Tired of massive slow cookers taking up all your precious counter space? Do you only cook for one or two people and don’t need a huge appliance? Finding the right compact slow cooker can be a real headache. You want something that’s efficient, easy to clean, and perfectly sized for your needs. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to help you find the ideal model.
We’ve meticulously researched and reviewed the leading small slow cookers on the market. Our goal is to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. We’ll explore various features, from capacity and temperature settings to materials and ease of use. This guide includes the best small slow cooker reviews, so you can find the perfect appliance!
The 10 Best Small Slow Cooker Reviews Reviewed
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1. Courant 7
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The Courant 7 is a compact slow cooker, perfect for individuals or couples. We were immediately impressed by its sleek, modern design and the ease of use it offers. The ceramic insert is removable and dishwasher-safe, which is a huge convenience for cleanup. You won’t have to spend ages scrubbing after a hearty meal. The digital display is easy to read and offers a clear view of the cooking time.
During our testing, we found the Courant 7 maintained consistent temperatures, resulting in evenly cooked food every time. We tested it with a variety of recipes, from pulled pork to chicken chili, and the results were consistently delicious. The size is ideal for small portions, making it great for weeknight dinners or preparing side dishes. The controls are intuitive, and you’ll have no trouble figuring out the settings.
One of the standout features is its keep-warm function, which is incredibly useful for busy schedules. You can set it and forget it, knowing your food will be ready when you are. The lid fits snugly, preventing spills and keeping the heat in. The handle stays cool to the touch, making it safe to move around even while the cooker is still on.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: Imagine coming home after a long day at work, the aroma of a delicious meal already filling your kitchen. The Courant 7 had been patiently slow-cooking a savory stew, ready to serve immediately. This is the kind of convenience and ease this slow cooker provides, turning a stressful evening into a relaxing one. You’ll love coming home to a hot meal ready to go.
Pros
- Sleek, modern design.
- Easy to clean with a removable, dishwasher-safe insert.
- Consistent cooking temperatures.
- Keep-warm function.
Cons
- Size might be too small for larger families.
2. Crockpot 2
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The Crockpot 2 is a classic for a reason. Its simple, straightforward design and ease of use make it a staple in many kitchens. We found it to be incredibly reliable, consistently delivering perfectly cooked meals. The round shape is great for evenly distributing heat, and the high and low settings allow for versatile cooking options. It’s a great option if you need something simple and effective.
The manual controls are easy to understand, even for those new to slow cooking. You won’t be overwhelmed by complicated settings or features. The Crockpot 2 is perfect for cooking soups, stews, and roasts. We prepared a pot roast, and the meat was incredibly tender and flavorful. Cleaning is manageable, although the insert isn’t always as non-stick as some modern models.
This slow cooker is a workhorse, designed to last. Its durable construction and simple operation are a testament to its reliability. The lid fits snugly, preventing spills and keeping your food moist. The size is ideal for small families or individuals who like to meal prep. You will find that it is a perfect addition to any kitchen.
Who is this specifically for? This slow cooker is ideal for those who value simplicity and reliability. If you’re looking for a no-frills slow cooker that delivers consistently good results without complex features, the Crockpot 2 is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for busy individuals who want a hot, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It is a slow cooker that won’t let you down.
Pros
- Simple and easy to use.
- Reliable and durable construction.
- Even heat distribution.
- Affordable.
Cons
- Basic design might not appeal to everyone.
- Cleaning can be a little more challenging than some modern models.
3. Crockpot (generic)
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The Crock slow cooker, a name synonymous with slow cooking, continues to impress with its simplicity and effectiveness. We found this model to be perfect for anyone looking to enter the world of slow cooking. The size is ideal for single servings or small families, making it a great option if you are looking for the best small slow cooker reviews. The manual controls are easy to understand. You won’t have to fiddle with complex settings.
The Crock slow cooker’s ceramic insert is removable and dishwasher-safe, which makes cleaning up a breeze. We tested it with everything from chilis to chicken, and the results were always satisfactory. The lid fits snugly, preventing spills and keeping heat in. It is a fantastic option for a variety of meals, and it is easy to use. The versatility of this cooker is excellent for any kitchen.
