How to Use Marinade in a Slow Cooker

Slow cooking is a great cooking method for those who want to make their busy lives taste better! There are so many benefits to using a slow cooker, but there are some very important things to consider when using it with a marinade.

There are two main ways that you can use marinade in the slow-cooking process:

Marinating the Meat in the Fridge
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Adding the Marinade to the Slow Cooker
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Marinade pouring in a slow cooker

Marinating the Meat in the Fridge

How to:

Place the meat in an airtight container, such as a Ziploc bag. Let it it sit in the refrigerator for 2-12 hours depending on the acidity of the marinade. (Check out our Cooking Tips and Tricks for more info!) Add marinated meat to the slow cooker.

Benefits:

This method allows the marinade to tenderize and add flavor for a longer period of time without causing the meal to become too salty.

Adding the Marinade to the Slow Cooker

How to:

The marinade can be added directly to the slow cooker along with the meat or at a later time in the cooking process. If adding it with the meat at the beginning of the cooking process, consider cutting it with another substance (such as water, pineapple juice, apple juice, or Italian dressing) to reduce the amount of sodium.

Benefits:

This method doesn’t require as much planning ahead and provides the ease of adding all your ingredients at the same time!

Loving the slow cooker convenience? Take your backyard cooking up a notch by learning how to turn your grill into a smoker—it’s easier than you think and delivers big flavor. Not sure whether to reach for marinade or BBQ sauce next time? Our guide on which one to use and when can help clear that up. And if you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser to try right now, don’t miss our Slow Cooker Hawaiian Meatballs and Smokies—it’s a sweet and savory hit every time.
Slow Cooker Recipes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use marinade as a cooking liquid in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can use marinade as a cooking liquid in a slow cooker. Just ensure that the marinade is properly diluted, as slow cookers don’t allow for much evaporation. Add a bit of broth or water to prevent the flavors from becoming too concentrated.

Do I need to marinate meat before putting it in the slow cooker?

While you don’t have to marinate meat before cooking in a slow cooker, marinating for a few hours or overnight can help infuse the meat with more flavor. If you’re short on time, adding the marinade directly to the slow cooker will still result in a delicious meal.

Is it safe to cook with the same marinade used for raw meat?

Yes, it’s safe to cook with the marinade used for raw meat as long as it reaches a safe internal temperature during cooking. In a slow cooker, the extended cooking time ensures that the marinade is heated enough to kill any harmful bacteria.

Can I cook vegetables with marinade in the slow cooker?

Absolutely! Vegetables can soak up the flavors of the marinade in the slow cooker. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times, as some vegetables may become too soft if cooked for too long.

How long should I cook meat in a slow cooker with marinade?

Cooking times vary based on the type and size of the meat. As a general guide, chicken takes 4-6 hours on low, while larger cuts of beef or pork may take 8-10 hours. It’s best to use a meat thermometer to ensure the meat reaches a safe internal temperature.

Can I reuse leftover marinade from the slow cooker?

Once the marinade has been cooked with meat, it can be reused as a sauce or gravy. If you want to reuse it, make sure to bring it to a boil to ensure it’s safe to consume.

Should I stir the marinade during slow cooking?

It’s not necessary to stir the marinade frequently during cooking. Slow cookers are designed to cook food evenly, so simply adding the ingredients and letting them cook undisturbed is often best.

Does marinade affect the cooking time in a slow cooker?

Adding marinade doesn’t significantly affect cooking time, but if you add a large amount of liquid, you might want to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure the meat and vegetables are fully cooked.

Can I use store-bought marinade in a slow cooker?

Yes, store-bought marinades work great in a slow cooker. Just be mindful of the salt content, as some pre-made marinades can be quite salty. You might want to adjust your seasoning accordingly.

Can I make a sauce from the marinade after slow cooking?

Yes, you can make a sauce from the marinade once the slow cooking is done. Simply transfer the liquid to a saucepan, bring it to a simmer, and reduce it to your desired thickness. Adding a cornstarch slurry can help thicken the sauce quickly.