Can You Put a Crockpot in the Fridge? Pros, Cons, and Best Practices

If you have a busy schedule, you know how helpful a time-saving kitchen appliance can be. 

A crockpot is a great option for busy people and can be used in many different ways. But what if you need to store it in the refrigerator? Can you put a crockpot in the fridge? Let’s find out.

Is It Safe To Put A Crockpot In The Fridge?

Yes, you can safely put a crockpot in the fridge. This is a common practice for storing leftovers, as the slow cooker will help keep them at a safe temperature.

However, there are some important safety precautions to remember if you put your crockpot in the fridge. 

First, you should ensure that the crockpot is completely cooled down before putting it in the fridge. If the crockpot [1] is still warm, it can raise the fridge’s temperature, leading to food spoilage and food-borne illnesses. 

You should also wrap the food in the crockpot before putting it in the fridge to avoid contaminating other foods. 

If you keep the crockpot in the fridge for more than a few days, empty it out. Then, wash and dry it well before putting it back.

Pros & Cons Of Putting It In The Fridge

Pros:

1. Putting a crockpot in the fridge can help keep food fresher longer by reducing the risk of food spoiling.
2. It can also help preserve food flavors and aromas by reducing the risk of oxidation. 
3. Crockpots can be easily stored in the fridge, freeing up counter and cabinet space. 

Cons:

1. Putting a crockpot in the fridge can cause condensation and humidity to build up, making the food soggy or watery.
2. It can also be difficult to fit the crockpot into the fridge, particularly if it is already full.
3. The heat from the crockpot can affect the temperature of the fridge and other items stored in it, making food spoil faster.

How To Store Crockpot Leftovers

To store Crockpot leftovers, first cool the food to room temperature in the pot. Then transfer the food to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. 

“In our family, a whole ham on the bone would be bought three days before Christmas, and then stored in a pillow case and left in the fridge so anyone can take the huge thing out and slice it.”

– John Torode, Australian-British Celebrity Chef

If you are storing for longer than four days, it is best to freeze the food in an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure to label the container with the date and contents so you can refer to it later.

Check out: How to Make Gravy from Crock Pot Juices

Can You Put Hot Food In The Fridge?

No. Cool food to room temperature before putting it in the fridge. Hot food can warm the fridge, which may spoil other foods. 

When putting leftover food in the fridge, cover it with a lid or wrap it in plastic to prevent cross-contamination [2] with other items in the fridge. 

Additionally, ensure to only place the food in shallow containers so that it cools down quickly and evenly.

Can You Reheat Stew In A Crockpot?

Yes, you can reheat stew in a crockpot. Add the stew to the crockpot, cover it, and keep the heat low. Allow the stew to heat up slowly over several hours until it reaches the desired temperature. 

Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. This method is great for evenly heating a large quantity of stew while keeping the moisture and flavor intact.

Cool Down Techniques

Cooling down crockpot leftovers properly prevents bacteria growth and preserves flavor. Instead of placing a hot crockpot directly in the fridge, allow the contents to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. However, avoid leaving food out for more than two hours to prevent spoilage. If you need to speed up the process, transfer the food to shallow containers, which dissipate heat faster than deep ones.

Portioning plays a crucial role in efficient cooling. Divide large batches into smaller portions before storing them. Not only does this help cool food evenly, but it also makes reheating more convenient. Also, using glass or metal containers instead of plastic can cool things down faster. These materials conduct heat better.

When storing leftovers, be mindful of condensation. Trapped moisture can make food soggy and encourage mold growth. To prevent this, avoid sealing containers while the food is still warm. Instead, cover loosely with a lid or plastic wrap until fully cooled.

The right cooling techniques ensure your crockpot meals stay fresh and safe to eat. These steps will keep your food tasty, textured, and safe to eat.

Related: How to Keep Mashed Potatoes Warm in a Crock Pot

Tips For Using Your Crockpot Inside The Fridge

1. Make sure to use a crockpot designed to be safe for use in the refrigerator. Some crockpots are not suitable for use in the refrigerator, so make sure to check before use. 
2. Put the crockpot on the bottom shelf of the fridge. This makes it easy to reach and helps prevent spills. 
3. Cover the crockpot with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This keeps food in the fridge separate from the pot. 
4. Make sure to leave a few inches of air space between the crockpot and the walls of the refrigerator. This will help to ensure that the crockpot doesn’t get too hot while in use. 
5. Check the crockpot’s temperature periodically to ensure it is not getting too hot. If it is, remove it from the refrigerator and allow it to cool before using it again. 
6. Clean the crockpot after use. This stops food particles or residue from contaminating your fridge food.

FAQs on Put a Crockpot in the Fridge

Key Takeaways

A crockpot can be stored in the fridge, but it is important to ensure that it is tightly sealed.

Additionally, the best way to store a crockpot is to keep it in a cool, dry place and away from direct sunlight. 

Following these guidelines ensures that your crockpot remains in good condition and can be used for many years.

References:

1. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/appliances/slow-cooker-reviews/g1996/top-rated-slow-cookers/
2. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-is-cross-contamination