Do you dream of coming home to a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen? If so, a slow cooker might be your new best friend. But with so many different models out there, picking the *right* one can feel like a puzzle. You want a slow cooker that’s easy to use, cooks food perfectly every time, and won’t break the bank. It’s tough to know which brands are truly reliable and which ones just look good on the shelf.
That’s where America’s Test Kitchen comes in! They test kitchen gadgets like it’s their job – because it is! They put slow cookers through their paces to find the very best ones. If you’re tired of guesswork and want to invest in a slow cooker that will make your life easier and your meals tastier, you’re in the right place. Keep reading, and we’ll unlock the secrets to choosing a top-notch slow cooker that America’s Test Kitchen approves of. Get ready to say goodbye to mealtime stress!
Our Top 5 Slow Cooker America’S Test Kitchen Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Slow Cooker America’S Test Kitchen Detailed Reviews
1. Slow Cooker Revolution by The Editors at America’s Test Kitchen and America’s Test Kitchen (Feb 15
Rating: 8.6/10
The Slow Cooker Revolution by The Editors at America’s Test Kitchen and America’s Test Kitchen (Feb 15, 2011) is a comprehensive guide to making amazing meals with your slow cooker. This book is packed with tested recipes that promise delicious results. It aims to make slow cooker cooking easy and exciting for everyone.
What We Like:
- Tested recipes that work every time.
- Clear instructions that are easy to follow.
- Tips and tricks for perfect slow cooker meals.
- A wide variety of recipes for all tastes.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some recipes might require less common ingredients.
- The book’s publication date means some newer slow cooker models aren’t discussed.
This cookbook is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to get more from their slow cooker. It’s a great way to create flavorful dishes with minimal effort.
2. The Complete Slow Cooker: From Appetizers to Desserts – 400 Must-Have Recipes That Cook While You Play (orWork) (The Complete ATK Cookbook Series)
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of spending hours in the kitchen? “The Complete Slow Cooker: From Appetizers to Desserts” is your new best friend! This massive cookbook from America’s Test Kitchen packs a whopping 400 recipes. That means you can make everything from yummy appetizers and hearty main courses to sweet desserts, all without being glued to the stove. It’s designed for busy people who want delicious meals without the fuss. Just toss your ingredients in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. Then, come back to a perfectly cooked meal ready to enjoy.
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What We Like:
- An incredible variety of recipes, covering every meal of the day.
- The “cook while you play (or work)” aspect saves so much time and effort.
- Clear instructions make it easy for even beginner cooks.
- The sheer number of recipes means you’ll never run out of ideas.
- America’s Test Kitchen is known for reliable, tested recipes.
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What Could Be Improved:
- The sheer volume of recipes might feel a little overwhelming at first.
- Some recipes might require special ingredients that aren’t in every pantry.
If you love your slow cooker, this book is an absolute must-have. It truly unlocks the full potential of your appliance.
3. Slow Cooker Revolution: One Test Kitchen. 30 Slow Cookers. 200 Amazing Recipes.
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready to transform your kitchen with “Slow Cooker Revolution: One Test Kitchen. 30 Slow Cookers. 200 Amazing Recipes.” This cookbook is your ultimate guide to unlocking the full potential of your slow cooker. It’s packed with delicious ideas for any meal, from breakfast to dinner and even desserts. You’ll discover how easy it is to make fantastic meals with minimal effort. The book features insights from a real test kitchen, meaning all the recipes are tried and true.
What We Like:
- A huge collection of 200 recipes, offering endless meal possibilities.
- Tested recipes from a dedicated test kitchen ensure great results.
- Covers a wide variety of dishes, making it useful for any occasion.
- Helps beginners master their slow cooker and inspires experienced cooks.
What Could Be Improved:
- The sheer number of recipes might feel overwhelming at first.
- Could benefit from more beginner-friendly tips for those new to slow cooking.
This book is a true game-changer for anyone who loves convenient and tasty food. It will inspire you to use your slow cooker more often than ever before.
