**7-quart slow cookers** are now a **kitchen essential** known for making tasty meals without hassle. First introduced in the U.S. during the **1970s**, they **quickly became popular** for their ability to **offer comfort food** with ease. Their **global fame** comes from the **set-it-and-forget-it** convenience. But, to get those perfect dishes every time, picking the **right 7-quart slow cooker** is crucial.
The best 7-quart slow cooker should heat evenly, have a secure lid, and offer consistent temperature control. It should also be easy to clean and should come with a range of heat settings to allow for super slow or fast cooking. Using the wrong slow cooker can lead to unevenly cooked meals, under or overcooking, and even waste ingredients.
When choosing a 7-quart slow cooker, be sure to consider important features such as programmable settings, automatic warm modes, and locking lids. The materials used are also significant for the proper functioning of the slow cooker. The ideal device will have a ceramic cooking pot and a stainless-steel exterior for durability and heat control.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of selecting the best 7-quart slow cooker. Based on extensive research and firsthand testing, we’ve identified a range of models that deliver the best balance of performance, convenience, and value. By the end of this review, you will be equipped with all the necessary knowledge to choose the perfect 7-quart slow cooker for your needs.
Best 7Qt Slow Cooker
Choosing the appropriate 7-quart slow cooker for your kitchen is crucial for successful, convenient cooking. The right slow cooker should cook evenly, be easy to clean, and have a range of heat settings to give you ultimate control. With so many models available on the market, determining the best one for your needs can seem daunting. In this article, we have put together a well-researched list of the best 7-quart slow cookers for your consideration that will guide you towards making an informed choice.
Hamilton Beach Programmable Slow Cooker with Flexible Easy Programming, 5 Cooking Times, Dishwasher-Safe Crock, Lid, 7 Quart, Silver
If you’re looking for a slow cooker that’s easy to use and offers a variety of cooking options, the Hamilton Beach Programmable Slow Cooker is a great choice.
Pros
- The flexible programming feature allows you to set the cooking time and temperature for up to 20 hours, making it easy to prepare your meal at the right time.
- The low, high, and simmer settings give you a variety of cooking options to choose from, making it easy to prepare a wide range of dishes.
- The 7-quart capacity is perfect for serving a family of six, and the dishwasher-safe crock and lid make cleaning up a breeze.
Cons
- The temperature settings can be a bit finicky, so it may take some trial and error to get your dish cooked to your liking.
- The timer can be a bit confusing to use, so be sure to read the instructions carefully before using it.
- The clips that hold the lid in place can be a bit difficult to remove, so be sure to use caution when removing the lid.
Overall, we highly recommend the Hamilton Beach Programmable Slow Cooker to anyone who wants a reliable and easy-to-use slow cooker. With its flexible programming feature, adjustable temperature settings, and large capacity, it’s a great choice for busy families who want to prepare delicious, home-cooked meals without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR)
If you’re looking for a slow cooker that can cook a large meal for your family or serve a crowd, the Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker is a great option.
Pros
- The manual high, low, and warm settings allow for versatile cooking.
- The stainless steel construction is durable and easy to clean.
- The removable stoneware is dishwasher safe.
Cons
- The slow cooker does not have a timer or a temperature probe.
- The stoneware is relatively heavy, which can make it difficult to maneuver.
- The slow cooker is quite large, which may not be suitable for smaller kitchens.
We’ve used the Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker to make a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and roasts. The manual settings allow for a lot of flexibility in terms of cooking time and temperature, which is great if you’re not sure how long a particular dish needs to cook. The stoneware is also a plus, as it heats evenly and retains heat well.
One thing to keep in mind is that the slow cooker does not have a timer or a temperature probe, so you’ll need to keep an eye on the food as it cooks. Additionally, the stoneware is relatively heavy, which can make it difficult to maneuver. Finally, the slow cooker is quite large, so it may not be suitable for smaller kitchens.
Overall, if you’re looking for a durable and versatile slow cooker that can handle large batches of food, the Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker is a great option. Just be aware of its size and lack of a timer or temperature probe when making your decision.
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Portable Programmable Slow Cooker with Timer and Locking Lid, Stainless Steel
If you’re looking for a slow cooker that can keep your food warm for up to 20 hours without the need for constant power, the Crock-Pot 7 Quart Portable Programmable Slow Cooker is a great option.
Pros
- The locking lid and fold-down handle make it easy to transport, whether you’re taking it to a potluck or bringing it to work.
- The 3-prong plug and 120V power supply ensure that the slow cooker is safe to use and won’t blow a fuse.
- The slow cooker has a warming/keep warm setting that can keep your food warm for up to 20 hours.
Cons
- The slow cooker is relatively heavy, weighing in at 10.5 pounds.
- The slow cooker’s heating element may stop working after a few years of use.
- The slow cooker’s cord may be too short for some users.
The Crock-Pot 7 Quart Portable Programmable Slow Cooker is a great option for anyone who wants to be able to take their food with them on the go. The locking lid and fold-down handle make it easy to transport, and the slow cooker’s ability to keep food warm for up to 20 hours means that you can take your food with you wherever you go.
One of the biggest advantages of this slow cooker is its ability to keep food warm for such a long time. This is especially useful if you’re taking the slow cooker to work or to a potluck, as it means that your food will stay warm and delicious until you’re ready to eat it.
