Drew Barrymore Slow Cooker Review: Is It Worth It?

I’m thrilled to share my journey with the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker. If you’re hunting for a kitchen appliance that blends style, functionality, and affordability, this one’s a gem.

Its sleek design and intuitive features make it a standout for busy folks like me who crave home-cooked meals without the fuss. From its chic colors to its user-friendly touchscreen, it’s a game-changer for your countertop. Trust me, this slow cooker is worth every penny, and I’ll break down why it’s a must-have for your kitchen.

My Experience With the Drew Barrymore Slow Cooker

When I first unboxed the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, I was smitten.

The White Icing finish with gold accents looked like it belonged in a magazine, not my cluttered kitchen.

It’s not just a pretty face, though—I put it through its paces to see if it could handle my hectic life.

As a working parent, I need appliances that work smarter, not harder, and this slow cooker delivered in ways I didn’t expect.

My first test was a creamy Tuscan chicken pasta, a family favorite.

I tossed in chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, and a creamy sauce, set it to high for 2.5 hours, and went about my day. The touchscreen interface was a breeze to navigate—just a tap to select the poultry preset and another to start.

No complicated dials or menus to wrestle with. When I returned, the aroma was heavenly, and the dish was perfectly cooked, with tender chicken and evenly distributed flavors. The automatic switch to warm mode kept it at the ideal serving temperature without drying out, which is a lifesaver when dinner plans get delayed.

Next, I tried a beef stew for a weekend gathering. The 6-quart capacity easily handled enough to feed six hungry guests. I loved the lid holder feature—it’s a small touch, but not having to hunt for a spot to rest a hot lid while stirring was a game-changer.

The ceramic insert ensured even cooking, and cleanup was a snap since it’s dishwasher-safe. I also experimented with the soup preset for a minestrone, and it nailed the texture—vegetables soft but not mushy, broth rich and flavorful.

What surprised me most was how quiet it is. Unlike my old slow cooker, which hummed like a small engine, this one was nearly silent. I could leave it running while working from home without distraction. The sleek design also meant I didn’t mind leaving it on the counter, and it sparked compliments from friends who thought it looked far pricier than its $50 price tag. Sure, I hit a few bumps—more on that later—but overall, this slow cooker made me feel like a culinary pro with minimal effort. It’s become my go-to for stress-free meals, and I’m already planning my next recipe.

Pros Of the Drew Barrymore Slow Cooker

The Beautiful by Drew Barrymore Slow Cooker has a lot going for it, and I’m excited to share what makes it shine. Here’s why it’s earned a permanent spot in my kitchen:

Stunning Aesthetic: This isn’t your grandma’s clunky crockpot. The matte finish, gold accents, and chic color options like White Icing or Starry Night make it a countertop showpiece. It elevates my kitchen’s vibe, and guests always ask where I got it.
User-Friendly Touchscreen: The touch-activated display is intuitive and responsive. With five preset functions—meat, poultry, stew, soup, and chili—you can set it and forget it. I found it easy to switch settings mid-cook, though it occasionally requires a firm tap.
Generous 6-Quart Capacity: Perfect for families or batch cooking, it handles meals for up to seven people. I’ve made everything from large stews to party-sized chili without worrying about overflow.
Automatic Warm Mode: Once cooking is done, it switches to keep-warm, so your food stays ready without overcooking. This saved my pasta dish when I got stuck in a meeting.
Easy Cleanup: The removable ceramic insert and glass lid are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze. I’ve never spent more than a minute scrubbing, even with sticky sauces.
Lid Holder Convenience: The built-in lid rest is a small but brilliant feature. It keeps my counters clean and saves me from juggling a hot lid while serving.
Affordable Price Point: At around $50, it’s a steal for the quality and features. It feels like a high-end appliance without the hefty price tag.

These strengths make it a fantastic choice for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. It’s reliable, stylish, and simplifies meal prep in ways I didn’t expect.

