10 Best Crock Pots That Brown Meat 2026 in the United States

The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing (which is the browning function), and more, making it a good choice if you want a crock-pot that can brown meat before slow cooking. Its stainless steel inner pot with a tri-ply bottom helps distribute heat evenly, which is great for browning. The 8-quart capacity is generous, perfect for larger families or batch cooking.

You’ll find 13 customizable smart programs that make cooking different meals pretty easy without guesswork, so it caters well to those who like some automation. The removable stainless-steel pot and dishwasher-safe parts help with easy cleanup. While it offers temperature control through its preset programs, it doesn’t allow manual temperature adjustments during slow cooking as some dedicated slow cookers might. Also, the lid locks securely for pressure cooking but isn’t designed to be used while browning or slow cooking, so you may need to remove it when sautéing meat.

The build quality is solid, with fingerprint-resistant stainless steel sides and safety features like overheat protection. If you want a multi-functional cooker that can brown meat and then slow cook or pressure cook in one pot, this Instant Pot is a suitable option, although it may not replace a dedicated slow cooker with more flexible temperature options.

The Instant Pot Pro 8-quart is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines the functions of a slow cooker, pressure cooker, and several other cooking tools in one device. It stands out for having a sauté (browning) function, which allows you to brown meat directly in the pot before slow cooking, saving you extra steps and dishes. With precise temperature control and programmable settings, you can customize cooking times and methods easily through its touch controls or linked app, which also offers lots of recipes for guidance. The 8-quart capacity is generous, making it ideal for families or those who like to prepare meals in bulk. The removable stainless steel insert is dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup straightforward.

The build quality feels solid with safety features like a locking lid and overheat protection, giving extra peace of mind during use. One small downside is that while it’s excellent for browning and multi-cooking tasks, it may be larger and heavier than traditional crock-pots, which might take up more kitchen space and require careful handling. For those looking for a smart, multi-function slow cooker that can brown meat well and speed up cooking times, this Instant Pot model is a strong choice.

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.