9 Best Slow Cookers With Browning Capabilities for 2025
If you want to improve your cooking in 2025, consider a slow cooker with browning abilities.
These devices allow you to sear and sauté, which brings rich flavors to your meals. There are many options available, from small to large models.
Here are some of the best slow cookers with browning features that could be great additions to your kitchen.
Hamilton Beach 6 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker (Model 33604)
- 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...
- 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...
- 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...
If you’re searching for a reliable kitchen tool in 2025, consider the Hamilton Beach 6 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker (Model 33604). This slow cooker offers 9 cooking options, enabling you to slow cook, sear, sauté, and steam. Its nonstick, PFAS-free ceramic pot is dishwasher-safe, making cleanup easy. The built-in delay start function lets you schedule meals, ensuring they’re ready when you need them. While some users mention minor quality control issues, many appreciate the versatility and ease it brings to cooking.
Best For: Home cooks who need a versatile, multifunctional slow cooker for easier meal preparation.
Pros:
- Offers 9 cooking options including slow cook, sear, and steam.
- Nonstick, PFAS-free ceramic pot is dishwasher-safe for simple cleanup.
- Built-in delay start function allows for flexible meal planning.
Cons:
- Some users report issues with quality control, like sharp metal edges.
- Instructions may lack detail, which can confuse some users.
- A few customers note inconsistencies in cooking performance.
Hamilton Beach 9-in-1 Digital Programmable Slow Cooker (Model 33065)
- 9 COOKING OPTIONS. Cook a wide variety of foods multiple ways with this versatile multi pot. You can slow cook on high or low, sear, brown, sauté, roast,...
- SEAR RIGHT IN THE POT. Sear, brown or sauté right in the nonstick pot to improve the color and flavor of every dish you make. The sear/brown and sauté...
- GREAT FOR ROASTING CHICKEN, BEEF, TURKEY AND HAM: Roast meat to the perfect tenderness every time. Simply place meat on top of the rack in the pot and set...
The Hamilton Beach 9-in-1 Digital Programmable Slow Cooker (Model 33065) suits busy home cooks looking for convenience and versatility. It offers a 6-quart capacity, making it ideal for groups of 7 or more. You can choose from nine cooking options, such as sear, brown, and steam, to add flavor to your meals. The removable nonstick pot simplifies cleanup, while its lightweight design makes it easy to handle. The countdown timer and automatic warm setting help ensure your meals are cooked perfectly every time. Check its dimensions to confirm it fits in your kitchen.
Best For: Busy home cooks who need a versatile slow cooker that accommodates multiple cooking methods.
Pros:
- Versatile Cooking Options: Choose from 9 methods, including slow cook and steam, to prepare various dishes.
- Easy Cleanup: The removable nonstick pot and dishwasher-safe parts make cleaning easier.
- User-Friendly: The lightweight design and straightforward instructions enhance usability compared to traditional slow cookers.
Cons:
- Difficult Controls: Some users may find the controls hard to read, especially those with visual impairments.
- Learning Curve: New users might need some time to find the best cooking functions for different recipes.
- Size Consideration: It is important to check dimensions to ensure it fits your kitchen space.
Cuisinart 6-Quart Multi-Cooker (MSC-600)
- One touch switches modes when recipe calls for combination cooking
- Extra-large blue backlit LCD display with easy-to-read time and temperature settings
- Removable 6-quart nonstick aluminum cooking pot
The Cuisinart 6-Quart Multi-Cooker (MSC-600) is an ideal appliance for busy families and home cooks. It combines several functions in one unit: slow cooker, browning pan, and steamer. The large blue backlit LCD display makes it easy to read, while the nonstick aluminum cooking pot simplifies meal prep.
With its programmable timer, this multi-cooker allows you to cook meals flexibly, easily switching between high, low, simmer, and warm settings. Its compact design helps save counter space, and the parts are dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup. Many users report a noticeable improvement in their slow cooking results.
Best For: Busy families and home cooks who want a versatile kitchen appliance.
Pros:
- Functions as a slow cooker, browning pan, and steamer.
- Programmable timer and easy settings for flexible meal preparation.
- Compact design saves space and features dishwasher-safe parts for quick cleanup.
Cons:
- Some users experienced initial functionality issues and power supply concerns.
- A few customers reported defects right out of the box.
- The 6-quart capacity may not be sufficient for larger families.
