Are you looking for a versatile kitchen appliance that can handle everything from tender stews to perfectly cooked grains? An Instant Pot slow cooker might be exactly what you need. These multi-cookers combine the convenience of pressure cooking with the gentle, slow-simmering capabilities of a traditional slow cooker, saving you time and counter space. We’ve rounded up some of the best Instant Pot models that excel as slow cookers, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying delicious meals.
Our Top 3 Instant Pot Slow Cooker Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Instant Pot Pro 8 Quart 10-in-1 Multi-Cooker for Pressure Cooking and Slow Cooking
The Instant Pot Pro 8 Quart 10-in-1 Multi-Cooker is a powerhouse in the kitchen, offering a fantastic slow cooking experience alongside its many other functions. It truly streamlines meal preparation, allowing you to achieve tender, flavorful dishes with minimal effort. This model is built for durability and reliability, making it a great investment for busy households.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 10 Cooking Functions: Pressure cook, slow cook, sous vide, sauté, sterilize, yogurt, rice, bake, steam, and keep warm.
- ✓ Customizable Smart Programs: Features 28 one-touch options for ultimate recipe flexibility.
- ✓ Faster Cooking: Cooks up to 70% faster than traditional slow cooking methods.
- ✓ Large 8-Quart Capacity: Ideal for families or batch cooking.
Why We Recommend It
This Instant Pot Pro is a top-tier choice because it consistently delivers exceptional results. The slow cooker function is remarkably effective, producing evenly cooked and tender meals that rival dedicated slow cookers. Its robust build and intuitive interface make it a pleasure to use, even for complex recipes.
Best For
This model is best for families or those who enjoy cooking larger batches, and anyone looking for a high-performance multi-cooker that excels in slow cooking.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional slow cooking performance with even heat distribution.
- Highly versatile with 10 different cooking functions.
- Large capacity suits families and meal preppers.
- Durable construction for long-term use.
Cons:
- Can be a bit large for small kitchens.
- Higher price point compared to basic models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve owned a few multi-cookers over the years, but this Instant Pot Pro is the one that finally made me ditch my original. The sous vide function alone is worth it — it holds temperature beautifully, and my steaks and salmon come out perfect every single time. No extra gadgets cluttering up the kitchen!”
Customer Review: “I have been thinking about getting one of these for a couple of years now, being that I am in my 60s. I am like most people my age who are trying to size down and get rid of the excess, not wanting to add yet another appliance that sits in cupboard and you have the read the directions again by the time you use it. This is not that. It does what it says it will do, and does it beautifully.”
2. Instant Pot 4 Quart RIO Mini 7-in-1 Multi-Cooker with Slow Cooker Function
The Instant Pot 4 Quart RIO Mini is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a compact yet capable multi-cooker with a great slow cooker function. It’s perfect for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or for individuals and small families. Don’t let its size fool you; this little appliance packs a punch when it comes to delivering flavorful, slow-cooked meals.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 7 Cooking Functions: Pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, rice, yogurt, and keep warm.
- ✓ Compact 4-Quart Capacity: Ideal for 2-4 servings.
- ✓ Space-Saving Design: Easy to store without sacrificing cooking performance.
- ✓ Easy to Use Interface: Simple controls for quick meal preparation.
Why We Recommend It
We love the RIO Mini for its excellent balance of features and footprint. The slow cooker setting is reliable, providing that comforting, low-and-slow cooking that makes ingredients incredibly tender and delicious. It’s a wonderfully practical choice for anyone needing a versatile appliance without a large counter presence.
Best For
This model is ideal for singles, couples, students, or small families, and those with limited kitchen space who still want the benefits of a multi-cooker.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact size makes it perfect for small kitchens.
- Excellent value for its functionality.
- The slow cooker function works effectively for tender results.
- Simple and intuitive to operate.
Cons:
- Smaller capacity limits batch cooking for larger families.
- Fewer advanced features compared to larger models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve been using the Instant Pot 4 qt RIO Mini 7-in-1 Multi-Cooker for a few weeks now, and it’s become one of my favorite kitchen helpers — especially since I don’t always feel like firing up the stove. It’s small enough that it doesn’t take over my counter, but still big enough to make meals for one or two.”
Customer Review: “I love it! Cooks thoroughly and efficiently. It’s a large size so it’s great for feeding a family or cooking for a party. The quality of the instant pot is great and comes with thorough instructions. It’s also easy to clean as you can take out the inner pot. The one down side is it does take up a lot of counter space.”
