Crockpots and slow cookers are handy kitchen tools that make meal prep easy. They allow you to toss in ingredients and let them simmer all day while you’re at work or busy with other tasks.
When you get home, a hot, tasty meal is ready to serve.
These 40 crockpot recipes and slow cooker meals offer something for everyone. You’ll find hearty soups, tender meats, flavorful stews, and even some surprising dishes you may not have thought to make in a slow cooker.
Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, these recipes will help you create delicious meals with minimal effort.
1. Beef Stew
Beef stew is a classic slow cooker meal that’s perfect for chilly days. You can easily make this hearty dish in your crockpot.
Start by coating beef chunks in flour and browning them in a skillet. This step adds rich flavor to your stew.
Add the browned beef to your slow cooker along with vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes. Pour in beef broth and seasonings.
Let the stew cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The meat will become tender and the flavors will meld beautifully.
Your beef stew will be ready to serve when you get home. Enjoy it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
2. Chicken Tortilla Soup
Chicken tortilla soup is a comforting crockpot meal perfect for chilly days. You can easily make this flavorful dish with minimal effort.
Start by adding chicken breasts to your slow cooker. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and green chilies. Sprinkle in spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder.
Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. When done, shred the chicken and return it to the pot.
Serve with tortilla strips, shredded cheese, and a squeeze of lime.
For a creamy version, stir in some heavy cream before serving. You can also make it vegetarian by skipping the chicken and using vegetable broth instead.
3. Pulled Pork
Pulled pork is a classic slow cooker dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. You can make it with pork loin or shoulder.
Rub the meat with a mix of salt, pepper, brown sugar, and spices.
Place the seasoned pork in your crockpot. Add some liquid like chicken broth, apple juice, or even soda.
Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
When the pork is done, it will shred easily with two forks. Mix the shredded meat back into the juices for extra flavor.
Serve on toasted buns with your favorite BBQ sauce.
This tender, juicy pulled pork is great for sandwiches, tacos, or even on its own. It’s an easy meal that practically cooks itself while you’re away.
4. Vegetarian Chili
Crockpot vegetarian chili is a tasty and simple meal. You can make it with common ingredients like beans, vegetables, and spices.
Start by chopping onions, bell peppers, and carrots. Add these to your slow cooker with canned tomatoes and beans. Mix in chili powder, cumin, and garlic for flavor.
Cook the chili on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. This gives the flavors time to blend.
You can add corn near the end of cooking for extra texture.
Serve your chili with toppings like avocado, cheese, or cilantro. It’s great with tortilla chips or bread on the side.
5. Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup is a perfect dish for your slow cooker. This hearty Italian soup is packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta.
To make it, combine broth, diced tomatoes, and your choice of veggies in the crockpot. Common ingredients include carrots, celery, onions, and zucchini.
Add beans, herbs like basil and rosemary, and a Parmesan rind for extra flavor.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in some small pasta like ditalini. This allows the pasta to cook without becoming mushy.
Serve your minestrone hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. It’s a comforting meal for cold days.
6. Turkey Chili
Turkey chili is a tasty and healthy slow cooker meal. You can make it easily with ground turkey, beans, and vegetables.
Start by browning the turkey in a skillet. Add onions and peppers for extra flavor. Then transfer everything to your slow cooker.
Mix in tomatoes, beans, and spices like chili powder and cumin. Pour in some chicken broth for moisture.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
The result is a warm, comforting chili perfect for cool days.
You can top your turkey chili with cheese, sour cream, or avocado. It’s a filling meal that’s high in protein and low in fat.
7. Chicken Alfredo
Chicken Alfredo in a crockpot is a simple, tasty meal. You can make it with just a few ingredients.
Put chicken, cream cheese, butter, and seasonings in your slow cooker.
Cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-5 hours.
When the chicken is done, shred it and return it to the pot. Add cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine.
This creamy dish is perfect for busy weeknights. You can customize it by adding veggies or different spices.
