Can I Leave Food In Slow Cooker Overnight Off?

Can I Leave Food In Slow Cooker Overnight Off? Absolutely! FOODS.EDU.VN dives deep into the safety and practicality of letting your slow-cooked meals sit overnight. We provide expert advice on food safety, optimal cooling methods, and delicious recipes perfect for slow cooking. Learn how to avoid spoilage and ensure your meals are ready to enjoy the next day with our comprehensive guide.

1. Understanding Slow Cooker Safety and Overnight Storage

Slow cookers are indispensable kitchen appliances for busy individuals and families. The convenience of preparing a meal in the morning and having it ready by evening is a major draw. But, what happens if your plans change and you aren’t ready to eat right away? The question, “Can I leave food in slow cooker overnight off?” arises. It’s crucial to understand the factors influencing food safety when considering overnight storage.

1.1. The Danger Zone: Understanding Temperature Control

The “danger zone” is a term used in food safety to describe the temperature range between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C) where bacteria multiply rapidly. According to the USDA, perishable foods should not be held at these temperatures for more than two hours. After two hours in the danger zone, the risk of bacterial growth increases significantly, potentially leading to foodborne illnesses.

When your slow cooker is turned off, the food inside begins to cool. The length of time it takes for the food to cool down to the danger zone depends on several factors, including the initial temperature of the food, the ambient temperature of the room, and the volume of food in the cooker. In general, leaving food in a slow cooker overnight after it has been turned off is not recommended due to the prolonged exposure to the danger zone.

1.2. Potential Risks of Leaving Food in a Slow Cooker Overnight

Leaving food in a slow cooker overnight, especially after it has been turned off, can present several food safety risks. Here are the key dangers:

  • Bacterial Growth: Bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Staphylococcus aureus thrive in the danger zone. These bacteria can cause foodborne illnesses, with symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe health issues.

  • Toxin Production: Some bacteria produce toxins that are not destroyed by cooking. Even if the food is reheated, these toxins can still cause illness. Clostridium botulinum, for example, can produce botulinum toxin, which is highly dangerous.

  • Spoilage: Even if harmful bacteria don’t grow, spoilage bacteria can still make the food unpalatable. These bacteria can cause changes in taste, odor, and texture, making the food undesirable to eat.

  • Uneven Cooling: Large volumes of food cool down slowly, especially in a slow cooker. The center of the food may remain warm for an extended period, providing an ideal environment for bacterial growth.

1.3. USDA Guidelines on Slow Cooker Safety

The USDA provides clear guidelines on using slow cookers safely. Here are some key recommendations:

  • Keep Hot Foods Hot: After cooking, keep hot foods at a temperature of 140°F (60°C) or higher. This prevents bacteria from multiplying.
  • Refrigerate Promptly: Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking. If the ambient temperature is above 90°F (32°C), refrigerate within one hour.
  • Use Proper Cooling Methods: Divide large quantities of food into smaller portions and store them in shallow containers to speed up cooling.
  • Reheat Thoroughly: Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any bacteria that may have grown.

1.4. Expert Opinions from Food Safety Professionals

Food safety experts consistently advise against leaving food in a slow cooker overnight after it has been turned off. According to Dr. Benjamin Chapman, a food safety specialist at North Carolina State University, “The longer food sits at room temperature, the greater the risk of bacterial growth. It’s best to refrigerate leftovers as soon as possible.”

Similarly, the Partnership for Food Safety Education emphasizes the importance of following the “two-hour rule.” Their guidelines state that perishable foods should be refrigerated within two hours to minimize the risk of foodborne illness.

2. Alternative Solutions for Overnight Food Storage

While leaving food in a slow cooker overnight off is generally not recommended, there are several alternative solutions to ensure your food remains safe and delicious.

2.1. Using a Programmable Slow Cooker with Automatic Shut-Off

Programmable slow cookers with automatic shut-off features can help mitigate the risks associated with leaving food unattended. These cookers allow you to set a cooking time, and once the time is up, the cooker automatically switches to a “warm” setting.

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/optawwcdn.scdn7.secure.raxcdn.com/img/uploads/posts/2023/12/best-slow-cookers-2023-v2-45803c2f4f0f4376a53eb995602dd98d.jpg “Modern programmable slow cooker with automatic shut-off.”)

