We Tried the Crockpot Lunch Warmer. Here’s Why It’s Worth the Hype.
Updated: Mar. 20, 2019
Say goodbye to your sad desk salad.
If you’re on the go over lunch, it can be hard to find time for a hot meal. But day after day, a standard PB&J sandwich can get a little boring. So, what’s the solution?
Enter the Crockpot Lunch Warmer ($24.99). This little gadget is designed to reheat leftovers at your desk (or anywhere you have access to an outlet). I decided to put the mini appliance to the test to see if it’s worth the hype.
Psst! These pasta dishes would make the perfect leftovers.
Initial Thoughts
Right off the bat, I was impressed by the size of this little crock. It holds 20 ounces of food and breaks down into four parts: the warming base, outer lid, removable food container and food container lid.
Two of the crock’s pieces are dishwasher-safe, so I figured clean-up would be a breeze. (If you’re not a fan of dishes, try these dinner recipes that require hardly any clean-up). And I loved that the food container and lid were designed with transport in mind. On any given day, I could pack up my leftovers at home, then put them in the warming base at my desk when I’m ready for lunch.
Thumbing through the instructions, I noticed that there was no real time frame for how long it would take my leftovers to reheat—that knowledge would have to come through trial and error. The notes also mentioned that the crock couldn’t be used to actually cook food—only to reheat it.
For a crock that can cook, reach for one of our most-shared slow cooker recipes.
Heating Up
For my initial run through, I chose to reheat last night’s Sweet-and-Sour tofu. (Here are more yummy ways to prep tofu). As a vegetarian, I often rely on grains, veggies and protein to get me through the day, so hot lunch is a necessity. I liked that the crock didn’t take up much room on my desk, and it would eliminate the need to wait for the communal microwave.
After removing the crock from the box and thoroughly washing the food container and lid, I poured in my leftovers. I plugged the gadget in, put my food in the warmer and fastened the outer lid. All that was left to do was wait.
Ready to Eat
After about 30 minutes, I checked on the leftovers. They were warm, but not steaming hot. I let them heat for another 15 minutes or so before digging in.
I was impressed with how evenly the food heated. Plus, the crock keeps the food warm as you eat, so if you need to step away from your desk or if you’re a slow eater, you won’t have to deal with a cold hot lunch.
For the days when you need an actual cold lunch, try one of these recipes.
The Verdict
First, the bad. My main concern with the lunch warmer is the time suck. The instruction manual explains that different foods will take different amounts of time to reheat. In my experience, leftovers took 45 minutes to an hour to warm up. Since my workplace has a microwave, I would have a hard time finding a reason to use the warmer in its place.
That being said, I can understand when this gadget would be a real savior in smaller offices or workspaces that don’t have access to a microwave. The crock would also be perfect in a dorm room or small apartment.
I also loved that the cord of the crock wrapped around the base and tucked into the bottom of the warmer. This feature makes it easy to transport the entire appliance or store it in a desk drawer.
Overall, this product is pretty smart. It makes it easy to eat on the go and features an intuitive design. It’s just up to the individual user to determine if the wait is worth it.
You can buy the Crockpot Lunch Warmer here.
Try Our Most Popular Slow Cooker Recipes
What could be more comforting (or easy!) than a slow cooker mac and cheese? Nothing! This classic casserole is a rich and cheesy meatless main dish, and I've never met anyone who didn't ask for second helpings of the cheesy dish. —Bernice Glascoe, Roxboro, North Carolina
Here’s a look at our most popular slow-cooker recipes from 2023.
