Cooks Illustrated Slow Cooker Recommendation

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Slow cookers are responsible for all our favorite slow cooker recipes. Our Test Kitchen found the best-rated slow cooker brands for bringing those comfort foods to life.

Taste of Home

We bet you never thought twice about your trusty slow cooker, but it turns out, there are plenty of differences between slow cooker brands (beyond just size and color). Some offer expanded cook options outside basic low and high settings, while others advertise themselves as being travel-friendly with special clips to keep that lid on tight—who among us hasn't tipped over a slow-cooked dish on the way to a potluck?

Considering all these features and how much we rely on this appliance, our Test Kitchen had to find the best slow cooker out there.

What We Tested to Find the Best Slow Cooker

Our culinary team tested several slow cooker brands. Over several months, our cooks and food stylists got a feel for each slow cooker. Then we created a series of tests where we could see how each performed side by side. To find out which brand was best, our staff recorded how each gadget handled these essential tasks:

• Slow cooking dishes in our Test Kitchen: We test dozens and dozens of recipes every month. How did the slow cookers do prepping our readers' recipe submissions? (Share your best recipes with us!) How did the appliance perform cooking some of our most popular recipes, including beef au jus, lemon-dill chicken and a pineapple-upside down dump cake?
• Controls, settings and features: Were the controls and settings easy to understand and use? Were the extra features useful? This is essential if you're just learning how to use a slow cooker.
• Ease of cleaning:How easy is the cleanup? Are any of the components dishwasher-safe?
• Price: Is the product affordable? Is it well priced for how well it performed?

Our Test Kitchen-Preferred Slow Cookers

After weeks of testing, a few slow cookers rose to the top. Find out which fits your slow cooking style.

Best Splurge: Calphalon Digital Saute Slow Cooker

Via williams-sonoma.com

Serious slow-cooker fans, feast your eyes on this stunningCalphalon Digital Saute 5-Quart Slow Cooker. This new release from cookware magnate Calphalon is sleek and eyecatching in dark stainless steel.

But this countertop appliance is so much more than a flashy exterior. Our Test Kitchen raved about the Calphalon slow cooker's performance. The ceramic-coated insert is non-stick, meaning cleanup is a breeze. What really stood out to our pros, though, was how this crock could go from oven or stovetop to the slow cooker. That means no dirtying extra pans to sear the outside of a pork shoulder for pulled pork sandwiches. You can get all the flavor from that quick sear without extra dishes—a big win!

The digital display and controls were also a standout feature for our Test Kitchen. Unlike many traditional slow cookers, this Calphalon model lets you choose exactly how long you want to cook in hours andminutes (not the two-hour increments of many basic models)

So while this model is a bit spendier than the rest, our Test Kitchen found it to be worth every penny for the extra features, ease of cleaning and sleek appearance. This is definitely one to put on your wish list.

• Capacity: 5.3 quarts
• Features: Oven- and range-safe insert, nonstick ceramic coating, LED display
• Price: $120

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Best Budget Option: Crock-Pot 7-Quart Manual Slow Cooker

Via amazon.com

Want a reliable, top-performing slow cooker for less? Reach for the biggest name in slow cookers and add theCrock-Pot 7-Quart Manual Slow Cooker to your cart.

This generously sized Crock-Pot is plenty big to fit a whole chicken inside or a very large cut of beef for your next slow-cooked pot roast. If seven quarts is a bit too large for your small crew, this model also comes in three- and four-quart options as well as an extra-large eight-quart size. You can rely on this brand to cook your roasts and other slow-cooker dinners to perfection.

As far as the controls go, it doesn't get much easier to use than this Crock-Pot. Just turn the dial to low, high or warm and let the slow cooker do the work. No, this option doesn't have a lot of bells and whistles like timers or digital displays, but for $40 you get a countertop appliance that performs well each time you heat it up.

• Capacity:7 quarts
• Features:Low, high and keep warm settings
• Price: $40

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Easiest to Clean: Hamilton Beach 7-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker

Via amazon.com

For fuss-free meals, there's nothing better than your slow cooker. And the only thing that can make these meals more enjoyable is a simple cleanup. With theHamilton Beach Programmable Slow Cooker, that's exactly what you'll get.

