Simply Crockpot • Tips & Guides
The right slow cooker accessories can make crockpot cooking easier, cleaner, and more consistent. Here are the most useful (and surprisingly affordable) add-ons that save time, reduce mess, and help your meals turn out better. Top Must-HavesEasier CleanupBetter ResultsWhat to Buy FirstFAQ
Why Accessories Matter (Even If You Already Love Your Crockpot)
A slow cooker is already one of the easiest ways to make dinner. But a few smart accessories can take it from “easy” to effortless—think less mess, safer handling, and better texture in your finished food.
Whether you’re cooking shredded meats, soups, meal prep, or party appetizers, these accessories help you cook more confidently and get more consistent results.
Top Slow Cooker Accessories You’ll Actually Use
1) Slow Cooker Liners (Disposable or Reusable)
These are a game-changer for busy weeks and party days. Liners help prevent baked-on residue and reduce cleanup time to almost nothing.
- Best for: dips, meatballs, saucy chicken, chili
- Tip: If you don’t like disposable, try reusable silicone liners.
2) Digital Meat Thermometer
Slow cookers vary in heat, and doneness can be tricky—especially with chicken or pork. A thermometer removes the guesswork and keeps your food safe and juicy.
- Best for: chicken breasts, pork roast, beef roasts
- Tip: Choose one with a quick-read function.
3) Silicone Tongs or Heat-Resistant Tongs
Perfect for pulling chicken, lifting roasts, and serving meatballs without scratching your crock.
- Best for: shredded meat, wings, veggies
- Tip: Look for silicone tips and a strong grip.
4) Ladle + Wide Serving Spoon Set
It sounds simple, but a good ladle and wide spoon make serving soups, stews, chili, and dips so much easier.
- Best for: soups, chili, stew, queso
- Tip: Keep one set dedicated to your slow cooker station.
Accessories That Make Cleanup Way Easier
- Silicone spatula: Scrapes every bit of sauce without scratching.
- Non-scratch scrub pads: Helps remove residue without damaging the crock.
- Drip tray or mat: Protects counters from condensation and sauce splatter.
- Travel bag/carrier: Prevents spills on the way to parties and potlucks.
Quick tip: Always let the ceramic crock cool before washing to avoid cracking from temperature shock.
Accessories That Improve Your Results
These tools don’t just save time—they actually help your recipes turn out better.
5) Slow Cooker Divider Insert
Great for cooking two different items at once (like meat + veggies) without mixing flavors. Not available for every model, but incredibly useful if it fits yours.
6) Mini Slow Cooker (or Small Dip Warmer)
If you host often, a small slow cooker keeps dips warm without taking over your main crockpot. It’s also handy for sauces and toppings.
7) Fat Separator or Gravy Separator
For roasts and shredded meats, this makes it easy to remove excess fat from cooking juices (especially helpful for lighter meals).
8) Shredder Claws (Optional, but Fun)
Not required—but if you make shredded chicken or pulled pork often, shredder claws speed things up. Two forks work too.
Simply Crockpot rule: Don’t buy everything at once. Start with what solves your biggest problem—cleanup, serving, or better results.
What Should You Buy First?
If you’re building your slow cooker setup from scratch, here’s the simplest order:
- Thermometer (best for safety + perfect doneness)
- Silicone spatula (best for sauces + no scratching)
- Liners (best for zero-stress cleanup)
- Tongs (best for lifting and serving)
- Travel carrier (best if you host or bring dishes often)
Once you have these basics, you’ll notice your slow cooker meals feel smoother—from prep to serving to cleanup.
More Slow Cooker Tips & Easy Recipes
Want more simple, reliable crockpot cooking ideas? Start with our most popular categories:
Crockpot ChickenCrockpot BeefVegetarianAppetizers
FAQ
Do slow cooker liners affect cooking?
Generally, no. They’re designed to handle slow cooker heat. Just make sure the liner fits your model and doesn’t bunch up near the rim.
What’s the one accessory most people forget?
A thermometer. It’s the fastest way to avoid overcooked chicken and ensure roasts are done perfectly.
Can I use metal utensils in my slow cooker?
It’s better to use silicone or wood. Metal can scratch the ceramic crock over time.