98: Potato ChowderOne of the ladies in our church quilting group brought this savory potato soup to a meeting, and everyone loved how the cream cheese and bacon made it so rich. It's easy to assemble in the morning so it can simmer on its own all day. —Anna Mayer, Fort Branch, Indiana
97: Slow Cooker Pork ChopsEveryone will enjoy these fork-tender, slow-cooker pork chops with a creamy, light gravy. Serve with a green vegetable, mashed potatoes and coleslaw or a salad. These are the best slow cooker pork chops. —Sue Bingham, Madisonville, Tennessee
95: Minister's DelightA friend gave me this recipe several years ago. She said a local minister's wife fixed it every Sunday, so she named it accordingly —Mary Ann Potter, Blue Springs, Missouri
94: Slow Cooker Spaghetti & MeatballsI’ve been cooking for 50 years, and this dish is still one that guests request frequently. It is my No. 1 standby recipe and also makes amazing meatball sandwiches. The sauce works for any type of pasta. —Jane Whittaker, Pensacola, Florida
Make more ground beef Crockpot recipes.
93: Slow-Cooked Sweet 'n' Sour PorkEven though a co-worker gave me this recipe more than 20 years ago, my family still enjoys it today. -Martha Nickerson of Hancock, Maine
92: Tuscan Pork StewTender chunks of pork slowly cook in a nicely seasoned, wine-infused sauce. Add some crushed red pepper flakes to this pork stew for a little extra kick.—Penny Hawkins, Mebane, North Carolina
91: Seafood CioppinoIf you're looking for a great seafood recipe for your slow cooker, this classic cioppino recipe is just the ticket. It's brimming with clams, crab, fish and shrimp, and is fancy enough to be an elegant meal. —Lisa Moriarty, Wilton, New Hampshire
Slow-Cooker Buffalo Chicken DipSlow-cooker Buffalo chicken dip will be the hit of the party. The combo of shredded chicken, cheese and wing sauce is melty, gooey and delicious.
Pork Chile VerdePork slowly stews with jalapenos, onion, green enchilada sauce and spices in this flavor-packed Mexican dish. It's wonderful on its own or stuffed in a warm tortilla with sour cream, grated cheese or olives on the side. —Kimberly Burke, Chico, California
Easy Chow MeinSome years ago, our daughter welcomed me home from a hospital stay with this Asian dish and a copy of the recipe. Now I freeze leftovers for fast future meals. —Kay Bade, Mitchell, South Dakota
Fudgy Peanut Butter CakeI clipped this easy peanut butter cake recipe from a newspaper years ago. The house smells fantastic while it's slow cooking. My husband and son enjoy the cake with ice cream and nuts on top. —Bonnie Evans, Norcross, Georgia
Green Chile Chicken ChiliThe prep work for this chili is easy thanks to several pantry staples. It’s loaded with shredded chicken and beans. The spicy heat can be tamed a bit with cool sour cream. —Fred Lockwood, Plano, Texas
Slow-Cooked Chicken a la KingWhen I know I'll be having a busy day with little time for cooking, I prepare this tasty main dish. Brimming with tender chicken and colorful vegetables, it smells so good while cooking. —Eleanor Mielke, Snohomish, Washington
Shrimp ChowderMove over, clam chowder! This shrimp chowder recipe is family-approved and ready to hit the table.
Slow-Cooker Apple CiderThere's no last-minute rush before the party when you simmer this slow-cooker apple cider. It has all the tantalizing flavors of fall. —Alpha Wilson, Roswell, New Mexico
Autumn Pumpkin ChiliWe have this turkey pumpkin chili often because everyone loves it, even the most finicky grandchildren. It’s a definite keeper in my book! —Kimberly Nagy, Port Hadlock, Washington
Slow-Cooker Sirloin SteakMaking sirloin steak in a Crockpot is a simple, fool-proof method that gives you tender, fall-apart meat with plenty of gravy and none of the messy grease splatter.
Slow-Cooker Swiss SteakHearty, filling and totally hands-off, this easy slow-cooker Swiss steak recipe will satisfy the whole family.
