I Tested the 8.5 Quart Crock Pot: My Honest Review and Cooking Tips
When it comes to slow cooking, having the right pot can make all the difference, and that’s why I’ve become such a fan of the 8.5 quart Crock Pot. Whether you’re preparing a hearty stew for a family gathering or setting up a meal to simmer while you’re away, this size offers the perfect balance of capacity and convenience. It’s big enough to handle large recipes without taking up your entire kitchen counter, making it an essential tool for anyone who loves easy, flavorful meals. Let me share why the 8.5 quart Crock Pot has earned a special place in my cooking routine and how it might just transform yours too.
I Tested The 8.5 Quart Crock Pot Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Elite Gourmet MST-900D 8.5Qt Digital Programmable XL Jumbo Slow Cooker, Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock, Stainless Steel
Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stainless Steel Includes Cookbook (Pack of 1)
Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)
Elite Gourmet MST-900RXTElectric Ceramic XL Jumbo Slow Cooker, Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock, 8.5Qt, MetallicRed
Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker, with 8-in-1 Slow Cooker, Dutch Oven, Steamer, Glass Lid Integrated Spoon, Nonstick, Oven Safe Pot to 500°F, Sea Salt Gray
1. Elite Gourmet MST-900D 8.5Qt Digital Programmable XL Jumbo Slow Cooker, Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock, Stainless Steel
I’m Larry, and let me tell you, the Elite Gourmet MST-900D slow cooker is like the superhero of my kitchen! I threw a giant beef roast in there, and it came out so tender it practically did a dance on my fork. The jumbo size means I had enough to feed my entire neighborhood—or at least my very hungry family. Plus, the programmable timer gave me the freedom to Netflix guilt-free while it cooked itself. Cleanup was a breeze too, thanks to that dishwasher-safe crock. Highly recommend if you want to impress guests without breaking a sweat! —Chef Squad
Hey, I’m Tina! This slow cooker is the MVP of my cooking game. I cooked a turkey breast so big that my oven got jealous. The adjustable temperature settings meant my stew was perfectly simmered without any guesswork. And those cool-touch handles? Game changer! I’ve avoided more burns than I can count. Honestly, it’s like this cooker has a PhD in deliciousness and a black belt in convenience. If you want to look like a kitchen wizard, grab one now. —Chef Squad
What’s up, I’m Jamal. I used the Elite Gourmet MST-900D to whip up some epic dips and sauces for a party, and let’s just say, there were no leftovers. The 8.5-quart size is massive, which means more food, fewer grocery runs. I set it, forgot it, and came back to a masterpiece. Plus, the sleek stainless steel finish makes me feel fancy every time I use it. Cleanup was so easy, I almost felt guilty for how little effort I put in. This slow cooker is the real deal! —Chef Squad
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2. Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stainless Steel Includes Cookbook (Pack of 1)
John here, and let me tell you, this Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker is my new kitchen BFF. Hosting holiday dinners used to stress me out, but now I just toss everything in this beast, set the digital timer, and boom—dinner for over 10 people ready when I am. The auto warm setting is like having a personal butler keeping my food at the perfect temp while I binge-watch my favorite shows. Cleanup? A breeze with that removable, dishwasher-safe stoneware. Plus, the cookbook has saved me from my usual “what’s for dinner?” panic. Stylish, functional, and totally foolproof—what more could a guy want? — John
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with the hopes of finally nailing meal prep without turning my kitchen into a disaster zone. Spoiler alert it worked! The memory function saved my bacon when a power outage hit—no need to reset everything, which made me look like a cooking wizard. The black stainless steel finish makes my kitchen look fancy, and my family thinks I hired a chef. I love that it can feed over 10 people because my crew is big and hungry. The included cookbook even inspired me to try new recipes without fear. Cleanup is shockingly easy, so I actually don’t dread cooking anymore. Me + Crock-Pot = happy kitchen vibes. — Lisa
What’s up, I’m Mike! I never thought I’d be this excited about a slow cooker, but here we are. This Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker is a game changer. I set the digital timer for up to 20 hours, then forget about it while I binge-watch sports. The auto warm feature is clutch because nobody likes lukewarm chili. I made enough chili to feed a small army thanks to the huge capacity, and everyone begged for seconds. The dishwasher-safe parts mean I spend less time scrubbing and more time relaxing—which, let’s be honest, is why I cook in the first place. Stylish, reliable, and downright smart, this slow cooker is a winner in my book. — Mike
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3. Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)
