Slow Cooker Basics

Low or High?

Both settings eventually reach the same cooking temperature. The difference is how long it takes to get there. Low is gentler and suits tougher cuts such as pork shoulder and beef chuck. High is useful when you are short on time. As a rough rule, one hour on High is similar to two hours on Low, which is how most recipes here give both ranges.

Size and how full to fill it

Most recipes assume a 6-quart slow cooker. Aim to keep the cooker between about half and two-thirds full. Too empty and food can overcook or scorch. Too full and it may not heat evenly. If you scale a recipe up or down, the cooking time does not scale in proportion, so check earlier or later than the stated range and use a thermometer.

Leave the lid on

Each time you lift the lid, heat escapes and the cooking time can grow noticeably. Only lift it when a recipe tells you to, or to check doneness near the end.

Every cooker is different

Older units often run cooler, and newer ones can run hotter. The first time you make a recipe, start checking toward the early end of the range and note how your cooker behaves.

Layering

Put dense root vegetables such as potatoes and carrots on the bottom, close to the heat, and place meat on top. Add delicate ingredients like peas, spinach and dairy near the end so they keep their texture.

More on safety

Read our slow cooker food safety guide for thermometer, thawing and leftover advice.