Comparison: Best 8.5 Quart Slow Cooker (Updated | Dec 9th)
Looking to upgrade your meal prep game? The perfect 8.5-quart slow cooker can be your kitchen’s new best friend, effortlessly handling family dinners, batch cooking, and entertaining. But with so many options, how do you choose? We’ve done the heavy lifting for you, testing and comparing the top models to find the cream of the crop. Whether you’re a busy parent or a passionate home cook, our guide will help you discover the ideal slow cooker that combines convenience, reliability, and mouthwatering results every time.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for versatile cooking pro: Ninja® 12-in-1 PossibleCooker™ PLUS | 8.5-qt – Sous Vide & Proof Multi-Cooker | Slow Cooker
- Best for large capacity cooker: Elite Gourmet MST-900RXT# Electric Ceramic XL Jumbo Slow Cooker
- Best for programmable convenience: Elite Gourmet MST-900D 8.5Qt Digital Programmable XL Jumbo Slow Cooker
- Best for simple & reliable: Elite Gourmet Stainless Steel Slow Cooker
- Best for spill-proof design: Sunvivi 8.5 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker: Multi-Cooker Food Warmer with Locking Lid & Digital Timer
- Best for classic crock-pot: Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker
- Best for smart auto warm: Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stainless Steel
- Best for party-size portability: Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker
- Best for modern programmable: [NEW LAUNCH] KOOC 8.5-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker
- Best for ultimate multi-cooker: Ninja MC1001C Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker
Product Comparison: Best 8.5 Quart Slow Cooker
Versatile Cooking Pro
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.
Large Capacity Cooker
Elite Gourmet MST-900RXT# Electric Ceramic XL Jumbo Slow Cooker, Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock, 8.5Qt, MetallicRed
Elite Gourmet
- FEED THE MASSES with this 8.5qt slow cooker. Perfectly sized for a large turkey breast or beef roast, you can be assured of having plenty for drop-in guests or as leftovers for the next day’s lunches.
- JUMBO OVAL slow cooker 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 / Keep Warm 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 LISTED 300 watt large slow cooker is ideal for home kitchen use. With its elegant brushed stainless steel finish and 8.5 quart removable stoneware pot, it makes a thoughtful housewarming or wedding gift.
Programmable Convenience
Elite Gourmet MST-900D 8.5Qt Digital Programmable XL Jumbo Slow Cooker, Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock, Stainless Steel
Elite Gourmet
- FEED THE MASSES with this 8.5qt slow cooker. Perfectly sized for a large turkey breast or beef roast, you can be assured of having plenty for drop-in guests or as leftovers for the next day’s lunches.
- JUMBO OVAL slow cooker 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.
- PROGRAMMABLE UP TO 20 HOURS with versatile Low / High / Keep Warm 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.
- ETL LISTED 300 watt large slow cooker is ideal for home kitchen use. With its elegant brushed stainless steel finish and 8.5 quart removable stoneware pot, it makes a thoughtful housewarming or wedding gift.
Simple & Reliable
Elite Gourmet Stainless Steel Slow Cooker, Dishwasher-Safe with Tempered Glass Lid, Cool-Touch Handles, Removable Stoneware Pot, 8.5 Quart,MST-900V
Elite Gourmet
- JUMBO OVAL slow cooker 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 / Keep Warm 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.
- ETL LISTED 300 watt large slow cooker is ideal for home kitchen use. With its elegant brushed stainless steel finish and 8.5 quart removable stoneware pot, it makes a thoughtful housewarming or wedding gift.
Spill-Proof Design
Sunvivi 8.5 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker: Multi-Cooker Food Warmer with Locking Lid & Digital Timer, Adjustable Tempature Control, Dishwasher Safe, Perfect for Families and Gatherings, Blue
SUNVIVI
- [8.5 QT Extra-Large Capacity, Perfect for Family Gatherings] Easily fits a whole chicken or a variety of ingredients, ideal for family meals of 10+ people, holiday feasts, or weekend stews. No more overcrowding in the pot, enjoy a satisfying meal with less hassle.
- [3 Smart Temperature Settings for Hot Meals Anytime] The slow cooker features three cooking modes: low, high, and keep-warm, allowing you to adjust the time and temperature based on different ingredients. With up to 20 hours of keep-warm support, you can enjoy a warm meal even after a late return home.
- [Latch Sealing Glass Lid, Spill-Proof for Worry-Free Transport] The food warmer features a latch-style sealing design and spill-proof lid structure, ensuring a secure closure. Perfect for carrying to parties or picnics, it prevents spills during transport, offering both safety and convenience.
- [Removable Ceramic Inner Pot, Easy to Clean] The upgraded, heat-resistant ceramic pot is coating-free and dishwasher-safe, resistant to scratches for better hygiene. The transparent glass lid allows you to easily monitor the cooking process, making cleaning even simpler.
- [User-Friendly LED Panel] The intuitive LED digital display and one-touch operation button design make it simple to use, with no complicated settings required. Even seniors can easily master it, making everyday cooking effortless and straightforward.
Classic Crock-Pot
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for Large Families or Entertaining
Crock-Pot
- Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast
- Cooking Flexibility: High or low slow cooking settings, with convenient warm function for ideal serving temperature
- Convenient: Set it and forget it feature enables you to cook while at work or performing daily tasks
- Minimal Clean-Up: One-pot cooking reduces dishes; lid and removable stoneware are dishwasher safe
- Versatile: Removable stoneware insert can be used in the microwave or an oven up to 400°F
- Stylish: Stainless steel exterior with black accents and practical plastic handles
- Economical & Healthy: Provides a cost-efficient way to prepare nutritious, home-cooked meals
Smart Auto Warm
Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stainless Steel
Crock-Pot
- Cooking Capacity: Prepares food for over 10 people, making it a holiday dinner hosting essential.
