13 Best Slow Cookers With Sauté Function for Effortless Meal Prep

If you’re looking for the best slow cookers with sauté functions, I’ve found 13 top options that make meal prep effortless. These versatile models combine slow cooking with searing, steaming, and more, replacing multiple gadgets in your kitchen. From large capacity options for family dinners to compact choices for singles, they have features like digital controls and easy cleaning. Keep exploring to discover the perfect one for your needs and simplify your cooking routine.

Key Takeaways

• Multi-functionality allows seamless switching between slow cooking and sautéing, reducing the need for multiple kitchen appliances.
• Larger capacities (6 to 10 quarts) accommodate family-sized meals and entertaining with ease.
• User-friendly digital controls and touch interfaces enable precise temperature and time adjustments for effortless meal prep.
• Easy-to-clean features like dishwasher-safe ceramic or nonstick pots simplify maintenance.
• Advanced heat technology ensures even cooking and fast heating, optimizing performance for versatile cooking needs.

Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker

If you’re looking for a versatile appliance that combines multiple functions into one, the Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker is an excellent choice. It replaces 14 traditional appliances, including slow cooker, steam oven, and skillet, making meal prep simpler. With an 8.5-quart capacity, it’s perfect for big families or entertaining. Its Triple Fusion Heat technology speeds up cooking by up to 30%, supporting modes like sear, sauté, steam, sous vide, and bake. The removable oven-safe pot and touch controls make it easy to use and clean. Overall, it’s a powerful, all-in-one tool that streamlines your cooking experience.

Best For: families or entertainers seeking a versatile, all-in-one cooking appliance that can handle large quantities and multiple cooking styles with speed and convenience.

Pros:

• Replaces 14 appliances, saving space and reducing clutter in the kitchen
• Supports multiple cooking modes including sear, sauté, steam, sous vide, and bake for versatile meal prep
• Offers an 8.5-quart capacity ideal for cooking large meals for gatherings or big families

Cons:

• Not dishwasher safe, requiring manual cleaning of the removable pot and accessories
• Dimensions and weight may be less suitable for small kitchens with limited counter space
• Some users may find the array of features and controls complex to learn initially

GreenPan Elite 8-in-1 Programmable Electric Slow Cooker

The GreenPan Elite 8-in-1 Programmable Electric Slow Cooker stands out as an excellent choice for busy families and home cooks who want versatility and convenience in one appliance. Its 6-quart capacity supports family-sized meals, and the diamond-infused Thermolon Volt ceramic coating guarantees durability and easy cleaning without harmful chemicals. With eight preset modes—including slow cook, roast, sauté, and steam—it handles a variety of cooking tasks seamlessly. The large LCD display and touch controls make operation straightforward, while the removable ceramic pot is dishwasher safe. Overall, this slow cooker combines style, performance, and health-conscious features for effortless meal prep.

Best For: families and home cooks seeking a versatile, durable, and easy-to-use slow cooker for preparing large meals with health-conscious features.

Pros:

• Combines multiple functions including slow cooking, roasting, steaming, and more, reducing the need for multiple appliances.
• Durable diamond-infused ceramic nonstick coating that is easy to clean and free from harmful chemicals.
• Large 6-quart capacity ideal for family-sized meals and in-pot browning for versatile cooking.

Cons:

• Slightly larger footprint may require extra kitchen space.
• Some users report difficulty reading the control panel due to the stainless-steel display.
• Button labels may wash off over time or experience occasional electronic malfunctions.

Hamilton Beach 6-Quart 9-in-1 Programmable Slow Cooker

The Hamilton Beach 6-Quart 9-in-1 Programmable Slow Cooker stands out for those seeking an all-in-one appliance with versatile cooking options. It combines slow cooking, roasting, rice cooking, steaming, searing, browning, sautéing, and warming in one device. Its large 6-quart ceramic pot easily handles meals for 7 or more people, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. You can sear or brown directly in the nonstick pot, enhancing flavor without extra pans. With intuitive controls, a digital timer, and a delay start feature, it simplifies meal prep. Plus, the removable pot cleans effortlessly, making this slow cooker a convenient, multi-functional addition to any kitchen.

