Instead of buying three separate slow cookers, the Elite Gourmet Triple Slow Cooker makes it convenient by combining them so you can make three dishes at once. We were impressed with this slow cooker’s potential and saw the benefit of owning one, especially for hosting dinner or tailgate parties. Each pot holds 2.5 quarts, which is ideal for cooking different types of dips, desserts, and meat. However, its small size is more appropriate to use for small gatherings rather than a big crowd. Three slow cookers, but only one outlet plug needed. The Elite Gourmet Triple Slow Cooker is one of the best small slow cookers for its space-saving magic alone. But it’s also incredibly handy for parties and tailgating. Each of the three oval-shaped pots holds up to 2.5 quarts and each slow cooker can operate on its own heat setting. We were impressed at how consistent the heat was for each pot, and that using one pot on high didn’t affect another on low. We tried dips, weenies, brownie desserts and more and the trio kept food perfectly warm without hot spots or scorches. At 2.5 quarts it may not be large enough for holiday casseroles for big family get-togethers, but we found that even as an oval instead of a vertical cylinder it took up minimal countertop space. And it’s also clutch for singles who live in an apartment with just a cooktop or if you don’t want to use an entire oven for one baked potato—this teeny tiny appliance steamed the best baked potato we’ve ever had.

The 7 Best Small Cookers of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Not only does using a slow cooker cut down on time spent in the kitchen but it also helps to reduce the price of groceries—especially meat,” says nutrition expert and Cleverful Living founder Holley Grainger, MS, RD. “Cooking inexpensive, tougher cuts of meat at a low temperature over a longer period helps to break down connective tissue and fat yielding a juicy and tender product.”The best small slow cooker is one that will last years in your kitchen. Ensuring that it does means cleaning the appliance after each use. “Before cleaning your slow cooker, be sure it is turned off, unplugged, and has had time to cool,” says Grainger. “If the interior bowl and glass lid can be removed, wash with warm, soapy water or, if allowed by the manufacturer, wash in the dishwasher. Before storing, gently wipe down the exterior of the slow cooker with warm, soapy water and a washcloth, sponge, or rubber spatula to remove any cooked-on food making sure to avoid scouring pads and abrasive cleaners.”

Slow cooker rice pudding recipe | BBC Good Food Slow cooker rice pudding recipe | BBC Good Food

The 3 (2.35L x 3) cooking pots are individually controlled so you can cook various different recipes at once – meaning you have choice and convenience in one cooking device! What’s more, each pot has an individual temperature control, so you can prepare recipes with varying temperature requirements. It had no problems keeping our food warm; our cheese dip remained hot for over two hours. Another big selling point is that the slow cooker features a special lid holder right on the body, making it easy to cover and uncover the food whenever you want. It also means that you don’t have to set the lid down on the table. The one thing is that it doesn't have a lid latch to keep food tightly sealed. So, please take care when carrying or traveling with it. If you’re living alone, or have limited kitchen or countertop space, having a mini slow cooker is beneficial. “Its compact size makes it ideal for individuals or small households, providing perfectly portioned meals without the need for excess leftovers,” says Just. On the downside, we were not satisfied with our food on low settings: The rice was soft and mushy when it was done. But we had no issue when using it on the high setting. It’s easy to clean, and the inner pot is dishwasher safe. Overall, we think this slow cooker would be most useful for making party dips, sauces, and meatballs, and for the price, it’s hard to say no. Mini slow cookers are typically categorized as a capacity below 4 quarts,” says Lynne Just, Consumer Test Kitchen Chef at Hamilton Beach Brands. “For small kitchens with tight spaces, the most beneficial attribute is their condensed size. However, some other reasons you might reach for a mini slow cooker instead of a full-size option include cooking meals for one to two people, cooking small cuts of meat or small batches of soups or stews, using it as a fondue pot, cooking with no leftovers.” The mini slow cookers on our list range in size from 1 to 4 quarts. Those in the 1- to 1.5-quart category are great when cooking for one or making dips, while 2.5 quarts and larger is best for cooking for two to three or those who prefer leftovers.And for solo cooks or families of two, a small slow cooker or a mini slow cooker offers the convenience of the appliance without taking up too much space in the kitchen. “Small slow cookers such as the 1 to 1.5-quart models are a great option for those cooking meals for one,” says Grainer. “Whether you’re entertaining at home or bringing food to share, small slow cookers are easy to transport and will keep dips, appetizers, sides, and sauces warm.” The experts say it best. “With a mini slow cooker, you can make everything from chili to dip, or a delicious pot roast to oxtails,” says Massey. “It’s great for group functions and gatherings, especially when you want to please different taste buds.” Cooking for the family or for entertaining is so much easier using the Gourmet Large Triple slow cooker When cooking for one or two people, opt for a 2 to 3-quart slow cooker,” says Grainger. “While cooking larger cuts of meat like a roast may not be recommended, it is the ideal size for small meals, soups, and dips. Plus, many traditional slow cooker recipes that serve four to siz can easily be cut in half to fit into a smaller slow cooker.” Just adds, “Almost anything made in a large slow cooker can be made in a mini slow cooker on a smaller scale like soups, stews, side dishes, dips, smaller cuts of meat, fondue, oatmeal, small breakfast casseroles, or cinnamon rolls.”

