Hey there, fellow slow-cooking enthusiast! It’s your friend from Crock Potz, and today we’re diving deep into a question that I get asked all the time. You’ve got your ingredients, you’re ready to create some “set it and forget it” magic, but then you pause, looking at the dial on your trusty slow cooker. Low, High, Warm… but where’s the simmer? Understanding What Is A Simmer Setting on a Crockpot is one of those little secrets that can elevate your cooking from good to fall-off-the-bone fantastic.
Let’s be honest, the beauty of a Crockpot is its simplicity. But that simplicity can sometimes feel a bit mysterious. Have you ever worried if “Low” is hot enough, or if “High” is going to scorch your beautiful pot roast? You’re not alone. We’re going to demystify those settings and show you how to become the master of the slow-cooker simmer. If you’re just starting your slow cooking journey or looking to upgrade, our detailed [slow cooker buying guide](https://crockpotz.com/slow-cooker-buying-guide/) is a fantastic resource to explore different models and features.
So, What Exactly Is Simmering?
Before we talk about our favorite kitchen gadget, let’s go back to basics. On a stovetop, simmering is a gentle cooking method. It’s that sweet spot right below a full boil.
- Boiling: Large, vigorous bubbles breaking the surface of the liquid. The temperature is around 212°F (100°C).
- Simmering: Small, gentle bubbles occasionally rising to the surface. The temperature is slightly lower, typically between 185°F and 205°F (85°C to 96°C).
Simmering is the workhorse of flavor development. It’s perfect for tenderizing tough cuts of meat, melding the flavors in soups and stews, and reducing sauces without them breaking or burning. It’s a low-and-slow process, which should sound very familiar to us Crockpot lovers!
What is a Simmer Setting in a Slow Cooker?
Here’s the big reveal: most traditional Crockpots and slow cookers do not have a dedicated button labeled “Simmer.” But don’t worry, that doesn’t mean they can’t do it. In fact, simmering is exactly what a slow cooker is designed to do.
The “Low” and “High” settings on your Crockpot don’t refer to two different final cooking temperatures. Instead, they refer to the speed at which the slow cooker reaches its target simmering temperature.
The Crock Potz Pro Tip: Both the “Low” and “High” settings on a standard Crockpot will eventually stabilize at the same temperature—right around 209°F (98°C), which is the perfect simmering point. The only difference is the journey to get there.
Think of it like driving to a destination. The “High” setting is like taking the highway—you get to that simmering temperature much faster, usually in about 3-4 hours. The “Low” setting is like taking the scenic back roads; it takes longer, typically 7-8 hours, to reach the exact same destination.
Low vs. High: A Quick Breakdown
| Setting | Time to Reach Simmering Point | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 7-8 hours | Tough cuts of meat (roasts, brisket), all-day cooking, maximum flavor fusion. |
| High | 3-4 hours | Leaner meats (chicken breasts), converting stovetop recipes, shorter cook times. |
This subtle difference is the key to mastering your machine. You’re not choosing a different heat level; you’re choosing a different cooking timeline.
How to Achieve the Perfect Crockpot Simmer
Now that you know the secret, how do you put it into practice? Here are the steps I follow for almost every one-pot meal I make.
- Choose Your Setting Based on Time: The most important factor is your schedule. Have all day? Go with “Low.” Need dinner on the table a little sooner? “High” is your friend. For most “dump dinner” recipes, the “Low” setting is the gold standard for tender results.
- Ensure Enough Liquid: A simmer requires liquid. Make sure your ingredients are at least partially submerged in broth, sauce, or water. This creates the steamy, moist environment that is the hallmark of slow cooking.
- Layer Ingredients Wisely: Place hard, root vegetables like potatoes and carrots at the bottom of the crock. They need more direct, consistent heat to become tender. Place your meat on top of them. This allows the meat to braise gently in the simmering liquid.
- The Golden Rule: Do Not Peek! I know it’s tempting, but every time you lift the lid, you release a significant amount of heat and steam. This can add 15-20 minutes to your cooking time and disrupt that perfect, stable simmer you’ve worked to achieve. So, trust the process and keep the lid on!
Speaking of modern features, some newer models are changing the game. To understand more about the latest innovations, it’s interesting to learn about things like [what is a chalkboard surface on a slow cooker](https://crockpotz.com/what-is-a-chalkboard-surface-on-a-slow-cooker/), which adds a fun, practical element to meal planning.