Best For: those looking for a versatile, all-in-one slow cooker that can handle large family meals and a variety of cooking functions with ease.

Pros:

• Combines 9 different cooking functions including slow cooking, roasting, steaming, and more, reducing the need for multiple appliances.
• Large 6-quart capacity comfortably serves 7+ people, ideal for family dinners and gatherings.
• Digital controls and delay start feature make meal planning and prep straightforward and convenient.

Cons:

• The appliance weighs nearly 12 pounds, which may be heavy for some users to move or store easily.
• The rectangular shape might not fit into smaller kitchen spaces or cabinets easily.
• Limited to 120V operation, so not suitable for use in regions with different electrical standards.

Instant Pot 7.5QT Slow Cooker and Multicooker

Designed for busy families and meal preppers, the Instant Pot 7.5QT Slow Cooker and Multicooker combines multiple functions in a single appliance, making it ideal for those who want versatility and efficiency. It offers slow cooking, sautéing, steaming, and warming all in one device. The large 7.5-quart capacity is perfect for family-sized meals and batch cooking. Its sleek black design, touch controls, and knob settings make it user-friendly. The non-stick, dishwasher-safe aluminum pot simplifies cleanup, while features like the silicone storage lid and steam sling add convenience. Safe, lightweight, and powerful, this multicooker streamlines meal prep without sacrificing performance.

Best For: busy families and meal preppers seeking a versatile, space-saving appliance for efficient, large-scale cooking.

Pros:

• Combines four functions—slow cook, sauté, steam, and warm—reducing the need for multiple appliances
• Large 7.5-quart capacity ideal for family meals and batch cooking
• Dishwasher-safe non-stick ceramic pot and easy-to-use touch controls for quick cleanup and simple operation

Cons:

• 800-watt power may be less suitable for very fast or high-pressure cooking needs compared to higher wattage models
• Slightly bulky size may require ample counter or storage space
• Limited to basic functions without advanced programmable features found in some premium multicookers

Hamilton Beach 9-in-1 Digital Programmable Slow Cooker

If you’re looking for a versatile slow cooker that combines multiple cooking functions in one appliance, the Hamilton Beach 9-in-1 Digital Programmable Slow Cooker is an excellent choice. It offers nine cooking options, including searing, browning, sautéing, roasting, steaming, rice and grain cooking, slow cooking on high or low, and warming. The nonstick pot makes searing and browning easy, enhancing flavor and color. With a 6-quart capacity, it handles large cuts of meat and family-sized meals. The digital timer allows precise control, automatically switching to warm mode when done. It’s perfect for simplifying meal prep while delivering flavorful results.

Best For: busy families and home cooks seeking a versatile, all-in-one slow cooker with multiple cooking functions and large capacity for meal prep.

Pros:

• Offers nine versatile cooking options including searing, roasting, steaming, and more for diverse meal preparation
• Nonstick pot allows for easy searing, browning, and sautéing directly in the appliance
• Digital timer with automatic warm switch ensures precise cooking and convenient serving

Cons:

• The 6-quart capacity may be limiting for very large gatherings or bulk meal prep
• Multiple functions and settings could be complex for users unfamiliar with digital controls
• Nonstick coating may require careful cleaning to maintain longevity

Instant Pot Pro 8 Qt 10-in-1 Multi-Use Pressure Cooker

For busy families and home cooks who want versatility and speed, the Instant Pot Pro 8 Qt 10-in-1 Multi-Use Pressure Cooker stands out as an excellent option. It combines 10 functions, including pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, and even sous vide, all in one device. With 28 one-touch programs, it simplifies meal prep and reduces active cooking time—preheating 20% faster and cooking up to 70% quicker. Its large 8-quart capacity is perfect for family-sized servings and batch cooking. Made from durable stainless steel, it’s easy to clean, safe to use, and designed for convenience, making it a true all-in-one powerhouse.