This brand is unique because both the lid and insert are dishwasher safe. That means no more struggling to wash that heavy crock in the sink! Our Test Kitchen loved this easy clean feature—especially after cooking up gooey recipes like this top-rated chocolate lava cake.

Outside of the cleanup, our Test Kitchen also liked this slow cooker's large crock—perfect for family-sized meals—and sleek touchpad. Another bonus was that when the timer is up, this slow cooker automatically switches to the warm setting so your supper is ready when you are.

• Capacity:7 quarts
• Features: Dishwasher-safe insert and lid
• Price: $45

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Best Slow Cooker to Take On-the-Go: Black & Decker 7-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker

Via amazon.com

If you tend to take your slow-cooked dishes to get-togethers, you'll want to invest in a slow cooker designed for easy transport like the Black & Decker 7-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker.

This slow cooker comes fitted with special clips that keep the lid secure while you tote your slow cooker from kitchen to kitchen. Besides this trip-ready functionality, our Test Kitchen found the controls to be simple to use and the slow-cooked dishes prepped inside to be hot and tender—in other words: perfect!

• Capacity:7 quarts
• Features:Travel-safe clips, dishwasher-safe insert
• Price: $50

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Best for Slow-Cooked Casseroles: Crock-Pot 3.5-Quart Casserole Crock Slow Cooker

Via target.com

Some of our Test Kitchen's favorite slow cooker meals come in the form of a casserole. Your go-to slow cooker will do in a pinch, but if you're serious about slow cooker lasagna, green bean casserole and baked French toast, investing in a casserole-ready cooker is wise. For these dishes, the Test Kitchen recommends the Crock-Pot Casserole Crock Slow Cooker.

Besides being the perfect size and shape for all these go-to dishes, our Test Kitchen loves how you can bake the oven-safe insert and then place it in the base to keep it warm. This one also comes with clips to keep the lid in place if you're on the move.

• Capacity:3.5 quarts
• Features: Snap-tight lid for transport, oven-safe removable insert
• Price: $50

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How to Take Care of Your Slow Cooker

You may love your slow cooker (who doesn't?), but are you taking care of it the right way? A little dish soap works wonders, and guess what: With our cleaning method, you won't even have to remove the insert if you don't want to!

What to Make in Your Slow Cooker

We know you're a slow cooker pro at this point, but who doesn't love a few new recipes? These recipes take advantage of our favorite slow cooker's A+ low-and-slow cooking and all-in-one crock. They're the perfect dishes to prepare and let heat on a long, lazy weekend.

No matter which slow cooker brand you buy, our Test Kitchen can guarantee these recipes will be delicious. Don't know where to start? We recommend these tasty carnitas and this cherry-pear buckle.

Spicy Taco Meat

My husband and I love Tex-Mex food with all the fixings. Cooking the meat in the slow cooker makes prepping the toppings a breeze. We love to serve this at parties, with the filling in the slow cooker to stay warm and the various toppings in bowls so the guests can build their own! —Rebecca Yankovich, Springfield, Virginia

Slow-Cooker Spinach Bean Soup

This navy bean soup is heartwarming comfort food at its best. It's my signature soup that I make for my family and friends. The bright red and green of the peppers and spinach give it a suitably seasonal look. —Barbara Shay, Pasadena, California

Grampa's German-Style Pot Roast

Grampa was of German heritage and loved the old-world recipes his mother gave him. I made a few changes so I could prepare this dish in the slow cooker and give it a slightly updated flavor. —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada

Weekday Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken cooked "cacciatore" means a dish prepared "hunter-style" with tomatoes, mushrooms, onions and seasonings. We add a touch of white wine to make ours northern Italian-style. —Lisa Bynum, Brandon, Missouri

Slow-Cooker Thai Butternut Squash Peanut Soup

This seemingly exotic dish is simple, vegan, healthy and hearty. The peanut butter blends beautifully with the sweetness of the squash and Thai seasonings. You can also serve this soup without pureeing it first. —Kayla Capper, Ojai, California

