Sometimes, a full-sized slow cooker just feels like overkill. Whether you’re cooking for one, whipping up a quick appetizer, or trying out a new sauce recipe, a smaller appliance can be incredibly convenient. Extra small slow cookers are perfect for those moments when you need a compact solution without sacrificing the magic of slow cooking. They heat up faster, use less energy, and are ideal for small kitchens or limited counter space. Let’s dive into some of the best extra small slow cookers available to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 4 Extra Small Slow Cooker Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. KOOC Slow Cooker 0.65 Quart
The KOOC small 0.65 quart slow cooker is a fantastic option for anyone needing a tiny but mighty appliance. It’s perfect for making sauces, dips, or single servings, and the upgraded ceramic pot ensures even cooking. This is a truly space-saving solution for smaller kitchens.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 0.65 Quart Capacity: Ideal for single servings, sauces, or appetizers.
- ✓ Upgraded Ceramic Pot: Ensures consistent heating and easy cleanup.
- ✓ Compact and Space-Saving Design: Perfect for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
- ✓ Includes 6 Free Slow Cooker Liners: Makes cooking and cleaning even more convenient.
Why We Recommend It
This is our top pick because it excels at its specific purpose: small-batch cooking. It heats up quickly and evenly, making it incredibly versatile for everything from dips to individual portions of stews. Plus, the included liners are a thoughtful touch for hassle-free meal prep.
Best For
Individuals, couples, or anyone looking to make small appetizers, sauces, or single-serving meals without using a large appliance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Perfect size for small portions and sauces.
- Heats up quickly and cooks evenly.
- Includes convenient free liners for easy cleanup.
- Very compact and easy to store.
Cons:
- Capacity is too small for family-sized meals.
- Limited to basic low/high heat settings.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This mini slow cooker is fantastic! It’s the perfect size for small batches, soups, or sauces. Easy to use, cooks evenly, and is super convenient when I don’t need a full-sized cooker. Compact, practical, and makes mealtime so much easier — I use it all the time!
Customer Review: Easy to use. High, medium, and warm settings work well. It works well for preparing food in advance. Nice to have the food hot and ready when we get home. We use it 3 or 4 times a week.
2. Double Slow Cooker 2 x 1.25 QT
If you often find yourself making two different dips or appetizers for a party, this dual slow cooker is a game-changer. Each pot is 1.25 quarts, offering flexibility to prepare multiple items simultaneously. It’s a great appliance for entertaining or for meal-prepping different components of a meal.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Dual 1.25 Quart Pots: Cook two dishes at once.
- ✓ Three Heat Settings: Low, High, and Warm for versatile cooking.
- ✓ Removable Ceramic Pots: Easy to clean and serve from.
- ✓ Buffet Server Style: Perfect for parties and gatherings.
Why We Recommend It
This model earns our Editor’s Choice for its dual functionality, making it ideal for entertaining. You can keep two different dips warm for a party or cook two complementary dishes simultaneously. The individual temperature controls give you great control over your meal prep.
Best For
Hosting parties, serving appetizers, or meal-prepping two different items at once. It’s an excellent addition to your entertaining arsenal.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cooks two items simultaneously.
- Versatile heat settings for different needs.
- Easy to clean due to removable pots.
- Great for parties and keeping food warm.
Cons:
- The packaging box can be flimsy.
- Total capacity might still be limiting for larger gatherings if only one item is prepared.
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 styrofoam 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 styrofoam it was packed in. I have two o’
3. Bella Slow Cooker 1.5 Qt
The Bella 1.5 Qt slow cooker is a fantastic, affordable option for individuals or couples. Its nonstick ceramic pot makes cleanup a breeze, and the three heat settings provide enough control for most small recipes. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for value without compromising on functionality.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 1.5 Quart Capacity: Ideal for 1-2 people, dips, or appetizers.
- ✓ EverGood Ceramic Nonstick Coating: PFAS, PFOA, PTFE, lead, and cadmium-free.
- ✓ Three Heat Settings: Low, Medium, and High for precise cooking.
- ✓ Dishwasher-Safe Components: Simplifies cleaning.
Why We Recommend It
This Bella slow cooker is our top budget pick because it offers excellent performance for its price point. The nonstick coating is a significant advantage for easy cleanup, and the three heat settings allow for good control over your cooking. It’s a reliable appliance that makes everyday cooking much simpler.
Best For
Anyone seeking an affordable, easy-to-use slow cooker for small households or for making appetizers and dips. It’s a great example of a best budget slow cooker.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for the price.
- Nonstick ceramic pot is easy to clean.
- Three heat settings offer good versatility.
- Attractive design and color options.
Cons:
- The “warm” setting might run a bit hotter than some prefer.
