Comparison: Best Slow Cooker For 1 Person (Updated | Dec 9th)
Ever found yourself staring at a mountain of leftovers after cooking for one? You’re not alone! The perfect slow cooker can be your kitchen superhero, transforming single-serving meals into culinary adventures without the waste. From compact designs to versatile features, we’ve simmered down the options to find the best slow cooker for solo diners. Whether you’re a busy professional or a cooking novice, these pint-sized powerhouses will have you whipping up delicious, portion-controlled meals with minimal effort.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for classic solo cooker: Crockpot 2-Quart Classic Slow Cooker Small Slow Cooker Black
- Best for personal size champion: Elite Gourmet MST-250XS Electric Slow Cooker Ceramic Pot
- Best for compact party essential: Bella 1.5 QT slow cooker
- Best for nonstick ceramic ease: bella 1.5 Qt Slow Cooker with 3 Heat Manual Control
- Best for ultimate multi-cooker: Ninja® 12-in-1 PossibleCooker™ PLUS | 8.5-qt – Sous Vide & Proof Multi-Cooker | Slow Cooker
- Best for safe nonstick choice: bella 1.5 Qt Slow Cooker with 3 Heat Manual Control
- Best for portable casserole pro: Crock-Pot Small 2.5 Quart Casserole Slow Cooker in White/Blue
- Best for sleek black design: Elite Gourmet MST-250XB Electric Slow Cooker Ceramic Pot
- Best for large capacity digital: Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer Stainless Steel (CPSCVC60LL-S) pack of 1
- Best for elegant gift choice: Elite Gourmet MST239X Electric Round Slow Cooker
Product Comparison: Best Slow Cooker For 1 Person
Classic Solo Cooker
Crockpot 2-Quart Classic Slow Cooker Small Slow Cooker Black
Crock-Pot
- 3 Manual Heat Settings: Choose from high, low, and warm, for cooking flexibility no matter what you’re making
- 2-Quart Capacity: Feeds 2+ people and is perfectly sized for preparing small meals, dips, and sides
- Keep Warm Setting: The manual warm setting allows you to keep your food at serving temperature when it’s time to eat
- Oven-Safe Stoneware: Removable stoneware is oven-safe up to 400 degrees F
- Dishwasher-Safe: Stoneware and lid are both dishwasher-safe, for easy cleaning
- Modern Look: Sleek black finish
Personal Size Champion
Elite Gourmet MST-250XS Electric Slow Cooker Ceramic Pot, Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock, 1.5 Quart, Stainless Steel
Elite Gourmet
- PERSONAL 1.5 QUART slow cooker makes cooking fork-tender roasts and poultry a breeze. Cool-touch handles and knob protect hands and allow you to safely transport your slow cooker.
- ADJUSTABLE SETTINGS with versatile Low / High / Keep Warm settings, gives you ultimate control of meal preparation. Simply set it and forget it while you continue on with your busy day, entertain guests or prepare other dishes.
- FAST, EASY CLEAN-UP with our dishwasher-safe clear tempered glass lid and removable oval stoneware pot. The stainless steel exterior heating base can be wiped clean with a damp cloth to maintain its pristine appearance.
- STAINLESS STEEL FINISH for a sleek and stylish design, plus rust-proof and easy to clean.
- TRUSTED BRAND – As a trusted brand for 40 years, Elite Gourmet has delivered high quality and stylish kitchen products that are affordable & user friendly. Call, email, or live chat with us, our US-based support team responds quickly to all inquiries.
Compact Party Essential
Bella 1.5 QT slow cooker, Black
BELLA
- Perfectly Sized for Petite Options: Enjoy cooking small meals effortlessly with the BELLA 1.5qt slow cooker and mini crock pot. Its compact size is ideal for solo dining or cozy gatherings, making it a useful kitchen essential for many occasions
- Customizable Cooking Convenience: With three temperature control settings, Low, High, and Warm, you can cook your meals just the way you like them. From slow-cooked stews to quick appetizers, our simmer pot adapts to your culinary needs with ease
- Party Food Warmer: Keep your guests always satisfied with tasty appetizers like queso, spinach dip, or personal-size chili, served directly from the removable stoneware pot. The Warm setting ensures your dishes stay heated until it’s time to serve
- Safety First: Designed with cool-touch side handles and knobs, the BELLA mini rice pot and multi cooker prioritizes your safety while cooking and serving. Say goodbye to burns and hello to hassle-free entertaining
- Effortless Cleanup: After the party’s over, cleaning up is a breeze with the dishwasher-safe stoneware pot and tempered glass lid. Spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying the memories you’ve made with your BELLA small portable cooker
Nonstick Ceramic Ease
bella 1.5 Qt Slow Cooker with 3 Heat Manual Control, Ceramic Nonstick Coating, Dishwasher Safe Stoneware Pot and Tempered Glass Lid, Tangle Free Cord Wrap & Cool Touch Handles, Surf
BELLA
- Perfect Size for Two: With a 1.5qt capacity, this slow cooker is just right for cooking for two or making your favorite dips, nachos, and sauces. Compact yet versatile, it’s the perfect kitchen companion for cozy dinners or party-ready appetizers