Slow-Cooker Beef Barbacoa

I love this beef barbacoa because the meat is fall-apart tender and the sauce is smoky, slightly spicy and so flavorful. It's an amazing alternative to ground beef tacos or even pulled pork carnitas. It's also versatile. You can have a soft taco bar and let people make their own—or offer mouthwatering Mexican pizzas or rice bowls. —Holly Sander, Lake Mary, Florida

Slaw-Topped Beef Sliders

When I was working full time, I relied on these delicious, fast-to-fix beef sliders for simple meals. To speed prep time and avoid extra cleanup, I used bagged coleslaw mix and bottled slaw dressing. —Jane Whittaker, Pensacola, Florida

Apple Betty with Almond Cream

I love making this apple betty for friends during the peak of apple season. I plan a quick soup and bread meal, so we can get right to the dessert! —Elizabeth Godecke, Chicago, Illinois

Butter & Herb Turkey

My kids love a turkey meal, and this one falls off the bone. It's the ideal recipe for special family times and holidays. —Rochelle Popovic, South Bend, Indiana

Slow-Cooker Quinoa Chili

This recipe turned my husband into a quinoa lover. I made it the day he got good news on a new job, and we'll always remember how excited we were as we ate this beautiful meal. —Claire Gallam, Alexandria, Virginia

Shredded Chicken Tostadas

These flavorful tostadas are super easy and family-friendly. You won't believe how tender and juicy the chicken comes out. Just load the tostadas with your favorite fresh toppings, and you'll have one simple, sensational meal. —Lisa Kenny, Houston, Texas

Slow-Roasted Chicken with Vegetables

Even a beginner cook could make this slow cooked chicken and have it turn out perfectly. This recipe could not be easier. A few minutes of prep and you'll come home to a delicious dinner. —Anita Bell, Hermitage, Tennessee

Sweet Potato and Pesto Slow-Cooker Bread

I like to bake fresh bread, both as a way to offer my family a delicious accompaniment to dinner and just because I enjoy the process. Baking bread in the slow cooker allows you to achieve a tender, perfectly baked loaf without turning on the oven, which is especially helpful in the summer. —Shauna Havey, Roy, Utah

Slow-Cooker Turkey Sloppy Joes

The combination of chili sauce and ground turkey in these sloppy joes creates a delicious flavor. The avocado adds a special touch to the sandwiches. —Nichole Jones, Idaho Falls, Idaho

Cheesy Bruschetta Spread

Every bite of this cheesy dip delivers tons of flavor. I have been asked over and over again for the recipe. It's so easy to make and a great appetizer for any time of year. —Maggie McDermott, Central Square, New York

BBQ Bacon Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

This simple recipe tastes amazing. We prefer putting mayo on the bun and adding cheddar or Muenster cheese, lettuce, tomato and onion. Several of us put ranch dressing on our sandwiches, too. —Jennifer Darling, Ventura, California

Slow-Cooker Salsa Roast

This is so easy and fast to put together on your way out the door in the morning—and so good when you come home! Try it with rice or on soft tacos, or pile it on hamburger buns. —LaVonne Peden, Olympia, Washington

Teriyaki Pork Roast

With three kids and a husband who works full time and attends school, it's fair to say we have a busy household. I'm always looking for no-fuss recipes, so I was thrilled to find this one. The juicy teriyaki seasoned pork roast has become a family favorite. —Roxanne Hulsey, Gainsville, Georgia

Mama's Carnitas

My husband loves to cook Mexican dishes, while I'm more of an Italian-style cook. The joke in our house is that I should leave all the Mexican cooking to him. However, this dish of mine turned out so amazing that my husband fell in love! It's all in the meat. If you can get an all-natural pork shoulder, it really makes a difference. —Chelsea Wickman, Painesville, Ohio

Slow-Cooker Orange Chicken

This is a family-friendly recipe that even the kids will like. It's easy to prepare and flavorful enough to share with dinner guests. — Sherry Kozlowski, Morgantown, West Virginia

Hamburger Dip

This is hands-down the easiest dip to make, and I never have leftovers. We have used venison in place of hamburger, as well as half hamburger and half spicy sausage. Everyone enjoys this wonderful dip! —Mary Kidder, Nappanee, Indiana

Slow-Cooked Meat Loaf for 2

"My husband and I both work late, so it's great to come home to this classic dish with mashed potatoes and a veggie side," explains Ginger Cortese of Hollsopple, Pennsylvania. "It reminds me of supper at Mom's."