Cons Of the Drew Barrymore Slow Cooker

No product is perfect, and while I love this slow cooker, there are a few quirks you should know about. Here’s where it falls short:

Burning Smell on First Use: When I first plugged it in, there was a faint burning plastic smell. The manual says to run it with water for 30 minutes on high to burn off manufacturing residues, which helped, but it was unsettling. Some users report persistent smells, which raises concerns.
Touchscreen Sensitivity Issues: The touch controls can be finicky. I sometimes had to press multiple times to register a setting, which was frustrating when I was in a rush.
Lid Fit Imperfections: The glass lid doesn’t always sit snugly, letting some steam escape. It didn’t ruin my dishes, but it made me check on food more often to ensure proper cooking.
No Locking Lid: If you plan to travel with it, the lack of a locking lid is a drawback. I wouldn’t trust it in a car without securing it carefully.
Potential Overheating: Some users report the exterior getting too hot, and I noticed the base felt warm after long cooks. It’s not a dealbreaker, but you’ll want to keep it away from edges where kids or pets could touch it.
Limited Durability Concerns: The ceramic insert feels sturdy, but a few reviews mention chips or cracks after heavy use. I haven’t had issues yet, but it makes me wonder about long-term durability.
Requires Dedicated Outlet for Some: The manual mentions using a dedicated circuit for the multi-cooker version, which could be an issue in older homes with shared outlets.

These cons don’t outweigh the pros for me, but they’re worth considering, especially if safety or portability is a priority.

Maintenance Tips For the Drew Barrymore Slow Cooker

Keeping your Drew Barrymore Slow Cooker in top shape is easy if you follow a few simple steps. Here’s how I maintain mine to ensure it stays beautiful and functional:

Initial Burn-Off Process: Before your first cook, fill the ceramic insert with 4 cups of water and run it on high for 30 minutes, as the manual suggests. This eliminates any manufacturing odors and preps the unit. I did this in a well-ventilated area to avoid the initial plastic smell.
Clean After Every Use: Always wash the ceramic insert and glass lid after cooking. I pop them in the dishwasher for convenience, but a gentle hand wash with mild soap works too. Avoid abrasive sponges to protect the nonstick coating.
Inspect the Ceramic Insert: Check for cracks or chips before each use. I’ve heard of inserts cracking under heavy use, so I handle mine carefully and store it securely to avoid bumps.
Wipe Down the Exterior: The matte finish looks gorgeous but can show smudges. I use a damp cloth with a touch of vinegar to keep the exterior spotless without scratching it.
Store Properly: Store the insert and lid separately to prevent scratches. I wrap the cord loosely around the base to keep it tidy and avoid strain on the plug.
Avoid Extreme Temperature Changes: Don’t place a hot ceramic insert in cold water—it could crack. I let it cool slightly before cleaning to be safe.
Check the Power Cord: Regularly inspect the cord for fraying or damage. Since some users report overheating, I ensure mine is plugged into a stable outlet and not tangled with other cords.
Test Settings Periodically: Every few months, I run a quick test cycle with water to ensure the touchscreen and heating elements are working properly. It’s a good way to catch issues early.

Following these tips has kept my slow cooker looking and performing like new. A little care goes a long way, and you’ll get years of delicious meals out of it.

Comparison With Other Brands

When I was shopping for a slow cooker, I looked at several brands to see how the Drew Barrymore model stacks up. Here’s how it compares to some popular competitors, based on my research and experience:

