Drew Barrymore Slow Cooker Recipes: A Walmart Review and Delicious, Easy Meals
Slow cookers have become a kitchen staple for busy individuals and families alike. The convenience of throwing ingredients into a pot and letting them simmer throughout the day, resulting in a flavorful and tender meal, is undeniable. Drew Barrymore’s Beautiful line of kitchenware, available at Walmart, has introduced a slow cooker that has garnered attention for its aesthetics and functionality. In this article, we’ll explore Drew Barrymore slow cooker recipes, provide a detailed review of the Beautiful slow cooker from Walmart, and offer step-by-step instructions for creating delectable meals.
## Drew Barrymore Beautiful Slow Cooker: A Review
The Drew Barrymore Beautiful slow cooker is part of a larger line of kitchen appliances known for their sleek design and attractive color palettes. Available exclusively at Walmart, this slow cooker aims to combine style with practicality. Here’s a closer look at its features and performance:
**Design and Aesthetics:**
One of the primary appeals of the Beautiful slow cooker is its design. It comes in a range of elegant colors, such as sage green, white icing, and cornflower blue, that can complement any kitchen decor. The matte finish and gold accents add a touch of sophistication, making it an appliance you won’t mind leaving on your countertop.
**Capacity and Size:**
The slow cooker typically comes in a 6-quart capacity, which is ideal for feeding a family of four to six people or for meal prepping. Its oval shape accommodates larger cuts of meat, such as roasts or whole chickens.
**Features:**
* **Digital Display:** The slow cooker features a digital display that allows you to set the cooking time and temperature with precision. This is a significant upgrade from older models with simple low, medium, and high settings.
* **Programmable Timer:** The programmable timer lets you set the cooking time from 30 minutes to 20 hours, providing flexibility for various recipes and schedules. Once the cooking time is up, the slow cooker automatically switches to a keep-warm setting, preventing your food from overcooking.
* **Multiple Heat Settings:** The slow cooker typically offers low, high, and warm settings, allowing you to adjust the cooking intensity based on the recipe requirements.
* **Removable Ceramic Pot:** The removable ceramic pot is easy to clean and can be used for serving directly from the slow cooker. It is also oven-safe, adding to its versatility.
* **Cool-Touch Handles:** The cool-touch handles make it safe to transport the slow cooker, even when it’s filled with hot food.
* **Glass Lid:** The tempered glass lid allows you to monitor the cooking progress without lifting it, which helps maintain a consistent temperature inside the slow cooker.
**Performance:**
In terms of performance, the Drew Barrymore Beautiful slow cooker generally receives positive reviews. It heats evenly and maintains a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process, ensuring that your food is cooked thoroughly and evenly. The programmable timer and keep-warm function are particularly useful for busy individuals who want to set their meal to cook and forget about it until it’s time to eat.
**Pros:**
* Stylish design that complements any kitchen decor
* User-friendly digital display and programmable timer
* Even heating and consistent temperature
* Removable ceramic pot for easy cleaning and serving
* Keep-warm function to prevent overcooking
* Large capacity suitable for families and meal prepping
**Cons:**
* The exterior may get hot during cooking, so caution is advised.
* Some users have reported that the ceramic pot can be heavy, especially when filled with food.
* The price point is slightly higher compared to basic slow cooker models.
**Overall:**
The Drew Barrymore Beautiful slow cooker is a solid choice for those who want a slow cooker that combines style with functionality. Its user-friendly features, even heating, and attractive design make it a worthwhile investment for any kitchen.
## Drew Barrymore Slow Cooker Recipes
Now that we’ve reviewed the Drew Barrymore Beautiful slow cooker, let’s dive into some delicious and easy recipes you can make using it.
### 1. Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Pulled pork is a classic slow cooker dish that’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or salads. This recipe is simple, flavorful, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
**Ingredients:**
* 3-4 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt)
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
* 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
* 1 tsp smoked paprika
* 1/2 tsp chili powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Hamburger buns or slider buns for serving
* Coleslaw (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pork:** Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2. **Sear the Pork (Optional):** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned. This step adds flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
3. **Sauté Aromatics:** In the slow cooker, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Place the seared pork shoulder on top.
4. **Make the Sauce:** In a bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Pour the sauce over the pork shoulder.
5. **Slow Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender.
6. **Shred the Pork:** Remove the pork shoulder from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the pork.
7. **Return to Sauce:** Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce. Let it simmer for another 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
8. **Serve:** Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns or slider buns, topped with coleslaw if desired.
**Tips:**
* For a spicier pulled pork, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
* If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can substitute it with white vinegar or lemon juice.
