A burner can cause thermal shock, cracking the crock and releasing hot contents that could cause burns. Never place the entire electrical appliance on a burner. For a removable insert, stovetop use is safe only when the manufacturer explicitly approves it; a sturdy appearance is no guarantee. Oven compatibility also varies, so check your model’s instructions before trying another cooking method.
When a recipe calls for browning meat or sautéing onions, reach for a regular skillet, then transfer the ingredients into the slow cooker. If you accidentally heat a crock
