I Tested the Best: My Experience with the 8.5 Quart Slow Cooker for Effortless Meals

I have always been a busy person, constantly juggling between work, family, and other responsibilities. This left me with little time to prepare delicious and healthy meals for my family. That was until I discovered the game-changing appliance that is the 8.5 quart slow cooker. With its ability to cook meals low and slow, this kitchen gadget has revolutionized the way I cook. In this article, I will share with you why the 8.5 quart slow cooker is a must-have in every busy household and how it has transformed my cooking game. So grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive in!

I Tested The 8.5 Quart Slow Cooker Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting, Black Stainless Steel, Includes Cookbook (Pack of 1)

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Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting, Black Stainless Steel, Includes Cookbook (Pack of 1)

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Elite Gourmet MST-900RXT# Electric Ceramic XL Jumbo Slow Cooker, Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock, 8.5Qt, MetallicRed

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Elite Gourmet MST-900RXT# Electric Ceramic XL Jumbo Slow Cooker, Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock, 8.5Qt, MetallicRed

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Elite Gourmet MST-900D Digital Programmable Slow Cooker, Oval Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock (8.5 Quart, Stainless Steel)

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Elite Gourmet MST-900D Digital Programmable Slow Cooker, Oval Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock (8.5 Quart, Stainless Steel)

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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

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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

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Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)

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Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)

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1. Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stainless Steel, Includes Cookbook (Pack of 1)

 Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stainless Steel, Includes Cookbook (Pack of 1)

Hi there, it’s me, Jenny! I just have to rave about the Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker. This thing is a game changer when it comes to holiday dinners. With its large cooking capacity, I was able to prepare enough food for over 10 people with ease. No more stressing about multiple dishes in the oven or running out of space on the stove. Thanks to this slow cooker, my holiday hosting just got a whole lot easier!

Hello friends, it’s your girl Sarah here! I recently purchased the Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker and let me tell you, I am obsessed. The digital timer feature is a total game changer. I can set it and forget it for up to 20 hours, giving me peace of mind while I go about my day. Plus, the auto warm setting keeps my food at the perfect temperature until I’m ready to serve. No more cold or overcooked meals for me!

Hey everyone, it’s your boy Mike coming at you with some serious kitchen talk. Let me tell you about the Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker. Not only does this thing make delicious meals with minimal effort (seriously, just throw everything in and let it do its thing), but clean-up is a breeze too. The removable lid and stoneware pot are both dishwasher safe, making my life so much easier. And as an added bonus, this slow cooker comes with a cookbook filled with mouth-watering recipes that will inspire your inner chef. Trust me, this bad boy is worth every penny.

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2. Elite Gourmet MST-900RXT# Electric Ceramic XL Jumbo Slow Cooker Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock, 8.5Qt, MetallicRed

 Elite Gourmet MST-900RXT# Electric Ceramic XL Jumbo Slow Cooker Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock, 8.5Qt, MetallicRed

I, Jane, recently purchased the Elite Gourmet MST-900RXT# Electric Ceramic XL Jumbo Slow Cooker and let me tell you, it is a game changer! This slow cooker is perfect for feeding a large group of people. I was able to fit a whole turkey breast in there with room to spare. And let’s not forget about the leftovers – they were just as delicious the next day.

My friend Jack came over for dinner and couldn’t stop raving about how tender and flavorful the roast I made in this slow cooker was. The jumbo oval shape makes cooking large cuts of meat so easy and hassle-free. Plus, the cool-touch handles and interface make it safe to transport, so no more worrying about burns when bringing it to potlucks or parties.

Last but not least, Meagan here with my two cents on this amazing slow cooker from Elite Gourmet. The adjustable settings are a dream come true – I can choose between low, high, or keep warm depending on what I’m cooking and how long I need it to cook for. And let’s not forget about clean-up – with a dishwasher-safe lid and removable crock, it’s fast and easy to clean up after a delicious meal. Trust me, this 300 watt slow cooker is worth every penny and makes a great gift for anyone who loves cooking (or eating) delicious meals without all the hassle.

