Crock-Pot on kitchen counter.
Here's How To Take Pro Skills To Your Crock Pot

NEWS

By AMY SOWDER
Hand operating crock-pot.

Preheating

Preheating isn't necessary, but if the recipe suggests using the stove first, let your crock heat up in the meantime. Adding hot food to a hot crock will save you energy.
Oil being poured into Crock-Pot.

Non-Stick Spray

Always spritz some non-stick spray or rub some butter on the inside of your Crock-Pot. Just a light coating of either is enough to keep the food inside from burning.
Tomato chicken garnished with parsley in a skillet.

Layering Ingredients

Layer sturdy ingredients on the bottom and sides so they cook more evenly in those hotter spots, and reserve space on top and in the middle for delicate ones.
Potatoes and meat in Crock-Pot.

Packing The Cooker

Packing your Crock-Pot more than ⅔ full can lead to overflowing or prevent even cooking. However, the liquid level should be kept at least halfway up the crock.
Meat cooking in a skillet.

Meat On Stove

To get maximum, robust flavor, always brown your meat in a skillet on the stove first. Then, deglaze the skillet and add the deglazing juices to your Crock-Pot.