Planning a party, potluck, or even just a big family dinner can be a lot of work, especially when it comes to keeping multiple dishes warm and ready to serve. That’s where a slow cooker event cooker, often referred to as a buffet server or triple slow cooker, comes in handy. These ingenious appliances allow you to prepare and keep several dishes at the perfect serving temperature simultaneously, taking the stress out of entertaining. We’ve rounded up some of the best options to make your next gathering a delicious success.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 4 Slow Cooker Event Cooker Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Elite Gourmet EWMST-325R Triple Slow Cooker
The Elite Gourmet Red Triple Slow Cooker Buffet Server is a vibrant and functional addition to any entertaining setup. Its eye-catching red finish is sure to add a pop of color to your buffet table. This unit is designed to make hosting a breeze, allowing you to prepare and serve three different dishes simultaneously. Its durable construction ensures it can handle frequent use, making it a reliable choice for gatherings.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Three individual 2.5-quart oval stoneware pots
- ✓ Separate Low, High, and Warm settings for each pot
- ✓ Removable pots for easy serving and cleaning
- ✓ Attractive red finish to complement your decor
Why We Recommend It
We love the Elite Gourmet Triple Slow Cooker for its ability to simplify party preparation. The independent temperature controls mean you can perfectly cook a hearty stew, a cheesy dip, and a warm dessert all at the same time. It’s a true game-changer for anyone who loves to host but hates the last-minute cooking rush.
Best For
This slow cooker event cooker is ideal for those who frequently host parties, potlucks, or large family meals and need to serve multiple dishes simultaneously.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Vibrant and attractive red design.
- Individual heat settings for maximum cooking versatility.
- Generous 2.5-quart pot size is perfect for serving many guests.
- Easy to clean due to removable stoneware pots.
Cons:
- The oval shape might take up slightly more counter space than round models.
- Some users find the exterior can get quite warm during operation.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I bought this on a whim to use on Thanksgiving as I was tired of complaints that second helping food was cold!! I am sooo happy I did. It came quickly and very well packed with no damage at all. I like the red color. Ceramic “pots” are large enough to hold a lot and easy to clean. When I first got
Customer Review: I ordered this for a Christmas Day taco bar to keep the meats warm and it worked perfectly! Great Quality and easy to use. The entire unit is not too large and fits right on the counter top yet each individual crock pot is the perfect size and not too small. I will use this again for hosting in the
2. Amazon Basics Triple Slow Cooker
The Amazon Basics Triple Slow Cooker offers a sleek, brushed stainless steel design that fits seamlessly into any kitchen. This unit is designed for ultimate convenience, featuring three individual pots that allow you to prepare different dishes at varying temperatures. It’s a fantastic option for keeping appetizers warm or serving multiple side dishes during larger gatherings, making it a standout slow cooker event cooker.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Three 2.5-quart removable nonstick inner pots
- ✓ Individual temperature dials (Low, High, Warm) for each pot
- ✓ Dishwasher-safe tempered-glass lids with locking handles
- ✓ Brushed stainless steel finish for a modern look
Why We Recommend It
Amazon Basics truly delivers with this triple slow cooker. We appreciate the thoughtful design, especially the locking lids which are great for transport or keeping things secure. The individual controls provide excellent flexibility, and the brushed stainless steel looks great on any counter. This is a solid choice for anyone who entertains regularly.
Best For
Perfect for those who need a reliable and stylish triple slow cooker for everyday use or special occasions, offering great value.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Sleek and modern brushed stainless steel appearance.
- Locking handles on lids add a layer of convenience and portability.
- Consistent and even heating across all three pots.
- Easy to clean, especially with the nonstick inner pots.
Cons:
- The individual pots are not nested, which can take up more storage space.
- Some users report that the exterior can become hot to the touch.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I seriously love this slow cooker. It is well thought out. I love how the lids work. You just flip them up and they stay. You can store food right in them. The lids fit nice and snug. They wash up nicely. I used slow cooker bags and rubber spoons so I did not notice any scratching as other stated. I
Customer Review: I bought this to use on Christmas Eve to keep our meal warm after I prepared it. It was perfect. I read the reviews and some of them had issues with the item, but I did not. I used it for a couple of days and had absolutely no issues. It kept everything warm and I had no trouble with the lids at a
3. Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel
The Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker is a classic choice for larger households and entertaining. While not a multi-pot system, its generous 7-quart capacity makes it perfect for cooking large batches of a single dish, ideal for potlucks or big family dinners. Its simple, user-friendly controls make it easy to operate, and the oval shape is great for fitting roasts or whole chickens. This is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a reliable, single-dish workhorse that can feed a crowd, making it a top pick for a slow cooker event cooker.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Large 7-quart oval capacity
- ✓ High, Low, and Warm cooking settings
- ✓ Removable stoneware for easy serving and cleaning
- ✓ Stainless steel exterior for a durable finish
Why We Recommend It
The Crock-Pot brand is synonymous with slow cooking, and this 7-quart model lives up to that reputation. Its large size is invaluable for making big-batch meals, and the straightforward operation means anyone can use it. It’s a dependable appliance for preparing comforting meals that can be enjoyed by many, and it’s certainly one of the best slow cookers for big batches.
Best For
Ideal for families or individuals who need to cook large quantities of food for gatherings, or for making one substantial dish to feed a crowd.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent capacity for large meals.
- Simple and intuitive controls.
- Durable stainless steel construction.
- Versatile for various types of recipes.
Cons:
- Only cooks one dish at a time.
