all day long.
It can quickly become overwhelming to make a choice when you start investigating the countless options available. To figure out which slow cooker is ideal for your purposes, we’ve looked at factors such as size, material, programmability, portability, and multi-functionality. Aside from the variety of functions each style offers, the price can fluctuate a great deal. If you’re only planning on using your appliance occasionally, it might not be the best idea to splurge on the most luxurious product. Conversely, if it’s going to become your daily cooking implement, you had better pick something nice. We’ve categorized all our favorite picks to make the process easier for you.
How we selected products
STEKLO/Shutterstock
When consumers like a product, they make it known — and conversely, you can bet that their negative comments are loud and clear. We’ve taken the time to sift through the numerous factors that make one slow cooker better suited for a specific task versus another. From affordable budget appliances to high-end products designed with aesthetics in mind, the range of cookers is vast and can seem difficult to navigate.
We looked at a number of sources to determine our top choices for each category. User reviews were helpful but since subjective experiences can skew the perception of a product’s efficacy, we didn’t focus solely on personal opinions. Additionally, we pored over a number of press reviews and descriptions to understand the key characteristics of the various slow cookers. Temperature controls, programming capacities, and speed of cooking are all important factors that consumers consider when choosing the right device. Models with multifunctional capacities were popular among people looking for one appliance to take care of most of their cooking needs. If you can pressure cook something in there too, it stands to reason that it’s twice as useful. In addition, we looked at criteria such as roasting, searing, and whether or not the cookers could be used on the stovetop.
Best gourmet slow cooker
GreenPan
Cooking is practically second nature to Bobby Flay, and when it comes to kitchen equipment, he seeks out the best. While he can keep hundreds of appliances around on set, they don’t all make the cut in his home kitchen. Making Flays’ chicken cacciatore is a total breeze with the GreenPan’s Ceramic Nonstick 6-Quart Slow Cooker. The appliance is a notch above other models, and it performs all the functions Flay — and all home cooks — need it to.
The device sautees, steams, roasts, and slow cooks your food, and the easy-to-program LED interface makes it extra straightforward. Plus, the browning element is a guaranteed way to enhance the flavor in all of your dishes. The various settings can be preset at the touch of a button so you can return home to a warm flavorful meal. The ceramic interior is made with special nonstick material to make cooking and cleaning that much easier. Just be sure to avoid using metal utensils to keep the coating in pristine shape. Customers love the combined features which minimize the need for multiple pots and pans while preparing your meals. The GreenPan slow cooker is on the pricier end around $250, but customers praise the device’s sturdy and resistant characteristics, with one calling it a “total upgrade.”
You can pick up the GreenPan Ceramic Nonstick 6-Quart Slow Cooker from Williams Sonoma for $250.
Best temperature control slow cooker
Breville
With a name like The Fast Slow Pro, you know Breville’s 6-quart appliance must have some nifty tricks that make it extra efficient. The machine has an array of functions, including doubling as a pressure cooker. You can select from 11 settings depending on the type of food, duration, pressure, and temperature your recipe requires. More interestingly, the device has a dual sensor that permits it to modify time, temperature, and pressure as the cooking progresses.
The large LED screen keeps you informed so you know how much time is left and how the heat and pressure are fluctuating. As one reviewer on the manufacturer’s website notes, you don’t have to worry about ensuring the cooking process is smooth. Yet, as Your Exclusive Cart points out in a YouTube review, you still have plenty of control over the settings based on your needs. The appliance is definitely on the pricier end, but consumers note that it’s worth it for the quality. Plus, it comes with a stainless steel steamer basket and rack so you can take advantage of its cooking features immediately. In fact, product reviewer Rick Merryman notes that it objectively produces “superior results.” If you’re planning on using your cooker regularly and have the cash to spare, The Fast Slow Pro’s sleek design and heightened sensors make it a valuable piece of equipment.
The Breville Fast Slow Pro is available at Crate & Barrel for $280.
