Comparison: Best Slow Cooker With Stainless Steel Insert (Updated | Dec 9th)
Tired of scrubbing stubborn stains from your slow cooker’s ceramic insert? You’re not alone. Stainless steel inserts are revolutionizing the slow cooker game, offering durability, easy cleanup, and even stovetop searing capabilities. We’ve done the heavy lifting, testing top models to find the perfect balance of performance, convenience, and value. Get ready to discover the stainless steel slow cooker that will transform your weeknight dinners and weekend meal prep.
- Best for multi-function master: HOUSNAT Slow Cooker
- Best for premium versatility: All-Clad Stainless Steel Electric Slow Cooker 7-Quart
- Best for classic capacity: Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker
- Best for travel-ready convenience: Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer Stainless Steel (CPSCVC60LL-S) pack of 1
- Best for precision sous vide: Crockpot Programmable 7-Quart Cook & Carry Slow Cooker with Sous Vide Stainless Steel
- Best for stovetop sear ready: Chefman 6-Quart Slow Cooker
- Best for cast iron dutch oven: All-Clad 5 Quart 7-in-1 Electric Slow Cooker with Stainless Steel and Cast Iron
- Best for extra large capacity: Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stainless Steel
- Best for personalized timing: Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker
- Best for sear & cook master: Hamilton Beach Sear & Cook Stock Pot Slow Cooker with Stovetop Safe Crock
Product Comparison: Best Slow Cooker With Stainless Steel Insert
HOUSNAT Slow Cooker, 10 in 1 Programmable Cooker, 304 Stainless Steel Rice Cookers 6QT, Yogurt Maker, Delay Start, Adjustable Temp& Digital Time for Large Families or Entertaining
- ✔️ MULTI USE SLOW COOKER – 10 preset programs of the low and high slow cook setting, sear/sauté, roast, bake, steam, stew, rice, multigrain, sous vide, yogurt to choose, time and energy saving. No need to operate after selecting the corresponding function, the display will automatically display the time and temperature, wait for about 10S to start automatically.
- ✔️ YOU ARE IN ALL CONTROL – Customize design allows you to adjust the cooking time and temp according to your cooking habits and preferences. 24-hour “delay start” You can set the cooking start time, the slow cooker will automatically start cooking when the time you set starts, and the slow cooker has a heat preservation function, even if you are not in the kitchen, you can make hot meals and keep warm.
- ✔️HIGH CAPACITY & DISHWASHER SAFE – 6 QT inner pot is perfect for family meals. Easy cleaning mirror stainless steel made and dishwasher safe removable pot and glass lid are convenient to be cleaned in dishwasher with warm soapy water after use.
- ✔️ SMART COOKWARE WITH RECIPE – There is a real time display of the remaining cooking time and selected temperature on the digital screen. And the automatic keep warm function works with no watching needed and keeps your dishes warm until it is time to serve.
- ✔️ SAFE TO USE – Thick 304 stainless steel with good heat insulation brings non melt and cool touch handles and shells to protect your hands from burns and assure you safe transport. The tempered glass lid can bear high temperature and long time use.
- Note: After the slow cooker starts cooking, the temperature rises gradually. The maximum slow cooking temperature is lower than 212°F(100°C): Low setting: 201.2°F ± 5.4°F; High setting: 204.8°F ± 5.4°F. This programmed setting prevents burning and sticking at the bottom. Characterized by low-temperature slow cooking, it functions to preserve the moisture and nutrients in the food.
- Note: The stainless steel pot of the slow cooker is lead-free and safe for cooking. The lead warning on the outer box pertains to the circuit board located at the base of the product. Since the circuit board does not come into contact with food, please rest assured.
All-Clad Stainless Steel Electric Slow Cooker 7-Quart, Programmable LCD Timer, Aluminum Insert, Slow Cookers, Small Kitchen Appliances, Silver
- FAMILY-SIZED CAPACITY: This slow cooker holds 7 quarts of food, perfect for cooking your family and friends their favorite dishes.
- 4 PRESET MODES: Features three slow cooking modes (Low, High, High/Low) and an automatic keep warm function keeping your food hot for six hours.
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL SLOW COOKER:A removable cast aluminum insert with nonstick ceramic coating that can be used on the cooktop, in the oven or for serving.
- INTUITIVE LCD SCREEN: Monitor your cooking with the user-friendly digital screen of this slow cooker that displays your cooking mode and time.
