Slow cookers are the cooking gods' gift to mankind. What other small kitchen appliance gives you the freedom to throw in some ingredients, walk away for a few hours and come back to a perfect, well-seasoned meal?
We here at HuffPost Home are huge fans of this sensational invention, and we think you should be too. Below, you'll find some of our favorites sorted by type. Whether you're interested in upping your entertaining game or simply looking for an efficient way to cook for one, check out our picks below and find your new best friend.
1
Best For Entertaining
Bed Bath & Beyond
Got dips to keep warm? Meet your new best friend. This two-compartment Crock-Pot gives you the freedom serve your guests without hiding in the kitchen during your next party.
Crock-Pot 4-Cup Double Dipper Slow Cooker, $19.99
Crock-Pot 4-Cup Double Dipper Slow Cooker, $19.99
2
Best For Cooking For One
Target
Just like most recipes, the majority of slow cookers are designed to make multiple servings. This makes cooking for one a bit of a challenge. If you're single or simply like cooking in small batches, try this 2 quart Crock-Pot Slow Cooker.
Crock-Pot Slow Cooker, $9.59-$11.99
Crock-Pot Slow Cooker, $9.59-$11.99
3
Best Bang For Your Buck
JCPenny
This Hamilton Beach slow cooker is great for shoppers on a budget. The oval shape will accommodate a variety of meat cuts, while the size is perfect for cooking in medium-sized quantities. The removable dishwasher safe stoneware pot makes clean up more than easy.
Hamilton Beach 4-Quart Oval Slow Cooker, $21.99
Hamilton Beach 4-Quart Oval Slow Cooker, $21.99
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4
Best Can-Do-It-All
Macy's
Multi-cookers are fantastic if you're looking for options. With the Cuisinart Multi-Cooker, you can steam, sauté, brown, warm up and slow cook. This is a great investment piece with all-year-round benefits.
Cuisinart MSC-600 Multi Cooker, $159.99
Cuisinart MSC-600 Multi Cooker, $159.99
5
Best Top-Of-The-Line
Williams-Sonoma
This All-Clad Deluxe Slow Cooker is the ultimate investment for the avid slow-cooking chef. Spacious and heavy-duty, this 7-quart beauty has been praised for its durability, thorough cooking ability and easy clean up. If you're feeding a family or hosting a big party, look no further.
All-Clad Deluxe Slow Cooker with Cast-Aluminum Insert, $249.95
All-Clad Deluxe Slow Cooker with Cast-Aluminum Insert, $249.95
Now that you've found your kitchen's newest all-star, put it to good use with one of the amazing slow cooker recipes below:
Healthy Slow Cooker Recipes
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