8. Pot Roast
Pot roast is a classic slow cooker meal that’s perfect for chilly days. You’ll need a chuck roast, vegetables, and some simple seasonings.
Start by seasoning your roast with salt and pepper. Sear it in a hot pan to lock in the flavors. This step is optional but adds depth to the dish.
Place the roast in your slow cooker. Add chopped carrots, potatoes, and onions around it. Pour in some beef broth for moisture.
Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 8-10 hours. The meat will become tender and easily fall apart.
When done, remove the roast and vegetables. You can thicken the leftover liquid to make a gravy if you like.
9. French Onion Soup
French onion soup is perfect for your slow cooker. You can make this classic dish with ease and little effort.
Start by adding sliced onions, butter, and a bit of sugar to your crockpot. Let them cook on high for 6-8 hours until they turn golden brown and caramelize.
Next, pour in beef stock and a splash of sherry. Add some thyme and a bay leaf for extra flavor.
Cook on high for another 2-3 hours.
Before serving, ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Top with a slice of bread and some grated cheese. Broil until the cheese melts and gets bubbly.
10. Lasagna
Crockpot lasagna is a simple way to enjoy this classic Italian dish. You can make it with just a few ingredients and minimal effort.
Start by browning ground beef with onions and garlic. Mix in tomato sauce and seasonings for the meat layer.
For the cheese mixture, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Add an egg to bind it together.
Layer the ingredients in your slow cooker. Begin with sauce, then noodles, meat, and cheese. Repeat until you’ve used everything up.
Cook on low for 4-6 hours. The noodles will soften and absorb the flavors as it cooks.
You’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready when you get home.
11. Beef Stroganoff
Beef stroganoff is a perfect dish for your crockpot. You can create a rich, creamy meal with minimal effort.
Start by adding beef chunks to your slow cooker. Mix in mushrooms, onions, and garlic for extra flavor.
Pour in beef broth and some red wine if you like. Let it cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
Near the end, stir in sour cream or cream cheese for a smooth, tangy sauce.
Serve your stroganoff over egg noodles for a comforting dinner.
This slow-cooked version brings out deep flavors and makes the beef incredibly tender. Your family will love this classic dish made easy.
12. Jambalaya
Jambalaya is a perfect dish for your slow cooker. You can easily make this Cajun favorite with minimal effort.
Start by adding chicken, sausage, vegetables, and spices to your crockpot. Pour in some chicken broth and diced tomatoes.
Cook the mixture on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The long cooking time allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
Add shrimp in the last 30-45 minutes of cooking. This ensures they don’t become overcooked and rubbery.
Serve your jambalaya over rice for a complete meal. The slow cooker method produces a flavorful and tender dish that’s sure to please.
13. Corn Chowder
Corn chowder is a perfect slow cooker meal. You can easily make this comforting soup with minimal effort.
Start by adding corn kernels, diced potatoes, onions, and celery to your crockpot. Pour in chicken broth and season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The potatoes should be tender when done.
For added richness, stir in some half-and-half or cream near the end of cooking.
You can also mix in crispy bacon pieces and fresh chives for extra flavor.
This hearty chowder is great for chilly days. Serve it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
14. Quinoa and Black Beans
Quinoa and black beans make a tasty and healthy crockpot meal. This combo is packed with protein and fiber.
To make it, add quinoa, black beans, vegetable broth, and spices to your slow cooker. Cumin and garlic work well for flavor.
Cook on high for about 2 hours.
You can add corn, salsa, or cheese for extra taste. Some recipes include onions or bell peppers too.
Once cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork. Serve your meal in bowls and top with avocado or cilantro if you like.
This dish is great for vegetarians or anyone looking for a meatless option. It’s filling and nutritious.
15. Split Pea Soup
Split pea soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for your crockpot. You can easily make this hearty meal with just a few ingredients.
Start by rinsing your split peas and adding them to your slow cooker. Mix in diced onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic for flavor and nutrition.