- Smart Coating for Easy Cleanup: Enjoy mess-free cooking with our EverGood Ceramic Nonstick Coating, free from PFAS, PFOA, PTFE, lead, and cadmium. The surface of this electric cooking pot ensures easy food release, quick cleanup, and fun for all
- Three Heat Settings for Perfect Results: Choose from low, medium, or high temperature settings to prepare your meals to perfection. Whether you’re simmering sauces or melting chocolate, this mini pressure cooker will help you create culinary wonders
- Safe & Durable Design: The shatter-resistant glass lid lets you keep an eye on your food while it cooks, and the cool-touch handles ensure safe handling. Non-skid feet keep the crock pot slow cooker stable on your countertop, adding peace of mind
- Effortless Storage & Cleanup: With a clutter-free cord wrap, this mini portable cooker stays neat on your countertop. The dishwasher-safe stoneware pot and tempered glass lid make cleanup as simple as cooking, so you can focus on enjoying your meal
Ultimate Multi-Cooker
Ninja® 12-in-1 PossibleCooker™ PLUS | 8.5-qt – Sous Vide & Proof Multi-Cooker | Slow Cooker, Dutch Oven & More | Glass Lid & Integrated Spoon | Nonstick | Oven Safe Pot to 500°F | Black | MC1010
Ninja
- REPLACES 12 COOKING TOOLS & APPLIANCES: This cooker replaces the need for a slow cooker, food warmer, nonstick pot, sauté pan, cast iron skillet, saucier, saucepan, stock pot, Dutch oven, roasting pan, bread maker, and utensil.
- SEAR & SAUTÉ DIRECTLY IN THE POT: Using the bottom heating elements, you are able to sear proteins and sauté vegetables right in the cooking pot—no need to transfer to the stovetop.
- OVEN SAFE TO 500°F: Removable cooking pot is oven safe up to 500°F, so you can finish your meal in the oven for a crispy top.
- PERFECT FOR ENTERTAINING: 8.5-quart cooking capacity allows you to make chili for up to 20 people, 9 lbs of spaghetti and meatballs, or enough pulled pork for 30 sliders.
- TRIPLE FUSION HEAT TECHNOLOGY: Cook up to 30% faster* than conventional ovens by combining bottom, side, and steam heat. More heat, more possibilities. *Tested on 6-lb chickens.
- INCLUDED UTENSIL: Multi-functional utensil works as a ladle and pasta fork, plus it has its own utensil rest right in the lid handle.
- 6 COOKING FUNCTIONS: Slow Cook, Sear/Sauté, Keep Warm, Sous Vide, Braise, and Proof.
- EASY CLEANUP: Nonstick pot enables you to quickly wipe away messes and makes for a stress-free cleaning experience. Utensil & glass lid are dishwasher safe. Hand-washing pot recommended to extend its life.
- SAFE & EASY TO USE: Free of PFOA, cadmium, and lead.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: 8.5-Quart Cooking Pot, PossibleCooker Base Unit, Integrated Detachable Spoon-Ladle, Glass Cooking Lid, Chef Curated Recipe Guide.
Safe Nonstick Choice
bella 1.5 Qt Slow Cooker with 3 Heat Manual Control, Ceramic Nonstick Coating, Dishwasher Safe Stoneware Pot and Tempered Glass Lid, Tangle Free Cord Wrap & Cool Touch Handles, Oatmilk
BELLA
- Perfect Size for Two: With a 1.5qt capacity, this slow cooker is just right for cooking for two or making your favorite dips, nachos, and sauces. Compact yet versatile, it’s the perfect kitchen companion for cozy dinners or party-ready appetizers
- Smart Coating for Easy Cleanup: Enjoy mess-free cooking with our EverGood Ceramic Nonstick Coating, free from PFAS, PFOA, PTFE, lead, and cadmium. The surface of this electric cooking pot ensures easy food release, quick cleanup, and fun for all
- Three Heat Settings for Perfect Results: Choose from low, medium, or high temperature settings to prepare your meals to perfection. Whether you’re simmering sauces or melting chocolate, this mini pressure cooker will help you create culinary wonders
- Safe & Durable Design: The shatter-resistant glass lid lets you keep an eye on your food while it cooks, and the cool-touch handles ensure safe handling. Non-skid feet keep the crock pot slow cooker stable on your countertop, adding peace of mind
- Effortless Storage & Cleanup: With a clutter-free cord wrap, this mini portable cooker stays neat on your countertop. The dishwasher-safe stoneware pot and tempered glass lid make cleanup as simple as cooking, so you can focus on enjoying your meal
Portable Casserole Pro
Crock-Pot Small 2.5 Quart Casserole Slow Cooker in White/Blue, Enjoy Eye-Catching Quick Meals, Durable and Compact
Crock-Pot
- Compact 2.5 Quart Capacity: Perfect for dinners, potlucks and parties
- Oven-Safe Stoneware: Removable and casserole-shaped for easy serving
- High, Low and Warm Settings: Precision cooking and keeping food warm
- Cook & Carry locking lid system: For hassle-free and neat transportation
- Dishwasher Safe: Stoneware and lid for easy clean-up
- Robust Material: Contains Aluminum, Stainless Steel for durability
- Versatility: Great for make-ahead meals, entertaining, and when conventional oven space is limited.
