Comparison: Best Slow Cooker You Can Sear In (Updated | Dec 9th)
Tired of juggling multiple pans to achieve that perfect sear before slow cooking? We’ve done the sizzling research so you don’t have to! The game-changing slow cookers with searing functions are revolutionizing one-pot meals, saving you time and cleanup while locking in incredible flavors. Get ready to fall in love with your kitchen all over again!
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for 9-in-1 versatility: Hamilton Beach 6 Quart 9-in-1 Programmable Slow Cooker with Sear
- Best for ultimate multi-cooker: Ninja® 12-in-1 PossibleCooker™ PLUS | 8.5-qt – Sous Vide & Proof Multi-Cooker | Slow Cooker
- Best for lightweight aluminum pot: Instant Pot Superior Cooker 7.5QT Slow Cooker and Multicooker
- Best for stovetop sear master: Hamilton Beach Sear & Cook Stock Pot Slow Cooker with Stovetop Safe Crock
- Best for programmable sear cooker: Hamilton Beach 33662 Programmable Slow Cooker with 6 Quart Stovetop-Safe Sear & Cook Crock
- Best for spill-proof travel cooker: Hamilton Beach Programmable Slow Cooker with 6 Quart Stovetop-Safe Sear & Cook Crock & Travel Lid Lock for Portable Transport
- Best for 3-in-1 multi-cooker: Cuisinart MSC-400 3-In-1 Cook Central 4-Quart Multi-Cooker: Slow Cooker
- Best for classic 7-quart capacity: Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker
- Best for smart timer control: Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker
- Best for 10-in-1 pressure master: Instant Pot Pro (8 QT) 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker
Product Comparison: Best Slow Cooker You Can Sear In
9-in-1 Versatility
Hamilton Beach 6 Quart 9-in-1 Programmable Slow Cooker with Sear, Browning, Rice, Steam, Sauté, Roast Delay Start & Keep Warm Functions, Nonstick PFAS-Free Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33604)
Hamilton Beach
- 9 COOKING OPTIONS: Cook multiple ways with one versatile appliance. As a slow cooker, choose high or low heat, or select white rice or whole grain to use as a rice cooker. You can also sear, brown, sauté, roast, steam or keep food warm.
- SEAR OR BROWN RIGHT IN THE POT: Sear or brown right in the ceramic nonstick pot — no stovetop necessary. Improve the color and flavor of every dish you make in this searing slow cooker by searing or browning before you roast or slow cook foods.
- SLOW COOK ONE-POT MEALS, SIDE DISHES, APPETIZERS AND DESSERTS: With our versatile slow cooker, you can make and serve everything from lasagna, meatballs and macaroni and cheese, to fruit cobblers and cakes. Choose low or high heat settings .
- PERFECT FOR FAMILY GATHERINGS AND ENTERTAINING: The Hamilton Beach slow cooker has a removable, 6 quart rectangular pot that fits a variety of foods. It will hold a 6 lb. chicken, 4 lb. roast or enough barbecue to make up to 25 sliders. Serves 7+ people.
- DELAY START FUNCTION FOR RICE, WHOLE GRAINS and STEAM: Delay start adds to this multi-cooker’s convenience and makes meal planning easier. You can set the delay cooking time from 1 to 15 hours to begin cooking rice or grains or steaming food while you are away from home or busy with other tasks.
- Thoughtfully Designed with Easy-Touch Controls The easy touch controls are intuitive to use. You can set your own time and temperature for most programs.
- The time counts down on the screen, so you can track the remaining cook time and know when food is ready. When food is ready, the slow cooker automatically switches to warm. Simply wipe the control panel to keep clean.
- Easy to Carry This slow cooker has full-grip handles that make it easy to lift and carry.
- Easy to Clean The removable, ceramic nonstick pot is PFAS free. The pot, roasting/steaming rack and glass lid and are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
- Great for roasting meat to the perfect tenderness every time. Place meat on top of the rack in the pot and set roasting time up to 3 hours. The timer countdown begins when the cooking temperature reaches 375°F (190°C), and when food is ready, the searing slow cooker automatically switches to warm.