Triple Slow Cooker Entertaining: 100 Plus Recipes and 30 Triple Slow Cooker Entertaining: 100 Plus Recipes and 30

In the case of the Mainstays slow cooker, the price was no indication of quality. The temperature controls consist of the usual low, high, and warm settings, the latter of which held our dip for a two-hour period without any scorching or separating. Compared to larger slow cookers, which usually hold around 5-6 quarts, this slow cooker holds just 2 quarts. Expect to make meals for around one to two people depending on what’s inside. You might get more out of it if you’re making a dip. We cooked a pot of rice and a delicious nacho dip. Our dip was enough for five (yay), and we managed to get three portions of rice. It’s more expensive than other slow cookers the same size, but the nifty design is worth the splurge. Each slow cooker pot features a slot for utensils so there’s no need to keep spoon rests. Even better: each slow cooker features a lid rest, so you don’t end up placing the lid on the counter only to realize there’s a pool of hot water or a ring of BBQ sauce to clean up.The particular unit also has some of the best easy-to-grip handles that we’ve tested. Even better: We found the exterior was barely warm to the touch even when the appliance had been on for hours so there’s some piece of mind in toting this slow cooker to parties. Though, we always recommend using oven mitts for safety when using a slow cooker. Costco Online UK Limited, UK Home Office, Hartspring Lane, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD25 8JS. Registered in England and Wales No. 8055444

SensioHome Gourmet Triple Slow Cooker 7.1L | Costco UK

There are other slow cookers on this list that are cheesy dip champs. And while this unit keeps dips creamy and warm, the small size forces you to half or even quarter most dip recipes intended for a standard size slow cooker. However, it’s earned such high praise for preparing another entertaining staple: condiments. This is a sauce king. We used it to make a buttery broth with bacon and white wine to spoon over grilled clams and it was the perfect size for both preparing and serving. Most mini slow cookers have a 1- to 3-quart capacity. However, there are some slow cookers and food warmers with a capacity less than 1 quart at just .65 quarts. The pots are removable and are dishwasher friendly and the main unit can be wiped down with warm cloth and then easily stored for the next time If you’re shopping for a food warmer for tailgate dips or healthy office lunches, this is one of the best, most secure appliances we’ve tested for travel. The double lid system ensures no leaks or spills, and the matte rubberized coating on the exterior doesn't feel hot to the touch. It’s also super portable at just over one pound. And the large, pop-out rubber handle makes it easy to tote from the kitchen to the dining table, especially if you have low mobility and need a tight grip. Beyond ease of use, it’s an all-around MVP and keeps both dips and dinner warm for hours without overcooking or drying out food. But while it keeps food just-right inside, the outside exterior gets extremely hot to the touch. This is likely not the best unit to have on the countertop with curious kiddos, and it’s not that travel friendly either as the small handles get super hot, too. We struggled to get a good grip when transporting this one and ended up touching the hot exterior while holding the tiny handles.When shopping for the best small small cooker for your needs, it’s important to consider the type: manual or programmable. Manual slow cookers are much more budget friendly as they just offer straight-forward temperature settings. However a programmable slow cooker has a timer with automatic functionality such as an auto shut off after a set cook time has been completed. That comes in handy when cooking meats you don’t want to dry out or following a specific time for slow cooker desserts. A programmable slow cooker can also schedule cook times and delay cooking, which is super handy for party prep There is also a keep warm option, so family and friends can serve themselves with no need for reheating. Each pot has a rest for the glass lid and a serving spoon. You can use this slow cooker to cook your meal, and when it’s done it turns into an attractive serving dish for dips, sauces, and more. Plus, the stoneware is oven safe, so you can always put it in the oven for the finishing touches on a cheesy crab dip or baked spinach dip.