Another advantage of this slow cooker is its safety features. The 3-prong plug and 120V power supply ensure that the slow cooker is safe to use and won’t blow a fuse, which is especially important if you’re using it in a workplace or other public setting.
While the Crock-Pot 7 Quart Portable Programmable Slow Cooker is a great option for many people, there are a few potential downsides to keep in mind. First, the slow cooker is relatively heavy, which may make it difficult to transport for some users. Second, the heating element may stop working after a few years of use, which could be a problem if you rely on the slow cooker for regular meals. Finally, the slow cooker’s cord may be too short for some users, which could limit its flexibility.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and safe slow cooker that can keep your food warm for up to 20 hours, the Crock-Pot 7 Quart Portable Programmable Slow Cooker is definitely worth considering.
Hamilton Beach Portable 3-1/2 Quart Slow Cooker with Clips, Black (33967)
If you’re looking for a slow cooker that’s perfect for single-servings, the Hamilton Beach Portable 3-1/2 Quart Slow Cooker with Clips is a great option.
Pros
- The locking lid and carry clips make it easy to transport your meal from home or office to work.
- The removable stoneware crock is dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.
- The adjustable temperature control allows you to set it and forget it, with high, low, and simmer settings.
Cons
- The cord is not removable, which can make it difficult to store.
- The small size may not be suitable for larger meals or portions.
- The slow cooker may not be as durable as larger models.
This slow cooker is perfect for those who want to enjoy a hot meal at their desk or on the go. The locking lid and carry clips make it easy to transport, while the adjustable temperature control ensures that your meal stays at the perfect temperature. The removable stoneware crock is also dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.
While the cord is not removable, this is a minor inconvenience compared to the overall convenience of this slow cooker. Additionally, the small size may not be suitable for larger meals or portions, but for single-servings, it’s perfect.
Overall, the Hamilton Beach Portable 3-1/2 Quart Slow Cooker with Clips is a great option for those who want a convenient and easy-to-use slow cooker for single-servings.
BLACK+DECKER 7-Quart Slow Cooker, SCD4007, Chalkboard Exterior, Locking Lid, 3 Heat Settings, Removable Stoneware Crock
If you’re looking for a slow cooker that’s both functional and stylish, the BLACK+DECKER 7-Quart Slow Cooker is a great option.
Pros
- The chalkboard exterior allows you to customize the look of your slow cooker and write notes on it.
- The locking lid ensures that the slow cooker stays secure during transport.
- The stoneware crock is removable and easy to clean.
Cons
- The slow cooker is only available in one color (black), which may not match all kitchen decors.
- The 7-quart capacity may not be large enough for some recipes or for feeding a large family.
- The slow cooker only has three heat settings, which may not be enough for some users.
We’ve used the BLACK+DECKER 7-Quart Slow Cooker for several weeks now and have found it to be a reliable and convenient appliance. The chalkboard exterior is a unique feature that sets this slow cooker apart from others on the market. We’ve enjoyed being able to customize the look of our slow cooker and write notes on it, such as the date or the ingredients used in a particular recipe.
The locking lid is also a great feature, especially for those who plan to transport their slow cooker to potlucks or other events. The lid snaps securely into place, preventing any spills or leaks during transport.
The stoneware crock is another standout feature of this slow cooker. It’s easy to remove from the base and is dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. The crock is also oven-safe, allowing you to take your dish from the slow cooker to the oven without having to transfer it to another dish.
Overall, we would recommend the BLACK+DECKER 7-Quart Slow Cooker to anyone who’s looking for a functional and stylish appliance that’s easy to use and clean. While it may not be the best option for those who need a larger capacity or more heat settings, it’s a great choice for those who value convenience and customization.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a 7Qt slow cooker, there are several factors to consider. We have used and tested various models, and here are some of the key features to look for:
Capacity
The capacity of a slow cooker is an important consideration. A 7Qt slow cooker is suitable for small families or individuals who want to cook enough food for one or two meals. It is important to choose a slow cooker with the right capacity to avoid overcrowding or underutilizing the cooker.
Material
The material of a slow cooker can affect its durability and heat retention. We recommend choosing a slow cooker made of high-quality materials such as ceramic or stainless steel. These materials are not only durable but also retain heat well, ensuring that your food stays warm for longer.
Heating Element
The heating element of a slow cooker is responsible for cooking your food. Look for a slow cooker with a powerful heating element that can cook your food evenly and quickly. We recommend choosing a slow cooker with a adjustable heat setting, as this allows you to customize the cooking process to your liking.
Lid
The lid of a slow cooker is an important feature to consider. A good lid should fit securely to prevent heat from escaping and to keep your food fresh. Look for a slow cooker with a lid that has a tight seal and is easy to remove and replace.
Additional Features
Some slow cookers come with additional features such as a removable insert, a locking lid, or a keep-warm setting. These features can make your slow cooker more versatile and convenient to use. Consider which additional features are important to you and your cooking needs.
In summary, when choosing a 7Qt slow cooker, consider the capacity, material, heating element, lid, and any additional features. By taking these factors into account, you can find a slow cooker that meets your needs and helps you create delicious, hassle-free meals.
