Cuisinart MSC-600 Multi-Cooker Review 2023 Best 6-Quart Slow Cooker and Steamer

Description

A Versatile Kitchen Companion

The Cuisinart MSC-600 3-In-1 Cook Central truly lives up to its name as a multi-cooker, offering a range of functions that make meal preparation far more convenient. I’ve used it for everything from slow-cooking hearty stews to sautéing vegetables for quick dinners, and even steaming fish for a lighter meal. The 6-quart capacity is a game-changer, especially when I’m cooking for a group or preparing multiple servings for the week. What immediately struck me is how intuitive the control panel is, with its blue backlit LCD display that shows both time and temperature clearly.

The brushed stainless steel exterior also gives it a sleek, modern look that doesn’t clash with my kitchen decor. It’s not just aesthetically pleasing; it also feels durable and well-made. While the overall experience has been largely positive, there are certain aspects I think could use some improvement.

Key Benefits

One of the major winning points of this multicooker is its multi-functionality. I’ve tested all three primary modes—Slow Cook, Steam, and Brown/Sauté—and each performs exceptionally well.

• The Slow Cook function is great for recipes like pulled pork or chili, and the three temperature settings (High, Low, Simmer) offer flexibility depending on the dish.
• With the Brown/Sauté mode, I can sear meats directly in the pot, which eliminates the need for extra pans and makes cleanup easier.
• Steaming vegetables or seafood with the included steaming rack is incredibly simple and one of the healthier cooking methods, as it doesn’t require additional oils.

I also love the automatic Keep Warm feature, which activates once cooking is complete. This means I never have to worry about my meals getting cold if I’m running late or multitasking.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many favorable aspects, there are a few shortcomings worth mentioning.

• The nonstick aluminum pot, while effective for cooking, feels slightly less durable than I would have liked. Over time, I noticed minor scratches despite using non-metal utensils.
• It’s advertised as easy to clean, but the non-dishwasher-safe components—like the control panel area—require careful hand cleaning.
• The steaming rack could be larger to accommodate bulkier items like artichokes or a generous portion of vegetables.

These aren’t deal-breakers, but they’re things you might want to consider depending on your cooking habits.

Ease of Use and Design Features

The glass lid with a cool-touch handle is another thoughtful feature. It lets me keep an eye on the cooking process without lifting the lid and losing heat. I also appreciate the certified frustration-free packaging, which made unboxing and setting up the product straightforward.

Programming the cooker is simple thanks to the push-button controls, and the ability to set precise cooking times and temperatures is a big plus. Whether it’s a quick sauté at 400°F or a slow simmer for 8 hours, the versatility is fantastic.

The size, however, is something to keep in mind. Its 18″ x 11″ x 10.5″ dimensions mean it takes up a fair amount of counter space. If you have a smaller kitchen, make sure you’ve got a spot for it.

Competing Products

I’ve also used other multicookers, like the Instant Pot Duo and Ninja Foodi, both of which have their own strengths. While the Instant Pot offers pressure cooking, which the Cuisinart lacks, it doesn’t match the effortless browning and sautéing capabilities of the Cook Central.

The Ninja Foodi, on the other hand, comes with an air fryer function, but its interface feels more cluttered compared to the straightforward controls on this. Where the MSC-600 excels is in its simplicity and reliability—it doesn’t overwhelm you with too many features, but it does the basics exceptionally well.

Value for Money

When you consider the cost-effectiveness of this product, it’s hard not to be impressed. It combines three essential kitchen appliances—slow cooker, steamer, and skillet—into one compact unit. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of some competitors, the user-friendly design and solid performance make it a worthwhile investment.

I particularly appreciate that it’s built to handle a variety of cooking styles, from low-and-slow braises to quick sautés. This versatility means I don’t need to clutter my kitchen with multiple gadgets, saving both space and money in the long run.

Would I Recommend It?

The Cuisinart MSC-600 3-In-1 Cook Central is an excellent choice for anyone who values convenience and multi-functionality in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy professionals, families who want to cook in bulk, or home chefs looking for a reliable and versatile tool. While it has some areas for improvement, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, making it a strong contender in the world of multi-cookers.

Whether you’re steaming vegetables for a healthy dinner, slow-cooking a hearty stew, or sautéing onions for a pasta dish, this product handles it all with ease. While it might not replace every kitchen appliance, it does enough to be a mainstay on my countertop.

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