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 on the stove, switch off the burner and let it cool naturally. Never add cold water to hot ceramic. Once cool, inspect for damage and replace a cracked crock. Those extra precautions can protect both your dinner and your family.