The Best Slow Cookers Of 2022
Irine and Andrew/Shutterstock
By Lucia Capretti/Updated: March 30, 2022 10:05 am EST
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. Preparing a meal with a slow cooker can be as easy as tossing in a handful of ingredients and setting the device to the right temperature and cook time. It’s no wonder that busy home cooks love these convenient appliances. Not only are there minimal dishes to clean, but coming home to a ready-made meal with very little effort is a treat in itself. We’re not talking about bland food either; slow cookers are all about blending flavors for a multilayered result that tastes as though you’ve been cooking all day long.
It can quickly become overwhelming to make a choice when you start investigating the countless options available. To figure out which slow cooker is ideal for your purposes, we’ve looked at factors such as size, material, programmability, portability, and multi-functionality. Aside from the variety of functions each style offers, the price can fluctuate a great deal. If you’re only planning on using your appliance occasionally, it might not be the best idea to splurge on the most luxurious product. Conversely, if it’s going to become your daily cooking implement, you had better pick something nice. We’ve categorized all our favorite picks to make the process easier for you.
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.
It can quickly become overwhelming to make a choice when you start investigating the countless options available. To figure out which slow cooker is ideal for your purposes, we’ve looked at factors such as size, material, programmability, portability, and multi-functionality. Aside from the variety of functions each style offers, the price can fluctuate a great deal. If you’re only planning on using your appliance occasionally, it might not be the best idea to splurge on the most luxurious product. Conversely, if it’s going to become your daily cooking implement, you had better pick something nice. We’ve categorized all our favorite picks to make the process easier for you.
How we selected products
STEKLO/Shutterstock
When consumers like a product, they make it known — and conversely, you can bet that their negative comments are loud and clear. We’ve taken the time to sift through the numerous factors that make one slow cooker better suited for a specific task versus another. From affordable budget appliances to high-end products designed with aesthetics in mind, the range of cookers is vast and can seem difficult to navigate.
We looked at a number of sources to determine our top choices for each category. User reviews were helpful but since subjective experiences can skew the perception of a product’s efficacy, we didn’t focus solely on personal opinions. Additionally, we pored over a number of press reviews and descriptions to understand the key characteristics of the various slow cookers. Temperature controls, programming capacities, and speed of cooking are all important factors that consumers consider when choosing the right device. Models with multifunctional capacities were popular among people looking for one appliance to take care of most of their cooking needs. If you can pressure cook something in there too, it stands to reason that it’s twice as useful. In addition, we looked at criteria such as roasting, searing, and whether or not the cookers could be used on the stovetop.
We looked at a number of sources to determine our top choices for each category. User reviews were helpful but since subjective experiences can skew the perception of a product’s efficacy, we didn’t focus solely on personal opinions. Additionally, we pored over a number of press reviews and descriptions to understand the key characteristics of the various slow cookers. Temperature controls, programming capacities, and speed of cooking are all important factors that consumers consider when choosing the right device.
Models with multifunctional capacities were popular among people looking for one appliance to take care of most of their cooking needs. If you can pressure cook something in there too, it stands to reason that it’s twice as useful. In addition, we looked at criteria such as roasting, searing, and whether or not the cookers could be used on the stovetop.
Best overall slow cooker
Hamilton Beach
Slow Cooker Society points out that the appliance can be manually set or else programmed ahead of time. Once the cooking time is over, it continues to heat the food so that it is warm and ready to eat when you need it. There aren’t too many fancy add-ons, but the temperature probe is especially useful if you plan to use your slow cooker to prepare large cuts of meat. Not only can you check the measurement yourself, but you can also program your Hamilton Beach cooker to stop once a specific temperature has been reached; no more over- or under-cooking meat.
According to one review on Don’t Waste Your Money, the device “strikes a balance between affordability and features that creates an impressive bang for your buck.” The New York Times has continuously rated this Hamilton Beach product as the best slow cooker year after year since 2013.
Best solo slow cooker
Maxi Matic
The insert is ceramic and easy to clean in the dishwasher or by hand, while the exterior is sleek stainless steel (it even comes in a few colors). According to the manufacturer, the device has a low, high, and defrost setting to satisfy your basic needs. It may be compact but the oval shape makes it possible to cook a small roast. Although the features are limited compared to larger models, you can still manually set the Elite Gourmet to keep your food warm once it is ready.
