The Crockpot 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker prepares enough food for up to 10 people, making weeknight meals and party appetizers a cinch. It features a sleek stainless steel finish with a high-tech digital display that allows you to select high, low, or warm heat settings, as well as a timer for your meal. You can set a countdown timer for up to 20 hours, and the slow cooker automatically switches to the warm setting once it goes off. And when you’re finished cooking, toss the lid and stoneware pot in the dishwasher for easy cleaning. Tip: Use slow cooker liners for a quicker cleanup. To buy: $70 (was $100); amazon.com. While soups, chilis, and stews are common meals to make in a Crockpot, it’s much more versatile than you might think. Pulled pork, chicken tacos, short ribs, mashed potatoes, braised beans, and pasta sauces are all simple meals you can prep and forget with this slow cooker. You can even accomplish morning oatmeals and creamy cheesecakes in the appliance.