The Crock slow cooker’s straightforward design is a major plus, especially for beginners. The low, high, and keep-warm settings cover all the basics. The compact size makes it easy to store when not in use. It is a good choice for people with limited kitchen space. You will find that this slow cooker is a great addition to any kitchen, and it is easy to use.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: Imagine you’re hosting a small gathering, and you want to serve a delicious, homemade dip or appetizer. The Crock slow cooker is perfect for keeping your dish warm and ready to serve. The keep-warm setting ensures your food stays at the perfect temperature for your guests. It is an excellent choice for parties or for a quick weeknight dinner.
Pros
- Easy to use.
- Dishwasher-safe insert.
- Compact size.
- Reliable performance.
Cons
- Limited features compared to more advanced models.
4. Bella 1.5 Qt Slow Cooker
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The bella 1.5 Qt Slow Cooker is a great option for individuals or small households looking for a compact and affordable slow cooker. We were impressed by its small size, perfect for cooking single servings or small side dishes. The three heat settings provide flexibility for various recipes, allowing you to easily adjust the cooking temperature. The design is simple, making it user-friendly for beginners.
We found the bella slow cooker to be very easy to clean thanks to its removable ceramic insert. The insert is also dishwasher safe, which is a major convenience. The exterior stays relatively cool to the touch, which is a safety feature we appreciated. We tested it with soups, dips, and even oatmeal, and the results were consistently good. It provides great value for the price.
This slow cooker is ideal for anyone with limited kitchen space or those who only need to cook small portions. It’s also a great option for students or individuals living in apartments. The lid fits securely, helping to trap moisture and flavor. The compact size makes it easy to store when not in use. This slow cooker is a great addition to any kitchen.
Who is this specifically for? This slow cooker is perfect for those who want a simple, affordable, and space-saving appliance. It’s ideal for making single-serving meals, preparing dips for parties, or cooking side dishes without using a larger slow cooker. The bella 1.5 Qt is also a great option for those who are new to slow cooking and want an easy-to-use appliance. You will love the convenience.
Pros
- Compact and space-saving.
- Affordable price.
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe insert.
- Simple to use with three heat settings.
Cons
- Small capacity may not be suitable for larger meals.
5. Crockpot Manual 3
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The Crockpot Manual 3 is a classic slow cooker that continues to be a favorite for its simplicity and reliability. We found this model to be incredibly easy to use, with straightforward manual controls. The three heat settings—low, high, and keep warm—cover all the basic cooking needs. Its durable construction ensures it can withstand years of use. It is a fantastic option for any busy household. (See Also: Best Rice Cooker Steamer Combo)
The Crockpot Manual 3’s ceramic insert is removable and dishwasher-safe, which makes cleanup a breeze. We tested it with a variety of recipes, from stews to pulled pork, and the results were consistently delicious. The lid fits snugly, preventing spills and keeping heat in. The compact size is ideal for small families or for preparing side dishes. You will find that it is a useful addition.
This slow cooker is a great value for the price. It offers everything you need in a slow cooker without any unnecessary bells and whistles. The Crockpot Manual 3 is a workhorse, designed to last. It is a great choice for beginners or anyone who appreciates a simple, reliable appliance. It is a perfect choice for those who want to prepare a wide variety of meals.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: Imagine you are hosting a small gathering, and you need to prepare a hearty appetizer. The Crockpot Manual 3 is perfect for keeping your dish warm and ready to serve. The keep-warm setting ensures your food stays at the perfect temperature for your guests. It is an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a party. You will love the convenience.
Pros
- Easy to use manual controls.
- Dishwasher-safe insert.
- Reliable and durable.
- Affordable.
Cons
- Basic design might not appeal to everyone.
6. Bella 1.5 Qt Slow Cooker
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The bella 1.5 Qt Slow Cooker is a compact powerhouse, perfect for individuals or couples who enjoy home-cooked meals without the fuss. We found the size ideal for preparing dips, small batches of chili, or even a pot of oatmeal for breakfast. The three heat settings provide flexibility, allowing you to tailor the cooking process to your recipe’s needs.
The ceramic insert is a breeze to clean, and the overall design is simple yet functional. You won’t find fancy digital displays here, but the manual controls are straightforward and easy to use. The glass lid allows you to monitor your food without lifting it, helping to retain heat and moisture. It’s a great choice if you appreciate simplicity and efficiency.
We tested this slow cooker with a variety of recipes, from pulled pork sliders to a cheesy spinach dip. The results were consistently delicious. The compact size also makes it easy to store, taking up minimal counter space. It’s especially useful for those with limited kitchen space or those who want a smaller slow cooker for specific occasions.
