Crock Pots

How to choose a crock pot

A crock pot's slow, steady heat turns cheap cuts and pantry staples into a meal that's ready the moment you walk in the door.

Size is the first decision: 2 to 4 quarts suits a single person or a couple and small side dishes, 6 quarts is the standard for family dinners and a whole chicken, and 8 to 10 quarts covers parties or a full week of make ahead meals. A programmable crock pot lets you set the cook time and switches itself to warm when it's done, while a manual model keeps things simple with just low, high, and warm settings. A portable crock pot with a locking lid travels well for potlucks without spilling in the car. Check that the ceramic insert is non-toxic and lead-free, and confirm whether it's oven and dishwasher safe before you buy.

Crock Pots Coming Soon

Frequently asked questions about Crock Pots

What is a crock pot?

A countertop slow cooker with a ceramic insert set inside a heated base. It cooks food gently over several hours at a low, steady temperature instead of the quick heat of a stovetop.

Is a crock pot the same as a slow cooker?

Yes for practical purposes. Crock-Pot started as a brand name that became the common word for any slow cooker, the same way people say Kleenex for facial tissue.

What size crock pot do I need?

2 to 4 quarts fits a single person or a couple. 6 quarts is the standard for a family meal or a whole chicken. 8 to 10 quarts covers a crowd or a full week of make ahead meals.

Should I get a programmable or manual crock pot?

Programmable if you're out of the house all day, since it switches to warm on its own when the timer ends. Manual is simpler and usually cheaper if you're home to turn it off.

Is the ceramic insert dishwasher and oven safe?

Most inserts are dishwasher safe and rated for the oven up to a set temperature, but check the manufacturer's rating first. Never move a hot insert straight to a cold surface, since the temperature shock can crack the ceramic.