The “warm” setting is designed to keep food at a safe temperature (above 140°F or 60°C) for an extended period. However, it’s essential to understand the limitations of this feature. The “warm” setting may not maintain a consistent temperature throughout the food, especially in large quantities. It’s also important to note that prolonged exposure to the “warm” setting can affect the texture and flavor of some foods.

2.2. Immediate Refrigeration: The Best Practice

The safest option is to refrigerate the food as soon as possible after cooking. This minimizes the time the food spends in the danger zone. Follow these steps for proper refrigeration:

  1. Divide into Smaller Portions: Transfer the food from the slow cooker to shallow containers. Smaller portions cool down much faster than large volumes of food.

  2. Use Shallow Containers: Shallow containers increase the surface area exposed to the cool air in the refrigerator, facilitating faster cooling.

  3. Cool Quickly: Place the containers in the refrigerator as soon as the food has stopped steaming. Avoid placing hot food directly into the refrigerator, as this can raise the internal temperature of the appliance and affect other foods.

  4. Monitor Temperature: Use a food thermometer to ensure the food reaches a safe temperature (below 40°F or 4°C) within a reasonable time.

2.3. Alternative Cooking Methods for Convenience

If you anticipate needing to store food overnight, consider alternative cooking methods that allow for faster cooling and safer storage. Here are a few options:

  • Pressure Cooking: Pressure cookers cook food much faster than slow cookers, reducing the overall cooking time and the amount of time the food spends at potentially unsafe temperatures.

  • Instant Pot: The Instant Pot is a versatile appliance that combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, and more. It offers the convenience of slow cooking with the added benefit of faster cooking times and safer storage options.

  • Stovetop or Oven Cooking: Stovetop or oven cooking allows for more precise temperature control and faster cooling compared to slow cooking. These methods are ideal for dishes that can be prepared in a shorter amount of time.

2.4. Properly Cooling Food for Safe Storage

Proper cooling is essential for safe food storage. The following techniques can help speed up the cooling process:

  • Ice Bath: Place the container of food in an ice bath to rapidly cool it down. Stir the food occasionally to ensure even cooling.

  • Ice Paddles: Use ice paddles to stir and cool large quantities of liquid foods like soups and stews.

  • Blast Chiller: In commercial kitchens, blast chillers are used to rapidly cool food to safe temperatures. While not typically available for home use, they represent the ideal method for rapid cooling.

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/20230811-cooling-food-quickly-vicky-wasik-seriouseats-4-e924e6e2f79a45b1b628b6870172ba36.jpg “Using an ice bath to quickly cool down cooked food.”)

3. Practical Tips for Safe Slow Cooking

To ensure safe slow cooking practices, consider these practical tips:

3.1. Choosing the Right Slow Cooker

Selecting the right slow cooker is crucial for ensuring food safety and optimal cooking performance. Consider the following factors:

  • Size: Choose a slow cooker that is appropriately sized for your needs. Overfilling or underfilling a slow cooker can affect cooking times and food safety.

  • Temperature Control: Look for a slow cooker with adjustable temperature settings. This allows you to control the cooking process and ensure food reaches a safe internal temperature.

  • Timer and Shut-Off Features: Opt for a slow cooker with a timer and automatic shut-off features. These features can help prevent overcooking and ensure food stays at a safe temperature.

  • Material: Slow cookers are typically made from ceramic, stainless steel, or aluminum. Ceramic cookers provide even heating, while stainless steel and aluminum cookers are more durable and lightweight.

3.2. Prepping Ingredients Safely

Properly preparing ingredients is essential for preventing foodborne illnesses. Follow these guidelines:

  • Wash Hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling food.

  • Use Separate Cutting Boards: Use separate cutting boards for raw meats and vegetables to prevent cross-contamination.

  • Thaw Food Properly: Thaw frozen meats in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave. Never thaw meat at room temperature.

  • Trim Excess Fat: Trim excess fat from meats to reduce the risk of grease buildup and ensure even cooking.