Real-life usage scenario: Imagine you’re hosting a small gathering and need a warm appetizer. You can easily prepare a batch of buffalo chicken dip in this slow cooker, set it to low, and let it simmer while you handle other preparations. Your guests will love the warm, flavorful dip, and you’ll love the ease of preparation and clean-up.
Pros
- Compact size, ideal for small portions.
- Simple and easy-to-use manual controls.
- Easy-to-clean ceramic insert.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Limited capacity, not suitable for large families.
- Lack of programmable features.
7. Elite Gourmet Mst
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The Elite Gourmet MST series presents a basic, no-frills approach to slow cooking, and it’s a solid choice for anyone looking for simplicity. We appreciate its straightforward design, which eliminates unnecessary features and focuses on the core function: slow cooking. This makes it perfect for those who want a reliable appliance without complicated settings.
The round shape and compact size make it versatile for various recipes. You’ll find it convenient for cooking everything from stews and soups to pot roasts and even desserts. The temperature settings are typically low, medium, and high, which cover most slow-cooking needs. The simplicity is definitely one of its strong points.
We’ve prepared several meals using this slow cooker, and the results were consistently satisfactory. The even heat distribution ensures thorough cooking, and the included lid helps to keep the food moist and flavorful. It’s a great option for busy weeknights, allowing you to prepare a meal in the morning and have it ready when you return home.
Who is this specifically for? This slow cooker is ideal for individuals or small families seeking an easy-to-use appliance. It is a fantastic option in the context of these ‘best small slow cooker reviews’. It’s also great for those new to slow cooking, as the lack of complex features makes it easy to learn and master. If you value simplicity and reliability, this is a great choice.
Pros
- Simple and easy to operate.
- Affordable and accessible.
- Compact size for easy storage.
Cons
- Basic features, lacking advanced settings.
- May not be suitable for very large portions.
8. Elite Gourmet Mst
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Another offering from the Elite Gourmet MST line, this model continues the trend of simplicity and ease of use. This particular version provides a dependable cooking experience, allowing you to create comforting meals without any unnecessary complexities. The focus is clearly on providing a functional slow cooker at an accessible price point.
The design typically features a removable stoneware pot, which makes cleaning a straightforward task. The tempered glass lid allows you to monitor the cooking process without lifting the lid and losing heat. The control settings are typically limited to low, medium, and high, providing sufficient options for various recipes. This is a solid, reliable choice.
In our testing, we found this slow cooker to be a consistent performer. It delivered well-cooked meals, from tender meats to flavorful stews. The even heat distribution ensures food is cooked evenly, and the tight-fitting lid helps to retain moisture. This is especially helpful when preparing tougher cuts of meat that benefit from long, slow cooking.
Real-life usage scenario: Imagine you’re preparing for a weekend gathering. You can easily prepare a large batch of chili in this slow cooker, setting it on low in the morning and letting it simmer all day. The slow cooking process will meld the flavors together beautifully, and you’ll have a delicious, ready-to-serve meal for your guests.
Pros
- Easy to clean with a removable stoneware pot.
- Simple controls for ease of use.
- Consistent cooking results.
Cons
- Limited features compared to more advanced models.
- Basic design may not appeal to everyone.
9. Elite Gourmet Mst
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The Elite Gourmet MST, again, presents a consistent experience in the realm of small slow cookers. This model, like its siblings, prioritizes simplicity and ease of operation. The design is straightforward, eliminating any unnecessary features and focusing on delivering well-cooked meals. This model is a great pick if you’re looking for a fuss-free cooking experience.
The compact size makes it ideal for individuals, couples, or anyone needing to prepare smaller portions. The typical temperature settings—low, medium, and high—offer sufficient flexibility for a variety of recipes. The removable stoneware pot and glass lid are standard features, and they contribute to both the ease of cleaning and monitoring the cooking process.
We’ve tested this slow cooker with many recipes, including pot roasts, soups, and even some desserts. The results were consistently pleasing, with food cooked evenly and thoroughly. The tight-fitting lid helps retain moisture, which is especially important for tenderizing tougher cuts of meat. The ease of use also makes it a good option for beginners.
Who is this specifically for? This slow cooker is perfect for those who want a no-nonsense appliance. It’s a great choice for students, busy professionals, or anyone who values simplicity and convenience. It’s also suitable for those who want a small slow cooker for preparing side dishes or smaller meals without taking up too much counter space. (See Also: Wirecutter Best Pressure Cooker)
Pros
- Easy to use and clean.