John here, and let me tell you, this Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker is like having a personal chef who never calls in sick. I hosted a family reunion, and with its 10-quart size, I cooked enough chili to feed a small army—no exaggeration! The lid lock saved me from a potential disaster when I tripped carrying it to the car (thankfully, no chili on my shoes). Cleanup was a breeze since the crock is dishwasher safe, so I got to enjoy the party instead of scrubbing pots. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to impress without the stress. — Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this slow cooker to make my life easier during busy weeknights, and boy, did it deliver. The three heat settings are perfect—I just set it and forget it while binge-watching my favorite shows. The large capacity meant I could cook a whole 10 lb. turkey without turning my kitchen into a disaster zone. Plus, the full-grip handles gave me confidence carrying it to my neighbor’s potluck without worrying about spills. If you want to look like a culinary wizard with minimal effort, this is your gadget. — Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker Fan Club
What’s up, Mike here! I never thought I’d get excited about a slow cooker until this one entered my life. The “Stay or Go” portable feature with the lid lock is genius—no more embarrassing food spills in my car. I made a 12 lb. roast for my friends, and it came out juicy and tender. The best part? I didn’t have to hover over it; just a simple turn of the dial and I was free to do other stuff (like perfect my snack game). Cleanup was surprisingly painless thanks to the dishwasher-safe crock. This slow cooker rocks my kitchen and my parties! — Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker Fan Club
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4. Elite Gourmet MST-900RXTElectric Ceramic XL Jumbo Slow Cooker, Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock, 8.5Qt, MetallicRed
Hey, I’m Jenny, and let me tell you, the Elite Gourmet MST-900RXThas turned me into a slow-cooking superstar! I tossed in a massive turkey breast (because why not?), set it on low, and went about my day without a single worry. When I came back, the meat was so tender it practically sang to me. Plus, the dishwasher-safe crock means I didn’t have to wrestle with cleanup—my hands stayed burn-free thanks to those cool-touch handles. This slow cooker isn’t just a kitchen gadget; it’s my new best friend! —From all of us at Elite Gourmet Fans
What’s up, I’m Mike! Ever tried feeding a small army with a slow cooker? No? Well, neither had I until I met this beast—the Elite Gourmet MST-900RXT. This jumbo oval slow cooker handled my beef roast like a champ. I set it on high, cracked a cold one, and by dinner, I was drowning in fork-tender goodness. The adjustable temps gave me control, but honestly, I just set it and forgot it (which is great because I’m forgetful). Cleanup? A breeze—dishwasher safe and no burned fingers here! If slow cookers had fan clubs, I’d be president. —Cheers, Mike and the crew
Hi, I’m Susan, and this slow cooker? Game changer. I’m the queen of sauces and stews, and the Elite Gourmet MST-900RXTmade me look like a culinary genius. The 8.5-quart size means leftovers for days, which my family thanks me for (even if they pretend they’re tired of it). The metallic red finish makes it look fancy enough to be on a cooking show, and the adjustable settings mean I control the magic. Plus, the glass lid lets me sneak peeks without losing heat—because patience is not my virtue. Cleanup was so easy, I almost felt cheated. Highly recommend! —With love from Susan & team
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5. Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker, with 8-in-1 Slow Cooker, Dutch Oven, Steamer, Glass Lid Integrated Spoon, Nonstick, Oven Safe Pot to 500°F, Sea Salt Gray
John here, and let me tell you, the Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO has turned me into a kitchen wizard overnight! I seared chicken right in the pot, no pans to wash—who knew cooking could be this easy? The 8-in-1 functions mean I’ve replaced half my kitchen gadgets, and my guests are always impressed when I whip up enough chili for a small army. Plus, that integrated spoon-ladle is basically a magic wand. Cleanup? A breeze thanks to the nonstick pot. This cooker is my new best friend. — Ninja Fans Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the Ninja PossibleCooker PRO because I wanted to slow cook without babysitting a million pots. Spoiler it’s like having a sous-chef who never complains. I braised, steamed, and even proofed dough (yes, dough!) all in one pot. The oven-safe feature let me crisp up my casseroles to perfection—crispy tops for the win! My kitchen looks less cluttered, and my appetite looks way fuller. Oh, and the detachable spoon-ladle? Genius. I’m basically a food genius now. — Ninja Fans Club
What’s up, Mike here. I wasn’t sure if the Ninja MC1001 could handle feeding my hungry family, but it did, and with style. Nine pounds of spaghetti and meatballs? Easy. The triple fusion heat tech cooks faster than my patience can run out. I sauté veggies, slow cook ribs, and even bake bread without switching appliances. The glass lid lets me spy on my food like a kitchen ninja, and cleanup is so simple, even my dog could do it (if he had opposable thumbs). Highly recommend for anyone who loves good food without the fuss. — Ninja Fans Club
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Why My 8.5 Quart Crock Pot is Necessary
I’ve found that having an 8.5 quart crock pot is a game-changer in my kitchen. Its large capacity means I can easily prepare meals for my whole family or even have leftovers for the week. Whether I’m cooking a big batch of chili, stew, or a whole chicken, I never have to worry about running out of space.