Gourmet Barbecue Beef Sandwiches

These beef sandwiches were a tradition in my family on winter vacations after a long day of snow skiing, but they're a hit anytime we make them. Serving the savory barbecue beef on croissants with melty provolone cheese makes the sandwiches a little more special. —Katie Anderson, Vancouver, Washington

"Everything" Stuffing

My family goes crazy for this stuffing that I make in the slow cooker. It freezes well so we can enjoy it long after Thanksgiving has passed. —Bette Votral, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Autumn Pumpkin Chili

We have this turkey pumpkin chili often because everyone loves it, even the most finicky grandchildren. It's a definite keeper in my book! —Kimberly Nagy, Port Hadlock, Washington

Hawaiian Pulled Pork Lettuce Wraps

We love this easy slow-cooker recipe on Sunday afternoons. It's equally comforting and light for lunch or dinner. We serve ours with sweet potato oven fries and roasted green beans. —Arlene Rakoczy, Gilbert, Arizona

Meaty Slow-Cooked Jambalaya

Sure makes life easy having this tasty dish stashed away in the freezer! Another plus, you throw it all in the slow cooker—no skillet necessary. —Diane Smith, Pine Mountain, Georgia

Slow-Cooker Breakfast Burritos

Prep these tasty, hearty burritos the night before for a quick breakfast in the morning or let them cook while you are away on a weekend afternoon for an easy supper. —Anna Miller, Churdan, Iowa

Italian Pot Roast

I make this regularly, as it's a favorite of my husband's. I'm always asked for the recipe. You'll love how this tender pot roast seems to melt-in-your-mouth. —Debbie Daly, Buckingham, Illinois

Thai Chicken Lettuce Cups

Lettuce wraps make light, lively appetizers. These are easy to make because the slow cooker does most of the work. Just load it up and let things get cooking. When the chicken is cooked, just shred and serve. —Robin Haas, West Roxbury, Massachusetts

Spicy Honey Sriracha Game Day Dip

You can easily whip up this creamy, spicy, salty dip. For parties, I love dips in the slow cooker—just turn it to low once the dip is cooked and let your guests help themselves. No need to worry about the dip getting cold and having to reheat it. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland

Shredded Lamb Sliders

I made about 1,500 of these easy, tasty sliders for the Great American Beer Fest. Everyone—right down to the last customer—thought the bites were delish. —Craig Kuczek, Aurora, Colorado

Green Chile Posole

This recipe combines parts of my nanny's and my mother's recipes that I learned when I was very young. An optional sprinkling of queso fresco over the top is an absolute delight in my opinion. —Jaime Love, Las Vegas, Nevada

Bonnie's Chili

This chili is incredibly easy to make, and has a surprising depth of flavor for something that comes together in no time before the slow cooker takes over the work. I can make this for people who like it hot or mild just by changing the salsa. You can make it really spicy if you add hot peppers and hot salsa. —Bonnie Altig, North Pole, Alaska

Slow-Cooker Strawberry Pudding Cake

I had these ingredients in my pantry and thought I'd experiment. The flavors are just like strawberry cheesecake—only in a warm, comforting cake version. It's a whole lot easier than making cheesecake, too! —Lisa Renshaw, Kansas City, Missouri

Sassy Pot Roast

I love walking into my home after a long day and smelling this lovely pot roast. You can add potatoes and carrots to round out the meal, and the leftover meat makes a comforting soup for the next night. —Susan Burkett, Monroeville, Pennsylvania