- The exterior can get hot, requiring caution.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This crock pot is a great value for money and works great. I’ve used it several times to prepare a pot roast and it’s turned out great each time. It’s easy to clean and ready to use for next time! It cooks low and slow on the low heat setting. It’s perfect to put a meal in, set to low, go to work, a
Customer Review: I bought those lovely bags that you can use in these cookers, and boy, are they awesome! They save a lot of time, scrubbing, and headaches. This is a good cooker, similar to the red one I bought here a while back on my other account, which I tossed because I got sick of everything sticking to it. Be
4. Dual Pot Slow Cooker Food Warmer
The Dual Pot Slow Cooker Food Warmer is a compact and efficient option for keeping two dishes warm simultaneously. Its 1.25-quart capacity per pot is perfect for smaller gatherings, appetizer parties, or keeping dips and sauces at the ideal temperature. The portable design makes it easy to move and use in various settings, making it a great choice for smaller events or as a supplementary warming unit.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Two separate 1.25-quart ceramic pots
- ✓ Individual Low, High, and Warm settings for each pot
- ✓ Compact and portable design
- ✓ Easy to clean ceramic pots
Why We Recommend It
For smaller events or when you just need to keep a couple of items warm, this dual pot slow cooker is a fantastic solution. It heats up quickly and provides reliable temperature control for each pot, ensuring your food stays perfectly ready to serve. It’s a great mini slow cooker for party dips and appetizers.
Best For
Excellent for intimate gatherings, appetizer parties, or for anyone needing to keep two smaller dishes warm.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact size is convenient for smaller spaces.
- Individual controls allow for different temperature settings.
- Heats up quickly and maintains temperature well.
- Ideal for appetizers, dips, and smaller side dishes.
Cons:
- The individual pot size is too small for large main dishes.
- The packaging box is flimsy, according to some reviews.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: The cooker itself is great! It heats up fast, has three settings and is very durable. I would recommend to anyone.The only issue is the box it comes in. It is INCREDIBLE flimsy. I do NOT recommend putting the unit back into the box after use, unless you use the styroam it was packed in. I have two o
Customer Review: The cooker itself is great! It heats up fast, has three settings and is very durable. I would recommend to anyone.The only issue is the box it comes in. It is INCREDIBLE flimsy. I do NOT recommend putting the unit back into the box after use, unless you use the styroam it was packed in. I have two o
Complete Buying Guide for Slow Cooker Event Cookers
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing a slow cooker event cooker, we look at several key factors to ensure it meets the demands of entertaining. Capacity is crucial; we consider the size of individual pots and the total volume to ensure it can serve the number of guests you anticipate. Versatility in temperature settings is also paramount – independent controls for each pot allow for precise cooking and warming of different dishes. Durability and ease of cleaning are non-negotiable for frequent use. Finally, design and footprint matter; a good event cooker should look good on your buffet table without taking up too much space. Models that offer features like locking lids or stay-cool handles are a bonus for safety and convenience, making them excellent portable slow cookers for travel or parties.
Budget Planning
The cost of a slow cooker event cooker can vary significantly based on brand, features, and capacity. Basic dual-pot models can be quite affordable, often falling into the budget-friendly category. Triple slow cookers, especially those from reputable brands or with advanced features, will generally be more expensive. When planning your budget, consider how often you’ll use the appliance. For occasional use, a more basic model might suffice. However, if you’re a frequent host, investing in a higher-quality, more feature-rich unit can provide better long-term value and performance. Always compare prices across different retailers to find the best deals, especially during sales events; look out for slow cooker Black Friday deals!
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best slow cooker event cooker for you depends on your specific needs and entertaining style. Whether you’re hosting a large holiday feast or a small appetizer party, there’s a slow cooker designed to make your life easier. By considering capacity, temperature control, ease of use, and budget, you can find the perfect appliance to ensure your food is always served warm and delicious. These multi-pot wonders are essential for stress-free entertaining, allowing you to enjoy your guests as much as your food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a regular slow cooker and a slow cooker event cooker?
A: A regular slow cooker typically has one pot for cooking a single dish. A slow cooker event cooker, often a triple or dual-pot model, is designed to cook and keep multiple dishes warm simultaneously, making it ideal for serving a variety of food at parties and gatherings.
Q: How many people can a triple slow cooker serve?
A: A typical triple slow cooker with 2.5-quart pots can serve around 6-8 people comfortably, depending on whether the dishes are main courses or sides. If you’re serving smaller portions or a variety of appetizers, it can cater to even more.
Q: Can I cook raw meat in all the pots of a triple slow cooker?
A: Yes, most triple slow cookers have independent temperature controls (Low, High, Warm) for each pot, allowing you to cook raw meat safely in each individual pot. Always ensure meat is cooked to the proper internal temperature before switching to the ‘Warm’ setting.
Q: Are the inner pots of a slow cooker event cooker dishwasher safe?
A: Many slow cooker event cookers come with dishwasher-safe inner pots and lids, which significantly simplifies cleanup. Always check the product’s manual or description to confirm.
Q: What are the advantages of using a slow cooker for events?
A: Slow cookers are fantastic for events because they keep food warm for extended periods, require minimal supervision once set, and allow for “set it and forget it” cooking, freeing up your time to entertain guests. They also help maintain food moisture and flavor.
Investing in a quality slow cooker event cooker can transform your hosting experience. No more worrying about dishes going cold or juggling multiple appliances. With these versatile machines, you can focus on enjoying your guests and the delicious food you’ve prepared. Browse our top picks and find the perfect slow cooker event cooker to make your next gathering a culinary triumph!