- Durability over very long-term use could be a concern for some users.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Looks great, works great and at a great price. I’m very happy with my purchase. Perfect for dips, or appetizers like lil smokes in BBQ or something similar. I like the small size for the things I mentioned. Seems to be made well and it works well so I’m happy with it and would recommend it
Customer Review: Perfect. Excellent for young adults, newlyweds, college kiddos….My 24 yo son loves it. It is truly a “slow cooker”. Not a hotpot. It is the ideal size for 1-2 people. Temps are perfect for minimal oversight. Easy wash, love the colors, but truly love that it slow cooks like it should & warms dips without’
4. Elite Gourmet MST-250XS Slow Cooker
The Elite Gourmet MST-250XS is a reliable 1.5-quart slow cooker that’s perfect for individuals or small families. It features adjustable temperature settings, including a “Keep Warm” function, making it incredibly convenient for busy schedules. The stainless steel finish adds a touch of modern style to any kitchen.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 1.5 Quart Capacity: Suitable for small meals and side dishes.
- ✓ Adjustable Temperature Settings: Low, High, and Keep Warm.
- ✓ Dishwasher-Safe Components: Includes a removable stoneware pot and glass lid.
- ✓ Stylish Stainless Steel Exterior: Complements modern kitchen decor.
Why We Recommend It
This Elite Gourmet model is a solid choice for its blend of functionality and aesthetics. The adjustable temperature controls provide flexibility, and the “Keep Warm” setting is invaluable for busy households. It’s a testament to how even small appliances can offer robust features, fitting well into daily use.
Best For
Individuals, couples, or anyone who appreciates a compact slow cooker with straightforward controls and a stylish finish.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Provides multiple heat settings for cooking flexibility.
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts.
- Attractive stainless steel design.
- Compact size is convenient for small kitchens.
Cons:
- May have minor cosmetic imperfections on the ceramic pot out of the box.
- Cooking times can be slightly faster than larger models, requiring attention.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I ordered 2 of these crockpots last minute for a Christmas party as I had 2 Queso dips I wanted to keep warm but my 2 large crockpots were way too big. These smaller crockpots were perfect. They heated up well and has 4 settings. I appreciated the “warm” was actually what it said and not too hot. The’
Customer Review: I love this lil crockpot. It did have a little chunk missing on the ceramic inner pot but not big enough to affect functionality and not visible since it sets inside the outer pot. It works great and is perfect for one or two people. Please be advised though that because it’s more compact, cooking’
Complete Buying Guide for Extra Small Slow Cookers
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing an extra small slow cooker, we look at capacity, number of heat settings, material of the pot (ceramic is usually preferred for even heating and durability), ease of cleaning, and safety features. We also consider how well it performs for its intended small-batch tasks, like making dips or single servings. Durability and overall build quality are also key, ensuring your small appliance lasts. For those interested in specific materials, understanding slow cooker enamel inserts can be helpful.
Budget Planning
Extra small slow cookers are generally quite affordable. You can expect to find great options for anywhere from $20 to $50. The Bella 1.5 Qt, for instance, is a prime example of a fantastic budget slow cooker. Investing a little more might get you additional features or a more premium build, but for most basic needs, the smaller units offer excellent value.
Final Thoughts
An extra small slow cooker is a wonderfully practical addition to any kitchen, especially for those who don’t frequently cook large meals. They are energy-efficient, quick to heat up, and perfect for specific tasks like sauces, dips, or individual portions. Whether you prioritize compactness, dual functionality, or budget-friendliness, there’s an extra small slow cooker out there to meet your needs. Don’t underestimate the power of these mini marvels for simplifying your cooking routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the typical capacity of an “extra small” slow cooker?
A: Extra small slow cookers usually range from 0.65 quarts up to about 2 quarts in capacity. They are designed for individual servings, small batches of sauces, or appetizers.
Q: Are extra small slow cookers good for meal prepping?
A: Yes, they are excellent for meal prepping if you’re cooking for one or two people, or if you need to prepare multiple components of a meal separately. They are also great for making things like small batches of baby food or toppings for larger dishes.
Q: Can I cook a whole chicken in an extra small slow cooker?
A: Generally, no. The capacity is too small for a whole chicken. These cookers are best suited for smaller cuts of meat, individual portions, dips, sauces, and appetizers.
Q: Are there safety features to look for?
A: Look for cool-touch handles and lids, as well as auto-shutoff features if available. Ensure the materials used are food-safe and free from harmful chemicals, such as PFOA or lead.
Q: How do I clean an extra small slow cooker?
A: Most extra small slow cookers have removable ceramic pots and glass lids that are dishwasher safe. The exterior base usually just needs a wipe-down with a damp cloth. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Finding the right extra small slow cooker can significantly enhance your cooking experience, especially if you value convenience and space-saving solutions. Whether you’re a solo chef, a student in a dorm, or just someone who loves making homemade dips, these compact appliances deliver fantastic results. Consider your typical needs and budget to select the perfect mini slow cooker for your kitchen. Happy cooking!
