I guess it depends on what you're trying to cook. I tend to use mine for things like stews and soups, chili, etc. To be honest, I should probably attempt to broaden my repertoire of slow-cooker meals, but never seem to find time. Every time I go to Barnes & Noble I swear a see a new slow-cooker cookbook on the bargain rack, and I keep meaning to pick one up and try some of the recipes, but somehow doing that never quite makes it onto my agenda... sigh