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.
Lightweight Aluminum Pot
Instant Pot Superior Cooker 7.5QT Slow Cooker and Multicooker, 4-in-1 Functions, Sears/Sauté, Slow Cooks/Roast, Steams and Warms, From The Makers of Instant Pot
Instant Pot
- 4 Cooking Functions: Slow cook, sauté, steam, and warm all in one compact appliance. Sear using the sauté function to lock in flavor before slow cooking, then reduce sauces afterward for rich, delicious results—all without switching pots
- Versatile & Lightweight: The aluminum inner pot is 80% lighter than ceramic pots of comparable size, making it easy to handle from prep to cleanup
- Family-Sized Capacity: With a 7.5-quart capacity and a deep skillet design, it offers more cooking area than a 12″ skillet—ideal for families, gatherings, meal prep, and batch cooking
- Quick Cleanup: No more fighting about who has to do the dishes. The non-stick ceramic-coated aluminum pot, dishwasher-safe glass lid and silicone accessories make washing up effortless
- Power-Packed Performance: 800 watts, 120 V 60 Hz, UL & ULC Listed
- Proven Peace of Mind: Includes overheat protection and stay-cool knobs and handles on the cooker base for worry-free cooking and carrying.
- A Little Extra: Includes a silicone storage lid for leftovers and an easy-lift steam sling for veggies, eggs, and more
Stovetop Sear Master
Hamilton Beach Sear & Cook Stock Pot Slow Cooker with Stovetop Safe Crock, Large 10 Quart Capacity, Programmable, Silver (33196)
Hamilton Beach
- 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.
Programmable Sear Cooker
Hamilton Beach 33662 Programmable Slow Cooker with 6 Quart Stovetop-Safe Sear & Cook Crock, Silver
Hamilton Beach
- 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 cooks directly on gas, electric or ceramic stovetops.
- 15 HEATING OPTIONS. Mix and match high, low or warm heat settings with your choice of 2, 4, 6, 8 or 10 hours of cooking time.
- SERVES 7+ PEOPLE: This programmable slow cooker’s 6 quart capacity is the perfect size for a 6 lb. chicken or 4 lb. roast. Cook a hearty meal for the whole family or serve a delicious main dish on your buffet for the holidays.
- AUTOMATIC KEEP WARM. When your cooking time is up, this 6 quart slow cooker automatically shifts to warm to keep food at the perfect temperature until serving time.
- EASY TO CLEAN: After cooking, the removable crock and lid go in the dishwasher for effortless cleanup.
Spill-Proof Travel Cooker
Hamilton Beach Programmable Slow Cooker with 6 Quart Stovetop-Safe Sear & Cook Crock & Travel Lid Lock for Portable Transport, Silver (33663)
Hamilton Beach
- LOCK IN THE FLAVOR — SEAR RIGHT ON THE STOVETOP. Sear on the stovetop, then finish the meal in the same pot. The removable nonstick aluminum pot cooks directly on gas, electric or ceramic stovetops.
- 15 HEATING OPTIONS. Mix and match high, low or warm heat settings with your choice of 2, 4, 6, 8 or 10 hours of cooking time.
- CLIP-TIGHT SEALED LID HELPS PREVENT MESSY SPILLS: Take your slow cooker to parties or on the road without worrying about messy spills. The clip-tight sealed lid locks onto the slow cooker to improve portability.
- SERVES 7+ PEOPLE: This programmable slow cooker’s 6 quart capacity is the perfect size for a 6 lb. chicken or 4 lb. roast. Cook a hearty meal for the whole family or serve a delicious main dish on your buffet for the holidays.
- AUTOMATIC KEEP WARM. When your cooking time is up, this 6 quart slow cooker automatically shifts to warm to keep food at the perfect temperature until serving time.