- CONVENIENT COOKING EXPERIENCE: Experience the convenience of maintaining heat and moisture with the stainless-steel lid. Enjoy hassle-free cleanup with the dishwasher-safe insert, making post-cooking cleaning effortless.
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for Large Families or Entertaining
- 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
Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer Stainless Steel (CPSCVC60LL-S) pack of 1
- 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
Crockpot Programmable 7-Quart Cook & Carry Slow Cooker with Sous Vide Stainless Steel
- Sous Vide Function: Food cooks in a temperature controlled water bath, in air-tight bags, for unrivaled results. The removable probe ensures food reaches a precise internal temperature, so there’s no over- or under-cooking. Finish on the stove for a perfect, caramelized sear
- Removable Temperature Probe: Ensures food reaches a precise internal temperature, so there’s no over-cooking, under-cooking, or guesswork
- Cook & Carry Locking Lid: Travel-proof locking lid provides a tight seal to prevent leaks and spills, for no mess on-the-go
- Innovative Design: Updated 7-quart stoneware design has more usable cooking space*, with a generous base for larger cuts of meat and family-sized meals* *Compared with SCV700 Crock-Pot Slow Cooker
- Warm Setting: Keeps food at the ideal serving temperature until it’s time to eat
- Dishwasher- and Oven-Safe: Removable stoneware and glass lid are both dishwasher-safe; the stoneware is also oven-safe
- Modern Digital Display: Customize precise temperature controls, as well as cook times from 5 minutes to 30 hours
Chefman 6-Quart Slow Cooker, Electric Countertop Cooking, Stovetop & Oven-Safe Removable Insert for Browning & Sautéing, Family-Size Soups & Stews, Nonstick & Dishwasher-Safe Interior,Stainless Steel
- FAMILY SIZE ONE-POT MEALS: This 6-quart slow cooker is perfect for all-day electric countertop cooking. Add your ingredients, and then set it and forget it for meals ready when you are. Tenderize meat or cook family-sized stews, soups, chilis, and braises in one convenient cooker.
- REMOVABLE COOKING INSERT: Brown and sauté directly in the stovetop and oven-safe removable insert before slow cooking for greater depth of flavor. The die-cast insert is portable, so you can easily transport your meals to family dinners and events.
- INTUITIVE DIAL CONTROL: Enjoy easy-to-use dial control for two heat settings, low and high. Set your slow cooker to the Warm setting after cooking so your food can stay plate-ready all day.
- EASY CLEANUP: Enjoy a nonstick and dishwasher-safe insert for convenient one-pot cleanup. The glass lid is also dishwasher-safe. After cooking, simply remove the insert and lid and load it in the dishwasher alleviate the stress of after-dinner scrubbing.
- RESOURCES: UL approved with advanced safety technology for long-lasting durability, & 1-year assurance provided by Chefman, so you can purchase worry-free – we’ve got your back! For information on how to use your product, scroll down for a PDF User Guide. 350 Watts/120 Volts – RJ15-6-DC-V2
All-Clad 5 Quart 7-in-1 Electric Slow Cooker with Stainless Steel and Cast Iron, 1200W – Black Enamel Crock
- REMOVABLE ENAMELED CAST IRON DUTCH OVEN: Choose where and how to cook. This cast iron dutch oven can be used on the cooktop, in an oven, and placed on the table to serve, replacing many cooking tools with just one appliance.
- HOLDS 5 QUARTS OF FOOD: Enough capacity to feed all your family and friends their favorite foods.
- TEMPERATURE CONTROL: Keeps food warm automatically for 4 hours after cooking is complete. The tight-fitting cast iron lid maintains the heat and moisture inside, preventing the food from drying out.
- PROGRAMMABLE TIMER: 5 automatic programs (High Temp Slow Cooking, Low Temp Slow Cooking, Braise, Sauté, Simmer) plus a Manual program means you can cook anything and everything. Cook while working or even sleeping so your food is ready when you are.
- CONVENIENT AND STYLISH: Premium stainless steel exterior with classic All-Clad handle and logo. The easy-to-grip pot looks beautiful on the table for serving. A clear LCD screen displays your cooking mode and time, so you can easily track the cooking process. Easy to clean and dishwasher safe pot.
Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stainless Steel
- 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.
Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker, Portable Programmable with Timer, Locking Lid, Stainless Steel; an Essential Kitchen Appliance, Perfect for Families and Gatherings
- Personalized Cooking: MyTime adjusts the cooking cycle so your meal is ready exactly when you want it
- Leak-proof Lid: Travel-proof locking lid provides a tight seal to prevent leaks and spills
- Large Capacity: Fitted with a 7-quart bowl that serves 7+ people – perfect for families or gatherings
- Temperature Control: Auto-adjustment cooking cycle ensures meals are never overcooked but always flavor-filled
- Intuitive Control: Flat digital control screen lets you schedule meal times, and manually control cook time and temperature
- Convenient Handles: ‘Cook and Carry’ handles for hassle-free lifting and carrying
- Sustainable Materials: Made of Aluminum, Stainless Steel (Iron, Chromium, Nickel, Manganese, Copper, Phosphorus), and is 100% recyclable.
Hamilton Beach Sear & Cook Stock Pot Slow Cooker with Stovetop Safe Crock, Large 10 Quart Capacity, Programmable, Silver (33196)
- LOCK IN THE FLAVOR — SEAR RIGHT ON THE STOVETOP. Enjoy great flavor along with one-pan convenience: sear on the stovetop, then finish the meal in the same pan. The removable nonstick pot can cook directly on gas, electric or ceramic stovetops.
- SERVE 12+ PEOPLE WITH 10 QUART CAPACITY: Cook a hearty meal for the whole family or serve a delicious main dish for a crowd. The 10 quart capacity slow cooker feeds a gathering of 12 or more people and fits a 10 lb. turkey or 12 lb. roast.
- 15 HEATING OPTIONS: This programmable slow cooker lets you mix and match high, low or warm heat settings with your choice of 2, 4, 6, 8 or 10 hours of cooking time.
- LIGHTWEIGHT REMOVABLE NONSTICK ALUMINUM POT. The lightweight removable pot is lighter than a ceramic crock, so it’s easy to lift when the pot is full.
- AUTOMATIC KEEP WARM. When cooking is complete, this 10 quart slow cooker automatically shifts to warm to keep food at the perfect temperature until serving time.
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
Why should I choose a slow cooker with a stainless steel insert?
A stainless steel insert is highly durable, resistant to chipping and staining, and won’t retain odors or flavors from previous meals. It’s a great choice for searing meat directly on the stovetop before slow cooking, which ceramic inserts cannot do. This material also offers a premium, long-lasting build quality compared to other options.
What key features should I compare when shopping?
First, look at the capacity, typically ranging from 4 to 8 quarts, to ensure it fits your household size. Next, compare programmable settings like a digital timer, automatic keep-warm function, and various heat levels (e.g., Low, High, Sauté/Brown). A locking lid is also a crucial feature for easy and spill-free transport.
How does a stainless steel insert compare to a traditional ceramic one?
The primary difference is versatility; stainless steel inserts are often stovetop-safe for browning, while ceramic ones are not. Stainless steel is more durable and lighter than heavy, fragile ceramic, which can chip or crack. However, some cooks prefer ceramic for its even heat distribution and non-reactive properties with acidic foods.
Is a programmable slow cooker worth the extra cost?
Yes, for most people, a programmable model is a significant upgrade in convenience. It allows you to set a specific cook time and automatically switches to a ‘keep warm’ setting when done, preventing overcooking. This ‘set it and forget it’ functionality is ideal for busy individuals who aren’t home to manually turn off the cooker.
What size slow cooker is right for me?
For individuals or couples, a 4-quart model is usually sufficient. For a family of four, a 6-quart slow cooker is the most popular and versatile size. If you cook large roasts, batch-cook meals, or entertain often, an 8-quart model provides the necessary capacity.
How do I determine the best value for my budget?
The best value isn’t always the lowest price; it’s about getting the features you need for a reasonable cost. A mid-range model with a programmable timer and a quality stainless steel insert often offers better long-term value than a cheap, basic model. Consider the cost of replacing a lower-quality unit versus investing in one that will last for years.
Are there any downsides to a stainless steel insert?
The main potential downside is that food can sometimes stick more easily to stainless steel than to a well-seasoned ceramic insert, requiring more attention when sautéing. They can also be more expensive upfront than models with standard ceramic inserts. However, proper preheating and using enough oil can minimize sticking.
How important is a locking lid feature?
A locking lid is extremely important if you ever plan to transport your slow cooker, such as to a potluck or family gathering. It securely fastens the lid to the base, preventing messy spills in your car. While not essential for home use, it’s a valuable feature for anyone who cooks on the go.