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Our Picks for the Best Crockpot in 2025
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| Num | Product | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting Black Stainless Steel |
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| 2 | bella 6.0 Qt Programmable Slow Cooker, Ceramic Nonstick Coating, Adjustable Temperature & Cooking Times, Dishwasher Safe Stoneware Pot & Tempered Glass Lid, Tangle Free Cord Wrap, Plum |
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| 3 | Sunvivi Dual Pot Slow Cooker, 2 Pot Small Mini Crock Buffet Server and Warmer, Upgraded Oval Ceramic Double Pot Buffet Food Warmer Adjustable Temp Glass Lid, Total 2.5 Quarts |
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| 4 | Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker, Portable Programmable with Timer, Locking Lid, Stainless Steel; an Essential Kitchen Appliance, Perfect for Families and Gatherings |
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| 5 | Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker PRO- Sous Vide & Proof 6-in-1 Multi-Cooker, with 8.5 Quarts, Slow Cooker, Dutch Oven & More, Glass Lid & Integrated Spoon, Oven Safe Pot to 500°F, Black, MC1010 |
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| 6 | Crockpot 2-Quart Classic Slow Cooker Small Slow Cooker Black |
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| 7 | Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for Large Families or Entertaining |
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| 8 | Hamilton Beach 6-Quart Slow Cooker with 3 Cooking Settings, Dishwasher-Safe Stoneware Crock & Glass Lid, Silver (33665G) |
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| 9 | Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer Stainless Steel (CPSCVC60LL-S) pack of 1 |
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| 10 | Double Slow Cooker, 2 x 1.25 QT Portable Small Dual Crock Cooker, Buffet Servers and Warmers Dishwasher Safe, Removable Ceramic Pot Glass Lid, Stainless Steel Black |
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Why Simmering is the Crockpot’s Superpower
Understanding what is a simmer setting is more than just technical knowledge; it’s about unlocking the full potential of your slow cooker.
- Tenderizes Meat: The long, slow simmer breaks down tough connective tissues (collagen) in meats like chuck roast or pork shoulder, turning them into gelatin. This is what makes the meat incredibly moist and fall-apart tender.
- Develops Deep Flavor: Time is an ingredient! A long simmer gives all the herbs, spices, and aromatics in your dish a chance to get to know each other, creating a rich, complex flavor profile that you just can’t get with quick cooking methods.
- It’s Forgiving: Because the temperature is stable and gentle, it’s very difficult to truly overcook food in a Crockpot on the “Low” setting. It gives you a much wider margin for error, which is perfect for busy weeknights.
As culinary blogger Sarah Carter puts it, “The magic of a slow cooker isn’t just convenience; it’s the gentle, unwavering simmer that transforms humble ingredients into something truly extraordinary. It’s a culinary hug in a pot.”
For those who love convenience and technology, the evolution of slow cookers is fascinating. Today, you can even [buy smart crock pot with wifi](https://crockpotz.com/buy-smart-crock-pot-with-wifi/), allowing you to control these simmer settings from anywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are a few common questions I get that tie directly into the concept of a Crockpot simmer.
Can my Crockpot boil water?
Generally, no. A Crockpot is designed to heat to just below the boiling point. It will hold liquids at a very hot simmer (around 209°F / 98°C), but it won’t typically achieve a full, rolling boil. This is by design to prevent scorching and ensure gentle cooking.
Is the Low or High setting better for tender meat?
For the most tender, melt-in-your-mouth results, especially with tougher cuts of meat, the Low setting is almost always superior. The extended, slower cooking time gives the connective tissues more time to break down completely.
What is the difference between the simmer setting and the ‘Keep Warm’ setting?
The ‘Keep Warm’ setting is significantly lower in temperature than “Low” or “High.” Its only job is to hold already cooked food at a safe serving temperature (typically around 165°F / 74°C) without continuing to cook it. Never use “Keep Warm” to cook raw food.
How do I know if my food is simmering correctly in the Crockpot?
You won’t see vigorous bubbling like you would on a stove. The best sign is when your food is fully cooked, tender, and the liquid has slightly reduced. If you were to carefully peek (just once!), you might see very tiny bubbles breaking the surface at the edges of the pot.
Can I leave my Crockpot simmering overnight?
Absolutely! This is one of the greatest benefits. Using the “Low” setting to cook a roast or bone broth overnight is a safe and incredibly effective method. Just ensure you have enough liquid in the pot to start.
Your Simmering Success Awaits
So, the next time you look at your slow cooker, you can do so with confidence. You now know that what is a simmer setting isn’t about a missing button, but about understanding the gentle, consistent heat that your “Low” and “High” settings provide. Your Crockpot is a simmering machine, expertly designed to create those one-pot meals that are packed with flavor and convenience.
Now I want to hear from you! What’s your favorite recipe that relies on a long, slow simmer? Have you had any “aha!” moments since understanding how the settings work? Share your stories and tips in the comments below. Let’s build this Crock Potz community together, one perfectly simmered meal at a time.