Let's face it: Slow cookers are popular, but dull. Mute. Kinda sleepy. Even on its highest setting (of three total), my six-quart All-Clad slow cooker doesn't simmer stock or sizzle diced shallots.

Liv Dansky has worked for Food & Wine since 2019 as a recipe tester and developer and, more recently, as a writer. Her work can be found across brands like Southern Living, Real Simple, EatingWell, ...