Crock Pots (slow cookers) are a lifesaver for busy kitchens, letting you cook delicious meals with minimal effort. But if you’ve ever wondered what the low temp on a Crock Pot actually is—and how it affects cooking time—you’re not alone. Understanding the temperature settings helps you cook safely and get the best texture and flavor in your dishes.
Quick Answer
The low setting on a Crock Pot is about 190°F (88°C). This temperature gently simmers food, making it tender without boiling. The high setting averages 300°F (149°C). Because of this difference, cooking on low usually takes about twice as long as cooking on high.
Crock Pot Temperature Settings
| Setting | Approx. Temperature | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 190°F (88°C) | Slow simmering, tender meats, soups, stews, all-day cooking |
| High | 300°F (149°C) | Faster cooking, same tenderness in half the time |
| Warm | 165°F (74°C) | Keeps food safe and warm after cooking |
How Low Temp Affects Cooking
- Cooking Time: Recipes cooked on low take roughly twice as long as on high.
- Flavor: Low heat allows flavors to meld and deepen over time.
- Texture: Tough cuts of meat (like chuck roast or pork shoulder) become fork-tender on low.
- Safety: Food stays above 165°F, the minimum safe temperature to prevent bacteria growth.
Low vs High: Cooking Time Conversion
Here’s a quick conversion guide for slow cooker recipes:
| High Cook Time | Low Cook Time |
|---|---|
| 3 hours | 6 hours |
| 4 hours | 8 hours |
| 5 hours | 10 hours |
| 6 hours | 12 hours |
Best Foods to Cook on Low
- Tough meats: Beef chuck, pork shoulder, short ribs.
- Soups & stews: Chicken noodle soup, beef stew, chili.
- Beans & legumes: Black beans, lentils, chickpeas.
- Slow-simmered sauces: Tomato sauce, curry, pulled pork sauce.
Tips for Cooking on Low
- Don’t lift the lid too often—it releases heat and extends cooking time.
- Cut ingredients into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- For food safety, always start with ingredients at refrigerator temperature, not frozen (unless recipe specifies).
- If a recipe calls for 4 hours on high, plan for 8 hours on low.
Quick Picks: Best Crock Pots for Low & Slow Cooking
- Best Overall: Crock-Pot 7-Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker — Large capacity, reliable low-and-slow performance.
- Best Budget: Hamilton Beach 6-Quart Slow Cooker — Affordable, simple dial settings.
- Best Premium: Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer — Multi-function cooker with precise temp controls.
FAQ
Is it better to cook on low or high?
For flavor and tenderness, low is usually better. High works if you’re short on time, but some dishes (like roasts) are best on low.
Can I leave my Crock Pot on low overnight?
Yes, Crock Pots are designed for long, unattended cooking. Just be sure it’s on a safe, heat-resistant surface.
What temperature is “keep warm” on a Crock Pot?
About 165°F, just enough to keep food hot and safe without cooking it further.
Will food dry out if left on low too long?
It can. Add enough liquid, and avoid cooking past 10–12 hours unless using a very tough cut of meat.
Conclusion
The low temp on a Crock Pot is about 190°F, perfect for slow cooking tender meats, soups, and stews. Cooking on low takes twice as long as high but delivers deeper flavors and more tender results. Use low for roasts, beans, and sauces, and save high for when you’re pressed for time.
For the best results, pair your slow cooker recipes with a reliable Crock Pot that maintains steady low heat all day long.
Shop the best Crock Pots today and make low-and-slow cooking easier than ever.