Ninja MC1010 Foodi PossibleCooker PLUS – 6-in-1 Multi-Cooker
- REPLACES 12 COOKING TOOLS & APPLIANCES: This cooker replaces the need for a slow cooker, food warmer, nonstick pot, sauté pan, cast iron skillet, saucier,...
- 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...
- 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.
The Ninja MC1010 Foodi PossibleCooker PLUS is perfect for anyone who wants flexibility in the kitchen. This 6-in-1 multi-cooker can replace up to 12 kitchen tools, offering functions like slow cooking, sous vide, and sautéing. With an 8.5-quart capacity, it is great for large groups, cooking enough food for up to 20 people. Its Triple Fusion Heat Technology cooks meals up to 30% faster, which saves you time. Cleaning is easy with the nonstick pot, and its simple design makes cooking straightforward. While it is best to hand wash, many customers praise its strong performance and quality, making it a dependable kitchen tool.
Best For: Home cooks who want a flexible and spacious multi-cooker for big meals and time savings.
Pros:
- Versatile cooking functions can replace multiple kitchen tools, suitable for different meal types.
- Large capacity holds enough food for gatherings of up to 20 people.
- Triple Fusion Heat Technology cooks food faster than traditional methods, improving efficiency.
Cons:
- Some users report limited heat control, especially with the warm setting.
- Hand washing is needed; the dishwasher is not recommended for cleaning.
- Power supply compatibility may be a concern in some regions.
Chefman 6-Quart Slow Cooker
- 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...
- 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...
- 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...
The Chefman 6-Quart Slow Cooker has a 6-quart capacity. It is suitable for families or anyone who enjoys preparing large meals such as stews and chilis. The removable cooking insert is safe for stovetops and ovens, making it easy to brown and sauté food for better flavor. It features two heat settings and a warm option to keep meals ready to serve. The dial control is simple to use, and the nonstick, dishwasher-safe insert makes cleanup easy. This slow cooker operates at 350 Watts and has UL approval for safety. It comes with a 1-year warranty for added assurance.
Best For: Families or individuals who enjoy cooking large meals like stews, soups, and chilis.
Pros:
- Removable insert can be used on the stovetop or in the oven.
- Easy cleanup with a nonstick, dishwasher-safe insert and glass lid.
- Lightweight design for easy handling and storage.
Cons:
- Size may be too large for smaller kitchens with limited storage space.
- Only two heat settings (low and high), which may limit cooking options.
- Limited 1-year warranty, which may not meet the needs of long-term users.
Hamilton Beach Programmable Slow Cooker (33663)
- 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...
- 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...
The Hamilton Beach Programmable Slow Cooker (33663) is ideal for home cooks who need a reliable tool to save cooking time. It features a removable nonstick aluminum pot, allowing you to sear ingredients on the stovetop and complete your meals in the same pot. This slow cooker cooks 25% faster on low than traditional ceramic models, making it a smart option for family meals. Its lightweight design and clip-tight lid make it easy to carry, and the crock is dishwasher-safe for simple cleanup. Many users find the control panel easy to use and appreciate the efficient cooking, though some have concerns about the durability of the lighter design.
Best For: Busy home cooks who want a fast and effective slow cooker that maintains food quality.
Pros:
- Faster cooking: Cooks 25% faster on low than traditional ceramic models, which is great for families.
- Versatile cooking: The removable nonstick aluminum pot is perfect for stovetop searing and finishing meals.
- Easy transport and cleanup: Its lightweight design and clip-tight lid help prevent spills, and the dishwasher-safe crock makes cleaning easy.
Cons:
- Durability concerns: Some users worry that the lightweight design may not last as long as heavier models.
- Recipe adjustments needed: Users might need to change cooking times due to the faster heating of the metal crock.
- Learning curve for traditional users: Those accustomed to ceramic slow cookers may need time to adjust to this model’s performance differences.
West Bend 87905 Slow Cooker (5-Quart, Silver)
- Versatile Crock Pot: Slow cook almost any sized meal, from a dinner for 2 to enough to entertain a crowd with the West Bend Versatility Cooker
- Large Capacity: 5-quart crock pot crock features a non-stick interior and is safe for use in the oven, on the stove top, in the freezer or refrigerator, and is...