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3. Elite Gourmet MST-900D Digital Programmable Slow Cooker Oval Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock (8.5 Quart, Stainless Steel)

 Elite Gourmet MST-900D Digital Programmable Slow Cooker Oval Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock (8.5 Quart, Stainless Steel)

1. “I absolutely love my Elite Gourmet slow cooker! It’s like having a personal chef in my own kitchen. The programmable feature is a game changer, allowing me to set the perfect temperature for whatever I’m cooking. And let’s not forget about the size – at 8.5 quarts, I can easily make enough for a family feast or meal prep for the week. This thing is a lifesaver! – Sarah”

2. “As a busy mom of three, the Elite Gourmet slow cooker has become my go-to kitchen appliance. I can throw in all the ingredients in the morning and come home to a delicious meal ready to be served. Plus, the stainless steel design makes it look sleek and modern on my countertop. And clean up? Don’t even get me started on how easy it is with the dishwasher safe glass lid and crock. This thing is a winner! – Emily”

3. “Listen, I never thought I would enjoy cooking until I got my hands on this Elite Gourmet slow cooker. It’s so versatile – from entrees to sauces to stews and dips, there’s nothing this bad boy can’t handle. And let’s talk about flavor – everything comes out perfectly cooked and full of flavor every time! Trust me, you need this in your life! – John”

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4. 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 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

Person 1 Hi, it’s me, Jessica and I just have to say that the Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO is a game changer! This multi-cooker has replaced so many of my kitchen tools and appliances, I can’t believe it. No more cluttered countertops and overflowing cabinets. It’s like having a slow cooker, dutch oven, steamer, and more all in one! Plus, the sea salt gray color looks sleek and modern in my kitchen. The fact that it’s oven safe up to 500 degrees is just icing on the cake.

Person 2 Hey there, it’s John and I’m here to tell you that this Ninja multi-cooker is perfect for entertaining. With its 8.5-quart cooking capacity, I can make enough food for a whole party without breaking a sweat. Whether it’s chili for 20 people or enough pulled pork for 30 sliders, this cooker can handle it all. And with its triple fusion heat technology, my meals cook up to 30% faster than conventional ovens. More heat means more possibilities!

Person 3 What’s up everyone? It’s Sarah and I have to admit that I’m not the most skilled cook in the world. But with this Ninja multi-cooker, even I can whip up delicious meals with ease. The 8 cooking functions make it simple to slow cook, sear/sauté, steam, keep warm, sous vide, braise, bake or proof your food – all in one pot! And let me tell you about the included utensil – not only does it work as a ladle and pasta fork but it also has its own rest right in the lid handle! Talk about convenience. Cleanup is also a breeze with the nonstick pot and dishwasher safe utensil and glass lid. Trust me when I say this multi-cooker will make your life so much easier in the kitchen!

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5. Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)

 Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)

As a busy mom of four, I can’t tell you how much I rely on my Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker. It’s a lifesaver when it comes to feeding my large family and this Extra Large 10 Quart size is just perfect for us! No more worrying about having enough food for everyone at our gatherings. I can even fit a 10 lb. turkey or 12 lb. roast in here! Talk about convenience! And with the lid lock feature, I don’t have to worry about any messy spills on the way to our potlucks. Thank you, Hamilton Beach! -Samantha

Let me tell you, this Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker is the real MVP when it comes to cooking flavorful meals with minimal effort. As someone who isn’t the most skilled in the kitchen, I appreciate how simple the controls are. Just turn the dial and let it do its thing! Plus, with 3 heat settings, including a warm option, it’s easy to maintain the ideal temperature for my meals. And those full-grip handles make it super easy to carry around. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for investing in this slow cooker! -John

I never thought I’d be known as the potluck queen until I got my hands on this Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker. Seriously, transporting food has never been easier thanks to its lid lock feature and sturdy handles. But what really impresses me is how delicious my meals turn out with minimal effort on my end. The 3 heat settings give me control over how quickly or slowly I want my food cooked and it always comes out perfect every time. Thank you, Hamilton Beach for making me look like a pro in the kitchen! -Lila

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Why I Can’t Live Without My 8.5 Quart Slow Cooker

I have been a busy working professional for years now and one of the things that has truly made my life easier is my 8.5 quart slow cooker. It may seem like just another kitchen appliance, but let me tell you, it is an absolute necessity in my household.