For a smoky taste, add some ham or a ham bone. Pour in chicken stock and water, then toss in some thyme, parsley, and a bay leaf for extra flavor.
Set your crockpot to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours. The peas will break down and create a thick, creamy texture.
Season with salt and pepper before serving.
16. Lentil Soup
Lentil soup is a perfect crockpot meal. You can make it with simple pantry ingredients and a few fresh veggies.
Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery. Add them to your slow cooker with lentils, broth, and seasonings.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The lentils will become tender and the flavors will blend nicely.
You can customize your soup with different vegetables or proteins. Try adding spinach, kale, or diced tomatoes for extra nutrition.
For a heartier meal, include some cooked bacon, sausage, or ham. Serve with crusty bread for a comforting dinner.
17. Chicken Cacciatore
Chicken cacciatore is a perfect slow cooker meal. You can make this Italian classic with ease in your crockpot.
Start by placing chicken pieces in the slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions. Sprinkle in garlic, oregano, and basil for flavor.
Pour in some chicken broth and tomato paste to create a rich sauce.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
The result is tender chicken in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Serve over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
18. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a perfect meal for your crockpot.
Start by trimming the bottoms of the peppers so they stand upright. Cut off the tops and remove the seeds.
Mix ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and cheese in a bowl. Spoon this mixture into the peppers. Place them in your slow cooker.
Pour some tomato sauce in the bottom of the crockpot. This keeps the peppers moist as they cook.
Set your crockpot to low and cook for 5-7 hours.
Near the end of cooking, sprinkle extra cheese on top of the peppers. Let it melt before serving.
These stuffed peppers are a tasty and easy meal you can make with little effort.
19. Mac and Cheese
Crockpot mac and cheese is a crowd-pleasing comfort food that’s easy to make. You can create a creamy, cheesy dish without boiling the pasta first.
The secret is using evaporated milk, which helps prevent curdling. Many recipes also include mayo or sour cream for extra richness.
You’ll need pasta, cheese (often a mix of cheddar and Velveeta), milk, and seasonings.
Some recipes add eggs or soup for texture.
Cooking time is usually 2-3 hours on low. Stir occasionally to ensure even melting and prevent sticking.
This dish is perfect for potlucks, parties, or cozy family dinners. It’s simple to scale up for larger groups.
20. Coq au Vin
Coq au Vin is a classic French dish that’s perfect for your slow cooker. You’ll need chicken, bacon, red wine, and vegetables.
Start by cooking the bacon until crisp. Then brown the chicken pieces in the same pan. This step adds extra flavor.
Add mushrooms, shallots, and garlic to your slow cooker. Place the chicken on top.
Pour in red wine, chicken broth, and tomato paste.
Cook on low for about 8 hours. The chicken will be tender and full of rich flavor. Serve over mashed potatoes or rice for a cozy meal.
21. Beef Bourguignon
Beef bourguignon is a classic French dish perfect for your slow cooker. You’ll love the rich flavors of beef, bacon, and red wine.
Start by browning beef chunks and bacon in a skillet. Then transfer them to your crockpot.
Add carrots, onions, garlic, and mushrooms to the pot. Pour in red wine and beef broth for a savory sauce.
Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours. The meat will become tender and the vegetables will soak up the delicious flavors.
Serve your beef bourguignon over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a comforting meal. It tastes even better the next day, so don’t worry about leftovers!
22. Risotto
Risotto in a slow cooker? Yes, it’s possible! You can make creamy, delicious risotto without constant stirring.
Just toss Arborio rice with olive oil in your crockpot. Add seasonings, garlic, broth, and white wine.
Cook on high for about 2 hours until the rice is tender.
For extra flavor, try adding mushrooms or butternut squash. Sauté them first with shallots and garlic before adding to the slow cooker.
At the end, stir in some grated Parmesan cheese. Let it melt for about 15 minutes. Your hands-off risotto is ready to enjoy!