Sleek Black Design
Elite Gourmet MST-250XB Electric Slow Cooker Ceramic Pot, with Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Soups, Roasts, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe (1.5 Quart, Black)
Elite Gourmet
- PERSONAL 1.5 QUART slow cooker makes cooking fork-tender roasts and poultry a breeze. Cool-touch handles and knob protect hands and allow you to safely transport your slow cooker.
- ADJUSTABLE SETTINGS with versatile Low / High / Keep Warm settings, gives you ultimate control of meal preparation. Simply set it and forget it while you continue on with your busy day, entertain guests or prepare other dishes.
- FAST, EASY CLEAN-UP with our dishwasher-safe clear tempered glass lid and removable oval stoneware pot. The exterior heating base can be wiped clean with a damp cloth to maintain its pristine appearance.
- SLEEK BLACK FINISH for a clean and stylish design that pairs with any kitchen.
- Intertek/ETL LISTED for your safety, 120 Watts, 1 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY and U.S. based customer support team means you can buy with confidence.
Large Capacity Digital
Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer Stainless Steel (CPSCVC60LL-S) pack of 1
Crock-Pot
- Programmable Digital Timer: Control cooking times from 30 minutes up to 20 hours
- Serve a Crowd: 6 quart Cook & Carry Slow Cooker serves 7 plus people
- Locking Lid: Lid gasket provides extra seal for less mess during transport
- Interactive Cooking: Safe for use in oven up to 400 degree F, and microwave
- Worry-free Travel: Secure locking lid and rubber gasket prevent spills
- Material: Contains Aluminum, Stainless Steel (Iron, Chromium, Nickel, Manganese, Copper, Phosphorus)
- Environmentally Friendly: Energy efficient at 240 Watts at 120V A.C; and 60Hz
Elegant Gift Choice
Elite Gourmet MST239X Electric Round Slow Cooker, Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock, 2 Quart, Black
Elite Gourmet
- POUR YOUR FAVORITE INGREDIENTS into the 2Qt. stoneware pot before you go to work, turn it on low and return to enjoy a fresh, warm, welcoming meal.
- 2QT. GLAZED CERAMIC CROCK makes cooking fork-tender roasts and poultry a breeze. Cool-touch handles and interface protect hands from burns and allow you to safely transport your slow cooker.
- ADJUSTABLE SETTINGS with versatile Low / High settings, gives you ultimate control of meal preparation. Simply set it and forget it while you entertain guests or prepare other dishes.
- FAST, EASY CLEAN-UP with our dishwasher-safe clear tempered glass lid and removable oval crock. The brushed stainless steel heating unit can be wiped clean with a damp cloth to maintain its pristine appearance.
- Intertek/ETL LISTED 120 WATT, the slow cooker is ideal for home kitchen use. With its elegant black finish and 2 quart removable stoneware pot, it makes a thoughtful housewarming or wedding gift.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What size slow cooker is best for a single person?
For one person, a slow cooker with a capacity between 1.5 and 3 quarts is ideal. This size is perfect for making individual meals or cooking a recipe that yields 2-3 servings for leftovers. Anything larger can be inefficient, as food may not cook properly and will require more energy.
Are programmable features worth the extra cost for one person?
Yes, programmable features are highly valuable, especially for those with busy schedules. You can set the cooking time, and the appliance will automatically switch to a ‘keep warm’ setting, preventing your meal from overcooking. This provides convenience and peace of mind, ensuring your food is ready when you are.
What’s the difference between a basic and a premium slow cooker?
Basic models offer simple low/high settings and are very affordable. Premium models often include programmable timers, digital displays, a ‘keep warm’ function, and sometimes a searing or sauté function for browning meat directly in the pot. The best choice depends on whether you value simple functionality or advanced, time-saving features.
Should I choose a model with a removable stoneware insert?
Absolutely, a removable stoneware insert is essential for convenience. It allows you to easily prepare ingredients ahead of time, store them in the refrigerator, and then place the insert directly into the slow cooker. It also makes serving and cleanup significantly simpler.
How can I get the best value from a small slow cooker?
To maximize value, look for a model that includes a recipe book specifically for smaller batches. You can also use your slow cooker for more than just main dishes, such as making oatmeal, dips, or desserts. Choosing a durable, well-reviewed brand ensures your appliance will last for years, providing long-term value.
What are the main differences between a 1.5-quart and a 3-quart slow cooker?
A 1.5-quart model is best for single-serving recipes like oatmeal or a small portion of soup. A 3-quart model offers more versatility, allowing you to cook slightly larger meals or batch-cook for leftovers throughout the week. If you enjoy meal prepping, the 3-quart size provides more flexibility.
Is a slow cooker a good appliance for someone with a small kitchen?
Yes, a small slow cooker is an excellent space-saving appliance. A 1.5 or 2-quart model has a very small footprint, making it easy to store in a cabinet. Its versatility in replacing other cooking methods for certain meals makes it a highly efficient tool for compact spaces.
