In today’s fast-paced world, where juggling work, family, and social commitments often leaves little time for elaborate meal preparation, slow cookers have emerged as indispensable kitchen appliances. These versatile devices allow home cooks to prepare nutritious, flavorful meals with minimal effort, transforming tough cuts of meat into tender delights and infusing soups and stews with deep, layered flavors over hours of low-and-slow cooking. Among the myriad options available, the Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, model SCV700-S-BR, stands out as a reliable workhorse designed specifically for large families or those who love entertaining.
Manufactured by Crock-Pot, a brand synonymous with slow cooking since its invention in the 1970s, this stainless steel model combines simplicity with functionality. With a generous 7-quart capacity, it promises to serve nine or more people effortlessly or accommodate a hefty 7-pound roast, making it ideal for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or weekly meal prepping. Priced affordably—typically around $48 to $60 depending on retailers—this slow cooker appeals to budget-conscious consumers without skimping on essential features.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the design, features, performance, ease of use, and overall value of the SCV700-S-BR, drawing from extensive user feedback, technical specifications, and hands-on insights. Whether you’re a novice cook looking for an entry-level appliance or a seasoned home chef seeking a larger capacity upgrade, this article aims to provide a balanced perspective to help you decide if this Crock-Pot deserves a spot on your countertop.
Design and Build Quality
The Crock-Pot SCV700-S-BR boasts a classic, understated design that blends seamlessly into most kitchen aesthetics. Its oval shape, measuring 16.9 inches in depth, 11.8 inches in width, and 10.4 inches in height, optimizes space for elongated cuts of meat like roasts or whole chickens, while the stainless steel exterior with black accents exudes a modern, professional vibe. Weighing in at 12.55 pounds, it’s sturdy yet manageable to move around, though its size might require dedicated storage in smaller kitchens.
At the heart of the build is the removable stoneware insert, a hallmark of Crock-Pot’s durability. This ceramic crock is not only dishwasher-safe but also oven-safe up to 400°F and microwave-compatible, allowing for versatile use beyond slow cooking—think reheating leftovers or baking side dishes. The glass lid, equipped with a sturdy handle, fits snugly to lock in moisture and aromas, though some users note it can clink if not seated perfectly, potentially leading to minor heat loss.
Build quality receives high marks for reliability, with many long-term owners reporting years of consistent use. One reviewer shared that their unit has been a family staple for over eight years, used bi-weekly without failure. However, concerns about durability do arise in a minority of cases, such as the stoneware cracking after minimal uses or handles melting under prolonged heat—issues that seem isolated but worth noting for heavy users. The exterior, while attractive, can get quite hot during operation, necessitating caution around children or pets. Plastic handles stay cool to the touch, adding a safety layer.
Overall, the design prioritizes functionality over flashy bells and whistles. It’s not the most insulated model on the market, which can lead to higher external temperatures, but this contributes to efficient heating. Compared to cheaper off-brand alternatives, the SCV700-S-BR feels premium, with a solid construction that justifies its reputation as a “dependable product at a reasonable price,” as echoed in numerous testimonials.
Features and Functionality
Simplicity is the cornerstone of the Crock-Pot SCV700-S-BR’s appeal. This manual slow cooker features three straightforward settings: High, Low, and Warm, controlled via a tactile dial on the front panel. There’s no digital timer or programmable options, which keeps the interface intuitive for all ages—no fumbling with buttons or apps required. The High setting is perfect for quicker cooking (typically 4-6 hours), while Low suits all-day simmers (8-10 hours), and Warm maintains serving temperature without overcooking.
The 7-quart capacity is a standout feature, offering ample space for family-sized portions. It can handle everything from a whole 7-pound chicken to batches of chili for a crowd, making it versatile for entertaining. The oval shape accommodates irregular ingredients better than round models, and the 210-watt heating element ensures even distribution of heat around the stoneware.
Functionality extends to its one-pot cooking ethos, reducing the need for multiple dishes. Users appreciate the “set-it-and-forget-it” convenience, allowing meals to cook unattended while at work or running errands. For instance, preparing a vegetable-beef stew or meatballs in sauce becomes effortless, with flavors melding beautifully over time.
