I'm starting to cook more in my crock pot (not home until 7:15-7:30 four nights a week!) and I'm finding the 4qt round I have is lacking. It works well for soups, shredded chicken or pork sandwiches and chili and such, but I'd like to be able to do things like meatloaf and lasagna. The size (4qt) is about right. It's not too often I'd like it bigger. Actually, I'd like a smaller round one, but right now I really want an oval one. Should I get another 4qt or go bigger? Will a 4qt work for lasagna and meatloaf? I'm looking at Amazon.com and they've got 5, 5.5, 6 and 6.5 (they have smaller ones, too). What do you guys think? TIA

By Tayjar on Monday, October 30, 2006 - 11:35 am:

Until a few months ago, I had the 4 qt. It worked fine for things like lasagne and meatloaf. A little small for roasts thought. I did upgrade to a 7 quart just so I could accomodate some of the recipes I make. I like to make lots of soups and chicken and noodles, etc. I make extra and then we have leftovers or I freeze the leftovers.

By Tonya on Monday, October 30, 2006 - 11:47 am:

How do you make lasagna or meatloaf in a crockpot?

By Tink on Monday, October 30, 2006 - 12:17 pm:

I use a 6qt crockpot for my family and I think it's perfect for us. I do have a round 4qt somewhere but I only pull it out for holidays when I need more dishes for warming. I've never needed a bigger crockpot even with the chickens, roasts and soups that I use our's for and I haven't pulled out my smaller one since I got the oval one. It seems to be just right for our family.

By Cat on Monday, October 30, 2006 - 08:39 pm:

Maybe I'll try a 6qt. Right now the 4qt is plenty big enough for our family of four, but the kids will be getting bigger (someday!) and I'm sure they'll start eating more (again, someday!). Dh and I are headed out to Wal-Mart after dinner so I'll look there first. Thanx for the input.

Tonya, do a google search for "crock pot lasagna" or "meatloaf". It explains it.

By Cat on Monday, October 30, 2006 - 10:46 pm:

I ended up getting an oval, Rival 6qt Smart Pot. I'll try it out some time in the next week and let you know how I like it!