Can I Put My All-Clad Slow Cooker Insert on the Stove?

All-Clad is known for their high-quality, versatile cookware that can transition beautifully between different cooking applications. Their slow cooker inserts are no exception. Made from durable stainless steel, All-Clad inserts can be used not only in the slow cooker but directly on the stovetop as well. This allows you to leverage the versatility of your All-Clad cookware and maximize usage.

Slow Cookers are a Staple Appliance

Americans love their slow cookers! A 2019 survey by Statista found that over 50% of respondents owned a slow cooker or Crock-Pot. And the slow cooking trend is still going strong – industry research predicts the global multi-cooker market to grow at a CAGR of over 7% through 2025.

With busy modern lifestyles, it‘s easy to see the appeal. Slow cookers provide convenience, ease of use, and delicious home-cooked comfort foods.

An Overview of All-Clad Slow Cooker Inserts

All-Clad offers slow cooker inserts in both round and oval shapes to fit different size Crock-Pots. The inserts are made from heavy-gauge 18/10 stainless steel, with an aluminum core for even heating. This 3-ply bonded construction allows them to transition from slow cooking to stovetop cooking.

The inserts feature riveted stainless steel handles for safe handling, and come with a tight-fitting tempered glass lid. The lid has stainless steel rims and handles. Importantly, both insert and lid are induction compatible.

All-Clad‘s 3-ply construction enables stovetop versatility

Using All-Clad Inserts on the Stove

Since All-Clad inserts are designed for stovetop safety, you can place them directly on your stove grate or on a burner to simmer sauces, sauté ingredients, brown meats, and more. This allows you to leverage your insert as a skillet or saucepan when needed.

However, there are some precautions to take:

Check that your stovetop and grates can accommodate the insert size and shape. Oval inserts in particular may not fit well on smaller grates.
Use lower to medium heat settings only. All-Clad inserts are not designed for high heat on the stovetop.
Use wood, plastic, or silicone utensils to avoid scratching the insert surface. Never use metal utensils.
Place a heat diffuser underneath if using a glass stovetop. The insert‘s weight can crack the glass.
Don‘t let the insert boil dry. The bottom can scorch without adequate liquid.
Allow time for the insert to cool before cleaning. Avoid cold water shocks.
Hand wash only. Do not place in the dishwasher.

Recommended Burner Sizes

All-Clad Insert Size	Recommended Minimum Burner Size
3.5 Quart Round	6 inch diameter
4.5 Quart Oval	7 inch diameter (or rectangular equivalent)
6 Quart Round	8 inch diameter
7 Quart Oval	9 inch diameter (or rectangular equivalent)

Consult All-Clad‘s manual for best burner fit

Stovetop Cooking vs. Slow Cooking

When using your All-Clad insert for stovetop cooking, you‘ll notice some key differences from traditional slow cooking:

Faster cooking times. The direct heat of the stove cooks food much faster than a slow cooker. Adjust timing accordingly.
Higher heat. Stovetops reach higher temperatures for searing, simmering, etc. Use care not to overheat.
Increased attention needed. Monitor food closely on the stove and adjust heat as needed.
Less liquid required. Stovetop cooking requires less liquid since evaporative loss is reduced.
Potential for burning. Food can burn easier on a stove if not stirred and temperatures aren‘t moderated.

Key Differences in Cooking Methods

	Slow Cooker	Stovetop
Temperature Range	180°F – 280°F	200°F – 500°F+
Timing	2+ hours	10 mins – 1 hour
Technique	Simmering	Searing, simmering, sautéing
Attention Needed	Minimal	Moderate to high

The Benefits of Using an Insert on the Stove

Using your insert on the stovetop provides greater flexibility when cooking. Benefits include:

Range of cooking techniques. Sear, sauté, simmer, braise, and more.
Space saving. Cook entirely on the stove without needing the slow cooker base.
Quick meal prep. Brown meat or sauté veggies for slow cooker recipes.
Better flavor. Searing and sauteing adds richness and depth of flavor.
Thickening sauces. Stovetop simmering lets you easily reduce liquids.
Keep food warm. Use over low heat to keep dips, appetizers, etc. ready to serve.

"I love searing chicken or beef in my All-Clad insert before adding ingredients for the slow cooker. It really boosts flavor compared to just throwing everything in raw." – Spice Chef Nikki

Potential Downsides to Consider

There are a few downsides to using the insert on the stove:

Uneven heating. Inserts don‘t heat as evenly on the stove as full cookware.
Size/shape limits. May not work with all burners or stovetop types.
No lid conversion. The tempered glass lid can‘t be used for oven cooking.
Lower oven-safe temp. Inserts typically max out at 500F oven use.
Burner size. Larger inserts may overhang small burner sizes.
Not nonstick. Without a nonstick surface, food can stick to the insert.

The Dangers of Misuse

The U.S. Fire Administration reports over 15,000 cooking fires annually, resulting in over 300 injuries and $125 million in property damage. Slow cookers accounted for 4% of these fires.

Misuse of a slow cooker risks:

Burns from contact with very hot metal or steam.
Electrical shocks from cords/bases exposed to liquids.
Fires from flammable items being near the heat source.
Equipment damage if heated empty or in excess.

Always take proper precautions when using your slow cooker insert on the stovetop.