While lacking advanced features like auto-shutoff or probes found in pricier programmable models, this keeps the price low and reliability high. It’s powered by 120 volts, drawing minimal energy, which aligns with its economical operation—ideal for energy-conscious households. International reviews from countries like Mexico, Canada, Brazil, and Japan highlight its universal appeal, with users praising its practical design and easy cleaning.
In terms of versatility, the removable insert doubles as serveware, transitioning from cooker to table. It’s also compatible with slow cooker liners for even easier cleanup, a frequently recommended add-on. This model excels in basic, reliable slow cooking, making it a go-to for recipes like pulled pork, soups, dips, or even desserts like apple crisp.
Performance and Cooking Results
Performance is where the Crock-Pot SCV700-S-BR truly shines, earning its 4.6-star average from over 63,000 Amazon ratings. The heating element provides consistent, even cooking, with users reporting perfectly tender results in stews, roasts, and casseroles. On Low, it gently simmers ingredients, preserving nutrients and enhancing flavors without scorching—though some note it runs hotter than older models, potentially requiring recipe adjustments.
Testing with common recipes, such as a beef pot roast, yields succulent meat that falls off the bone after 8 hours on Low. The Warm setting effectively keeps food at safe temperatures for hours, ideal for parties. However, a recurring critique is that both High and Low can feel too hot, with bubbling on Low in some units, which might overcook delicate dishes if unattended. This is mitigated by stirring occasionally or using liners to prevent sticking.
For large-scale entertaining, the capacity proves invaluable. Reviewers describe successfully cooking for gatherings, like holiday hams or batch soups, without overflow. The stoneware’s heat retention is excellent, keeping meals warm post-cooking. Energy efficiency is another plus; at 210 watts, it consumes less power than an oven, promoting healthier, low-fat cooking methods.
YouTube demonstrations and user videos confirm its prowess, showing even cooking across the pot’s surface. One reviewer highlighted its ability to handle a 7-pound chicken with room to spare, resulting in juicy, flavorful poultry. While not immune to occasional defects—like cracking reported in 4% of one-star reviews—the majority (82% five-star) attest to flawless performance over years.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
Ease of use is a major selling point for the SCV700-S-BR. The manual dial—Off, Low, High, Warm—eliminates complexity, making it accessible for beginners or elderly users. No programming means no learning curve; simply plug in, set, and go. The lack of an indicator light is a minor gripe, but the warmth of the unit signals it’s on.
Cleaning is straightforward: the stoneware and lid are dishwasher-safe, and the exterior wipes clean with a damp cloth. Users recommend cooking spray or liners to minimize residue, with many noting spotless results after a quick soak. The removable crock simplifies serving and storage, reducing mess.
For maintenance, avoid abrupt temperature changes to prevent cracking, a tip from long-term owners. Overall, it’s low-maintenance, aligning with its “set-it-and-forget-it” ethos.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Spacious 7-quart capacity for large meals.
- Simple, reliable manual controls.
- Even cooking and versatile settings.
- Dishwasher-safe components for easy cleanup.
- Affordable price with strong value.
- Durable build for long-term use.
Cons:
- Exterior gets hot, posing burn risks.
- Can run hotter than expected on Low.
- Potential for stoneware cracking or lid issues.
- No timer or auto-shutoff.
- Lacks insulation compared to premium models.
Comparison with Competitors
When stacked against rivals, the SCV700-S-BR holds its own. The Hamilton Beach 6-Quart Slow Cooker (33665G), at $44, offers similar settings but smaller capacity and fewer reviews (11,000 vs. 63,000). For programmable options, Crock-Pot’s own 6-Quart Cook & Carry (CPSCVC60LL-S) at $90 adds timers but sacrifices simplicity.
The Elite Gourmet MST-900D (8.5 quarts, $67) provides more space but lower ratings (4.4 stars). Hamilton Beach’s 10-Quart model ($88) is larger but bulkier. The SCV700-S-BR strikes a balance for those prioritizing ease and affordability over extras.
Value for Money
At under $50 often, this slow cooker delivers exceptional value. Its high ratings and longevity make it a smart investment for families, far outpacing disposable alternatives.
Conclusion
The Crock-Pot SCV700-S-BR is a timeless choice for anyone seeking reliable, hassle-free slow cooking. Its large capacity, simple operation, and solid performance make it perfect for large families or entertainers. Despite minor flaws, it’s highly recommended for everyday use.