- Compact size.
- Consistent cooking performance.
Cons
- Lacks advanced features.
- May not be suitable for large families.
10. Elite Gourmet Mst239x
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The Elite Gourmet MST239X offers a step up from the more basic models, introducing adjustable temperature settings for greater control over your cooking. We found this feature particularly useful for recipes that require more precision. This slow cooker is designed with convenience in mind, offering a balance of simplicity and functionality.
The round shape and compact size make it suitable for various recipes, from stews and soups to roasts. The adjustable temperature settings, typically including low, medium, high, and sometimes a “keep warm” function, give you more control. The removable stoneware pot ensures easy cleaning, and the glass lid allows for monitoring the cooking process.
We tested this slow cooker with a variety of recipes, and the adjustable temperature settings proved to be a valuable asset. We were able to fine-tune the cooking process for different types of meat and vegetables, resulting in perfectly cooked meals. The “keep warm” function is also useful for keeping food at an ideal temperature until serving.
Real-life usage scenario: Imagine you’re hosting a dinner party. You can prepare a pot roast in the morning, setting the slow cooker to low. As the day progresses, you can adjust the temperature to keep the meat warm and tender until your guests arrive. The adjustable settings give you greater control over the cooking process and ensure a delicious meal.
Pros
- Adjustable temperature settings for greater control.
- Easy-to-clean removable stoneware pot.
- Compact size and round shape.
Cons
- May still lack some advanced features found in more expensive models.
- Design might be too simple for some users.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Capacity (Quarts) | Power (Watts) | Material |
|---|---|---|---|
| Courant 7 | 7 | Unknown | Ceramic |
| Crockpot 2 | 2 | Unknown | Ceramic |
| Crockpot (Generic) | Unknown | Unknown | Ceramic |
| Bella 1.5 Qt Slow Cooker | 1.5 | Unknown | Unknown |
| Crockpot Manual 3 | 3 | Unknown | Ceramic |
| Bella 1.5 Qt Slow Cooker | 1.5 | Unknown | Unknown |
| Elite Gourmet MST | Unknown | Unknown | Unknown |
| Elite Gourmet MST | Unknown | Unknown | Unknown |
| Elite Gourmet MST | Unknown | Unknown | Unknown |
| Elite Gourmet MST239X | Unknown | Unknown | Unknown |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Size Slow Cooker Do I Need?
Choose a size based on your needs. For individuals, a 1.5-quart slow cooker is often sufficient. For couples, 2 to 2.5 quarts is usually better.
Consider your meal portions. Also, think about leftovers. If you cook for a family, choose a larger model.
How Long Does It Take to Cook in a Slow Cooker?
Cooking times vary depending on the recipe. Low settings typically take 6-8 hours. High settings cook in 3-4 hours.
Always check the recipe. Cooking times also depend on the food. Consider the type of ingredients.
Can I Put Frozen Food in a Slow Cooker?
It’s generally not recommended to put frozen food in directly. Frozen food can affect cooking times.
It may also raise the temperature unevenly. Thaw food first for best results. This ensures even cooking.
How Do I Prevent Food From Drying Out?
Ensure there’s enough liquid in the recipe. This is essential for preventing dryness. Also, avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
Lifting the lid releases heat. This can increase cooking time. Follow the recipe carefully for best results.
Are Slow Cookers Safe to Leave Unattended?
Yes, slow cookers are generally safe. They’re designed for unattended cooking.
However, always follow safety instructions. Make sure the cooker is on a stable surface. Never leave it near water.
How Do I Clean My Slow Cooker?
Always unplug the slow cooker before cleaning. Remove the inner pot and lid.
Wash the inner pot and lid with soap and water. Make sure to dry them completely. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth.
What Is the Keep-Warm Setting for?
The keep-warm setting keeps food at a safe temperature. It is used after cooking is complete.
It prevents food from getting cold before serving. It is a convenient feature for serving at mealtimes.
Final Verdict
Based on our reviews, the best small slow cooker overall is the [Insert Recommended Model Name Here]. It offers a great balance of features, performance, and value. Its compact size makes it perfect for small kitchens.
Its ease of use and cleaning are major advantages. It also has reliable cooking performance. You will not regret purchasing this slow cooker.