Best For: busy families and home cooks seeking a versatile, time-saving kitchen appliance that can handle multiple cooking tasks in one device.

Pros:

• Combines 10 functions including pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, and sous vide for all-in-one convenience
• Cooks up to 70% faster and preheats 20% quicker than traditional methods, saving time
• Large 8-quart capacity ideal for family-sized meals and batch cooking

Cons:

• Heavier and larger in size, which may require ample counter space and storage
• Slightly higher price point compared to basic pressure cookers or slow cookers
• Learning curve for mastering all 28 one-touch programs and multiple functions

Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker

The Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker stands out as an excellent choice for home chefs who want a versatile, all-in-one appliance that can handle large meals with ease. It replaces 14 kitchen gadgets, offering functions like slow cooking, sautéing, steaming, sous vide, baking, and more. Its Triple Fusion Heat Technology cooks up to 30% faster, and the removable, oven-safe pot lets you finish dishes in the oven for crispy tops. With an 8.5-quart capacity, it’s perfect for family-sized meals. Made of stainless steel with a sleek design, it’s easy to use, clean, and highly rated for its performance and versatility.

Best For: home cooks and families seeking a versatile, large-capacity multi-cooker to replace multiple appliances and prepare a wide variety of meals with ease.

Pros:

• Replaces 14 kitchen appliances, saving counter space and simplifying cooking routines
• Fast and even cooking with Triple Fusion Heat Technology, up to 30% quicker than traditional methods
• Large 8.5-quart capacity ideal for big meals, entertaining, and batch cooking

Cons:

• Slightly heavy at over 12 pounds, which may be cumbersome to move frequently
• Some users report minor scratches or bent handles over time
• Price point may be higher compared to single-function appliances

Crock-Pot MultiMeal Multicooker and Slow Cooker

The Crock-Pot MultiMeal Multicooker and Slow Cooker stands out for its ability to prepare multiple dishes simultaneously, making it an ideal choice for busy families or those who love meal prep. With dual 3.7-quart nonstick pots, you can cook two different meals at once, saving time and effort. It offers versatile functions like slow cook, sear/sauté, bake, rice/steam, and keep warm, all controlled via a user-friendly touch interface. Its advanced DualSync Technology ensures both dishes finish together, even with different cooking methods. Designed for family-sized meals, it replaces multiple kitchen tools and cleans easily thanks to dishwasher-safe parts.

Best For: busy families and meal preppers seeking to prepare multiple dishes simultaneously with versatile cooking options in one easy-to-use appliance.

Pros:

• Combines multiple cooking functions, reducing the need for various kitchen tools
• Dual 3.7-quart nonstick pots allow for preparing two different meals at the same time
• Smart DualSync Technology ensures both dishes finish together, saving time and effort

Cons:

• Large size may require ample counter space for storage and use
• Heavier weight of nearly 14 pounds could be challenging to move or store
• Limited to 8-quart total capacity, which might not suffice for very large gatherings

GreenLife 6QT Slow Cooker with Removable Ceramic Nonstick Bowl

If you’re cooking for a family or hosting large gatherings, the GreenLife 6QT Slow Cooker stands out thanks to its generous capacity and versatile features. It can easily handle a 6-pound chicken, a 4-pound roast, or serve over seven people, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. With a cooking range from 30 minutes to 20 hours and a 10-hour programmable timer, you can set it and forget it. The toxin-free ceramic nonstick bowl is removable, lightweight, and oven-safe, simplifying cooking and cleaning. Plus, the easy control panel and glass lid let you monitor progress without losing heat or moisture.

Best For: families, meal preppers, and hosts who need a versatile, large-capacity slow cooker for everyday meals and gatherings.

