Use throwaway crockpot liners to prevent baked-on messes and cut down on cleanup time. They're made from a special nylon, heat-resistant material that's designed to withstand high heat.

Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Bean and Barley Soup

Classic slow cooker recipes like chili can cause stains and discolouration to occur. Get your slow cooker looking brand new again with a simple solution of white vinegar and baking soda.

Get the full instructions here

Sweet and savoury party mix is toasted to perfection in the slow cooker. The low and slow cooking method ensures each and every bite is as evenly crisp and delicious as the last. Plus, you'll be able to greet your party guests while the snacks are slow cooking away.

Get the recipe for The Pioneer Woman's Party Mix

Ingredients like pasta and cooked beans can turn mushy in the slow cooker if they are left unattended for too long, and dairy can curdle if it spends too much time over high heat. Always add these ingredients last to heat through without turning to mush.

This gooey brownie cake takes almost no time to prepare, and gives you the excuse to use your slow cooker for something sweet.

Try making some of our favourite slow cooker dessert recipes

Despite the low cooking temperature, it's possible to overcook recipes in the slow cooker. Control cooking time and temperature by investing in a plug-in attachment if your slow-cooker does not have a programmable dial to eliminate guess work and ensure mouthwatering results.

Cook Bread

Use your slow cooker as a DIY heating station by plugging it in and placing it on the dinner table or where food is being served. This method is especially helpful if you plan on feeding a crowd and are worried about food getting cold before it’s ready to be eaten.

Every time you remove the lid from your slow cooker, you can add up to 30 minutes of cooking time to your recipe, due to escaped heat. Unless a recipe calls for ingredients to be added mid-way through, always keep the lid of your slow-cooker on when it's in use.

Brown meats over high heat on the stovetop before cooking in the slow cooker for a dose of added caramelized flavour, capable of taking any recipe from good to great.

The even distribution of low and steady heat from the slow cooker makes it the perfect device for tenderizing meat. Try Alton Brown’s slow-cooker pork chops for a truly melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Get the recipe for Alton Brown's Slow Cooker Pepper Pork Chops

Have a healthy breakfast or snack like this brown rice porridge ready in the morning by running your slow cooker overnight. Rich coconut milk and vanilla extract turn this satisfying dish into the perfect healthy-yet-indulgent breakfast.

Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Brown Rice Pudding

Slow cookers are great for cooking large pieces of meat with minimal fuss, like finger-licking ribs. This recipe is slow-cooked until tender and finished on the grill with a sticky sauce.

Get the recipe for Slow Cooker Barbecue Ribs

Slow cooker lasagna (or other cheesy baked pastas) is a fantastic, low-fuss way to make this hearty Italian dish, and keep it hot if you’re cooking for a crowd.

Get the recipe for Ricardo's Slow Cooker Lasagna