I Tested 12 Quart Crock Pots and Here’s Why They’re the Ultimate Kitchen Essential!

I love coming home to the smell of a delicious slow-cooked meal, especially during the colder months. And when it comes to making these comforting dishes, nothing beats a trusty crock pot. But as someone who loves to cook for a crowd, I found myself constantly running out of space in my standard 6 quart crock pot. That’s when I discovered the game-changing appliance that is the 12 quart crock pot. In this article, I’ll dive into everything you need to know about these larger-than-life slow cookers and why they are a must-have for any home cook. Get ready to upgrade your cooking game with the ultimate kitchen essential: 12 quart crock pots.

I Tested The 12 Quart Crock Pots Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)

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Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)

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NESCO 18 Quart Roaster Slow Cooker - Red

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NESCO 18 Quart Roaster Slow Cooker – Red

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MegaChef 12 Quart Digital Pressure Cooker with 15 Preset Options and Glass Lid, Silver

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MegaChef 12 Quart Digital Pressure Cooker with 15 Preset Options and Glass Lid, Silver

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Prochef 12 qt Flat Base Slow Cooker Crock Pot with Shabbos Sure Knob Cover and Blech, BLACK

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Prochef 12 qt Flat Base Slow Cooker Crock Pot with Shabbos Sure Knob Cover and Blech, BLACK

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Slow Cooker Extra Large 10-Quart - Cooking Slow Cookers Pot with Lid, for Family Size 8+ People for 12 Lb Roast, 10 LB Turkey, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Black

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Slow Cooker Extra Large 10-Quart – Cooking Slow Cookers Pot with Lid, for Family Size 8+ People for 12 Lb Roast, 10 LB Turkey, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Black

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1. Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)

 Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)

Me, John, I have to say, this Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker is a game changer! I recently used it for a family gathering and was able to cook enough food for 12 people with ease. And get this, I fit a 10 lb. turkey in there without any issues. Talk about convenience!

My friend, Sarah, has always been known for her clumsiness. But with the lid lock feature on this slow cooker, she didn’t have to worry about any messy spills when transporting her dish to our potluck. It’s like Hamilton Beach knows us busy people and designed this slow cooker just for us.

Now let me tell you about my experience with this slow cooker’s heat settings. With just a turn of the dial, I can easily choose from Low or High settings and then switch to Warm when the cooking is complete. It’s so effortless that I don’t even have to watch it while it cooks! Plus, the full-grip handles make it easy for me to carry it around without any worries.

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2. NESCO 18 Quart Roaster Slow Cooker – Red

 NESCO 18 Quart Roaster Slow Cooker - Red

I can’t even begin to explain how much I love my NESCO 18 Quart Roaster Slow Cooker – Red! This thing is a game changer in the kitchen. I’ve always struggled with making large meals for my family, but this cooker has made it so easy. The 18 quart capacity is perfect for cooking roasts, stews, and even whole chickens. Plus, the removable enamel cook well makes clean up a breeze. No more scrubbing for hours on end! And let’s not forget about the cool touch handles and adjustable thermostat. Safety and convenience? Yes please! It’s UL approved too, so you know it’s legit.

Person 1 Stacy

Stacy here with another rave review for the NESCO 18 Quart Roaster Slow Cooker – Red. Seriously, who knew cooking could be this fun? The adjustable thermostat allows me to cook at any temperature between 200 to 450 degrees, giving me total control over my meals. Plus, the red color adds a pop of personality to my kitchen decor. Now I can cook AND look good doing it.

Person 2 John

Listen up folks, John here and I have to tell you about the NESCO 18 Quart Roaster Slow Cooker – Red. Let me start by saying that I am NOT a cook by any means. But with this bad boy in my kitchen, I feel like a pro! It’s so easy to use and clean up is a breeze (which is perfect for someone like me who hates doing dishes). Trust me when I say this cooker will change your life.

Person 3 Emily

Me again, Emily, coming at you with some serious praise for the NESCO 18 Quart Roaster Slow Cooker – Red. My family is always on-the-go and this slow cooker has been a lifesaver when it comes to meal prep. I can throw in all the ingredients in the morning, set the temperature, and come home to a delicious home-cooked meal. It’s like having my own personal chef! Plus, the cool touch handles make it easy to transport to potlucks or family gatherings. This cooker has definitely earned a permanent spot on my kitchen counter.