Caring for Your All-Clad Slow Cooker Insert

To keep your insert looking and cooking like new, follow these care tips:

Clean thoroughly after each use. Don‘t allow food residue to accumulate.
Use non-abrasive cleaners and scrub pads. Avoid steel wool or harsh chemicals.
Dry thoroughly. Allow to air dry fully before storing to prevent water spots.
Store with lid ajar. Avoid sealing the damp insert.
Use cooking spray. Lightly coat insert with oil before cooking to reduce sticking.
Remove from stove when not cooking. Avoid extended direct heat exposure.

Proper cleaning and storage habits will maximize the longevity of your All-Clad insert.

How to Remove Stubborn Residue

If you end up with really stubborn stuck-on food, try this trick:

Fill the insert with water and bring to a boil on the stove. Allow to boil 5 minutes. This should help loosen up residue. Then drain and clean as usual with a soft scrubber and hot soapy water. The boiling water softens gunk wonderfully!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To prevent damage when using your insert on the stove, avoid these common mistakes:

Starting on high heat before the insert is fully preheated.
Leaving the insert unattended over direct heat.
Using metal utensils or abrasive scrubbers.
Shocking with cold water when hot.
Putting the insert in the dishwasher.
Stacking items inside the insert when storing.
Placing while wet in cabinets or drawers.
Allowing food residue or hard water spots to build up.

A little care goes a long way in maintaining the performance and lifespan of your All-Clad insert. Avoiding misuse will provide many years of cooking enjoyment.

The Science of 3-Ply Stainless Steel

All-Clad‘s 3-ply construction is what makes their inserts so versatile and durable. Here‘s an explanation of the technology:

The interior stainless steel layer provides a smooth, nonreactive cooking surface. It‘s resistant to sticking and staining.
The middle aluminum core conducts heat quickly and evenly across the entire insert surface. This is key for stovetop adaptability.
The exterior stainless layer is durable, corrosion resistant, and allows attractive polished finishes. It‘s stick resistant for easy cleaning.

This tri-ply build allows rapid, even heating critical for sautéing and searing on the stove. No hot spots! Yet it‘s gentle enough for all-day simmering. Science proves All-Clad‘s prowess.

Alternatives for Glass Stovetops

If your glass stovetop cannot accommodate the size or shape of your All-Clad insert, there are a couple alternatives:

Use an induction-compatible heat diffuser between the insert and stovetop. This provides heat distribution.
Opt for stove-to-oven recipes. Slow cook the insert in the oven at 200-250F first to avoid the stovetop.
Sear or brown ingredients in a skillet on the stove first, then transfer to the insert for oven cooking.

With some creative planning, you can still achieve delicious results. An insert that doesn‘t work on a glass stovetop can be utilized in so many other ways.

Refer to All-Clad‘s Instructions

If you have any concerns about safe usage, always defer to the instructions provided with your specific All-Clad insert model. Follow their guidelines on recommended heat settings, utensil usage, cleaning methods, storage, and any other care recommendations. This will ensure you safely maximize the versatile functionality of your All-Clad slow cooker insert.

Always consult the manual for proper care

Is My Insert Part of a Recall?

All-Clad has issued recalls on some slow cooker models due to a potential fire hazard and burn risk. These particular recalled models were sold between February 2016 – May 2018.

If you own an All-Clad slow cooker, you can check if it is part of the voluntary recall program by finding the 4-digit date code engraved on the bottom of the base. Units with date codes from 0124 through 0828 are affected.

For recalled units, All-Clad offers a free repair kit. You can also opt to return the unit for a full refund. Check their website for more details on the recall and how to get your unit fixed or replaced.

General Tips for Safe Slow Cooker Use

To safely maximize the convenience of slow cooking, keep these tips in mind:

Only use your slow cooker on a flat, heat-resistant surface away from edges.
Ensure the cooker has adequate ventilation space on all sides.
Always plug the cooker directly into the wall outlet. Avoid extension cords or power strips.
Keep the exterior surfaces clean and free of food/liquid spills or grease buildup.
Never immerse the base in water or other liquid.
Use oven mitts or hot pads when handling the heated insert.
Unplug the cooker when not in use and allow to fully cool before cleaning or storing.

By following basic safety precautions, your Crock-Pot or slow cooker can provide many years of trouble-free enjoyment.

More Slow Cooker Trends

While traditional Crock-Pots remain popular, new slow cooker innovations also abound:

Programmable cookers allow you to customize time and temperature settings.
Multi-cookers like the Instant Pot combine pressure cooking, slow cooking, and more in one appliance.
Smart cookers connect to your phone so you can monitor from afar. Some even respond to voice commands!
Combi cookers switch between stove and slow modes using the same pot.
Immersion cookers circulate hot water around a sealed sous vide bag.

Whatever your needs, there‘s a perfect slow cooking solution available. Versatile All-Clad inserts enhance Crock-Pot versatility even more!

The Takeaway

All-Clad slow cooker inserts bring exceptional craftsmanship to your Crock-Pot cooking. With their durable 3-ply construction, these inserts can be safely used not only for slow cooking but for all your stovetop cooking needs as well.

Taking care to follow All-Clad‘s recommended usage and cleaning guidelines will ensure you maximize the value of your All-Clad insert for many years of cooking enjoyment. So go ahead – sear, sauté, simmer and sizzle to your heart‘s content!