4. Slow Cooker Revolution Volume 2: The Easy-Prep Edition: 200 All-New
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready to transform your weeknight dinners with “Slow Cooker Revolution Volume 2: The Easy-Prep Edition: 200 All-New, Ground-Breaking Recipes.” This cookbook is your ticket to delicious, stress-free meals. It’s packed with new recipes that focus on simple preparation, meaning less time chopping and more time enjoying your food. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or just someone who loves good food without the fuss, this book has something for everyone. You’ll find breakfast ideas, lunches, dinners, and even desserts that practically cook themselves.
What We Like:
- 200 brand new recipes!
- Focus on easy preparation saves time
- Wide variety of meal types included
- Recipes are beginner-friendly
- Inspires creative slow cooker use
What Could Be Improved:
- No specific dietary information (like vegan or gluten-free) listed upfront for all recipes.
- Some recipes might require less common ingredients that need a special trip to the store.
This cookbook is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine. It truly lives up to its “easy-prep” promise.
5. Healthy Slow Cooker Revolution: One Test Kitchen. 40 Slow Cookers. 200 Fresh Recipes.
Rating: 9.1/10
The “Healthy Slow Cooker Revolution: One Test Kitchen. 40 Slow Cookers. 200 Fresh Recipes.” is a treasure trove for anyone looking to eat healthier and save time in the kitchen. It’s like having a personal chef and a cooking expert all rolled into one book. This guide promises to make your slow cooker dreams a reality, giving you tons of new ideas for delicious and good-for-you meals.
What We Like:
- It offers a huge collection of 200 fresh recipes, meaning you’ll never run out of healthy meal ideas.
- The book focuses on healthy cooking, which is great for people who want to eat better.
- It’s based on testing with 40 different slow cookers, so the recipes are likely well-tested and work for most people.
- The title suggests a “revolution,” implying exciting and new ways to use your slow cooker.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “N/A” for features is a bit unclear; more specific details about the recipe types (e.g., vegetarian, gluten-free) would be helpful.
- Without knowing the authors or the “test kitchen” background, it’s hard to judge the credibility fully.
This book seems like a fantastic resource for making healthy eating simple and enjoyable. It’s a great way to get more out of your slow cooker with exciting new recipes.
Your Guide to the Best Slow Cooker from America’s Test Kitchen
America’s Test Kitchen is known for its thorough testing and honest reviews. When they recommend a slow cooker, you know it’s a good one. This guide will help you understand what makes a slow cooker great and how to choose the best one for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a slow cooker, keep these important features in mind. They make cooking easier and tastier.
- Programmable Settings: Some slow cookers let you set a cooking time and temperature. This is super helpful! You can set it and forget it. The cooker will automatically switch to a “warm” setting when done.
- Multiple Heat Settings: Look for slow cookers with at least “Low,” “High,” and “Warm.” Some even have a “Simmer” setting for delicate dishes.
- Capacity: Slow cookers come in different sizes. Think about how many people you usually cook for. A 4-quart size is good for 2-4 people. A 6-quart is great for families or when you want leftovers.
- Removable Stoneware Insert: This is a big deal! A heavy stoneware pot holds heat well. It’s also easy to clean. Many can go from the slow cooker to the table. Some are even dishwasher safe.
- Lid Type: A tight-fitting lid keeps moisture inside. This is important for tender, flavorful food. Glass lids let you peek at your food without losing heat.
Important Materials
The materials used in a slow cooker affect how it cooks and how long it lasts.
- Stoneware: This is the most common material for the inner pot. It heats evenly and retains heat well. It’s also durable.
- Ceramic: Similar to stoneware, ceramic is another good choice for the insert. It offers even heating.
- Metal (Aluminum or Stainless Steel): Some slow cookers have metal inserts. These can heat up faster. However, they might not retain heat as well as stoneware or ceramic.
- Glass: Most lids are made of glass. This lets you see your food cooking.