If you’re just looking for a small standard slow cooker that easily feeds a couple of people, this model is a good bet. The reviews are consistently positive, and you might even want to consider getting it as an extra cooker for hot dips if you regularly entertain, as one consumer noted, calling it “a life saver.” All in all, with the Elite Gourmet 2-Quart Slow Cooker, you’ll be able to get the benefits of a larger device without crowding your counter space.
Best slow cooker to feed a crowd
A 10-quart capacity means you’ll be able to cook roasts up to 12 pounds in size or a 10-pound turkey if you’re so inclined. The settings are straightforward with low, high, and warm temperatures for your cooking needs. At such a large size, being able to maneuver the appliance easily is important, so you’ll appreciate the Hamilton Beach cooker’s sturdy foldable handles. Even better, the lid has a locking function so if you’re planning to bring it along to a potluck, there’s zero risk of a spill. Cleanup is easy as the stoneware insert and glass lid are dishwasher safe (though it might be tricky to fit such a large dish).
Best high-end slow cooker
Wolf Gourmet
There’s nothing dainty about this sleek “heavy-duty cooker” in the words of Chef Austin from Everything Kitchens. What’s certain is that the Wolf Gourmet will satisfy all of your cooking needs, all while fitting into your modern or classic kitchen decor with its stainless steel exterior. The display consists of a straightforward LED interface to keep your experience smooth and simple. Meanwhile, the 7-quart capacity means you can cook for a moderately-sized group. Chef Austin highlights that this cooker has multiple functions and programming capacities, including a rice cooker, sous vide, and meal timer. The Smart Slow Cooker applauds the fact that you can sear and saute food directly in the cooker, significantly reducing cook time and cleanup.
If you are ready to invest in a durable slow cooker that has various additional features, the Wolf Gourmet is truly at the top of the line. Satisfied customers say the price is fair for this quality product, and a reviewer on the Williams Sonoma online store asserts: “Without a doubt, worth every penny!”
Best budget slow cooker
Crock-Pot
First of all, consumers love how straightforward this appliance is, with basic high, low, and warm settings. The insert is made of stoneware, the lid is glass, and the shiny stainless steel exterior keeps it looking spiffy if you plan to leave it on your countertop. Not to mention, the lid and insert are both dishwasher safe which makes cleanup extra easy.
Customers value the product’s reliability, and one happy reviewer notes that even after using theirs for years, it continues to work well. While it doesn’t any fancy add-ons, Best Views Reviews rated the Crock-Pot a 9.1/10, highlighting its value, efficiency, ease of use, capacity, and design. Dave from Tell Me All About notes that the size is perfect for larger families or entertaining, yet it won’t overwhelm your counter space. The only point to note is the outside can quickly heat up, so be cautious when handling it.
Best portable slow cooker
Thanks to the slow cooker’s stylish look, there’s no need to transfer the contents to a serving dish; it’s as easy as removing an insert. According to the manufacturer, the appliance is programmable for a cook time of up to 20 hours. Conveniently, it changes to its warming mode once the cooking time is up.
Best programmable slow cooker
Cuisinart
In case 4 quarts is too little, the cooker comes in a 6- and 7-quart capacity as well. You can brown, saute, or steam your food for up to 24 hours, choosing from a range of temperatures. You won’t have to fumble with knobs or struggle to decipher the setting thanks to the large LED display.
Best multi-function slow cooker
Ninja Kitchen
This level of multifunctionality doesn’t come cheap; however, the cost is reasonable given the extent of its features. If you’re planning to experiment freely, make plenty of space on your countertop for the Ninja Foodi.
Best gourmet slow cooker
GreenPan
Cooking is practically second nature to Bobby Flay, and when it comes to kitchen equipment, he seeks out the best. While he can keep hundreds of appliances around on set, they don’t all make the cut in his home kitchen. Making Flays’ chicken cacciatore is a total breeze with the GreenPan’s Ceramic Nonstick 6-Quart Slow Cooker. The appliance is a notch above other models, and it performs all the functions Flay — and all home cooks — need it to.