* To make a larger batch, simply double or triple the ingredients.
### 2. Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
This hearty and flavorful soup is perfect for a chilly evening. It’s packed with chicken, vegetables, and spices, and it’s incredibly easy to make in the slow cooker.
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5-2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 green bell pepper, chopped
* 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
* 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 4 cups chicken broth
* 1 packet taco seasoning
* 1 tsp cumin
* 1/2 tsp chili powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Tortilla chips, for serving
* Avocado, diced, for serving
* Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving
* Shredded cheese, for serving
* Lime wedges, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In the slow cooker, combine the chicken, onion, garlic, bell peppers, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, taco seasoning, cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper.
2. **Slow Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
3. **Shred the Chicken:** Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken.
4. **Return to Soup:** Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
5. **Serve:** Ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla chips, avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, and a squeeze of lime juice.
**Tips:**
* For a spicier soup, add a chopped jalapeño pepper to the slow cooker.
* If you don’t have taco seasoning, you can make your own by combining chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
* To thicken the soup, mash some of the black beans with a fork before adding them to the slow cooker.
### 3. Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Beef stew is a hearty and comforting classic that’s perfect for a cold winter day. This slow cooker version is packed with tender beef, vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 2 tbsp olive oil
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 1 lb potatoes, peeled and cubed
* 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 4 cups beef broth
* 1 cup red wine (optional)
* 2 tbsp tomato paste
* 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
* 1 tsp dried thyme
* 1 tsp dried rosemary
* 1 bay leaf
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
* 2 tbsp cold water (optional, for thickening)
* Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Sear the Beef:** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides. This step adds flavor and helps to tenderize the meat.
2. **Sauté Aromatics:** In the slow cooker, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Place the seared beef on top.
3. **Add Vegetables:** Add the carrots, celery, potatoes, and diced tomatoes to the slow cooker.
4. **Add Liquids and Seasonings:** Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using). Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.
5. **Slow Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the beef and vegetables are tender.
6. **Thicken (Optional):** If you want a thicker stew, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. Stir the mixture into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
7. **Serve:** Remove the bay leaf. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
**Tips:**
* For a richer flavor, use bone-in beef chuck for the stew meat.
* If you don’t have red wine, you can substitute it with more beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
* To add more vegetables, try adding mushrooms, parsnips, or turnips.
### 4. Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food, and this slow cooker version is incredibly easy to make and perfect for potlucks or gatherings.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb elbow macaroni
* 4 cups milk
* 4 tbsp butter, melted
* 1 tsp salt
* 1/2 tsp black pepper
* 1/2 tsp garlic powder
* 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
* 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In the slow cooker, combine the macaroni, milk, melted butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well to combine.
2. **Slow Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, or until the macaroni is tender and the sauce is creamy.
3. **Add Cheese:** Stir in the cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
4. **Serve:** Serve the mac and cheese hot.
**Tips:**
* For a richer mac and cheese, use whole milk or add a cup of heavy cream.
* To add more flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika.
* You can also add cooked bacon, ham, or vegetables to the mac and cheese.
* If the mac and cheese is too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
### 5. Slow Cooker Applesauce
Making your own applesauce is surprisingly easy, and it tastes so much better than the store-bought version. This slow cooker recipe is simple and requires minimal effort.
**Ingredients:**
* 6-8 apples (such as Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped
* 1/4 cup water
* 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
* 1 tsp cinnamon
* 1/4 tsp nutmeg
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In the slow cooker, combine the chopped apples, water, brown sugar (if using), cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well to combine.
2. **Slow Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the apples are very soft and easily mashable.
3. **Mash:** Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash the apples to your desired consistency. For a smoother applesauce, use an immersion blender. For a chunkier applesauce, use a potato masher.
4. **Serve:** Serve the applesauce warm or cold.
**Tips:**
* For a sweeter applesauce, use a sweeter variety of apples or add more brown sugar.
* To add more flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice or a vanilla extract.
* You can also add other fruits to the applesauce, such as pears or cranberries.
* Store the applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
## Conclusion
The Drew Barrymore Beautiful slow cooker from Walmart is a stylish and functional appliance that can make meal preparation a breeze. With its user-friendly features, even heating, and attractive design, it’s a great addition to any kitchen. By using the delicious and easy slow cooker recipes provided in this article, you can create flavorful and satisfying meals with minimal effort. Whether you’re making pulled pork, chicken tortilla soup, beef stew, mac and cheese, or applesauce, the Drew Barrymore Beautiful slow cooker is sure to become a go-to appliance in your kitchen.
Enjoy experimenting with these recipes and discovering new favorites for your slow cooker! Happy cooking!