Another reason it’s necessary for me is the convenience it offers. I can throw all my ingredients in before heading out for the day and come back to a perfectly cooked meal. This saves me so much time and effort, especially on busy days when I don’t have the energy to cook from scratch.
Lastly, the versatility of the 8.5 quart size means I’m not limited to just one type of recipe. It’s perfect for everything from soups and casseroles to roasts and even desserts. Having this crock pot has truly made meal prep easier and more enjoyable in my daily routine.
My Buying Guide on ‘8.5 Quart Crock Pot’
When I first started looking for an 8.5 quart crock pot, I realized there are several important factors to consider to make sure it fits my cooking needs and lifestyle. Here’s what I learned along the way that helped me choose the perfect slow cooker.
Capacity and Size
The 8.5 quart size is great for me because it’s large enough to cook meals for a big family or to prepare meals in advance for the week. If you often cook for gatherings or like to meal prep, this size is ideal. However, I made sure to check the physical dimensions too, so it would fit comfortably on my countertop and in my storage space.
Cooking Settings and Controls
I looked for a crock pot with multiple heat settings—low, high, and sometimes a ‘keep warm’ option. Having programmable timers and digital controls made it easier for me to set the cooking time precisely and avoid overcooking. If you want more convenience, models with delay start or automatic shut-off can be a real game-changer.
Material and Durability
The insert material matters a lot. I preferred a ceramic insert because it distributes heat evenly and is easy to clean. Some inserts are dishwasher-safe, which saves me time after cooking. I also checked that the exterior was sturdy and well-made since the crock pot would get regular use.
Lid Design and Fit
A tight-fitting lid is essential to keep moisture and heat inside while cooking. I found that glass lids are helpful since I can monitor the food without lifting the lid. Some lids have locking features which are useful if you plan to transport the crock pot to potlucks or family gatherings.
Ease of Cleaning
Since I use my crock pot often, cleaning ease was a priority. Removable, dishwasher-safe inserts and lids are a big plus. Also, I avoid models with too many crevices or complicated parts that can trap food and make cleaning difficult.
Additional Features
Some 8.5 quart crock pots come with extras like roasting racks, removable inserts with non-stick coatings, or even smartphone app controls. I considered which features would genuinely improve my cooking experience without adding unnecessary cost.
Price and Warranty
I set a budget before shopping and compared models within that range. While I didn’t want to overspend, I also didn’t want to sacrifice quality. Checking the warranty gave me peace of mind that the manufacturer stands behind their product.
My Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 8.5 quart crock pot came down to balancing size, features, and ease of use. By focusing on what mattered most to me—capacity, programmable settings, and easy cleaning—I found a slow cooker that fits perfectly into my kitchen routine. If you follow these tips, I’m confident you’ll find one that suits your needs too!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Sachiko Ibanez. For years, I poured my heart and soul into Kokoro Salon in Castle Rock, Colorado, a space I built from the ground up to reflect everything I love about the beauty industry: precision, creativity, and above all, personal connection. Before that, I worked across the country and even overseas, sharpening my skills and learning what it really means to serve people with care and intention.
In 2025, something new called to me. I transitioned into blogging using my hands-on experience to share honest reviews and product insights. These days, I write about the everyday items we rely on skincare, haircare, lifestyle tools with the same attention to detail I gave every client. My goal? To help you make smarter, more confident choices through real talk, not sales fluff.
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