Kitchen Tips & How-Tos

The Slow Cooker Trick That Means No Dishes After Supper

Slow cooker with a liner

I love my slow cooker but hated washing the heavy crock every night. My sister showed me what she does, and now cleanup takes about ten seconds.

Slow cooker with a liner

Slow Cooker Liners

Liners are heat-safe plastic bags made to fit inside the crock. You put the food in the liner, cook as usual, then lift the liner out and throw it away. The crock stays clean.

Use only liners made for slow cookers, and follow the box directions.

No Liner? Try These

  • A light coat of cooking spray before adding the food keeps sauces from sticking.
  • A sheet of parchment under cheesy or sugary dishes helps them lift out.
  • Soak the crock right away with warm soapy water after serving.

A clean crock after using a liner

Where Liners Help Most

  • Cheesy dips and mac and cheese
  • Sticky barbecue and sweet sauces
  • Dump cakes and desserts

Frequently Asked Questions

Are liners safe?

Liners made for slow cookers are designed for slow cooker temperatures. Don’t use regular plastic bags.

Can I store leftovers in the liner?

It’s better to move leftovers into a container and refrigerate them.

A liner and a little spray, and supper cleans itself up.

Try It Tonight

AboutReda

Reda grew up cooking beside his mom and sister and later worked in the family's donut shop. He runs It's Not About Nutrition, where slow cooker dinners and casseroles are his home ground.