"Everything" StuffingMy family goes crazy for this stuffing that I make in the slow cooker. It freezes well so we can enjoy it long after Thanksgiving has passed. —Bette Votral, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Party Time BeansA friend brought this colorful bean dish to my house for a church circle potluck dinner. As soon as I tasted the slightly sweet slow-cooked beans, I had to have the recipe. I've served the beans and shared the recipe many times since. —Jean Cantner, Boston, Virginia
Beef in Onion GravyI double this super recipe to feed our family of four so I'm sure to have leftovers to send with my husband to work for lunch. His co-workers tell him he's lucky to have someone who fixes him such special meals. It's our secret that it's an easy slow cooker dinner! —Denise Albers, Freeburg, Illinois
Makeover Slow-Cooked Mac 'n' CheeseThis recipe is a clear example of comfort food at its finest; it's rich, hearty and extra cheesy. And because it's made in the slow cooker, it's also extremely easy. —Shelby Molina, Whitewater, Wisconsin
Slow-Cooked Turkey Sloppy JoesThis tangy sandwich filling is easy to prepare in the slow cooker, and it goes over so well at gatherings large and small. I frequently take it to potlucks, and I'm always asked what my secret ingredient is! —Marylou LaRue, Freeland, Michigan
French Dip Sandwiches with OnionsWhen I want to impress company, these satisfying sandwiches are my first pick for the menu. I serve them au jus, with the cooking juices in individual bowls for dipping. —Florence Robinson, Lenox, Iowa
Reuben DipThis simple and delicious Reuben dip is prepared in the slow cooker and makes the perfect party appetizer. All the classic sandwich flavors are there, just creamier and more dippable.
Slow-Cooker Berry CobblerI adapted my mom's yummy cobbler recipe for slow cooking. With the hot summers here in Arizona, we can still enjoy this comforting dessert, and I don't have to turn on the oven. —Karen Jarocki, Yuma, Arizona
Slow-Cooker Vegetable SoupThis slow-cooker vegetable soup is an entire meal in a bowl, as it has beef, potatoes and of course, lots of veggies. It's also an almost entirely hands-off meal, as the slow cooker does most of the work for you.
Steak StroganoffThis slow-cooker recipe makes a traditional dinner completely fuss free. Serve this tender sirloin steak with a flavorful gravy over noodles for a home-style meal that your whole family is sure to request time and again. —Lisa VanEgmond, Annapolis, Illinois
Fabulous FajitasI've enjoyed cooking since I was a girl growing up in the Southwest. When friends call to ask me for new recipes to try, I suggest these flavorful fajitas. It's wonderful to put the beef in the slow cooker before church and come home to a hot delicious main dish. —Janie Reitz, Rochester, Minnesota
Spicy Touchdown ChiliFor me, football, cool weather and chili just seem to go together. Whether I’m cheering on the local team on a Friday night or enjoying a Saturday afternoon of Oklahoma Sooner football with some friends, I enjoy serving this chili on game day. —Chris Neal, Quapaw, Oklahoma
Sweet 'n' Tangy Chicken WingsI love the convenience of slow-cooker recipes for get-togethers. Start these sweet and sour chicken wings a few hours ahead of time and you'll have fantastic appetizers ready when your guests arrive. —Ida Tuey, South Lyon, Michigan
Contest-Winning Chicken CacciatoreMy husband and I own and operate a busy farm. There are days when there's just no time left for cooking! It's really nice to be able to come into the house at night and smell this wonderful slow cooker chicken cacciatore. —Aggie Arnold-Norman, Liberty, Pennsylvania
Slow-Cooked Caribbean Pot RoastThis dish is definitely a year-round recipe. Sweet potatoes, orange zest and baking cocoa are my surprise ingredients. —Jenn Tidwell, Fair Oaks, California
Pumpkin Pie PuddingMy husband loves anything pumpkin, and this creamy, comforting pumpkin pudding recipe is one of his favorites. We make our easy pudding all year long, but it's especially nice in the fall. —Andrea Schaak, Bloomington, Minnesota