Luau Pork Lettuce Wraps

I first made this recipe when our family took a trip to a beach house in Florida. On my night to cook, I did a luau theme and used this recipe as the appetizer. These are still a favorite today! —Joyce Conway, Westerville, Ohio

Pork and Green Chile Stew

As an easily adaptable stew, this dish is ready in 4 hours if cooked on high in a slow cooker or in 8 hours if cooked low and slow. —Paul Sedillo, Plainfield, Illinois

Chorizo and Chickpea Soup

The chorizo sausage adds its own spice to the broth, creating delicious flavor without any extra seasonings. And while it's cooking, the whole house smells amazing. —Jaclyn McKewan, Lancaster, New York

Tender Beef over Noodles

I dress up stew meat with noodles and a slightly sweet red sauce for this satisfying main dish. It goes terrific with a salad and garlic bread. —Olivia Gust, Salem, Oregon

Slow-Cooker Cherry Pear Buckle

I added pears to my cherry cobbler recipe to create this delightful slow-cooked buckle. You could also add fresh summer plums and berries to your cherries. You'll love this old-fashioned and pretty dessert. —Mary Anne Thygesen, Portland, Oregon

Carolina-Style Pork Barbecue

I am originally from North Carolina (where swine is divine) and this recipe for the slow cooker is a family favorite. My husband swears my authentic Carolina 'cue is the best BBQ he has ever eaten! —Kathryn Ransom Williams, Sparks, Nevada

Loaded Broccoli-Cheese Potato Chowder

For anyone who loves baked potatoes or broccoli-cheese soup, this is the best of both worlds. If you have bacon lovers, offer crumbled cooked bacon as a topping. Then everyone is happy, carnivore or not! —Vivi Taylor, Middleburg, Florida

Brown Rice and Vegetables

This filling rice dish, full of big chunks of butternut squash and sweet potatoes, is a standout combination of sweet and savory flavors. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Pork Chops & Acorn Squash

My husband and I are crazy for the squash we grow in our garden. For a sweet and tangy dish, we slow-cook it with pork chops and orange juice. —Mary Johnson, Coloma, Wisconsin

Easy Slow-Cooked Swiss Steak

I let my slow cooker simmer up this fuss-free and flavorful Swiss steak. Perfect for busy spring days…the longer it cooks, the better it tastes! —Sarah Burks, Wathena, Kansas

Midnight Caribbean Pork Sandwiches

These sandwiches are so tasty! They have got depth of flavor—savory, sweet, piquant, subtle and sublime. They're super easy to make and worth the (slow-cooker) wait. —Elizabeth Bennett, Mill Creek, Washington

Slow-Cooker Curried Pumpkin Soup

Looking for something new to beat dinnertime doldrums? Try my pumpkin soup! A touch of curry powder lends an aromatic spiced appeal while whipping cream gives the soup its silky texture.—Debbie Flocco, Norristown, Pennsylvania

Creamy Onion Pork Chops

Wine adds delectable flavor to the chops, and the meat falls from the bone. This easy dish just might initiate every family member into the cook something good for dinner club! —Kristina Wyatt, Catawba, Virginia

Easy Portuguese-Style Bean Soup

One day I was looking at Portuguese recipes and decided to put together a bean soup that embraced the bright and spicy flavors of Portugal. My family liked it so much, it became a classic in our household. To save time and work, the sausage, vegetables and herbs can all be prepped in minutes with a food processor. —Steven Vance, Woodland, Washington

Ranch Chicken Sliders

When my grandson was younger, we always joked that nothing could make ranch chicken taste better. Then one day Avery's eyes lit up and he suggested we fry it! Our fried chicken burger was born. You won't believe how good these little sliders are. —Tamara Hire, Decatur, Illinois

Chunky Chicken Cacciatore

This healthy pasta recipe is so versatile! Look in your fridge for anything else you want to throw in, like red pepper, mushrooms, extra zucchini—you name it. And if you're a vegetarian, go ahead and leave out the chicken. —Stephanie Loaiza, Layton, Utah

