These Slow Cookers Make Mealtime *So* Much Easier (2024)

Fact: Slow cookers are the unsung heroes of kitchen appliances. Seriously, though we love the speed of air fryers, a slow cooker is the one appliance where you can simply set it and forget it. You can go about your day and come home hours later to a comforting family meal. And since the original Crock-Pot came on the scene in the nearly 50 years ago, there are literally decades worth of slow cooker recipes. You just have to select one of the best slow cookers first and you're ready to go!

Slow cookers are also the ultimate time-savers in the kitchen. Beyond the ease of simply pressing a button—especially with the digital functionality and preset options of newer models―there's often way less prep work ahead of time. Even Ree Drummond, who we know loves to cook, once said, "I just want to sling it in the slow cooker and be done." Honestly, same! And that means cleanup is just as easy. You have one vessel to clean out, versus a stack of pots and pans piled high in the sink.

It's also worth mentioning just how versatile slow cookers are. Sure, they make excellent soup recipes, but they can also make other healthy weeknight dinners, party dips, and even meals for two. There is also a huge variety of options in terms of size, function, and price, so there is sure to be a great option for you no matter your needs. So act fast now and then see just how slow you can go with all the yummy meals ahead.

With three easy digital modes to choose from, a roomie six-quart capacity, and a clip-tight gasket lid, this slow cooker is great whether you're at home or on the go to a function. Our favorite part is the thermometer probe, so you can read the internal temperature as meat cooks.

More than just a slow cooker, this Cuisinart can also brown, sauté, and steam. The backlit LCD screen makes it super easy to read and program, and the insert is nonstick which means it's a cinch to clean.

Naturally, Ree Drummond would design a gorgeous, affordable slow cooker! Choose between three settings and five time options, and this six-quart beauty will do the rest. The stoneware inset is also dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.

If you're looking for a no-frills option with a great price, this is your model! It's a roomie seven quarts, has simply high and low settings on an easy-to-operate dial. The removable insert and the lid are dishwasher safe, and of course, the price is tough to beat!

Attention party-goers and tailgaters: This Crock-Pot is for you! The easy-lock lid seals in extra tight, so you can bring your six-quarts of deliciousness anywhere and it won't spill. It also cooks anywhere from 30 minutes to 20 hours, so you can be super flexible with your recipe choice.

If you don't have a ton of mouths to feed or need the space, invest in a compact model. This little guy is only 1.5 quarts and ten inches wide, but still has the basic slow cooker functionality you need. With 13,000+ five-star reviews and a price under $15, it's hard to say no!

Oh, the possibilities with this PossibleCooker! It's designed to replace 14 different cooking functions and has a whopping 8.5-quart capacity. That can make chili for up to 20 people! We also love the clip-on spoon rest, so you won't lose it.

If you love to host and make a nice spread of a bunch of different options, go with a slow cooker buffet server. This option has three individual 2.5-quart pots that can each function separately for maximum control.

Wait―is this an instant pot or a slow cooker? It's both! It's seven things in one, actually. So if you can decide what appliance you need, get one that does it all from cooking rice to steaming vegetables to making yogurt. And of course, you can go low and slow until your heart's content.

If you're really looking for a top-of-the line slow cooker, GreenPan has a six-quart version that is worth the investment. It has one-touch preset options for slow cook, brown/sauté, and steam, along with five slow cook modes. What sets this option from the rest is the ceramic interior, which is touted for being a chemical-free, super nonstick surface. Talk about easy cleanup!