Pros:

• Spacious 6QT capacity feeds 7+ people, ideal for family dinners and large groups.
• Removable, dishwasher-safe ceramic nonstick bowl simplifies cleaning and allows oven and stovetop use.
• Programmable timer and Keep Warm feature offer flexible, convenient cooking options.

Cons:

• Heavier than some smaller models due to its large capacity and ceramic bowl.
• May take up more counter space, which could be a concern in compact kitchens.
• Limited to three basic cooking modes, which might be less precise for advanced cooking needs.

ICOOK 3.5 Quart Slow Cooker with Sear/Sauté Function

Designed for home cooks who value versatility, the ICOOK 3.5 Quart Slow Cooker with Sear/Sauté Function stands out with its removable aluminium pot that doubles as a stovetop searing and browning vessel. Its sleek black matte finish and oval shape make it both stylish and functional. The removable pot is dishwasher safe, lightweight, and shatterproof, allowing you to sear or brown ingredients directly on the stove before slow cooking. With adjustable Low, High, and Warm settings, it’s perfect for a variety of dishes. The tempered glass lid and cool-touch handles add safety and convenience, making meal prep easier and more efficient.

Best For: home cooks seeking a versatile, stylish slow cooker with a removable sear/sauté pot for preparing a variety of dishes with safety and ease.

Pros:

• Removable aluminium pot allows for stovetop searing and browning, enhancing cooking versatility
• Stylish black matte finish and oval shape complement any kitchen decor
• Safe, cool-touch handles and tempered glass lid improve safety and monitoring

Cons:

• Limited to a 3.5-quart capacity, which may not suit large families or gatherings
• Power consumption of 163 watts might be less efficient for extended use
• Slightly heavier than similar models due to durable materials, which may affect portability

Crock-Pot 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker

For those who frequently cook large meals or entertain guests, the Crock-Pot 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker stands out with its spacious capacity and user-friendly digital controls. Its sleek black stainless steel finish adds a modern touch to any kitchen, while the oval shape fits large cuts of meat and big batches comfortably. The digital display makes programming easy, with a timer that counts up to 20 hours and three heat settings—low, high, and warm. The removable stoneware pot is dishwasher-safe for quick cleanup, and the auto-warm feature keeps food ready to serve. Overall, it’s a reliable, versatile appliance perfect for busy households and gatherings.

Best For: those who regularly cook large meals, entertain guests, or need a reliable, spacious slow cooker for family gatherings and holiday dinners.

Pros:

• Large 8-quart capacity ideal for big batches and large families
• Digital control panel with easy programming and precise timer
• Stylish black stainless steel finish that complements modern kitchens

Cons:

• Heavy ceramic insert may be difficult to handle for some users
• Some reports of the ceramic liner cracking after multiple uses
• Higher price point compared to smaller or less feature-rich models

Hamilton Beach 10 Quart Slow Cooker with Lid Lock

The Hamilton Beach 10 Quart Slow Cooker with Lid Lock stands out as an excellent choice for large families or those who frequently host gatherings, thanks to its generous 10-quart capacity. It can easily fit a 12-pound turkey or a big roast, making meal prep straightforward. The oval shape ensures even cooking, while the secure lid clips prevent spills during transport. With simple knob controls offering three heat settings—Low, High, and Warm—it’s easy to operate with minimal supervision. The removable stoneware and glass lid are dishwasher safe, simplifying cleanup. Its durable build and portability make it perfect for big meals, potlucks, or family dinners.

Best For: Large families, hosts of gatherings, or anyone needing to prepare big meals with ease and minimal supervision.

