Comparison: Best Slow Cooker For One Person (Updated | Oct 22nd)
Cooking for one can be challenging, especially when you’re short on time. A slow cooker offers a convenient solution, but finding the right size and features can be tricky. This comparison explores the best slow cookers specifically designed for solo cooking. We’ll look at models that minimize leftovers, offer easy cleanup, and provide efficient cooking for single servings. Whether you’re a student, busy professional, or simply prefer portion control, we’ll help you find the perfect slow cooker to simplify your meals and enjoy delicious, home-cooked food without the waste.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
-
Best for best overall:
Crockpot 2-Quart Classic Slow Cooker Small Slow Cooker Black -
Best for larger capacity:
Crockpot Manual 3-Quart Slow Cooker Silver -
Best for best budget:
Elite Gourmet MST-250XS Electric Slow Cooker Ceramic Pot -
Best for multi-functional:
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker -
Best for casserole shaped:
Crock-Pot Small 2.5 Quart Casserole Slow Cooker in White/Blue -
Best for simplest option:
Crockpot SCR151-NP Slow Cooker Small Black -
Best for nonstick coating:
bella 1.5 Qt Slow Cooker with 3 Heat Manual Control -
Best for large capacity:
Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stainless Steel -
Best for most versatile:
Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker -
Best for adjustable settings:
COOK WITH COLOR 2QT Mini Electric Round Slow Cooker – Adjustable Settings
Product Comparison: Best Slow Cooker For One Person
Best Overall
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
Larger Capacity
Crockpot Manual 3-Quart Slow Cooker Silver
Crock-Pot
- Serves 3+ people
- 3-quart capacity
- HIGH/LOW cook settings
- Convenient WARM setting
- Removable round stoneware
- Dishwasher-safe stoneware and glass lid
- Polished silver, stainless steel exterior with black accents and plastic handles
Best Budget
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.
Multi-functional
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, Warmer & Sterilizer, Includes Free App with over 1900 Recipes, Stainless Steel, 3 Quart
Instant Pot
- 7 Cooking Functions: Pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, make rice, yogurt, or simply keep your meal warm—all in one appliance.
- Compact Yet Capable: A 3-quart capacity makes it perfect for small households or side dishes, and with 11 one-touch smart programs, it can tackle everything from hearty soups to decadent cakes.
- Good Food Done Faster: Cook up to 70% faster compared to slow cooking methods.
- Pro-Grade Cooking Pot: Crafted from stainless steel (18/8) with a tri-ply bottom—perfect for searing and sautéing like a pro.
- Quick Cleanup: No more fighting about who has to do the dishes. The dishwasher-safe lid and inner pot make washing up effortless.
- Power-Packed Performance: 700 watts, 120 V 60 Hz, UL & ULC Listed.
- Proven Peace of Mind: Features over 10 safety mechanisms, including overheat protection, an easy seal safety lid lock, and more.
- A Little Extra: Includes a stainless steel steamer rack to keep you ready for anything.
Casserole Shaped
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.
Simplest Option
Crockpot SCR151-NP Slow Cooker Small Black
Crock-Pot
- Serves 1-2 people
- 1.5-quart capacity
- Just plug-in for cooking and warming needs; does not include a dial
- Removable round stoneware
- Dishwasher-safe stoneware and glass lid
Nonstick Coating
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
Large Capacity
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.
Most Versatile
Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker, with 8-in-1 Slow Cooker, Dutch Oven, Steamer, Glass Lid Integrated Spoon, Nonstick, Oven Safe Pot to 500°F, Sea Salt Gray
Ninja
- REPLACES 14 COOKING TOOLS and 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 and 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 degree F: Removable cooking pot is oven safe up to 500 degree 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 percent faster than conventional ovens by combining bottom, side, and steam heat. More heat, more possibilities. Tested on 6-lb chickens.
- 8 COOKING FUNCTIONS: Slow Cook, Sear/Sauté, Steam, Keep Warm, Sous Vide, Braise, Bake, and Proof.
- INCLUDED UTENSIL: Multi-functional utensil works as a ladle and pasta fork, plus it has its own utensil rest right in the lid handle.
- EASY CLEANUP: Nonstick pot enables you to quickly wipe away messes and makes for a stress-free cleaning experience. Utensil and glass lid are dishwasher safe. Hand-washing pot recommended to extend its life. Coating: Durable non-stick ceramic coating.
Adjustable Settings
COOK WITH COLOR 2QT Mini Electric Round Slow Cooker – Adjustable Settings, Removable Stoneware Pot, Tempered Glass Lid, Dishwasher Safe, Cool-Touch Side Handles, Dark Sage
COOK WITH COLOR
- Compact and Versatile 2QT Capacity: Perfect for cooking meals for 1-4 people or preparing appetizers, soups, and stews for gatherings with its efficient and convenient design.
- Three Adjustable Heat Settings: Choose from low, high, and warm settings to cook a variety of dishes and keep them at the perfect serving temperature.
- Removable and Dishwasher-Safe Stoneware: The durable stoneware pot and tempered glass lid are both dishwasher-safe, ensuring easy cleanup after every use.
- Tempered Glass Lid with Cool-Touch Handle: Monitor your food without lifting the lid and handle it safely with the cool-touch integrated handle for added convenience.
- Efficient Performance: Operates at 120V with 110W, providing consistent cooking performance while being energy-efficient for daily use.
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 one person?
A 1.5 to 3-quart slow cooker is generally recommended for single servings and small meals.
Are smaller slow cookers less versatile?
Smaller slow cookers are ideal for simple meals and may lack some of the advanced features found in larger, more versatile models.
What features should I look for in a slow cooker for one?
Consider adjustable temperature settings (low, high, warm) and a removable, easy-to-clean ceramic pot.
Is a programmable slow cooker necessary for single-person use?
A programmable slow cooker isn't essential, but it offers convenience with features like automatic shut-off and keep-warm settings.
Can I use a multi-cooker as a slow cooker for one person?
Yes, multi-cookers like the Instant Pot or Ninja Foodi often have a slow cooker function and can be suitable if you want additional cooking options.
What are the benefits of a casserole-style slow cooker?
Casserole slow cookers are great for dishes like lasagna or baked ziti, providing even cooking and easy serving.
Is a non-stick coating important in a small slow cooker?
A non-stick coating can make cleaning easier, especially with dishes that tend to stick.
How do I choose between manual and programmable slow cookers?
Manual slow cookers are simpler and more affordable, while programmable ones offer more control and convenience with timers and automatic settings.
