Crock Pot Guide

A slow cooker - informally known as a crock pot after the Crock Pot® brand - is one kitchen appliance that everyone should own. They are small, simple to operate, save time & can cook all your favorite things - from meat and seafood to soups and stews!

A slow cooker is a compact cooking appliance used to cook meals over several hours. They are a great option for the busy person because ingredients can be added to the pot in the morning and cook unattended throughout the day - no more prep time or cooking needed.


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Slow Cookers - What's the Best Slow Cooker?

Crock Pot Guide
SEP
14
2009
wildcatkatie
Chicago, IL

HOW DOES A SLOW COOKER WORK?

Automatic timing and heating helps prepare food. The temperature fluctuates between 150 to 300 degrees during the cooking period, and the crock pot turns itself off at the pre-determined time set by you. This longer cooking process makes meat and other produce tender and perfectly prepared for a delicious meal.


WHAT'S THE BEST SLOW COOKER?

So, what's the best slow cooker to buy? Undoubtedly you don't want to sacrifice the quality of the product or the money in your wallet, but you might be overwhelmed with all of your options. Lucky for you, we've made it simple. We've picked the two best slow cookers based off of consumer reviews, features, and price. We've also recommended a place to go for slow cooker recipes, so you can dive right in and start cooking.


THE BEST SLOW COOKERS

We recommend the Hamilton Beach 3 in 1 slow cooker or the Hamilton Beach Stay or Go slow cookers. They are the most versatile and economical slow cookers available, and they both receive rave reviews from consumers.

The Hamilton Beach 3 in 1 slow cooker is perfect if you cook for yourself or for friends regularly, or if you just want to have plenty of leftovers for lunch during the week. It has:

  • Perfectly sized portions from ONE slow cooker. The slow cooker has three different sized inserts - 2, 4 or 6 quarts - so you can prepare multiple meals without owning a herd of slow cookers.
  • Easy storage. The inserts fit inside one another within the bowl to give you maximum storage space in your cupboards.
  • More than one heat setting. Most slow cookers have two heat settings, but the Hamilton Beach 3 in 1 slow cooker has three to accommodate the different sized dishes and recipes.
  • Under $40. For $34.99 you can expand your slow cooker collection - and dinner options - without breaking the bank.

However, if you're the type of person who goes to parties more frequently than hosting them, then you want the Hamilton Beach Stay or Go. The difference between this slow cooker and others is its design. It is made specifically to take to parties but is also perfect for personal use at home. Its unique features include:

  • Large, easy-grip handles. The handles on the Stay or Go are bigger than traditional crock pot handles that make it easier to carry from the kitchen to the car to a party.
  • Lid clip & serving spoon. Clips on the lid ensure the slow cooker contents to spill and splatter en route. A cradle on the lid fits a serving spoon so you have all the tools you need when you arrive at the party.
  • 6-quart insert. The size of the insert is large enough to feed a gathering of hungry friends and family.
  • Under $40. Best of all, the Hamilton Beach Stay or Go is only $39.99, so you're making an economical and practical purchase.


SLOW COOKER RECIPES

Now that you've picked up your Hamilton Beach slow cooker, you need to test it out by concocting a few slow cooker recipes. We suggest checking All Recipes for inspiration.
Best Crock Pots


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