- Best Mini Size Multi-Functional Cooker | Instant Pot | Find on Amazon
- Best Grill- Slow Cooker | AROMA | Find on Crate And Barrel
- Best Fast Slow Cooker | Breville | Find on Crate And Barrel
- Premium Choice | GreenPan | Find on Crate And Barrel
A small crock pot is an excellent option for those who want the convenience of a slow cooker without taking up too much space in their kitchen. It offers all the capabilities of a full-size slow cooker but in a more compact size that won't hog an entire shelf in your kitchen cabinet. This makes it ideal for small families and apartment dwellers who want to prepare homemade meals for one or two.
While the modern slow cookers model features more versatile functions, crock pots are still the best option for low and slow cooking. Turning it on in the morning means you can have a delicious meal ready by dinner time. Despite its small size, a mini crock pot can cook up everything a full-size one can, making it a convenient and versatile kitchen tool.
To help expand your cooking possibilities, we've rounded up the best small crock pots, slow cookers, and multi-purpose hot pots on the market today. These versatile kitchen gadgets can whip up everything from soups and stews to roasted chicken and pork loin. All the products included below are made using non-toxic PTFE- and PFOA-free materials.
The 7 Best Small Crock Pot and Slow Cooker Picks For Slow Cooking
Vermicular Musui-Kamado Cast Iron Induction Cooker
Best Overall
Source: Williams Sonoma
Vermicular's Musui-Kamado Cast Iron Induction Cooker combines the precision of a high-tech sous vide cooker with the versatility and durability of a traditional cast-iron pot. Its three-dimensional heating system draws inspiration from traditional Japanese kamado stoves, supporting even cooking and consistent heat distribution. With the help of the 70-recipe cookbook included, you'll learn to master sous vide without vacuum pouches or wasted pantry space.
The Vermicular Musui-Kamado Cast Iron Induction Cooker is incredibly easy to use thanks to its intuitive controls and user-friendly design. The versatile slow cooker combines a 4-quart enameled cast iron pot with a precision electric induction base, both of which are PTFE-, PFOA, lead-, and cadmium-free. Making this cooker is exceptionally durable, thanks to its high-quality construction and sturdy build. It comes complete with a lid stand and measuring cups. Four temperature settings allow for high-temperature searing, roasting, and low and slow braising. One feature that sets the Vermicular Musui-Kamado Cast Iron Induction Cooker apart from its competitors is its innovative design. It uses a unique two-layered pot system for superior heat retention and precise temperature control. With its unique design, it ensures that your meals are perfectly cooked every time.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.9/5 Ease Of Cleaning: 5/5 Durability: 5/5 Value for Money: 4.9/5 Ease of Use: 4.9/5
Materials | Enameled cast-iron pot (PTFE, PFOA, lead and cadmium free) |
Capacity | 4 qt |
Temperature Range | 90- 445°F |
Maximum Cooking Time | N/A |
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GreenLife Healthy Cook Duo 6 Quart Slow Cooker
Most Budget Friendly
Source: GreenLife
The GreenLife Healthy Cook Duo 6-Quart Slow Cooker is an excellent kitchen addition. Simple and easy to use with three cook modes: low, medium, and high. Or, utilize mode to "set and forget" the time and temperature however you please. Programmable for up to 10 hours, stays warm for up to 4 hours, and with delay start timer for 30 to 20 hours! With these functions, you can serve the perfect hot meal perfectly on time for the whole family to enjoy.
The GreenLife Healthy Cook Duo 6 qt. Slow Cooker is incredibly easy to use, thanks to its intuitive controls and user-friendly design. It features a removable and lightweight pot that can also be used for the stovetop and the oven. Perfect for searing and stir-frying, also browning before serving. Crafted from a healthy ceramic non-stick coating free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium makes cleaning up effortless while offering fantastic performance. The use of non-toxic and eco-friendly materials in this product guarantees that your food is safe and healthy to consume without compromising taste or quality.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Ease Of Cleaning: 4.7/5 Durability: 4.5/5 Value for Money: 4.8/5 Ease of Use: 4.4/5
Materials | Diamond-infused ceramic non-stick (free of PFAS, PFOA, lead & cadmium) |
Capacity | 6 qt |
Temperature Range | n/a |
Maximum Cooking Time | 10 hours |
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Calphalon Digital Sauté Slow Cooker
Best With Saute slow cooker
Source: Calphalon
Calphalon Digital Sauté Slow Cooker is a high-quality appliance that is designed to make cooking easy and convenient for busy families and individuals. For those seeking to prepare healthy, flavorful meals without dedicating too much time to cooking, this compact slow cooker is an excellent choice. The appliance is equipped with a range of features that make cooking a breeze, including a sauté function, programmable settings, and a 5.3-quart cooking capacity. Equipped with advanced heating technology and energy efficiency, this product is specifically designed to cook food evenly while using less energy than traditional cooking methods.
