Elite Gourmet MST-900RXT Electric Ceramic XL Jumbo Slow Cooker, Adjustable Temp, Entrees, Sauces, Stews & Dips, Dishwasher Safe Glass Lid & Crock, 8.5Qt, Stainless Steel Review
I tested the Elite Gourmet MST-900RXT while making several batches of potatoes for slow cooker stew. I wanted a cooker that could hold a large meal and keep the texture of the vegetables just right. After many hours of use, I found that this model handled big family dinners with ease. The large ceramic pot gave me plenty of room for meat, broth, and chunky potatoes without feeling crowded.
What I Like
- I like the huge 8.5-quart size because I can cook enough stew for a gathering.
- I found the temperature controls simple and easy to adjust.
- The ceramic crock spreads heat well and helps ingredients cook evenly.
- I enjoyed using the clear glass lid to check food without lifting it often.
- I found cleanup quick since the lid and crock can go into the dishwasher.
- The stainless steel body looks neat on my kitchen counter.
- I noticed that potatoes stayed tender while still holding their shape.
What Could Be Better
- I found the cooker a bit large for very small meals.
- The ceramic insert feels heavy when full.
- I needed extra storage space because of the bigger footprint.
- The outside can get warm during long cooking sessions.
- Moving the unit while loaded with food takes some care.
My Personal Experience with Potatoes For Slow Cooker Stew
I used this slow cooker for beef stew packed with potatoes, carrots, and onions. The roomy crock let me add large potato chunks without cutting them too small. After several hours, the potatoes were soft inside yet did not break apart into the broth.
I also tested different potato types. Russet potatoes became very creamy, while Yukon Gold potatoes kept a firmer bite. The steady heat helped each batch cook in a predictable way. That made meal planning much easier for me.
When I wanted fresh bread with my stew, I also looked at this helpful guide about stand mixers: stand mixer for bread dough. Pairing homemade bread with slow-cooked stew created a complete comfort meal.
Over time, I noticed that the large capacity worked best when cooking for guests. I could prepare everything in one pot and spend less time watching the stove. For busy weekends, that became a major benefit.
Comparing with Other Brands
I have used smaller slow cookers from other brands, and the biggest difference here is capacity. Many standard models hold less food, which means I often need to reduce recipe sizes. With the Elite Gourmet MST-900RXT, I can make large stew batches in one session.
Some premium units offer digital screens and timers, but I liked the simple dial controls on this model. They are easy to understand and quick to use. For people who want straightforward cooking, that simplicity can be a plus.
Compared with compact cookers, this unit gives more space for large cuts of meat and extra vegetables. That makes it a strong option for family-style meals.
Recommendation
I recommend the Elite Gourmet MST-900RXT for anyone who often makes potatoes for slow cooker stew. The large ceramic pot, simple controls, and easy cleanup make daily use pleasant. I found it especially useful for family meals, meal prep, and holiday gatherings. If you need a cooker that can handle large recipes without much effort, this model is worth considering.
FAQs for Potatoes For Slow Cooker Stew
What potatoes work best in slow cooker stew?
I had great results with Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes. Both cooked well, but they offered different textures.
Can I fill the cooker close to the top?
Yes, the large 8.5-quart capacity gives plenty of room for big recipes, though I still leave some space below the lid.
Do potatoes become mushy?
In my testing, they stayed tender when cut into larger chunks and cooked at the proper setting.
Is cleanup difficult?
No. I found cleanup simple because the crock and lid are dishwasher safe.
Can I use it for foods other than stew?
Yes. I used it for soups, dips, sauces, and shredded meat dishes as well.
Conclusion
After testing the Elite Gourmet MST-900RXT, I came away impressed with its large size and dependable cooking performance. It handled potatoes for slow cooker stew very well and gave me consistent results across multiple recipes. The spacious ceramic crock, easy controls, and dishwasher-safe parts added convenience to every meal. For anyone who cooks large batches and wants a simple slow cooker, I believe this model delivers solid value.