1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Housewares / Appliances

What's the Difference Between a Slow Cooker and Roaster Oven?

By , About.com Guide

Question: What's the Difference Between a Slow Cooker and Roaster Oven?

Roaster ovens look very similar to crockpots or slow cookers, are they the same type of appliance?

Answer: Although roaster ovens look like a large slow cooker or crockpot, they do not cook the same. Slow cookers, as the name implies, slowly simmer the meal over several hours. Roaster oven cooking is similar to traditional oven roasting, and food is cooked much more quickly than in a slow cooker. For best results with a roaster oven, refer to your product manual for cooking times and proper settings.

Slow cookers or crockpots are great time savers, you can put in your meal ingredients in the morning and return from work to a scrumptious meal that's ready to enjoy. When choosing a slow cooker, buy a size that fits your family's needs. They're great for soups, pasta sauces, chili, one dish meals or even a pot roast. I have three sizes of slow cookers and use them all often for various meals.

Roaster ovens are economical and have great benefits, you can cook large batch meals, a whole chicken or turkey, or roast your favorite meats all without tying up your cooking range. You can also cook outdoors on a covered patio or porch as long as you have access to an electrical outlet. Some roaster oven models have optional buffet servers to keep side dishes warm at the buffet table.

Read More About Appliances:
More Housewares / Appliances Q&A

Explore Housewares / Appliances

About.com Special Features

Holiday Central

What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >

Make Your Own Scented Pine Cones

Bring a little of the fall season in your home with this easy-to-make craft. More >

  1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Housewares / Appliances
  4. Small Kitchen Appliances
  5. Crock-Pots & Slow Cookers
  6. What's the Difference Between a Slow Cooker and Roaster Oven?

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.