Hey everyone,

     I am looking to get a crock pot and really don't know which brand is good.  It seems like a simple enough device.  But, I am very picky about things and dont want to get something get something that will not last.  (Note, I am an aspiring fat man so, this item will get used.)

 

Any recommendations, thanks!

Wdy

My wife has been using a Corningware and a Crockpot for the last 5 years. And both are working awesome still. They are used on alternating days. Dang near every day

http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/product-reviews/appliances/slow-cooker-reviews/best-slow-cookers

They are all pretty similar. I would suggest finding one that has a timer for a delay start so you can put something in there in the morning and have it start cooking around noon so it is ready by dinner time while you are at work.

I'd also recommend getting one that has a removable insert which I think they all have these days but worth noting.

Another suggestion, make sure it has a ceramic insert, removable as suggested above. Another better than ones with metal.

Another suggestion, make sure it has a ceramic insert, removable as suggested above. Another better than ones with metal.

I actually like mine with the metal insert rather than the ceramic myself.  Seems to heat up faster and easier to clean if you are making something more prone to sticking.  Mine is non-stick so that may be part of the reason too.

The ceramic provides a better, more even cooking temp.

I love our ceramic insert.  It's a crock pot, it's not supposed to heat up fast.  Fast food belongs in a microwave!

Even heating is the same with any good quality product.  You don't see chefs using ceramic pots and if they do it is usually enameled covered cast iron.

 

Now i do think the ceramic holds heat better so if you are cooking and taking it somewhere else it will stay hot in there better but other than that no big deal. 

 

The ceramic also takes a lot longer to cool down and there is the possibility of cracking it too.

 

I have both styles and both work so really it is a matter of preference more than anything.

We use our crockpot once or twice a week. Pot roast, beef stew, barbacoa tacos, pulled pork. I love my slow cooker. One thing I don't like on mine is that the lid isn't fastened down. More heat escapes that way. It still gets the job done.