- Digital Timer: Counts down cooking time up to 20 hours for easy monitoring.
- Auto Warm: Automatically keeps food warm after cooking for optimal serving temperature.
- Easy Cleanup: Features a removable, dishwasher-safe lid and stoneware pot for convenient cleaning.
- Memory Function: Resets to previous settings in case of a power outage.
- Elegant Design: Black stainless steel finish is stylish, easy to clean, and fits any kitchen decor.
Party-Size Portability
Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)
Hamilton Beach
- PERFECT FOR A LARGE GATHERING: The 10 quart slow cooker lets you cook enough food for a gathering of 12 or more people and fits a 10 lb. turkey or a 12 lb. roast.
- REDUCE SPILLS: The lid clips tightly to the slow cooker handles to reduce messy spills when transporting food. Carry hot meals to family gatherings, potlucks or to serve at the table without worrying about spills.
- COOK FLAVORFUL MEALS WITH MINIMAL EFFORT: This Hamilton Beach slow cooker has simple controls that make it easy for you to create flavorful meals with minimal effort and great results. Just turn the dial. No watching needed.
- MAINTAIN THE IDEAL TEMPERATURE WITH 3 HEAT SETTINGS: Just turn the dial to choose from 3 heat settings. Cook your meal on Low or High, and then switch to Warm when cooking is complete for food that’s warm and ready when it’s time to eat.
- EASY TO CARRY WITH FULL-GRIP HANDLES: The large slow cooker is easy to lift and hold onto when carrying to the table to serve a meal or when taking food to gatherings.
- SIMPLE TO CLEAN: The removable stoneware crock and glass lid are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
Modern Programmable
[NEW LAUNCH] KOOC 8.5-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, Larger than 8 Quart, More Practical than 10 Quart, with Digital Countdown Timer, Free Liners Included for Easy Clean-up, Black, Oval…
![[NEW LAUNCH] KOOC 8.5-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, Larger than 8 Quart, More Practical than 10 Quart, with Digital Countdown Timer, Free Liners Included for Easy Clean-up, Black, Oval…](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41MvSdFWMoL._SL500_.jpg "Comparison: Best 8.5 Quart Slow Cooker 10")
KOOC
- [With 5 SLOW COOKER LINERS] Use KOOC liners to save time on clean-up and enjoy every meal
- [HEALTHY SLOW STEW] KOOC slow cooker helps to reduce the nutrient loss of food material through low power operation, a healthier way to cook
- [PROGRAMMABLE] Digital Countdown Timer lets you program cook times anywhere from 30 minutes up to 20 hours, Shifts to Warm setting automatically once cook time completes
- [VARIOUS COLOUR AND SIZES FOR YOUR NEED] A wide range of sizes, 2 – 8.5 Qt. We offer a wide selection of colors, more suitable for the taste of the younger generation. Upgraded ceramic pot, stainless steel pot body
- [SUPERIOR SERVICE] Our mission as operators is to achieve 100% customer satisfaction through dedicated, professional team support and service excellence in every interaction
Ultimate Multi-Cooker
Ninja MC1001C Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker, with 8-in-1 Slow Cooker,Dutch Oven,Steamer &More,Glass Lid & Integrated Spoon,Nonstick,Oven Safe Pot to 500°F,Sea Salt Gray,Sea Salt Grey
Ninja
- REPLACES 14 COOKING TOOLS & APPLIANCES: This cooker replaces the need for a slow cooker, steam oven, food warmer, nonstick pot, sauté pan, cast iron skillet, saucier, steamer, 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.
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 should I look for in an 8.5-quart slow cooker?
Consider features like programmable settings, temperature controls, and a locking lid for portability. Look for a durable ceramic insert and a size that fits your cooking needs, especially for large families or batch cooking.
How do 8.5-quart slow cookers compare to smaller models?
Larger models like 8.5-quart slow cookers are ideal for big batches, while smaller ones are better for single meals or smaller households. They also tend to have more advanced features, though they may take up more counter space.
Are programmable slow cookers worth the extra cost?
Yes, programmable models offer convenience with timed cooking and automatic keep-warm settings. They’re great for busy schedules, but manual models can still work well if you’re on a budget.
What’s the difference between ceramic and metal inserts?
Ceramic inserts heat evenly and are non-reactive, making them ideal for long cooking times. Metal inserts are lighter and more durable but may not distribute heat as consistently.
How do I clean and maintain an 8.5-quart slow cooker?
Most ceramic inserts are dishwasher-safe, but hand-washing can extend their lifespan. Avoid sudden temperature changes, like placing a hot insert in cold water, to prevent cracking.
Which brands offer the best value for 8.5-quart slow cookers?
Brands like Crock-Pot, Hamilton Beach, and Instant Pot offer reliable options with good warranties. Compare features like programmability and build quality to find the best value for your budget.
Can I use an 8.5-quart slow cooker for small meals?
Yes, but larger slow cookers may not cook small portions as evenly. Consider filling the insert halfway or using a smaller model for better results with smaller batches.
What safety features should I check for?
Look for cool-touch handles, a secure-fitting lid, and automatic shut-off or keep-warm functions. These features prevent accidents and ensure safe, hassle-free cooking.