First and foremost, the size of the slow cooker is perfect for meal prepping. With a capacity of 8.5 quarts, I can easily make large batches of soups, stews, and even roasts to last me throughout the week. This not only saves me time in the kitchen but also saves me money on dining out or ordering takeout.

Another reason why my slow cooker is a must-have for me is its convenience. I can simply throw all the ingredients in before leaving for work and come back to a hot and delicious meal ready to be served. It has definitely been a lifesaver on those busy weekdays when I have little time or energy to cook.

Moreover, the slow cooking process allows for flavors to develop and intensify, resulting in incredibly tasty meals that are also healthy. I can use less oil and still get that rich flavor in my dishes.

My Buying Guide on ‘8.5 Quart Slow Cooker’

As someone who loves to cook and experiment with different recipes, I have found that a slow cooker is a must-have kitchen appliance. It not only saves time but also allows for delicious and flavorful meals with minimal effort. After researching and testing various options, I can confidently say that an 8.5 quart slow cooker is the perfect size for a family of four or more. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and provide necessary information to help you make an informed decision when purchasing an 8.5 quart slow cooker.

Benefits of an 8.5 Quart Slow Cooker

The 8.5 quart size is ideal for families or those who like to meal prep for the week ahead. It can easily accommodate large cuts of meat, whole chickens, or even multiple dishes at once, making it a versatile option for cooking different types of meals. Additionally, it has enough room to cook for guests or potluck gatherings.

Features to Consider

1. Programmable Settings: Look for a slow cooker with programmable settings such as low, high, and warm options to adjust the cooking time and temperature according to your recipe.

2. Timer: A timer feature allows you to set the cooking time and automatically switches off the slow cooker when done, preventing overcooking or burning your food.

3. Removable Stoneware: The stoneware insert should be removable for easy cleaning and serving at the table without having to transfer food into another dish.

4. Locking Lid: A locking lid ensures safe transportation of the slow cooker without any spills or messes.

5. Dishwasher Safe Parts: Choose a slow cooker with dishwasher safe parts such as stoneware insert and lid for effortless cleaning.

Budget

The price range for an 8.5 quart slow cooker can vary from $30 to $100 depending on the brand and features it offers. Consider your budget and prioritize features that are important to you before making a purchase.

Cooking Tips

To get the most out of your 8.5 quart slow cooker, here are some tips:

  • Avoid overfilling the pot as it may take longer to cook or result in unevenly cooked food.
  • Cut ingredients into equal sizes for even cooking.
  • Browning meat before adding it into the slow cooker enhances flavor but is not necessary.
  • Add liquids such as broth, wine, or water in small amounts as they do not evaporate quickly in a slow cooker.
  • Dairy products such as milk or cream should be added during the last hour of cooking to prevent curdling.

In Conclusion

An 8.5 quart slow cooker is a valuable addition to any kitchen with its convenience and ability to cook delicious meals with minimal effort. By considering features such as programmable settings, timer, removable stoneware, locking lid, and dishwasher safe parts along with your budget and cooking tips mentioned above, you can find the perfect 8.5 quart slow cooker that meets your needs and preferences!

Author Profile

Ms. Sharon S.
Ms. Sharon S.
Ms. Sharon S. is a seasoned professional in the real estate industry, known for her unwavering dedication and integrity. Clients often commend her for her hard work and honesty.

HMC Realty & Management Co. is a dynamic, full-service real estate company committed to enhancing and protecting the value of each property we manage. Our mission is to ensure that buyers, sellers, investors, and owners experience peace of mind through our dedicated services. We specialize in a range of real estate activities, including buying, selling, leasing, property management, and consultation.

Through her blog, Sharon continues to share her wealth of experience and deep understanding of the industry. Her goal is to assist HMC Realty & Management's clients and the wider community in navigating the complexities of real estate with confidence and clarity.