Let’s be real for a second. Most kitchen appliances are ugly. They’re clunky, industrial-looking boxes that we begrudgingly shove into the dark corners of our cabinets the moment the chili is done. But then Drew Barrymore launched the Beautiful crock pot, and suddenly, everyone started treating a slow cooker like a piece of home decor. It's weird, right? A kitchen tool becoming a status symbol.
I've spent years testing kitchen gear. Usually, when a celebrity puts their name on a product, it's a "run for the hills" situation involving cheap plastic and a marked-up price tag. That isn't exactly the case here. The Beautiful by Drew Barrymore line, sold exclusively at Walmart, hit a specific nerve in the design world. It combined that matte, "soft-touch" aesthetic with actual functionality. If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok or Pinterest lately, you’ve definitely seen that signature Cornflower Blue or Sage Green finish.
But beauty is skin deep. Or, in this case, enamel deep.
The Design Shift: More Than Just a Pretty Face
The Beautiful crock pot—specifically the 6-quart programmable version—doesn't look like your grandma’s Rival slow cooker from 1984. There are no cheesy floral prints or clunky plastic knobs that crack after three uses. Instead, you get a touch-activated display. It’s sleek. When it’s off, the screen stays dark, blending into the base. It’s the kind of thing you actually leave on your counter because it makes your kitchen look like you have your life together.
Honestly, the "Beautiful" branding is almost too literal, but it works. Drew Barrymore and her partner Sheree Waterson (formerly of Lululemon) clearly leaned into the idea that kitchenware should feel like furniture. The gold-toned die-cast handles are a massive departure from the standard black plastic. They’re sturdy. They feel expensive. They aren't.
Does the Performance Match the Hype?
Here is where we get into the weeds. A slow cooker has one job: maintain a consistent temperature without burning your house down or turning your roast into leather.
The Beautiful crock pot handles the basics well, but there are nuances. It offers High, Low, and Warm settings. Standard stuff. However, the programmable timer is where most people find the value. You can set it for anywhere between 30 minutes and 20 hours. Once the time is up, it automatically switches to "Warm." This is a lifesaver for anyone working a 9-to-5. You toss in your short ribs at 8:00 AM, and by the time you're home at 6:00 PM, they haven't been overcooking for three hours; they've just been sitting at a safe, serving temperature.
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One thing to watch out for? It runs a little hot.
I’ve noticed that many modern slow cookers, including this one, tend to simmer at a higher temperature than older models to meet modern food safety standards. If you’re used to an old-school ceramic pot from twenty years ago, you might find that your liquids reduce faster in this one. You’ll want to keep an eye on your moisture levels during the first few uses. Don't let it go bone dry.
The Ceramic Insert and Maintenance
Cleaning is usually the part everyone hates. The 6-quart insert is removable and made of ceramic. It’s heavy. It feels substantial. You can throw it in the dishwasher, which is a huge win, but honestly? It’s so smooth that a quick soak in the sink usually does the trick.
The lid is also dishwasher safe. It’s tempered glass with a silicone rim that helps lock in moisture. This is a small detail that actually matters. A lot of cheaper slow cookers have lids that rattle and let steam escape constantly. This one stays relatively quiet. It’s a peaceful cook.
Comparing the Sizes
While the 6-quart is the flagship, the line has expanded.
- The 6-Quart Programmable: This is the workhorse. It feeds 5 to 7 people easily.
- The 3-Quart Version: Better for dips or a single person’s meal prep.
- The Trio: Drew also released a triple slow cooker for parties. It’s bulky, but if you’re a "Sunday Night Football" host, it’s a game-changer.
The "Celebrity Tax" Reality
Is it overpriced? Surprisingly, no. Walmart keeps the pricing competitive. You’re looking at roughly $50 to $70 depending on sales. Compared to premium brands like All-Clad or Breville, which can run you $150 to $300, the Beautiful crock pot is a steal. You're paying for the aesthetic, sure, but you're not paying a massive premium for the name "Drew Barrymore."
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The real trade-off is the longevity of the electronics. Touchscreens are notorious for being the first thing to fail on any appliance. If you’re a purist who wants a manual knob that will last 40 years, this might not be your soulmate. But if you want a kitchen that looks curated and a machine that handles a pot roast like a pro, it’s a solid bet.