23. Mashed Potatoes
You can make creamy mashed potatoes in your slow cooker with minimal effort. Start by peeling and chopping potatoes into 1-inch chunks.
Add the potatoes to your crockpot with some butter, salt, and pepper. Pour in a cup of water or chicken broth for extra flavor.
Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6-8 hours until the potatoes are tender.
Once done, drain any excess liquid.
Mash the potatoes right in the slow cooker. Add warm milk, more butter, and cream cheese for richness. Mix until smooth and fluffy.
Your slow cooker mashed potatoes will stay warm until you’re ready to serve. They’re perfect for holidays or busy weeknights.
24. Meatball Subs
Crockpot meatball subs are an easy meal that’s perfect for busy days. You can make them with frozen meatballs and jarred marinara sauce.
Put the meatballs and sauce in your slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
When ready to serve, toast some hoagie rolls in the oven. Scoop 3 meatballs into each roll and top with extra sauce. Add some shredded mozzarella cheese for extra flavor.
These subs are great for family dinners or casual gatherings. You can customize them with different types of cheese or extra toppings like pepperoncini.
25. Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Stuffed cabbage rolls are a comforting dish perfect for your slow cooker. You’ll need cabbage leaves, ground beef, rice, and a savory tomato sauce.
Start by blanching the cabbage leaves in boiling water for a few minutes to soften them. Mix ground beef, cooked rice, garlic, onion, and spices for the filling.
Place a scoop of the beef mixture in each cabbage leaf and roll it up. Arrange the rolls in your crockpot, seam-side down.
Pour tomato sauce over the rolls and cook on low for about 8 hours. The result is tender cabbage wrapped around flavorful meat and rice, all infused with rich sauce.
26. Baked Ziti
Baked ziti in a slow cooker is a simple way to make this comforting pasta dish. You layer sauce, pasta, and cheese in the crockpot.
Start by cooking ground beef and onions in a skillet. Add garlic and seasonings like basil and oregano.
Put this mixture in the slow cooker with tomato sauce and broth.
Mix ricotta cheese with eggs and Parmesan in a bowl.
Layer the pasta, meat sauce, and cheese mixture in the crockpot. Top with mozzarella cheese.
Cook on low for 4-5 hours. The pasta will absorb the sauce and become tender. The cheese will melt and create a gooey topping.
This hands-off method gives you the same flavors as oven-baked ziti with less work.
27. Enchilada Casserole
This crockpot enchilada casserole is a tasty and simple meal. You’ll need chicken breasts, enchilada sauce, and tortillas.
Add the chicken and sauce to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Shred the chicken when it’s done.
Cut tortillas into strips and mix them in with the shredded chicken. Stir in some cheese and black beans if you like.
Top with more cheese and cook until melted. This dish is great for busy weeknights or weekend dinners.
28. Thai Red Curry
Thai red curry is a tasty dish you can easily make in your slow cooker. You’ll need red curry paste, coconut milk, and your choice of protein and vegetables.
Mix the curry paste with coconut milk and add it to your crockpot. Toss in chicken, beef, or tofu along with veggies like bell peppers and carrots.
Cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
For extra flavor, try adding peanut butter or ginger. Stir in some sugar snap peas during the last hour of cooking.
Serve your Thai red curry over rice and top with fresh basil. This simple meal is packed with sweet and spicy flavors that will warm you up on chilly days.
29. Brunswick Stew
Brunswick stew is a hearty dish perfect for your slow cooker. You’ll need chicken, pork, potatoes, and a mix of vegetables like corn, lima beans, and tomatoes.
Add the meat to your crockpot first. Then toss in the veggies, some barbecue sauce, and chicken broth. A touch of brown sugar adds sweetness.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The potatoes should be tender when done. Shred the meat before serving.
This filling stew pairs well with cornbread or saltine crackers. You can adjust the thickness by adding more broth if needed.
30. Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Sweet and sour meatballs are a tasty and easy crockpot dish. You can use frozen meatballs to save time.