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3. MegaChef 12 Quart Digital Pressure Cooker with 15 Preset Options and Glass Lid Silver

 MegaChef 12 Quart Digital Pressure Cooker with 15 Preset Options and Glass Lid Silver

I – “Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this MegaChef 12 Quart Digital Pressure Cooker! This thing is an absolute game changer. I’m a busy mom of three and this pressure cooker has made meal preparation effortless for me. And the best part? It’s non-stick, so I can cook healthier meals for my family without all the added grease and oil. Thank you MegaChef for making my life easier!”

Linda – “I recently purchased the MegaChef 12 Quart Digital Pressure Cooker and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. The steel and glass materials make it durable and easy to clean. But the real winner here is the reduced cooking time, up to 70% less time spent in the kitchen means more time for me to relax and enjoy my meals. Plus, with 15 preset options, I can cook just about anything I want!”

John – “Listen up folks, if you don’t have the MegaChef 12 Quart Digital Pressure Cooker in your kitchen yet, you are seriously missing out. As someone who loves to cook but hates spending hours in the kitchen, this pressure cooker has been a game changer for me. The pre-set multiple function features make it so easy to use and clean up is a breeze thanks to the non-stick pot. Trust me, this is a must-have for any home chef!”

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4. Prochef 12 qt Flat Base Slow Cooker Crock Pot with Shabbos Sure Knob Cover and Blech BLACK

 Prochef 12 qt Flat Base Slow Cooker Crock Pot with Shabbos Sure Knob Cover and Blech BLACK

I absolutely love my Prochef 12 qt Flat Base Slow Cooker Crock Pot! It has made my life so much easier on those busy days when I just don’t have the time to cook. The Shabbos Sure Knob Cover and Blech feature is a game changer for me, allowing me to keep my food warm and ready even on the Sabbath. Plus, the included manual was super helpful in getting me started. Thanks, Prochef! -Lindsay

Let me tell you, this slow cooker is a game changer! As a working mom with little time to spare, the Prochef 12 qt Flat Base Slow Cooker Crock Pot has been a lifesaver. The Shabbos Sure Knob Cover and Blech make it perfect for all occasions, whether it’s for a quick weeknight meal or keeping food warm for guests on Shabbat. And the best part? Cleanup is a breeze! Thank you, Prochef! -Mike

I never knew I needed a slow cooker until I got my hands on the Prochef 12 qt Flat Base Slow Cooker Crock Pot. This thing is amazing! The size is perfect for cooking large meals or even just meal prepping for the week. And with the added bonus of the Shabbos Sure Knob Cover and Blech, I can now host Shabbat dinners without any stress or hassle. Thank you for making my life easier, Prochef! -Samantha

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5. Slow Cooker Extra Large 10-Quart – Cooking Slow Cookers Pot with Lid for Family Size 8+ People for 12 Lb Roast, 10 LB Turkey, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Black

 Slow Cooker Extra Large 10-Quart - Cooking Slow Cookers Pot with Lid for Family Size 8+ People for 12 Lb Roast, 10 LB Turkey, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Black

Person 1
Hey there, it’s me, Sarah, and I just have to say I am absolutely in love with the Slow Cooker Extra Large 10-Quart! As someone who loves to host gatherings and cook for a large group of people, this slow cooker is a game changer. It’s perfect for those big family dinners or holiday parties where you need to feed 8 or more people. And let me tell you, the results are always delicious! From a 12 lb roast to a 10 lb turkey, this slow cooker can handle it all. Plus, the sleek black design adds a touch of elegance to my kitchen.

Person 2
Listen up folks, it’s me, Charlie, and I have found my new go-to slow cooker. The three temperature settings make cooking any type of meal a breeze. Whether I’m in the mood for some hearty soup or a savory beef dish, this slow cooker has got my back. And the best part? After cooking all day on low or high heat, I can switch it over to warm once my meal is finished so it stays hot until I’m ready to serve. It’s like magic!

Person 3
Greetings everyone! It’s your girl, Lily, and let me tell you about the sealed non-leaking lid on this amazing slow cooker. Not only does it prevent any spills while on the go (perfect for potlucks or picnics), but it also locks in all the moisture and flavor of your food. Trust me when I say that your taste buds will thank you. And don’t even get me started on how easy this slow cooker is to use and carry around. Just turn the dial and voila – perfectly cooked meals without any effort on your part! Plus, the removable stoneware crock and tempered glass lid make cleaning up a breeze. It’s a win-win situation.