- Griddle Base: Our crock pots/slow cookers aren't just for slow cooking - use the included griddle base to make pancakes, grilled cheese, and more
If you want a versatile slow cooker for family dinners and gatherings, consider the West Bend 87905 Slow Cooker. Its 5-quart capacity and non-stick interior make it easy to prepare meals for two or a larger group. The removable griddle base allows you to cook breakfast items, and the insulated tote helps with transportation. While some users report issues with temperature control and warranty support, many appreciate its sleek design and user-friendliness. Overall, it’s a solid option for your kitchen.
Best For: Those who need a slow cooker for both small and large meals, ideal for family dinners and gatherings.
Pros:
- Built-in removable griddle base for cooking options like pancakes and grilled cheese.
- Compact design saves counter space while serving meals for two or more.
- Non-stick interior makes cleanup easy; safe for oven and dishwasher.
Cons:
- The 30-day warranty may raise concerns about long-term reliability.
- Some users report temperature control issues, which could lead to overcooked food.
- Customer support can be slow and unclear, which may frustrate users.
MegaChef 3.5 Quart Rectangle Casserole Slow Cooker
- Large 3.5 Quart Rectangle Crock is Ideal for Large Family Gatherings, Holiday Cooking, Catering and Dinner Parties.
- With the Slow Cooker you can Slow Cook, Bake and Keep Warm all your favorites meals, treats and desserts. Enjoy all your foavorite dishes from tenderized meats,...
- Slow cooker includes a tempered glass, allowing you to check on the cooking status of the food at any time without letting out all the hot air.
For those who want a reliable and stylish slow cooker for gatherings, the MegaChef 3.5 Quart Rectangle Casserole Slow Cooker is an excellent choice. It has versatile cooking functions such as slow cook, bake, and keep warm. Its vibrant turquoise color and stoneware construction add visual appeal to your kitchen. Weighing 12.6 pounds, it comes with a tempered glass lid for easy monitoring. The latch system ensures secure transport, making it perfect for potlucks or parties. Additionally, the removable crock is dishwasher-safe, simplifying cleanup. Experience consistent cooking results and enjoy sharing your culinary creations!
Best For: Anyone needing a reliable and stylish slow cooker suitable for large gatherings and potlucks.
Pros:
- Versatile cooking functions: Offers slow cook, bake, and keep warm settings to meet various cooking needs.
- Stylish design: The vibrant turquoise color and stoneware material enhance the look of your kitchen.
- Easy transport and cleanup: The latch system ensures secure travel, and the removable crock is dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
Cons:
- Weight: At 12.6 pounds, it may be heavy for some users to lift and transport.
- Limited capacity: The 3.5-quart size may not be enough for very large gatherings.
- Wattage efficiency: Higher energy consumption may not be ideal for those trying to save on electricity.
Crock-Pot 6 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker
- 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
The Crock-Pot 6 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker is perfect for families and anyone who enjoys meal preparation. Its large capacity can serve 7 or more people. You can set the timer from 30 minutes to 20 hours, choosing low or high cooking settings. The materials used are safe, with aluminum and ceramic that contain no harmful substances. The cooker features a locking lid and has an automatic warming option, so you can prevent spills and overcooked food. While it is effective for many recipes, be careful on the high setting to prevent overheating. Cleanup is simple; the dishwasher-safe components make post-meal tidying easy.
Best For: Families and meal prep lovers who need a reliable cooking tool.
Pros:
- Easy Controls: Simple programmable timer with low and high settings.
- Large Size: 6-quart capacity can accommodate 7+ people, ideal for big meals or gatherings.
- Quick Cleanup: Dishwasher-safe stoneware liner simplifies cleaning.
Cons:
- Overheating Risk: Some users report the high setting cooks hotter than expected, which can lead to overcooking.
- Durability Concerns: Some ceramic dishes have been noted for cracks, indicating possible longevity issues.
- Variable Heating: Some users find the high setting does not heat as reliably.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Slow Cookers With Browning Capabilities in 2025
When choosing a slow cooker with browning capabilities, consider its cooking versatility and functions. Look at the size and capacity to ensure it fits your meal planning needs. Check how easy it is to clean and if the temperature control options match your cooking style. Prioritize these features to find a slow cooker that works well for you.
Cooking Versatility and Functions
A slow cooker with browning capabilities can significantly improve your cooking experience. Choose a model that offers functions such as searing, sautéing, and steaming. This variety allows you to prepare different meals without needing additional pots. A removable nonstick pot is beneficial as it helps with browning meats and simplifies cleanup. Look for features like programmable timers and automatic warming settings to ensure your meals are perfectly timed and ready to serve. Also, consider a slow cooker that enables simultaneous browning and slow cooking for richer flavors. A versatile slow cooker can change how you cook and enhance your culinary skills.