For the sauce, mix sugar, vinegar, and water. Pour this over the meatballs in your slow cooker.
Add pineapple chunks and bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. Set your crockpot to low and let it cook.
The result is tender meatballs coated in a tangy-sweet sauce.
Serve these as an appetizer with toothpicks or as a main dish over rice.
You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to eat again.
31. Paella
You can make delicious paella in your slow cooker. Start by browning chicken pieces in a pan, then add them to the crockpot.
Toast rice briefly in the same pan before adding it to the slow cooker. Mix in broth, wine, tomatoes, and seasonings like paprika, saffron, and garlic.
Cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 1-2 hours. Add shrimp and peas about 30 minutes before serving.
This easy method creates a flavorful one-pot meal with tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and seafood. Garnish with lemon and parsley before serving.
32. Shrimp Boil
You can make a tasty shrimp boil in your slow cooker. Start by adding potatoes, corn, and sausage to the pot. Sprinkle with seafood seasoning.
Pour in chicken broth, minced garlic, and onion powder. Cook on high for about 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
Add the shrimp during the last 10 minutes of cooking. When done, the shrimp will be pink and opaque.
This easy recipe brings the flavors of a classic seafood boil to your kitchen. Serve it straight from the slow cooker for a fun, casual meal.
33. Lucknowi Biryani
Lucknowi Biryani is a classic dish from Lucknow, India that you can easily make in your slow cooker. This fragrant rice dish features tender meat, aromatic spices, and fluffy basmati rice.
To start, marinate lamb or chicken pieces in yogurt and spices. Add the meat, onions, and spices to your slow cooker. Let it cook on low for several hours until the meat is tender.
Partially cook the basmati rice separately. Layer the rice and meat mixture in the slow cooker, adding saffron-infused milk for color and flavor. Cook on low for another hour to let the flavors meld.
Serve your Lucknowi Biryani hot, garnished with fried onions and fresh herbs. This slow cooker version gives you all the taste of traditional biryani with less hands-on cooking time.
34. Chicken Marsala
Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish that adapts well to slow cooking. You can easily make this restaurant favorite at home in your crockpot.
Start by coating chicken breasts in seasoned flour. Brown them briefly in a skillet before transferring to the slow cooker.
Add sliced mushrooms, minced garlic, and herbs to the crockpot. Pour Marsala wine and chicken broth over everything.
Cook on low for 5-6 hours until the chicken is tender.
For a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water and stir it in near the end of cooking.
Serve your Chicken Marsala over pasta or with a side of mashed potatoes. This comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
35. White Chicken Chili
White chicken chili is a tasty, creamy alternative to traditional beef chili. You can easily make it in your crockpot for a hands-off meal.
Start by placing chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add beans, green chiles, onion, garlic, and spices like cumin, oregano, and chili powder.
Pour in chicken broth and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 5-6 hours.
When done, remove and shred the chicken, then return it to the pot.
Stir in some cream cheese or heavy cream for extra richness. Add a squeeze of lime juice and fresh cilantro before serving for bright flavor.
36. Pumpkin Soup
You can make delicious pumpkin soup in your slow cooker. Start by adding pumpkin puree, chopped onion, garlic, and spices to the pot.
Pour in vegetable broth and stir everything together. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
When it’s done, blend the soup until smooth. Add some cream or coconut milk for extra richness. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This cozy soup is perfect for chilly autumn days. Serve it with crusty bread for a comforting meal. You can customize the flavors by adding different spices or toppings.
37. Barley Risotto
Barley risotto is a hearty and comforting dish you can easily make in your slow cooker. This twist on traditional risotto uses pearl barley instead of rice for a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
To start, sauté onions, garlic, and vegetables like carrots or mushrooms in a pan. Add the barley and cook briefly to toast it. Transfer everything to your slow cooker.
Pour in broth, water, and seasonings like thyme, salt, and pepper. For extra protein, you can add chickpeas. Let it cook on low for several hours until the barley is tender and creamy.