Nutty Slow-Cooker Snack Mix

My three boys inhale snacks! This easy recipe makes a big batch that keeps them snacking happily for the day—and I appreciate that the nutrient-dense nuts add a little protein. —Jennifer Fisher, Austin, Texas

Slow-Cooker Salsa Chicken

This is a go-to recipe when I know I'll be having a busy day. My family loves salsa, so I came up with this recipe for something to throw into a slow cooker and simmer on low. We love it served over rice or noodles, and then top it with tortilla chips and sour cream. —Deborah Pennington, Falkville, Alabama

Spicy Peruvian Potato Soup

This robust Peruvian soup (known there as locro de papa) has the comfort of potatoes and the warming spiciness of chiles. Light enough for a simple lunch, it's also satisfying served as a dinner meal.—Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Tropical BBQ Chicken

Here is my favorite slow-cooker recipe. The delicious, slightly spicy sauce will win you over, too! —Yvonne McKim, Vancouver, Washington

Slow-Cooked Peach Pork Chops

"I played around with many variations of this recipe until I came up with one that was just right," Bonnie Morrow writes from Spencerport, New York. "The warm peaches make an excellent side dish for the pork."

Oregano Green Beans with Toasted Pine Nuts

This super easy side dish is a wonderful picnic or potluck recipe. It's a beautiful, surprising mix that leaves guests and family raving. You can substitute any kind of nut for the pine nuts or even replace them with fresh berries. —Wolfgang Hanau, West Palm Beach, Florida

Slow-Cooked Beef 'n' Veggies

My husband and I came up with this soothing slow-cooker recipe. It's simple and filling, with lots of flavor.—LaDonna Reed, Ponca City, Oklahoma

Coconut Chicken and Sweet Potato Stew

This stew tastes as if you spent hours in the kitchen. The flavors of coconut milk, sweet potato and coriander nicely complement the chicken. A garnish of cilantro and toasted coconut adds a bit of sophistication. —Nicole Filizetti, Stevens Point, Wisconsin

Cheddar-Topped Barbecue Meat Loaf

My family loves the bold barbecue flavor of this tender meat loaf. I love that it's such an easy recipe to prepare in the slow cooker. —David Snodgrass, Columbia, Missouri

Simmered Turkey Enchiladas

I discovered a different way to serve economical turkey thighs. I simmer them in tomato sauce, green chiles and seasonings until they're tender and flavorful, then serve them in tortillas with our favorite fresh toppings. —Stella Schams, Tempe, Arizona

Beefy Minestrone

I know lots of minestrone recipes don't contain meat, but my husband thinks a meal is only a meal if it contains some sort of meat. Consequently, this is the perfect meal. It strikes that balance of flavorful, healthful, and soul-satisfying. —Juli Snaer, Enid, Oklahoma

Maple Pork Ribs

A luscious maple-mustard sauce will take your next plate of ribs to a new level. —Phyllis Schmalz, Kansas City, Kansas

Pulled BBQ Pork

During years of vacationing on the North Carolina coast, I became hooked on their pork barbecue. The version I developed is a favorite at potluck dinners. —Joseph Sarnoski, West Chester, Pennsylvania

Bacon Breakfast Casserole

This easy breakfast dish allows me to make a comforting family favorite that doesn't take a lot of prep. It's also great for big brunch gatherings. —Paula Lawson, Springfield, Ohio

Fiery Sweet Chicken Thighs

This dish combines my love of spicy Thai food with a sweet, almost barbecue-like sauce. You can't beat the slow-cooker convenience! —Eve Gray, Marietta, Georgia

Cranberry Turkey Sloppy Joes

Want a seasonal spin on classic sloppy joes? This combination of turkey and cranberries is a hit with everyone! The flavor has a touch of sweet and a touch of salt—just right for any cold-weather get-together. A slow cooker easily keeps the mixture warm on a buffet. —Christine Grimm, Mount Wolf, Pennsylvania

Slow-Cooker Sausage and Apples

This recipe belongs to my friend Patty, who made me a wonderful cookbook of her dishes. This is one of her most popular. I often double it for parties. —Tammy Zywicki, Elmira, New York