Chili Coney DogsFrom the youngest kids to the oldest adults, everyone in our family loves these hot dogs. Inspired by the classic Coney dog, they’re so easy to throw together in the morning or even the night before. —Michele Harris, Vicksburg, Michigan
Slow-Cooker Beef StewWhen there's a chill in the air, nothing beats this beef stew. Seasoned with thyme and dry mustard, the hearty slow-cooker beef stew is chock-full of tender carrots, potatoes and meat. —Earnestine Wilson, Waco, Texas
Sirloin Roast with GravyThis recipe is perfect for my husband, who is a meat-and-potatoes kind of guy. The peppery, fork-tender roast combined with the rich gravy creates a tasty centerpiece for any meal. —Rita Clark, Monument, Colorado
Barbecued Pork Chop SupperI start these slow cooker BBQ pork chops in the morning and enjoy a tasty supper later with no last-minute work. We just get to eat! —Jacqueline Jones, Round Lake Beach, Illinois
Beef Barley Lentil SoupI serve this soup often to family and friends on cold nights, along with homemade rolls and a green salad. For variety, you can substitute jicama for the potatoes. —Judy Metzentine, The Dalles, Oregon
Cheesy Slow-Cooked CornMy family really likes this creamy, cheesy side dish—and it's so easy to make. Even those who usually don't eat much corn often ask for a second helping. —Mary Ann Truitt, Wichita, Kansas
Shredded French DipA chuck roast slow-simmered in a beefy broth is delicious when shredded and spooned onto rolls. I serve the cooking juices in individual cups for dipping. —Carla Kimball, Callaway, Nebraska
36: Slow Cooker Chocolate Lava CakeEveryone who tries this dessert falls in love with it. Using a slow cooker liner makes cleanup a breeze. —Latona Dwyer, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida
Slow-Cooker Cinnamon Roll PuddingPerfect for dessert or breakfast, this sinfully sweet cinnamon roll bread pudding recipe is made with day-old cinnamon rolls, eggs, milk and raisins for a satisfying treat that practically makes itself in the slow cooker.
Slow-Cooked Pork TacosSometimes I'll substitute Bibb lettuce leaves for the tortillas to make crunchy lettuce wraps instead of tacos. —Kathleen Wolf Naperville, Illinois
Creamy Celery Beef StroganoffCream of celery soup adds richness to a recipe that has become a family favorite. It’s so simple to prepare and, oh, that flavor! —Kim Wallace, Dennison, Ohio
Crockpot StuffingThis vegetarian Crockpot stuffing is a keeper. It has all the classic flavor, but it's cooked in a slow cooker for a moist, fluffy stuffing that leaves your oven free for other dishes.
30: Slow-Cooker Milk-Can SupperHere’s a slow-cooked version of an old campfire classic. Pioneers and cowboys would cook this kind of meal over a milk can on an open fire, letting the flavors and textures blend together beautifully. —Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado
Slow-Cooker Corned Beef and CabbageSlow-cooker corned beef is packed with cabbage and other hearty vegetables. It's easy to pull together for St. Patrick's Day, but you can enjoy it any time of year.
Slow-Cooker Chuck RoastPacked with tender beef and vegetables and served in a rich gravy, this slow-cooker chuck roast is a hearty, delicious dinner any night of the week.
Slow-Cooked Stuffed PeppersMy favorite kitchen appliance is the slow cooker, and I use mine more than anyone else I know. It does a great job with this good-for-you dish. —Michelle Gurnsey, Lincoln, Nebraska
Barbecue Chicken SlidersBarbecue chicken sliders are perfect for game-day parties. To get exceptionally flavorful, juicy chicken, brine the meat overnight, then slow cook it until it's fall-apart tender.
Slow-Cooked Lemon ChickenGarlic, oregano and lemon juice give spark to this memorable main dish. It's easy to fix—just brown the chicken in a skillet, then let the slow cooker do the work. I like to serve this dish to company. —Walter Powell, Wilmington, Delaware
Slow-Cooker Pizza CasseroleCrockpot pizza casserole is the recipe for a satisfying one-and-done meal. This comforting casserole with mass appeal is just what you need when cooking for a crowd.