Before serving, stir in some Parmesan cheese if you’d like. This hands-off method gives you a delicious risotto without constant stirring.
38. Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for your slow cooker. You’ll start by placing chicken, condensed soup, onion, and butter in your crockpot.
Add enough water to cover the ingredients and cook on high for 5 to 6 hours.
About an hour before serving, it’s time to add the dumplings.
You can use store-bought biscuit dough cut into strips or make your own dumplings from scratch. Place them on top of the chicken mixture and let them cook until fluffy.
For extra flavor, try adding vegetables like carrots and celery. This hearty meal is sure to warm you up on chilly days.
39. BBQ Ribs
Slow cooker BBQ ribs are a delicious and easy meal. You can make tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs without a grill or smoker.
Start by rubbing your favorite seasonings on the ribs. Place them in the slow cooker with a bit of liquid.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the meat is very tender.
Brush with BBQ sauce and broil for a few minutes to caramelize.
The result is juicy, flavorful ribs that are perfect for family dinners or gatherings. You can customize the flavors with different rubs and sauces to suit your tastes.
40. Mexican Rice
Mexican rice in your crockpot is a tasty and simple side dish. You can make it with just a few ingredients.
Start by browning rice in a pan with oil. This step gives the rice a nice flavor.
Add the browned rice to your slow cooker. Pour in tomato sauce, chicken broth, and spices.
Cumin and garlic are common choices. Some recipes include diced tomatoes or green chilies for extra kick.
Set your crockpot to low for about 5 hours or high for 2.5 hours. The rice will absorb the flavors as it cooks.
You’ll end up with a flavorful dish that pairs well with many Mexican meals.
Nutritional Benefits of Slow Cooking
Slow cooking offers key advantages for maximizing the nutritional value of your meals. It helps keep nutrients intact and lets you use less added fats.
Preservation of Nutrients
Slow cooking helps keep more vitamins and minerals in your food. The low heat and longer cooking time mean less nutrient loss compared to other methods.
Vegetables keep more of their vitamins when cooked slowly. Water-soluble vitamins like C and B vitamins stay in the cooking liquid.
You can then use this liquid in your dish.
Meats and beans also retain more of their nutrients. The gentle cooking breaks down tough fibers without destroying delicate nutrients.
Antioxidants in foods may also be better preserved. Slow cooking can increase the availability of some plant compounds.
Reduced Use of Fats
Slow cooking needs less added fats than other cooking methods. This can help you cut calories and unhealthy fats from your diet.
The moist cooking environment keeps foods tender without extra oil. Lean meats stay juicy and flavorful on their own.
You can often skip the step of browning meats in oil before slow cooking. This further reduces added fats.
Vegetables cook in their own juices plus a small amount of liquid. No need for oil or butter to keep them from sticking.
The long cooking time lets flavors develop naturally. You won’t need to add fats for taste.
Choosing the Right Crockpot
Picking the perfect crockpot can make a big difference in your slow cooking experience. The right size and features will help you create delicious meals with ease.
Capacity and Size Considerations
Think about how many people you usually cook for. A 3-4 quart crockpot works well for 1-2 people or small families.
For larger families or batch cooking, go for a 6-7 quart size.
Consider your kitchen space too. Measure where you’ll store the crockpot to ensure it fits.
Some models have oval shapes that may work better in tight spaces.
Don’t forget about portability. If you often take dishes to potlucks, look for a crockpot with secure, locking lids and sturdy handles.
Features to Look For
Programmable timers let you set exact cooking times. This is handy if you’re away from home all day.
Look for models that switch to “warm” mode when cooking is done.
Removable inserts make cleaning easier. Choose ones that are dishwasher-safe for even more convenience.
Multiple heat settings give you more control. Most crockpots offer low, high, and warm options. Some have medium settings too.
Clear glass lids let you check on food without lifting the cover. This keeps heat and moisture inside for better cooking.
A few high-end models have browning functions. These let you sear meat right in the pot before slow cooking.