One of the standout features of the Calphalon Digital Sauté Slow Cooker is its sauté function. This allows you to brown meats or sauté vegetables directly in the small slow cooker, eliminating the need for additional cookware and reducing cleanup time. Crafted from stainless steel with PTFE- and PFOA-free non-stick ceramic coating, it makes cleaning an easy task.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Ease Of Cleaning: 4.8/5 Durability: 4.7/5 Value for Money: 4.6/5 Ease of Use: 4.8/5
Materials | Stainless steel, non-stick ceramic coating (PTFE and PFOA free) |
Capacity | 5.3 qt |
Temperature Range | n/a |
Maximum Cooking Time | n/a |
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Instant Pot Duo Multi-Use Mini Pressure Cooker
Best Mini Multi-Functional Cooker
Source: Walmart
The Instant Pot Duo Multi-Use Pressure Cooker is a game-changer in the kitchen. Don't let the compact size you; the 7-in-1 multi-cooker is far more than just a pressure cooker. It's a slow cooker, rice cooker, yogurt maker, steamer, saute pan, and food warmer. Fifteen customizable smart programs allow for quick, one-touch meals. It's easy to use and saves time, making it perfect for busy individuals or two people. It's also great for making small batches of food or side dishes. Additionally, the Instant Pot Electric Pressure Cooker is designed to be energy efficient, using up to 70% less energy than traditional cooking methods.
Unlike other cookers on the market, this 3-quart slow cooker is made from stainless steel and Teflon, PFOA- and PTFE-free ceramic non-stick, making cleaning a breeze. For added convenience, both the tempered glass lid and inner pot of this product are dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. The tempered glass lid also allows for easy monitoring of your food's progress while it cooks. Unlike the previous model, Instant Pot Duo Mini has improved by adding new safety features and enhancing its cooking functions. It's also more compact than previous models, making it more convenient for smaller households.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Ease Of Cleaning: 4.9/5 Durability: 4.6/5 Value for Money: 4.7/5 Ease of Use: 4.9/5
Materials | 18/8 Stainless steel and non-stick ceramic (PTFE, PFOA, lead, and cadmium free) |
Capacity | 3 qt |
Temperature Range | 86- 410°F |
Maximum Cooking Time | 10 hours |
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AROMA Multi-Grill Hot Pot
Best With Grill- Slow Cooker
Source: Crate And Barrel
If you're seeking a compact and versatile appliance that can handle a range of cooking tasks, the AROMA® 2.5-Qt. Multi-Grill Hot Pot is an excellent choice. Designed to prepare one or two servings, the AROMA Multi-Grill Hot Pot is the perfect cooking gadget for a dorm room, apartment, or office kitchen. The versatile and user-friendly appliance allows you to cook various meals quickly and easily. Its multi-purpose design combines two cooking functions in one. Use the stainless steel pot for cooking pasta, rice, chili, and the non-stick grill pan to sear meats and vegetables. The AROMA® 2.5-Qt. Multi-Grill Hot Pot features a powerful 1500-watt heating element and can reach temperatures up to 450°F, allowing you to cook a range of meals quickly and efficiently.
The AROMA® 2.5-Qt. Multi-Grill Hot Pot stands out from its competitors' thanks to its versatile design, which allows you to use it as a grill, hot pot, or steamer, depending on your needs. The stylish hot pot features stay-cool bamboo handles for stable transport, a moisture-locking tempered glass lid for easy monitoring, and a cool-touch base for safe use. All removable parts are dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup in the communal kitchen or break room sink. Now all that's left to do is bookmark new recipes to try!
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.9/5 Ease Of Cleaning: 5/5 Durability: 5/5 Value for Money: 5/5 Ease of Use: 4.9/5
Materials | Stainless steel pot, Tempered glass lid, non-stick BBQ Pan (may contain Teflon) |
Capacity | 2.5 qt |
Temperature Range | 300- 400°F |
Maximum Cooking Time | N/A |
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Breville ® Fast Slow GO ™ Pressure Cooker
Best Fast Slow Cooker
Source: Crate and Barrel
Breville is a well-known and respected brand in the kitchen appliance industry, and the Fast Slow Go Pressure Cooker is no exception. This versatile Breville ® Fast Slow GO ™ Pressure Cooker can do everything a standard crock pot can and more! The pressure cooker/slow cooker is easy to use and features fourteen shortcut settings to choose from: soup, stock, meat, stew, steam, saute, legumes, rice/grains, risotto, yogurt, reduce, sous vide, pressure cook, and slow cook. The electric cooker features stainless steel construction and stainless steel trivet, so the options are truly endless. With the three hands-free steam-release options and the three-way safety system will keep you safe.
