back to school

This Portable Mini Crock-Pot Is a Must If You’re Going Back to School or the Office — and It Has Nearly 11,500 Five-Star Amazon Ratings

published Sep 7, 2022
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Laurel Harry in kitchen with children.
Credit: Lindsey Stewart

There are usually two camps of folks when the beginning of September rolls around: those who can’t wait to get back into the swing of things, and those who are mourning the easier, lazier days of summer. No matter which group you fit into, the simple truth about fall is that a little more planning and a little more organization are essential to keeping busy fall schedules on track. That’s why we’re always on the lookout for gadgets and appliances that ease the back-to-school and back-to-work transitions.

One of the biggest hurdles to overcome with changing seasons and schedules? Packing lunch. Whether it’s for you, your significant other, or your child, properly packing your goods on the go is always harder than it seems. And while there are loads of handy containers and lunch-packing hacks out there, we think we found our favorite product yet when it comes to taking a satisfying, wholesome meal on the go. Meet the Crock-Pot Lunch Crock Food Warmer.

Much like a mini Crock Pot, the Food Warmer plugs into the wall, eliminating the need for an oven, toaster, or microwave. All you have to do is load up the 20-oz. container with whatever yummy lunch you have planned, plug it in while you finish up some emails, and you’ll have a warm meal ready in no time.

Amazon reviewers praise the Food Warmer. “This thing is great for heating just about everything to a nice consistent temperature,” says one happy customer. “It’s great for soups but it’s also great to reheat BBQ chicken and other proteins as if it were a Dutch oven. ” Another user adds, “It doesn’t overcook things… This is just like reheating on the stove or conventional oven. I’ve had mine for years… Very durable and Highly recommended for all you folks who pack lunch.” And no one’s stopping you from using it for easy WFH lunches, too!

But those highlights aren’t the only features that make this Crock Pot wonder a winner. The exterior surface of the gadget never warms, even if the food inside is piping hot. Both the container and the lid can pop into the dishwasher for a painless cleanup. Plus, it has an easy-to-grip handle, and its cord tucks away neatly in the base for effortless transportation and storage.

Just imagine how much extra time you’ll have to enjoy lunch without waiting in line for the microwave or running out to get food. Plus, you can bring endlessly versatile options with you so you’ll never get bored with your midday meal again. Take it from this reviewer, who uses their Food Warmer up to five times weekly: “You can buy plastic containers that will fit just inside the stainless steel insert. I fill the plastic containers with leftovers and freeze. I pick what I want for lunch. Run some warm water over the bottom of the container and pop the food into the liner.” Talk about delicious and efficient!

Buy: Crock-Pot Lunch Crock Food Warmer, $36.50 (normally $39.99)