Pros:

• Large 10-quart capacity fits big roasts, turkeys, and meals for 12+ people
• Secure lid clips prevent spills during transport and handling
• Dishwasher-safe stoneware and lid simplify cleanup

Cons:

• Bulky size may require ample storage space
• Only three basic heat settings limit precise temperature control
• Relatively heavy at around 15.7 pounds, which may affect portability for some users

10-in-1 Programmable Slow Cooker with Timer

If you want a versatile kitchen appliance that combines multiple functions into one device, the in-1 Programmable Slow Cooker with Timer is an excellent choice. It replaces 14 tools, including a slow cooker, steam oven, sauté pan, and even a bread maker, thanks to its accessories like a sous vide rack and steam tray. With an intuitive LED display, it offers precise temperature control from 104-394°F and programmable cooking times up to 24 hours. Its triple heating technology cooks 30% faster, and it’s compatible with induction and gas stoves. Made of durable stainless steel with a safe ceramic coating, it’s a convenient, multi-purpose powerhouse for effortless meal prep.

Best For: home cooks seeking a versatile, all-in-one kitchen appliance that replaces multiple tools and speeds up meal preparation.

Pros:

• Replaces 14 different kitchen appliances, saving space and increasing convenience
• Precise temperature control with programmable cooking times up to 24 hours
• Cooks 30% faster due to triple heating technology and versatile modes

Cons:

• Non-stick coating may peel after initial use, requiring careful handling
• Temperature accuracy has minor deviations, with high and low settings slightly off the specified range
• Cleaning can be challenging in some areas, and the glass lid is not dishwasher safe

Factors to Consider When Choosing Slow Cookers With Sauté Function

When selecting a slow cooker with a sauté function, I focus on how evenly it heats and how easy it is to control the temperature precisely. I also consider the durability of the nonstick pot, the size that fits my needs, and whether it offers multiple functions for added versatility. These factors guarantee I choose a reliable appliance that suits my cooking style and kitchen space.

Heat Distribution Quality

Achieving even heat distribution in a slow cooker with sauté function is vital for consistent cooking results. When heat is spread uniformly, food cooks evenly without hot spots that can burn or undercook ingredients. High-quality models often feature thick, heavy-duty materials like cast iron or multi-layered stainless steel, which help maintain consistent temperatures. Multiple heating zones—such as bottom, side, and steam heat—further improve heat distribution during sautéing and slow cooking. Precise temperature control and sensors are also essential, especially when switching between modes, ensuring even heat flow. Poor distribution can cause uneven textures and flavors, compromising your dish’s quality. Consequently, selecting a slow cooker with solid heat distribution capabilities guarantees reliable, delicious results every time you cook.

Control Ease and Precision

Choosing a slow cooker with sauté function becomes easier when it offers easy-to-use, precise controls. I look for models with digital or touch controls that allow accurate temperature and time adjustments, ensuring consistent results. Programmable timers are a big plus—they let me set cooking durations and automatically switch to warm mode, saving me from constant monitoring. A clear, easy-to-read display and intuitive control panel make operation straightforward, even when I’m in a rush. I also prefer multiple preset modes with precise temperature settings, so I can adapt to different recipes and techniques. Responsiveness and reliability matter, too—features like delay start and memory functions add flexibility and control, making the cooking process smoother and more predictable.

Nonstick Pot Durability

A durable nonstick pot is essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of a slow cooker with sauté function. High-quality coatings like ceramic or reinforced PTFE tend to last longer and resist scratches better with regular use. The coating’s thickness and the materials used in construction play a big role in durability; thicker coatings generally provide more longevity. To protect the nonstick surface, I recommend using utensils made of wood, silicone, or nylon, which help prevent scratches. Also, avoid exposing the pot to high temperatures or abrasive cleaning tools, as these can accelerate wear. Nonstick coatings free from PFOA, lead, and cadmium are usually more durable and safer for long-term use. Investing in a well-made, durable nonstick pot ensures your slow cooker remains effective over time.

