What size crockpot / slow cooker?

Sikaboo

I am going to buy a slow cooker but am a bit confused about what size to get? I mainly cook for just 2 people but like to make enough to freeze or warm up the next day. Have looked at a 3.5L and a 6.5L...... Any one else had this dilemma? ;-)

ChangingAmanda

From my experience, most recipes you'll find are for 5-6 qt pots. I have a 3.5 and fill it to the brim if I use a recipe. I only cook for myself so I end up freezing 3-4 portions.

If you're going to use it for cooking meat only, like a pot roast, then a 3.5 will probably be ok.

summer8it

I think it's useful to have both a small and a large slow cooker.

A large one, like a 6 quart, will let you cook a large piece of meat like a whole chicken or whole turkey breast, or make a large batch of soup that would last for several meals.

Smaller pots, like 2-3 quarts, are good for making small batches of food (i.e. enough chili for one night) or for making side dishes. I often use my 3 quart crock pot to cook kale or bake potatoes while my large one is also in use.

It's also great to have more than one when you are having parties!

If I had to choose to buy just one, I'd get a 6 quart model. And if you want to use it to cook dinner while you are away at work during the day, look for a model that has a timer and will switch to warm after the cooking time is done -- otherwise you risk burning or overcooking your food if it is on all day.

Sikaboo

Ok.....think I'll prob go for the 6.5L......thanks for your help :-)