10 Best Crock Pots That Brown Meat 2025 in the United States

The Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO is a versatile and robust multi-cooker designed to replace 14 different cooking tools and appliances, making it a space-saver in your kitchen. A key feature is its ability to brown meat directly in the pot using its bottom heating elements, eliminating the need for stovetop transfers. This is complemented by its 8.5-quart capacity, which is ideal for entertaining large groups. The cooker is equipped with 8 programmable settings, including sear/sauté, slow cook, steam, and braise, providing flexibility for various cooking needs.

Its durable non-stick ceramic coating ensures easy cleanup and is free from harmful chemicals like PFOA, cadmium, and lead. Additionally, the removable cooking pot is oven safe up to 500°F, allowing for finishing touches like crispy tops. The triple fusion heat technology is another highlight, cooking up to 30% faster than conventional ovens, thanks to the combination of bottom, side, and steam heat. However, it's notable that the pot is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing to maintain its longevity.

At 12.02 pounds, it is relatively heavy, which might be a consideration for those with limited counter space. Additionally, it can be a bit complex to navigate for users who are not familiar with multi-functional cookers due to the variety of functions available. To sum up, the Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker PRO is an excellent choice for those looking for a multi-purpose cooker with strong browning capabilities and ample cooking options, albeit with some attention needed for its care and maintenance.

The Instant Pot RIO Wide Base is a versatile 7.5-quart multi-cooker that works well for those who want a slow cooker with the ability to brown meat before slow cooking. Its large sauté area, larger than a typical 12-inch skillet, provides plenty of space for browning larger cuts of meat, which improves flavor. The stainless steel pot with a tri-ply bottom is sturdy and heats evenly, making it suitable for browning and searing tasks.

While it doesn’t have traditional temperature dial controls like some crock-pots, it offers programmable settings and 13 smart recipes that adjust cooking times automatically, allowing for easy and consistent results. The removable inner pot is dishwasher-safe, simplifying cleanup. Its whisper-quiet steam release and guided cooking assistant make it user-friendly, especially for beginners. However, since it’s a multi-cooker rather than a dedicated slow cooker, it might feel a bit complex if you only want a straightforward crock-pot.

It’s not designed for stovetop or oven use, and its weight and size mean it takes up more space than simpler slow cookers. This makes it a solid choice for those seeking a slow cooker with added functionality, including reliable browning, programmable features, and good build quality.

The Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 is a versatile kitchen appliance that goes beyond a typical crock-pot by including a sauté function, which allows you to brown meat directly in the pot before slow cooking. This feature enhances flavor without needing extra pans. With a 6-quart capacity, it’s suitable for larger families or meal prep, comfortably handling meals for up to 8 people. The temperature control offers 28 preset programs plus 5 customizable ones, making it easy to cook a wide variety of dishes with minimal guesswork. Its removable stainless-steel insert is dishwasher safe, simplifying cleanup. The build is sturdy, featuring stainless steel and a matte finish, and it includes safety features like an upgraded steam release to reduce noise and prevent splatters.

Primarily designed as a pressure cooker with slow cooking capabilities rather than being a traditional crock-pot, it might feel a bit more complex for those seeking a simple, dedicated slow cooker. While it browns meat well, it may not sear as deeply as some standalone stovetop pans. The included app with over 800 recipes provides helpful cooking inspiration. This Instant Pot is well-suited for those who want a multi-use cooker with reliable browning, programmable settings, and solid build quality, especially if time-saving pressure cooking alongside slow cooking is important.