Refried Bean DipThis five-star refried bean dip is one of our most popular appetizer recipes. After one dreamy bite, you'll understand why. It's spicy, a little creamy and extremely cheesy.
Slow-Cooked CarnitasSimmer up succulent pork the slow-cooker way. Sometimes, instead of using tortillas, I put the seasoned meat on top of shredded lettuce for a tasty salad. —Lisa Glogow, Aliso Viejo, California
21: Slow-Cooker Pot RoastWhat if you could get the perfect pot roast with half the work, but double the flavor? Good news: You can. Here's how, with the help of our best slow-cooker pot roast recipe.
French DipFor a sandwich with more pizazz than the traditional French dip, give this recipe a try. The seasonings give the broth a wonderful flavor, and the meat cooks up tender and juicy. This slow-cooked version will soon be a favorite at your house too. —Margaret McNeil, Germantown, Tennessee
16: Stuffed Chicken RollsJust thinking about this dish sparks my appetite. The ham and cheese rolled inside are a tasty surprise. Leftovers reheat well and make a perfect lunch with a green salad. —Jean Sherwood, Kenneth City, Florida
Creamy Italian ChickenItalian salad dressing mix is like a secret weapon for adding flavor to this creamy chicken dish. Served over rice or pasta, this Italian dressing chicken is rich, delicious and special enough for company. —Maura McGee, Tallahassee, Florida
Potluck Macaroni and CheeseYou'll always have a winner at the potluck when you bring macaroni and cheese. Here's an extra-rich, creamy version for the slow cooker. —Jennifer Blondek, Chicopee, Massachusetts
Cube SteakThis meltingly tender slow-cooker recipe is the perfect introduction to cube steak, a tenderized cut of beef that's rich beyond its price tag.
Pulled Pork SandwichesLet the slow cooker do the work for you and enjoy these tangy, tasty pulled pork sandwiches with minimal hands-on effort required.
Slow-Cooker Chicken ThighsHere’s a real sensation: Asian-style slow-cooker chicken thighs and rice. They always go over big with my family. —Gigi Miller, Stoughton, Wisconsin
9: Lime Chicken TacosThis slow-cooker chicken tacos recipe is anything but boring or bland. Fresh lime juice, chili powder, salsa and corn give the tender chicken a burst of fresh flavor.
8: Slow Cooker BBQ ChickenOf all the recipes I make in my slow cooker, this Crock-Pot BBQ chicken is my most treasured. If you enjoy your BBQ sweet with a little spice, this will be your new favorite, too. —Yvonne McKim, Vancouver, Washington
7: Stamp-of-Approval Spaghetti SauceMy father is very opinionated, especially about food. This recipe received his almost unreachable stamp of approval. I have yet to hear a disagreement from anyone who has tried it! —Melissa Taylor, Higley, Arizona
5: Slow Cooker LasagnaYou do not have to worry about dinner when you make slow-cooker lasagna. Simply layer a browned ground beef mixture with a cheesy filling and tomato sauce between no-bake lasagna noodles, and let it cook low and slow for a few hours. It is the perfect no-fuss weeknight meal.
4: Black Bean 'n' Pumpkin ChiliMy family is crazy about this slow cooker chili because it uses ingredients you don't usually find in chili. Believe it or not, I discovered that pumpkin is what makes the dish so special. Cook up a big batch and freeze some for later; it tastes even better reheated. —Deborah Vliet, Holland, Michigan
3: Forgotten JambalayaDuring chilly times of the year, I fix this jambalaya at least once a month. It’s so easy—just chop the vegetables, dump everything in the slow cooker and forget it! Even my sons, who are picky about spicy things, like this dish. —Cindi Coss, Coppell, Texas
1: Flavorful Pot RoastOn hectic days, this is so quick and easy to prep! Convenient packages of dressing and gravy combine to create a sauce worthy of a fall-apart roast. For a filling meal-in-one, serve with mashed potatoes and ladle the juices over top.
—Arlene Butler, Ogden, Utah
Note: Every product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Originally Published: February 12, 2019