- Plastic: The outside of the slow cooker is usually made of plastic or metal. Look for sturdy plastic that won’t feel cheap.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A few things can make a slow cooker work better or worse.
What Makes a Slow Cooker Great:
- Even Heating: A good slow cooker heats food evenly. This prevents hot spots where food can burn. America’s Test Kitchen often praises models that show consistent temperature.
- Durable Construction: The appliance should feel solid. The cord should be thick and strong. The lid should fit snugly.
- Easy Cleaning: A removable, dishwasher-safe stoneware insert makes life much easier.
- User-Friendly Controls: Buttons or dials should be simple to understand and use.
What Can Reduce Quality:
- Uneven Heating: If some parts of your food are cooked while others are still raw, the cooker isn’t heating evenly.
- Cheap Materials: Thin plastic or a flimsy lid can be a sign of lower quality.
- Difficult Controls: Confusing settings or buttons that stick can be frustrating.
- Poor Sealing Lid: If steam escapes easily, your food might dry out.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a slow cooker is generally very easy. This makes them perfect for busy people.
- Busy Weeknights: You can prep ingredients in the morning, turn on the slow cooker, and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.
- Set-It-and-Forget-It Cooking: For recipes like pulled pork, stews, or chili, slow cookers do most of the work.
- Batch Cooking: Make large batches of soups or sauces to freeze for later.
- Entertaining: Keep dips warm or cook a large roast for parties.
- Simple Meals: Even beginners can make great meals with a slow cooker.
America’s Test Kitchen often highlights slow cookers that are simple to use and deliver consistently great results. They look for models that are reliable and make cooking enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions About America’s Test Kitchen Slow Cookers
Q: What is the main advantage of a slow cooker recommended by America’s Test Kitchen?
A: The main advantage is that these slow cookers have been thoroughly tested for even heating, durability, and ease of use, meaning they consistently produce great results.
Q: Are America’s Test Kitchen recommended slow cookers easy to clean?
A: Yes, they typically feature removable stoneware inserts that are often dishwasher safe, making cleaning very simple.
Q: What size slow cooker does America’s Test Kitchen usually recommend?
A: They often recommend a 6-quart size as it is versatile for families and for making leftovers, but they also test and recommend smaller sizes depending on the specific model’s performance.
Q: Do I need a programmable slow cooker?
A: While not always necessary, programmable settings are a great convenience. They allow the cooker to switch to a “warm” setting automatically, which is very helpful.
Q: Can I cook frozen meat in a slow cooker?
A: It’s generally not recommended to cook large amounts of frozen meat in a slow cooker because it can take too long to thaw and reach a safe temperature, potentially allowing bacteria to grow. It’s best to thaw meat first.
Q: How long should I cook food on “Low” versus “High” in a slow cooker?
A: “Low” usually takes 6-8 hours, while “High” typically takes 3-4 hours. Recipes will specify which setting to use.
Q: Can I put metal or glass dishes inside the slow cooker insert?
A: No, you should not place additional cookware inside the slow cooker’s stoneware insert. The insert itself is designed to heat the food directly.
Q: What is the purpose of the “Warm” setting?
A: The “Warm” setting keeps food at a safe temperature for serving after it has finished cooking. It’s not meant for cooking food.
Q: Are America’s Test Kitchen recommended slow cookers energy efficient?
A: Slow cookers are generally quite energy efficient because they use low temperatures over a long period. The models they recommend are typically well-designed for this.
Q: Where can I find the specific slow cooker models recommended by America’s Test Kitchen?
A: You can find their latest recommendations on the America’s Test Kitchen website, in their Cook’s Illustrated or Cook’s Country magazines, or by looking for their “Recommended” seal on product packaging.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
My name is Gary Flores, the creator of deepskyblue-owl-132507.hostingersite.com.. With a passion for creating cozy, functional, and beautiful spaces, I share my personal experiences and expertise about everything related to home improvement. From practical tips to design inspiration, my goal is to help you make your home the best it can be.