25 Slow Cooker Casserole Recipes (2024)

FAQs

What is a 1.5 quart slow cooker good for? ›

Those in the 1- to 1.5-quart category are great when cooking for one or making dips, while 2.5 quarts and larger is best for cooking for two to three or those who prefer leftovers.

If it comes to serving and you open your slow cooker to find a watery sauce, never fear we have an easy answer. Take the lid off, turn the machine up to high heat and leave it for 30-45 minutes to let excess moisture cook off. The liquid will reduce, leaving you with a thick and delicious gravy or sauce.

Like some other posters have said, corn flour or regular plain mixed and smoothed with water to a thick consistency prior to adding to the casserole will help thicken it. Remember to stir it in well and leave it a good half an hour or more so that the flour “cooks out” or you will taste it.

Slow cookers range in capacity, from a compact 1.5 litres up to 7 litres. As a general guide, a 1.5 to 2.3-litre capacity is great for two people, a larger 4 to 4.5 litres will feed four, and 5.5 to 7 litres is ideal for four to six people.

Most appliances will automatically shut off after 20 or so hours on this setting, but you shouldn't leave food in a slow cooker for an extended length of time. The general rule of thumb is that 2-4 hours is the maximum length of time you can leave food in a slow cooker on warm.

If you're planning to cook your meals mostly when you're not home or overnight, then sticking to a Crockpot might be a better choice, since the heat distribution is more even and there is no need to stir at all.

Slow cookers typically cost less to run than an oven. They won't necessarily save you money compared with using an induction hob, or even a gas hob. Making exact comparisons is difficult, because there can be lots of variables, such as the type of hob and how you use it.

But adding too much liquid can dilute the flavors.

Chef Faisal al Deleigan told BI that it's also not good to add too much bland liquid to a slow cooker. "Using too much liquid can result in a dish that tastes under-seasoned or looks very pale and unappealing," he said.

Yes, you can add raw steak to a slow cooker to cook it to your desired doneness level.

Can you leave lid off slow cooker to thicken? ›

Take the lid off

Place the cooker on a high setting, and open the lid for 30-45 minutes to let excess moisture cook off. The liquid will reduce, leaving you with a thick and delicious gravy or sauce. (Tip: This trick can also be applied for thickening stews, or when you've accidentally added too much liquid.)

Always cook with the lid on for the recommended time. Do not remove the lid during the first two hours of cooking unless the recipe calls for lid removal.

Never ever put liquid into the base of a slow cooker. It was not designed for that and clearly states not to immerse the base in water. The heating element and components are not in a waterproof environment. You will quickly ruin the heating element and risk injury from electrical leakage into the metal base.

1.5 litre capacity with a maximum working capacity of 900ml – ideal if you're cooking for one or rustling up a meal for family or friends.

Perfectly sized for 1 or 2 portions of your favourite slow-cooked meals, this handy little slow cooker sits neatly in the cupboard, taking up little room, when not in use and is always close by when needed.

“Small slow cookers such as the 1 to 1.5-quart models are a great option for those cooking meals for one,” says Grainer. “Whether you're entertaining at home or bringing food to share, small slow cookers are easy to transport and will keep dips, appetizers, sides, and sauces warm.”