The Breville Fast Slow Go Pressure Cooker has a 6-quart capacity and features a large, easy-to-read LCD screen that displays cooking time, pressure level, and more. It also includes a natural setting that slowly subsides inside the pot, a pulse setting that releases in quick bursts to reduce food disturbance, and an automatic, ensuring pressure is released quickly to prevent overcooking. With two sensors, you will get precise temperature control. To serve the perfect dinner on time, use the delay start and keep warm functions.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.9/5 Ease Of Cleaning: 5/5 Durability: 5/5 Value for Money: 5/5 Ease of Use: 4.8/5
Materials | Stainless steel pot |
Capacity | 6 qt |
Temperature Range | N/A |
Maximum Cooking Time | N/A |
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GreenPan™ Premiere Stainless Steel Essential Smart Skillet
Premium Choice
Source: GreenPan
This GreenPan Premiere Stainless Steel Essential Smart Skillet is a versatile piece, and it is designed to take on any kitchen task. It can help you cook up a storm in the kitchen- from making stir-fries, searing, and steaming to making sauces, soups, stew, and rice. The GreenPan™ Premiere Stainless Steel Essential Smart Skillet is easy to use thanks to its intuitive controls and ergonomic design. It's also incredibly durable, with a sturdy construction that's built to last.
What makes this 6-qt. Electric Smart Skillet special is that the cooking pot is non-toxic and free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium. The healthy ceramic non-stick coating featured on the interior of the inner pan ensures your food is cooked perfectly and makes cleaning a breeze every time. The cast-in heating element heats up quickly, so you can be on your way to cooking a delicious meal. The preset programs, including stir-fry, saute, simmer, steam, white rice, brown rice, grains, soup, sear/sauté, warm, and preheat, make cooking a breeze while getting you the best result. And if you feel like using the presets, with the manual operation, you can control cooking time and temperature.
Our Ratings
Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Ease Of Cleaning: 4.7/5 Durability: 4.8/5 Value for Money: 4.5/5 Ease of Use: 4.8/5
Materials | Diamond-infused ceramic non-stick (free of PFAS, PFOA, lead & cadmium) |
Capacity | 6 qt |
Temperature Range | 17.52" Long X 13.7" Wide X 8.46" High |
Maximum Cooking Time | N/A |
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What To Look For In a Crock Pot
Ready to shop for a new crock pot? It's worth taking the time to find something that's suitable for your intended cooking methods and designed to withstand years of use. Here are a few key product features to keep an eye out for:
Size
When selecting a crock pot, it's important to consider the size of your family and the amount of food you typically cook to ensure that you choose the right size for your needs. Most models range in size from a mini slow cooker of 1.5 quarts to family size of 8 quarts.
Non-Toxic Materials
When it comes to choosing a crock pot, two of the most common materials you'll find on the market are stoneware and stainless steel. While stoneware is generally considered safe for use in cookware, it's important to be aware of potential risks and drawbacks. One major concern is that some stoneware products may contain lead or other harmful chemicals in their glaze.
However, low-quality stainless steel may contain trace amounts of metals like nickel or chromium that can be harmful when consumed in large quantities.To ensure the safety of your cookware, it's essential to choose high quality materials that are free from harmful chemicals and heavy metals.
While non-stick coatings make cleaning a breeze, they can also leach toxic chemicals into your food as it cooks. To ensure safer cooking, look for products that are labeled as free from PFAS, PFOA, and other harmful chemicals. Not only are they better for your health, but they're also better for the environment.
Shape
Crock pots come in a variety of shapes, including oval and round. Oval models are great for cooking larger cuts of meat or whole chickens, while round models are better for soups, stews, and chili.
Programmable settings
Look for slow cookers equipped with helpful presets that allow you to "set it and forget it." They'll take care of the time and temperature, so all you have to worry about is the ingredients that go inside.
Tempered Glass Lid
Slow cookers with a transparent glass lid allow you to monitor your food as it cooks without releasing any of the moisture locked inside. There must be a small steam hole to help release pressure.
Side Handles
Almost every hot pot, slow cooker, and multi-purpose cooking appliance have side handles for easy transport. The best are made using materials that stay cool even after a long day of use.
Additional features
Some crock pots come with additional features such as locking lids for easy transport, built-in timers, and even cooking probes that allow you to monitor the internal temperature of your food.
How We Picked
Our list of products has been meticulously curated based on a combination of personal experience, extensive research of customer reviews from different retail platforms, and valuable insights shared by home chefs. In selecting our small crock pots and slow cookers, we have prioritized factors such as materials free from PFOA and PTFE, size, durability, and ease of use. By considering these factors, we aim to provide you with a list of high-quality crock pots and slow cookers that perform well and are safe and convenient to use in your home kitchen.