3. Instant Pot Pro Plus Wi-Fi Smart 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker and Slow Cooker
The Instant Pot Pro Plus Wi-Fi Smart offers a blend of modern technology and classic cooking methods, making it an excellent value. Its slow cooker function is robust, allowing for delicious, slow-simmered meals. Coupled with smart features and a generous capacity, this model proves that you don’t need to break the bank for a high-quality multi-cooker experience.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 10 Cooking Functions: Pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, sous vide, can, rice, yogurt, NutriBoost, and keep warm.
- ✓ Smart Guided Cooking: Connects to the Instant Connect App for over 2,000 interactive recipes.
- ✓ NutriBoost Technology: Enhances texture and flavor with gentle pulsing.
- ✓ Large Capacity: Suitable for family-sized meals.
Why We Recommend It
This Instant Pot is a winner for its smart capabilities and excellent slow cooking performance. The ability to follow recipes directly from an app adds a new level of convenience. It’s a smart choice for those who want advanced features and a reliable slow cooker without a premium price tag.
Best For
This model is best for tech-savvy cooks, those who love following guided recipes, and families looking for an affordable yet feature-rich multi-cooker.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Smart app integration with a vast recipe library.
- NutriBoost technology improves food texture.
- Generous capacity for families.
- Offers great value for its advanced features.
Cons:
- Wi-Fi setup might be tricky for some users.
- The pulsing of NutriBoost can be a bit noisy.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Instant Pot? Pretty sure they just went under because *they’re product is SO good that you won’t need to buy a new one for years*. Yeah. So if you have an opportunity to get one, get one while you still can. It makes a ton of food, they’re big. You can cook all manner of food in here, with different combinations.”
Customer Review: “This is my second instant pot. My IP Ultra model recently died so I had to upgrade. Here are several important differences from previous models: 1) The inner pot has two hand holders – this is great because the previous models would swirl around when stirring. This new version prevents that from happening.”
Complete Buying Guide for Instant Pot Slow Cooker
Essential Factors We Consider
When looking for the best Instant Pot slow cooker, we focus on a few key areas. First, performance in slow cook mode is paramount – we want to see tender meats, evenly cooked vegetables, and rich, flavorful broths. Ease of use is also critical; a good slow cooker should have straightforward controls and clear settings. Capacity matters too, ensuring the pot is suitable for your household size. Finally, the overall build quality and durability of the appliance are important for long-term satisfaction.
Budget Planning
Instant Pot slow cooker models can range in price depending on their size, features, and whether they are part of a newer or older line. Generally, you can expect to find excellent options that balance cost and performance. Consider what features are most important to you – if you primarily need a reliable slow cooker function and don’t need all the bells and whistles, you might find a more budget-friendly model that perfectly suits your needs. Investing in a quality multi-cooker can save you money in the long run by replacing multiple appliances.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Instant Pot slow cooker involves balancing your needs for capacity, features, and budget. Each of the models we reviewed offers a superb slow cooking experience, proving that these multi-cookers are not just for pressure cooking. By understanding what to look for, you can find an Instant Pot that becomes your go-to appliance for delicious, easy meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can an Instant Pot really replace a traditional slow cooker?
A: Yes, absolutely! Instant Pots are designed with a dedicated slow cook function that mimics the low, gentle heat of a traditional slow cooker, producing similarly tender and flavorful results. Many users find the Instant Pot’s slow cooker function to be even more consistent.
Q: Are Instant Pot slow cooker settings effective for all recipes?
A: For most recipes that call for slow cooking, yes. The slow cooker setting on Instant Pots is very effective for stews, roasts, soups, and other dishes that benefit from long, slow simmering. Some recipes might require slight adjustments in cooking time compared to a traditional slow cooker.
Q: How do I clean my Instant Pot slow cooker insert?
A: The inner stainless steel pot is typically dishwasher safe. You can also hand wash it with warm, soapy water. For tougher residue, a baking soda paste can be effective for scrubbing.
Q: What is the difference between the slow cook and pressure cook functions?
A: The slow cook function uses low, gentle heat over a longer period, similar to a traditional slow cooker. The pressure cook function uses steam and pressure to cook food much faster at higher temperatures. They are distinct functions for different cooking styles and times.
Q: Is the size of the Instant Pot important for slow cooking?
A: Yes, size can be important. A larger capacity allows for larger cuts of meat or more ingredients, which is beneficial for slow cooking hearty meals. Make sure to choose a size that fits your typical cooking needs and your available kitchen space.
We hope this guide helps you find the perfect Instant Pot slow cooker for your kitchen. These versatile appliances make meal preparation simpler and more enjoyable, allowing you to create delicious, home-cooked meals with ease. Ready to start slow cooking? Check out the top-rated models today and elevate your cooking experience!