Why People Keep Buying It
It’s about the vibe. We spend so much time in our kitchens. Why should everything be utilitarian and boring? The Beautiful crock pot taps into that "dopamine decor" trend. The colors—White Icing, Oyster, Black Matte—they feel intentional.
I remember talking to a professional organizer who mentioned that her clients are more likely to cook at home when they actually like their equipment. There’s a psychological element to it. If the slow cooker looks like a piece of art, you’re more likely to pull it out and actually use it instead of ordering Uber Eats for the fourth time this week.
Technical Specs You Should Know
For the nerds out there, let’s talk power. It pulls standard wattage for a 6-quart cooker. The cord length is decent—about 24 inches—so you don't have to be right on top of an outlet, though you shouldn't be stretching it across the stove. The "Cool Touch" handles on the exterior are mostly effective, but the lid handle can still get pretty steamy, so use a potholder. Always.
One common complaint in the user community is the "new smell" during the first burn. This is normal. Most appliances with heating elements have a protective coating that needs to burn off. I recommend running the pot with just some water and a splash of vinegar on high for two hours before you actually put food in it. It clears out that factory scent so your first beef stew doesn't taste like "New Car."
Addressing the Competition
How does it stack up against the Ninja Foodi or the Instant Pot?
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Those are multi-cookers. They pressure cook, air fry, and dehydrate. They are also complicated. They have 15 buttons and require a manual the size of a Tolstoy novel. The Beautiful crock pot is for the person who wants simplicity. It’s for the "low and slow" crowd. It doesn’t try to be an air fryer. It just tries to be a great slow cooker.
If you need speed, buy an Instant Pot. If you want a ritual—the smell of onions and garlic wafting through the house for eight hours while you go about your day—get the Beautiful.
Real World Usage: Tips for Success
- Don't overfill. Like any slow cooker, keep it between half and three-quarters full. Too full and it overflows; too empty and it burns.
- Brown your meat first. The Beautiful pot doesn't have a sear function on the base. Take five minutes to brown your beef in a skillet before tossing it in. It makes a massive difference in the depth of flavor.
- The "Warm" Trap. Don't leave food on the "Warm" setting for more than four hours. The texture starts to get mushy, and while it's safe, it's not exactly gourmet.
- Aesthetics Matter. If you buy the White Icing color, be careful with turmeric or heavy tomato sauces. Wipe the exterior immediately if you spill. The matte finish is gorgeous but can stain if you're messy.
Is It Just a Trend?
The "Beautiful" line has been out for a few years now, and it hasn't disappeared. That's usually a good sign. If it were just a gimmick, the reviews would have tanked by now. Instead, it’s expanded into air fryers, coffee makers, and even furniture.
The Beautiful crock pot specifically remains the standout because slow cooking is inherently "cozy." It fits the Drew Barrymore brand perfectly. It’s approachable. It’s not trying too hard to be professional-grade; it’s trying to be home-grade.
Final Thoughts on Functionality
The touch-screen is responsive. The pot is heavy-duty. The results are consistent. Is it the most advanced piece of technology in your house? No. Is it the best-looking thing on your kitchen counter? Probably.
For the price point, you’re getting a reliable kitchen workhorse that doesn't look like a garage sale find. It bridges the gap between high-end design and Walmart accessibility.
Actionable Steps for Your New Crock Pot
If you’ve just picked up one of these units, or you're about to, here is how to get the most out of it immediately:
- The First Clean: Hand-wash the ceramic insert and glass lid with warm, soapy water. Do not use abrasive scrubbers on the matte exterior of the base; a damp microfiber cloth is all you need.
- The Test Run: Fill the pot halfway with water and run it on High for 2 hours. This ensures the heating element is working perfectly and burns off any manufacturing residue.
- Recipe Adjustment: Start with a hearty roast or a thick stew. Avoid delicate seafood or thin chicken breasts for your first try until you get a feel for how hot your specific unit runs.
- Placement: Ensure there is at least six inches of clearance around the pot while cooking. The exterior gets warm, and you want proper airflow to prevent any damage to your backsplash or cabinets.
- Check the Seal: Ensure the silicone gasket on the lid is seated properly. A tight seal is the difference between a juicy roast and a dry one.
By following these steps, you'll ensure that your appliance doesn't just look good, but performs at its peak for years. The Beautiful crock pot is a rare example of a celebrity collaboration that actually delivers on its promises without breaking the bank.