3-in-1 Multi-Cooker
Cuisinart MSC-400 3-In-1 Cook Central 4-Quart Multi-Cooker: Slow Cooker, Brown/Saute, Steamer, Silver
Cuisinart
- Extra-large blue backlit LCD display with easy-to-read time and temperature settings
- Glass lid with cool-touch handle for clear view and comfortable handling
- Steaming rack included
- Instruction Book
- Limited 3-year Warranty
Classic 7-Quart Capacity
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 Timer Control
Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker, Portable Programmable with Timer, Locking Lid, Stainless Steel; an Essential Kitchen Appliance, Perfect for Families and Gatherings
Crock-Pot
- 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.
10-in-1 Pressure Master
Instant Pot Pro (8 QT) 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice/Grain Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Sous Vide, Yogurt Maker, Sterilizer, and Warmer, Includes App With Over 800 Recipes, Black
Instant Pot
- 10 Cooking Functions: Pressure cook, slow cook, sous vide, sauté, sterilize, cook yogurt and rice, bake, steam, or simply keep warm, all in one easy appliance.
- Customizable Smart Programs: Tackle every recipe with 28 one-touch options covering all essential meals.
- Good Food Done Faster: Preheat 20% faster and cook up to 70% faster compared to slow cooking methods.
- Convenient & Easy Steam Release: Gentle steam release switch and diffusing cover allow you to confidently and quietly release steam every time.
- Family-Sized Capacity: The 8-quart capacity is perfect for up to 8 servings—ideal for families, meal prep, and batch cooking.
- Quick Cleanup: No more fighting about who has to do the dishes. The dishwasher-safe lid and inner pot make clean-up a breeze.
- Power Packed Performance: 1400 watts, 120 V 60 Hz, UL & ULC Listed
- Proven Peace of Mind: Includes safety features and mechanisms like easy grip inner pot handles, overheat protection, an auto-sealing safety lid lock, and more.
- A Little Extra: Includes an extra sealing ring and stainless-steel steamer with handles to keep you ready for anything.
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 does ‘searing’ mean in a slow cooker, and why is it important?
Searing means browning meat at a high temperature directly in the slow cooker pot before the slow cooking begins. This process creates a rich flavor foundation through the Maillard reaction, which you cannot achieve by simply adding raw ingredients. It’s a key step for developing deep, savory flavor in stews, roasts, and pulled pork.
What’s the difference between a model that sears and a regular slow cooker?
The primary difference is the heating element. A searing slow cooker has a powerful stovetop-compatible base that allows the pot to be used directly on a cooktop for browning. A regular slow cooker only has a low-wattage heating element at the base, designed solely for gentle, slow simmering and cannot sear food.
Are the inner pots for searing models different from standard ones?
Yes, the pots are specifically designed for dual-purpose use. They are typically made from cast aluminum or stainless steel, which are excellent conductors of heat and are safe for use on a stovetop. Standard ceramic or stoneware crocks would crack if exposed to the direct, high heat of a stovetop burner.
Is a searing slow cooker more expensive, and is it worth the extra cost?
Yes, models with searing capabilities are generally more expensive than basic slow cookers due to their more versatile and robust construction. The value lies in the convenience of using one pot for the entire cooking process, from searing to simmering, which saves on cleanup and often produces superior flavor compared to using a separate pan.
What key features should I compare when shopping for a searing slow cooker?
Compare the capacity (quarts) to suit your household size, the number of heat settings (e.g., Brown/Sauté, Low, High, and a Warm function), and a digital timer. A clear glass lid is essential for monitoring progress without lifting it and losing heat. Also, check if the inner pot and lid are dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.
Can I use the sear function on all types of cooktops?
Most searing models have aluminum pots that are compatible with gas and electric coil or smooth-top stovetops. However, they are typically not compatible with induction cooktops unless the pot has a magnetic stainless steel base. Always check the product specifications to confirm cooktop compatibility before purchasing.
What’s the main advantage over just searing meat in a separate pan first?
The biggest advantage is convenience and creating a richer sauce. When you sear in the same pot, the flavorful browned bits (fond) left on the bottom are incorporated directly into your dish when you add liquids. This method saves you from washing an extra pan and ensures no flavor is left behind.