Barbecue Pork Cobb Salad

My lunchtime salad gets way more interesting topped with barbecue pork, cheddar cheese and creamy avocado. It's as satisfying as it is scrumptious. —Shawn Carleton, San Diego, California

Chorizo Chili

I modified a bean soup recipe and came up with this wonderful chili. I make it mild for my family but add Tabasco sauce to spice up my bowl. —Jenne Delkus, Des Peres, Missouri

Italian Meatballs and Sausages

Here's a wonderful nibble for a tailgate or any family function. The snack is so easy to prepare and also very tasty. I've doubled and even tripled the recipe for large groups. No matter how much I make, I always come home with an empty slow cooker. —Jan Kasinger, Graham, Washington

Chicken Curry for Two

I love to try new recipes for my husband and me, and I actually have cookbooks and recipes from all over the world. When I find a recipe that's well-received, I make a copy and put it in a protective sleeve in a loose-leaf binder. I now have quite a few huge binders!

Warm Cider Cranberry Punch

I first made this at an instructional cooking camp. My kids loved it so much that, for a time, they insisted we make it every day. Serve it hot in the winter or with the ice during the summer. —Carol Gehringer, Raleigh, North Carolina

Fall Vegetable Sloppy Joes

I make this dish in the fall and sneak grated vegetables into the sloppy joe mixture, which is especially good for children who don't like to eat their vegetables! Just walk away and let the slow cooker do all the work. Top the filling with a little shredded cheese before serving. —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada

Rosemary Pot Roast

Come home to a comforting, ready-to-eat entree with this slow-cooker favorite sized just right for two. It's so easy, and it fills the house with a wonderful aroma. —Marcia Schroeder, River Edge, New Jersey

Pork, Bean & Rice Burritos

The combination of spices is key to this slow-cooked pork—it's my family's favorite burrito filling. The aroma that fills the air as the pork slowly simmers is like a Mexican restaurant. A perfect recipe for tailgate parties. —Valonda Seward, Coarsegold, California

Slow-Cooker Meatball Stew

This recipe was a lifesaver when I worked full time and needed a dinner that we all would enjoy when we got home. It is perfect to let your young ones help prepare. They can chop, peel, mix and pour. It doesn't matter if the veggies are all different sizes—your children will still devour this fun and tasty stew. —Kallee Krong-McCreery, Escondido, California

Beef Braciole

My great-aunt used to make the most amazing braciole, but it was a laborious and time-consuming effort. I took her basic recipe and transformed it into a slow cooker version, making it easier for today's hurried world. My great-aunt always served the flank steak sliced over orzo that had been tossed with olive oil and Romano cheese. Delicioso!—Lisa Renshaw, Kansas City, Missouri

Apricot-Orange Salsa Chicken

Sweet oranges and apricots blend perfectly with zippy salsa in this five-ingredient entree. Keep the heat to your liking with mild, medium or hot salsa. Served over rice, it's a dinner we've enjoyed time and again. —LaDonna Reed, Ponca City, Oklahoma

Beef Taco Chili

This is one of my husband's absolute favorite dishes. It was voted Best Chili at our county's autumn harvest festival. If you like less broth, use just 1-3/4 cups water and 1-1/2 teaspoons bouillon. —Dana Beery, Ione, Washington

Apple Butter Pork with White Beans

This enticing dish is an entire dinner with meat, vegetables and beans, wonderful to come home to after I've run the kids around to activities all afternoon. The apple butter with the pork is yummy and perfect for fall! —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah

Italian Sausage & Quinoa Stew

I like how the sweetness of the orange and yellow peppers blends with the spiciness of the Italian sausage. If you have trouble finding quinoa, substitute rice or tiny pasta in this recipe. —Marietta Slater, Justin, Texas

Pineapple-Orange Spiced Tea

The sweet aroma of this tea wafting from a slow cooker warms the dreariest day. My daughter served it for a holiday open house, and coffee drinkers were instantly converted. I bring it to the office to spice up our break room beverage selections. —Carole J. Drennan, Abilene, Texas