Size and Capacity Considerations
Choosing the right slow cooker size is important for your cooking needs. Slow cookers come in sizes from 3.5 to 8.5 quarts, serving anywhere from 2 to 20 people. If you host large meals, a 6-quart model is a good choice. It can handle whole chickens or larger cuts of meat easily. For individuals or smaller families, a 3.5-quart slow cooker offers enough space without creating too many leftovers. Measure your kitchen space to ensure the cooker fits. Also, think about whether you want a lightweight model for easy transport or a heavier one for better stability during use.
Ease of Cleanup
When selecting a slow cooker, consider cleanup ease. Look for nonstick materials to minimize food residue. Removable, dishwasher-safe cooking pots simplify your cleanup process. A glass lid lets you check on your food without lifting it, reducing spills. Lightweight designs make handling and cleaning easy. Choose models with straightforward controls to prevent messes while cooking. This way, you can focus on enjoying your meals without the hassle of a messy kitchen.
Temperature Control Options
Choosing the right temperature control options is important when selecting a slow cooker, especially if you want browning capabilities in 2025. Look for models with multiple heat settings, including low, high, and simmer/warm. This allows you to adjust cooking times and temperatures to match your recipes. Advanced models often have programmable timers that range from 30 minutes to 24 hours, giving you flexibility in meal prep. Some slow cookers automatically switch to warm mode after cooking, which helps prevent overcooking. Additionally, cookers that can sear food may enhance flavors and cook meals up to 25% faster with metal crocks, ensuring even heat distribution for better texture and flavor.
Durability and Longevity
Choosing a slow cooker with browning capabilities in 2025? Focus on durability. Look for models made from metal or ceramic, as these materials tend to last longer than plastic. Select non-stick coatings that are thicker, as they resist wear and chipping better, enhancing longevity. To maintain your cooker, hand wash removable parts regularly.
Check the warranty length. Longer warranties usually indicate stronger products. Avoid lightweight designs; they often have durability issues compared to heavier, more traditional slow cookers. By keeping these factors in mind, you can make a smart purchase that will serve you well for years.
Portability and Design Features
In 2025, choosing a slow cooker with browning capabilities requires attention to portability and design features. Look for lightweight models that are easy to transport, especially those with clip-tight lids to prevent spills. Opt for sizes around 6 quarts, which fit well in small kitchens while serving multiple people. Models with removable, nonstick cooking pots simplify cleanup since they are often dishwasher-safe. Some allow stovetop cooking, letting you brown ingredients directly in the pot before slow cooking, saving time and reducing dishwashing later. Integrated handles and locking systems improve safety and usability, which is important for transport and storage. These features make meal prep easier and more enjoyable.
User-Friendly Controls
To ensure a smooth cooking experience with your slow cooker, focus on easy-to-use controls. Choose options that allow you to select cooking functions and monitor progress effortlessly. Touch controls and clear dials enable you to set cook times and switch modes without trouble. Look for a digital countdown timer with an automatic warm setting that prevents overcooking by switching to warm mode when your meal is ready.
Clear labels on the control panel help everyone, including those with visual impairments, to use the device with confidence. In addition, user-friendly manuals and programmed settings for popular dishes can enhance your cooking skills and reduce the learning curve. This way, your slow cooking experience can be both enjoyable and effective.
Price and Value
Choosing a slow cooker involves considering price and value. In 2025, slow cookers with browning features typically cost between $50 and $150, depending on their features and brand. To get the best value, look for models that can perform multiple cooking functions. This can help you save money by reducing the need for other appliances.
Pay attention to warranties and customer support. A longer warranty often suggests better reliability. Evaluate the quality of materials as well. Nonstick or stainless steel options tend to last longer, which can lower replacement costs over time.
Finally, think about energy efficiency. A slow cooker with lower wattage can help you save on electricity bills, all while delivering good cooking results. You are investing in performance and long-term savings.
Hi, I’m Liza Jensen, your culinary companion here at Recipe by Liza. 🍳🥗Cooking has always been my passion—I find joy in every whisk, every sizzle, and every aromatic spice. As a home cook and recipe developer, I’ve explored flavors from around the world, creating dishes that warm hearts and tantalize taste buds.Join me on this flavorful journey! Let’s swap kitchen stories, share tips, and celebrate the magic of food together.