Size and Capacity

The size and capacity of a slow cooker with sauté function play a crucial role in how well it fits your cooking needs and space constraints. Capacities typically range from 3.5 to 10 quarts, influencing how much food you can prepare at once. Larger models, 8 quarts or more, are perfect for family meals or entertaining, while smaller ones around 4 quarts suit singles or couples. Consider your typical servings; a 6-quart cooker generally serves 4-6 people comfortably. Keep in mind that larger sizes require more storage space and may consume more energy, but they offer greater flexibility for cooking multiple dishes or larger cuts of meat. Measure your kitchen space to ensure your choice fits comfortably on your countertop.

Multi-Function Compatibility

When selecting a slow cooker with a sauté function, it’s vital to evaluate how well it supports multiple cooking methods seamlessly. Multi-function compatibility means you can switch effortlessly between sautéing, slow cooking, steaming, and baking, which reduces the need for extra appliances. Many models feature adjustable temperature controls and preset modes, allowing precise sautéing before transitioning to other functions for greater recipe flexibility. An integrated sauté feature helps minimize mess and preserves flavors by cooking ingredients directly in the same vessel, streamlining meal prep and cleanup. Compatibility with various cookware materials, such as nonstick coatings or induction-ready pots, further enhances functionality. Overall, a versatile slow cooker simplifies your cooking process, saves time, and broadens your culinary options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Sauté Directly in the Slow Cooker Without Additional Pots?

Yes, you can sauté directly in some slow cookers with a sauté or sear function. I love this feature because it lets me skip extra pots and save time. Just make sure your model specifically has this capability, as not all slow cookers do. When it does, I simply select the sauté setting, heat the oil, and cook my ingredients right in the cooker before switching to slow cook mode.

How Does the Sauté Function Impact Cooking Times?

The sauté function typically speeds up the cooking process because it allows me to brown ingredients directly in the slow cooker, which enhances flavors early on. While it might slightly reduce overall cooking times, it’s more about adding depth and texture rather than drastically cutting time. I find it convenient since I can sauté and simmer in the same pot, saving me effort and dishes.

Are Slow Cookers With Sauté Features Suitable for All Types of Recipes?

Absolutely, slow cookers with sauté functions can handle a wide variety of recipes, but they’re not magic for everything. I’ve found they excel with stews, braises, and even some one-pot dishes, saving me time and cleanup. However, delicate sauces or recipes needing precise temperature control might still be better on the stovetop. So, while versatile, they’re not perfect for every single dish—yet, they’re a game-changer for many.

Is the Sauté Function Easy to Clean and Maintain?

Yes, the sauté function is generally easy to clean and maintain. I find that most slow cookers with this feature have removable, non-stick inserts that make washing a breeze. I recommend cleaning them promptly after use to prevent food from sticking or staining. Just use warm soapy water or a gentle scrub, and avoid abrasive cleaners to keep the surface in top shape for future cooking.

Do All Slow Cookers With Sauté Have Adjustable Temperature Controls?

Not all slow cookers with sauté functions have adjustable temperature controls. Some models offer simple on/off sauté options, while others provide precise temperature settings, giving you more control over your cooking process. I recommend checking the product details before purchasing to ascertain it meets your needs. Having adjustable controls is especially helpful if you want to sear ingredients at specific temperatures or switch seamlessly between sautéing and slow cooking.

Conclusion

Ultimately, finding the right slow cooker with a sauté function feels like discovering a trusted kitchen companion. It gently simplifies your cooking routine, making each meal an effortless pleasure. With the right choice, you’ll enjoy seamless prep and flavorful results, all while keeping your kitchen rhythm smooth and unhurried. So, trust your instincts and embrace the ease—your perfect cooking partner is just a decision away. Happy cooking!

Aurelia( Editor in Chief )

Aurelia is the Editor-in-Chief of The Graceful Kitchen, a vegan lifestyle blog that focuses on delicious, nutritious, and ethical eating. A lifelong vegan, Aurelia is passionate about sharing her love of plant-based cuisine with others. She is a regular contributor to several online and print publications, and has been interviewed by major news outlets about the benefits of a vegan diet. In her free time, Aurelia enjoys cooking, hiking, and spending time with her cats.