Hamilton Beach Set & Forget 6-Quart Slow Cooker: The Hamilton Beach Set & Forget is a solid contender with a similar 6-quart capacity. I found its programmable features, like the temperature probe, super appealing for precise cooking, especially for roasts. It also has a locking lid, which the Drew Barrymore lacks, making it better for travel. However, it’s heavier at 13.1 pounds compared to my lighter Drew Barrymore unit, and its ceramic pot can’t be used on the stovetop. The design is functional but lacks the aesthetic charm of Drew’s sleek look. Price-wise, it’s slightly more expensive, often around $60-$70, but its durability feels a bit more robust.
Crock-Pot 6-Quart Cook & Carry: The classic Crock-Pot brand is a household name, and its 6-quart Cook & Carry model is a direct competitor. Its locking lid and simple interface make it great for potlucks, and it’s priced similarly at around $50. I noticed it cooks reliably but lacks the preset functions that make the Drew Barrymore so beginner-friendly. The stainless steel design is durable but not as eye-catching, and the controls feel a bit dated compared to the touchscreen on my unit. Cleanup is comparable, with a dishwasher-safe insert, but it doesn’t have a lid holder, which I missed.
Cuisinart Cook Central 6-Quart Multi-Cooker: The Cuisinart Cook Central is a premium option, retailing around $194, and it’s more of a multi-cooker with sauté and steam functions. I was impressed by its versatility—perfect for one-pot meals—but it’s overkill for basic slow cooking. Its stainless steel pot is sturdy but not stovetop-safe, and it’s heavier than the Drew Barrymore model. The interface is intuitive, but the price makes it less accessible. For style-conscious cooks like me, the Drew Barrymore wins for its chic design at a fraction of the cost.
GreenLife 6-Quart Slow Cooker: The GreenLife slow cooker, priced around $40, is another budget-friendly option. Its unique ceramic-coated metal pot can be used on the stovetop or in the oven, which is a big plus for flexibility. However, it’s bulkier and lacks the preset functions and touchscreen of the Drew Barrymore. I found its basic LCD controls less user-friendly, and the design, while clean, doesn’t match the aesthetic appeal of my slow cooker. It’s a great value, but I prefer the modern features and look of the Drew Barrymore.

Each brand has its strengths, but the Drew Barrymore Slow Cooker holds its own with its blend of style, functionality, and affordability, especially for home cooks who value aesthetics as much as performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the Drew Barrymore crockpot any good?

Yes, the Drew Barrymore Slow Cooker is a solid choice, especially for its price. I’ve found it reliable for family meals, with intuitive presets and a gorgeous design that elevates any kitchen. It cooks evenly, switches to warm mode automatically, and is easy to clean. However, some users report issues like a burning smell or touchscreen glitches, so follow the manual’s initial setup to avoid problems. If you’re after style and ease, it’s a great pick, but heavy users might want a more durable option.

What is the best crockpot on the market?

The “best” slow cooker depends on your needs, but I’d give the edge to the Cuisinart Cook Central 6-Quart Multi-Cooker for its versatility and top-notch performance in tests, like producing tender pulled pork. For budget-conscious folks like me, the Drew Barrymore Slow Cooker offers comparable functionality with better aesthetics at a lower price. Hamilton Beach’s Set & Forget is also excellent for precise cooking and portability. Consider your priorities—style, features, or durability—before deciding.

Who makes Drew Barrymore crockpot?

The Beautiful by Drew Barrymore Slow Cooker is produced by Made by Gather, a company that collaborates with Drew Barrymore to design her kitchenware line. They focus on affordable, stylish appliances exclusively sold at Walmart. The brand emphasizes aesthetics and functionality, and my experience confirms they deliver on both, though some quality control issues have been reported.

Is Drew Barrymore a good brand?

Drew Barrymore’s Beautiful brand is a hit for budget-friendly, stylish kitchenware. I love how it combines affordability with a premium look, and my slow cooker performs well for everyday cooking. However, some users report durability issues, like chipped inserts or faulty touchscreens, which suggests inconsistent quality control. Compared to pricier brands like Cuisinart, it’s less robust but offers great value for casual cooks who prioritize design.

Conclusion: For the Drew Barrymore Slow Cooker

You won’t regret adding the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore Slow Cooker to your kitchen. It’s a stylish, user-friendly appliance that makes cooking effortless and elevates your countertop game. Despite minor flaws like touchscreen quirks or initial odors, its affordability, intuitive features, and chic design make it a winner. Whether you’re a busy parent or a home cook craving convenience, this slow cooker delivers delicious meals with minimal hassle. Grab one and transform your kitchen into a hub of flavor and style.