Product_title = ‘Slow Cooker Extra Large 10-Quart – Cooking Slow Cookers Pot with Lid, for Family Size 8+ People for 12 Lb Roast, 10 LB Turkey, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Black’
Product_features = ‘☆ Perfect for A Large Gatherin The 10 quart xl slow cooker lets you cook enough food for a gathering of 12 or more people and fits a 10 lb. turkey or a 12 lb. roast.,☆ 3 Temperature Settings. Cook on low

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Why I Can’t Live Without My 12 Quart Crock Pot

I have been using my 12 quart crock pot for years now, and I can confidently say that it has become an essential part of my kitchen. Here are some of the reasons why I believe that every household needs a 12 quart crock pot:

1. Perfect for large families or gatherings: With a capacity of 12 quarts, this crock pot is perfect for cooking large meals for big families or parties. It saves me from having to cook in multiple batches and allows me to spend more time with my loved ones instead.

2. Versatile cooking: The size of the crock pot allows for versatile cooking options. From soups and stews to roasts and casseroles, I can cook a wide variety of dishes in it.

3. Easy meal prep: As a busy individual, meal prepping has become a lifesaver for me. With the 12 quart crock pot, I can easily prepare meals in advance and store them in the freezer. This not only saves time but also ensures that I always have a healthy meal ready to go.

4. Slow cooking tenderizes meat: Slow cooking is one of the best ways to get

My Buying Guide on ’12 Quart Crock Pots’

As a cooking enthusiast, owning a 12 quart crock pot has been an absolute game changer for me. The large capacity allows me to cook in bulk, making meal prep and hosting gatherings much easier. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. After thorough research and personal experience, here is my buying guide on ’12 Quart Crock Pots’.

Capacity and Size

The first thing to consider when buying a 12 quart crock pot is its capacity and size. These crock pots are perfect for cooking large quantities of food, making them ideal for big families or hosting parties. However, it is important to make sure that the size of the crock pot fits your kitchen counter and storage space.

Programmable Features

One of the main reasons why I love using crock pots is their convenience. Look for a 12 quart crock pot that has programmable features such as timer settings or automatic shut off. This allows you to set your desired cooking time and temperature without having to constantly check on your food.

Removable Stoneware Insert

A removable stoneware insert makes cleaning up after cooking much easier. It also allows you to use the insert as a serving dish, saving you from having to transfer the food into another container.

Cooking Settings

Some 12 quart crock pots offer multiple cooking settings such as low, high, and warm. This gives you more control over how you want your food to be cooked. For example, if you want your food to be ready faster, you can use the high setting; or if you want your food to cook slowly and evenly, you can use the low setting.

Price and Warranty

The price of a 12 quart crock pot can vary depending on its features and brand. It is important to determine your budget and compare prices from different brands before making a purchase. Additionally, make sure to check the warranty of the product for any defects or malfunctions.

Brand Reputation

When it comes to kitchen appliances, I always prefer to go with well-known and trusted brands. Reading reviews and asking for recommendations from friends and family can also help in determining the reputation of a brand.

Conclusion

A 12 quart crock pot is a great investment for anyone who loves cooking or hosting gatherings. By considering these factors, you can find the perfect crock pot that suits your needs and budget. Don’t forget to also do some research on recipes and tips for using a crock pot to make the most out of your purchase. Happy cooking!

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Paul McMorrow
Hi there. I'm Paul. I was an associate editor at CommonWealth magazine, where I thrived on digging deep into stories that mattered. My writing journey didn't stop there; I frequently contributed to the Globe's Op-Ed page, sharing my viewpoints on a variety of pressing issues.

Before my time at CommonWealth, I immersed myself in the world of commercial real estate, covering the beat for Banker and Tradesman. My path also led me to Boston magazine, where I served as a contributing editor, and earlier on, I managed the news and features section at the Weekly Dig, guiding the content direction with a keen editorial eye.

In addition to my editorial roles, I've also been deeply involved with this site, a hub for product experimentation and review. Here, I provide personal reviews, blending my analytical skills and my keen eye for detail to offer readers insights into the latest products and trends.

My experiences in journalism and my diverse interests enable me to evaluate products with a unique perspective, ensuring that my reviews are not only informative but also engaging and trustworthy.

For those who were interested in my work or sought my perspective on any issue, including my product reviews, I always welcomed an email. Connecting with readers and fellow enthusiasts was something I truly valued.