Slow-Cooked Spicy Portuguese Cacoila

You're probably used to pulled pork coated with barbecue sauce and made into sandwiches. Portuguese pulled pork is a spicy dish often served at our large family functions. Each cook generally adds his or her own touches that reflect their taste and Portuguese heritage. A mixture of beef roast and pork can be used. —Michele Merlino, Exeter, Rhode Island

Slow-Cooker Chipotle Pork Chops

I love the tender texture of pork chops made in the slow cooker! The flavor of this sauce is similar to barbecue, but with a little extra kick. The crispy onions on top add an extra, delectable crunch. —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah

Easy Poached Salmon

In 46 years of marriage, we had never tasted salmon until a friend told me about poaching it in a low cooker. I tried it and got flaky, moist results with little fuss. I added some soy sauce for extra flavor. — Johnna Johnson, Scottsdale, Arizona

Greek-Style Stuffed Peppers

The bountiful peppers found at the local farmers market in the early fall, combined with some standard Greek ingredients, create a dish that bursts with color and fresh flavor. —Renee Murby, Johnston, Rhode Island

Spice Trade Beans & Bulgur

A rich blend of spices adds flavor to tender, nutritious bulgur and garbanzo beans in this tangy dish that has just the right amount of heat. A hint of sweetness from golden raisins is the perfect accent. —Faith Cromwell, San Francisco, California

Spicy Stuffed Banana Peppers

Banana peppers can be very tricky: Sometimes they are hot and sometimes they are not. If you want to be on the safe side, I recommend using Bianca peppers instead, which are a more sweet type of pepper. —Danielle Lee, Sewickley, Pennsylvania

Easy Slow-Cooker Tamale Dinner

Here is a quick and easy dinner, which is very satisfying. No need to fool with corn husks here! My parents and friends often request this for dinner. —Laurel Lawshae, Round Rock, Texas

Slow-Cooker Bourbon Pork Chops

My dad created a baked version of this recipe years ago. Delicious as it was, when I updated his recipe, I decided to try it in the slow cooker for even more moist and tender results. Bingo! Juicy, tasty and no fuss. —Judy Batson, Tampa, Florida

Steak Strips with Dumplings

Take in a parade on the Fourth or spend a day by the lake and come home to this slow-cooked specialty all ready to eat! The recipe's from John Smalldridge of Princeton, Idaho.

Slow-Cooker Jambalaya Risotto

I love risotto, but I don't always love the time and stirring it takes to get the creamy goodness. I found a slow-cooker risotto recipe and thought it was too good to be true. I decided to adapt a jambalaya recipe for this dish. —Angela Westra, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Peppered Meat Loaf

I came up with this easy dinner one day while experimenting in the kitchen. Everyone who tries it, loves it! —Laura Burgess, Mount Vernon, South Dakota

Asparagus Tuna Noodle Casserole

I updated a traditional tuna casserole using fresh asparagus and asparagus soup. This is so different and so delicious. Use frozen asparagus when fresh is not in season. —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada

Slammin' Lamb

This meat is easy, flavorful and best when marinated overnight. You can even mix it up and freeze it until you want to throw it in the crock! Make sure you have lots of pita bread on hand to soak up the juices. —Ruth Hartunian-Alumbaugh, Willimantic, Connecticut

Overnight Peach Oatmeal

Hearty oatmeal combined with bright, sweet peaches make this slow-cooker recipe a perfect breakfast or brunch. This is an excellent make-ahead meal for busy mornings. —Rachel Lewis, Danville, Virginia

Slow-Cooker Chicken Stroganoff

This recipe is creamy, warm, satisfying and fairly inexpensive—and it needs just a few ingredients! Who could ask for more on a cold winter evening? I will admit, though, that I have been known to make it during summer, too. —Jason Kretzer, Grants Pass, Oregon

Cooks Illustrated Slow Cooker Recommendation

Source: https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/the-best-slow-cooker/

Posted by: dixonbeepon.blogspot.com

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