The device sautees, steams, roasts, and slow cooks your food, and the easy-to-program LED interface makes it extra straightforward. Plus, the browning element is a guaranteed way to enhance the flavor in all of your dishes. The various settings can be preset at the touch of a button so you can return home to a warm flavorful meal. The ceramic interior is made with special nonstick material to make cooking and cleaning that much easier. Just be sure to avoid using metal utensils to keep the coating in pristine shape. Customers love the combined features which minimize the need for multiple pots and pans while preparing your meals. The GreenPan slow cooker is on the pricier end around $250, but customers praise the device’s sturdy and resistant characteristics, with one calling it a “total upgrade.”
You can pick up the GreenPan Ceramic Nonstick 6-Quart Slow Cooker from Williams Sonoma for $250.
The device sautees, steams, roasts, and slow cooks your food, and the easy-to-program LED interface makes it extra straightforward. Plus, the browning element is a guaranteed way to enhance the flavor in all of your dishes. The various settings can be preset at the touch of a button so you can return home to a warm flavorful meal.
The ceramic interior is made with special nonstick material to make cooking and cleaning that much easier. Just be sure to avoid using metal utensils to keep the coating in pristine shape. Customers love the combined features which minimize the need for multiple pots and pans while preparing your meals. The GreenPan slow cooker is on the pricier end around $250, but customers praise the device’s sturdy and resistant characteristics, with one calling it a “total upgrade.”
You can pick up the GreenPan Ceramic Nonstick 6-Quart Slow Cooker from Williams Sonoma for $250.
Best stove-safe slow cooker
Calphalon
For this purpose, we found that the Calphalon Digital Sauté Slow Cooker was a top choice. For starters, the vessel capacity is 5.3 quarts which makes it suitable for most home cooking. It’s good size to fit on your burner as well. The insert is removable and can be placed in the oven or directly on induction, electric, or gas burners, allowing you to regulate the temperature for your needs. Unfortunately, the insert is not dishwasher safe, but thanks to the coating you can clean it in a cinch.
Best temperature control slow cooker
Breville
With a name like The Fast Slow Pro, you know Breville’s 6-quart appliance must have some nifty tricks that make it extra efficient. The machine has an array of functions, including doubling as a pressure cooker. You can select from 11 settings depending on the type of food, duration, pressure, and temperature your recipe requires. More interestingly, the device has a dual sensor that permits it to modify time, temperature, and pressure as the cooking progresses.
The large LED screen keeps you informed so you know how much time is left and how the heat and pressure are fluctuating. As one reviewer on the manufacturer’s website notes, you don’t have to worry about ensuring the cooking process is smooth. Yet, as Your Exclusive Cart points out in a YouTube review, you still have plenty of control over the settings based on your needs. The appliance is definitely on the pricier end, but consumers note that it’s worth it for the quality. Plus, it comes with a stainless steel steamer basket and rack so you can take advantage of its cooking features immediately. In fact, product reviewer Rick Merryman notes that it objectively produces “superior results.” If you’re planning on using your cooker regularly and have the cash to spare, The Fast Slow Pro’s sleek design and heightened sensors make it a valuable piece of equipment.
The Breville Fast Slow Pro is available at Crate & Barrel for $280.
The large LED screen keeps you informed so you know how much time is left and how the heat and pressure are fluctuating. As one reviewer on the manufacturer’s website notes, you don’t have to worry about ensuring the cooking process is smooth. Yet, as Your Exclusive Cart points out in a YouTube review, you still have plenty of control over the settings based on your needs.
The appliance is definitely on the pricier end, but consumers note that it’s worth it for the quality. Plus, it comes with a stainless steel steamer basket and rack so you can take advantage of its cooking features immediately. In fact, product reviewer Rick Merryman notes that it objectively produces “superior results.” If you’re planning on using your cooker regularly and have the cash to spare, The Fast Slow Pro’s sleek design and heightened sensors make it a valuable piece of equipment.
The Breville Fast Slow Pro is available at Crate & Barrel for $280.
Best high-tech slow cooker
Chef iQ
A reviewer on the Chef iQ website reassures other consumers that the appliance functions well whether or not you choose to use the app. However, the added flexibility to switch up the cooking midday while you’re out of the house is certainly a huge bonus. Plus, the app includes a large selection of recipes to inspire your meals and it can recommend dishes based on your ingredients.