3.3. Monitoring Internal Temperature

Monitoring the internal temperature of the food is essential for ensuring it reaches a safe temperature. Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of meats, poultry, and other foods. The USDA recommends the following minimum internal temperatures:

  • Beef, Pork, Lamb, and Veal: 145°F (63°C) with a 3-minute rest time

  • Ground Beef, Pork, Lamb, and Veal: 160°F (71°C)

  • Poultry: 165°F (74°C)

  • Eggs: 160°F (71°C)

3.4. Avoiding Cross-Contamination

Cross-contamination occurs when harmful bacteria are transferred from one food to another. To prevent cross-contamination, follow these guidelines:

  • Wash Utensils and Surfaces: Wash utensils, cutting boards, and countertops thoroughly with soap and water after contact with raw meats, poultry, or seafood.

  • Store Raw Meats Properly: Store raw meats, poultry, and seafood in sealed containers on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator to prevent juices from dripping onto other foods.

  • Use Separate Spoons: Use separate spoons for tasting and stirring food.

3.5. Best Practices for Leftover Storage

Properly storing leftovers is crucial for preventing foodborne illnesses. Follow these best practices:

  • Refrigerate Promptly: Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking. If the ambient temperature is above 90°F (32°C), refrigerate within one hour.

  • Use Shallow Containers: Store leftovers in shallow containers to speed up cooling.

  • Label and Date: Label and date containers to keep track of how long the food has been stored.

  • Reheat Thoroughly: Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any bacteria that may have grown.

4. Delicious and Safe Slow Cooker Recipes

Here are a few delicious and safe slow cooker recipes that minimize the risk of bacterial growth and ensure optimal flavor:

4.1. Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Ingredients:

  • 3-4 pound pork shoulder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Sear the pork shoulder in a large skillet with olive oil until browned on all sides.
  2. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
  3. Add the onion, garlic, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
  4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
  5. Shred the pork with two forks and serve on buns with your favorite barbecue sauce.

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simply-Recipes-Slow-Cooker-Pulled-Pork-LEAD-4-3523456677c74753b4a78a7a49d43f10.jpg “Delicious and tender slow cooker pulled pork, perfect for sandwiches.”)

4.2. Slow Cooker Chicken Chili

Ingredients:

    1. 5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Place the chicken breasts, onion, garlic, bell peppers, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth in the slow cooker.
  2. Add the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
  3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
  4. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir to combine.
  5. Serve with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, and avocado.

4.3. Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Sear the beef stew meat in a large skillet with olive oil until browned on all sides.
  2. Place the beef stew meat in the slow cooker.
  3. Add the onion, garlic, beef broth, potatoes, carrots, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
  4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
  5. Stir in the frozen peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  6. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

5. Ensuring Food Safety: A Comprehensive Guide

Food safety is a critical aspect of cooking and food storage. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you ensure your food is safe to eat:

5.1. Understanding Foodborne Illnesses

Foodborne illnesses, also known as food poisoning, are caused by consuming contaminated food or beverages. Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever. In severe cases, foodborne illnesses can lead to hospitalization or even death.

Common Pathogens:

Pathogen Common Sources Symptoms Prevention
Salmonella Raw or undercooked poultry, eggs, meat, and unpasteurized dairy products. Diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, vomiting. Cook poultry, eggs, and meat thoroughly. Avoid unpasteurized dairy products. Wash hands and surfaces frequently.
E. coli Raw or undercooked ground beef, unpasteurized milk and juice, and contaminated produce. Severe abdominal cramps, bloody diarrhea, vomiting. Cook ground beef thoroughly. Avoid unpasteurized milk and juice. Wash produce thoroughly. Practice good hygiene.
Listeria Ready-to-eat meats and poultry, soft cheeses, and unpasteurized milk. Fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. Can cause serious complications in pregnant women and newborns. Avoid unpasteurized milk and soft cheeses. Heat ready-to-eat meats and poultry to steaming hot before consuming.
Campylobacter Raw or undercooked poultry, unpasteurized milk, and contaminated water. Diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, nausea, vomiting. Cook poultry thoroughly. Avoid unpasteurized milk. Use safe water sources.
Staphylococcus aureus Foods that are not properly refrigerated, such as cooked meats, poultry, and salads. Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea. Refrigerate perishable foods promptly. Practice good hygiene.

5.2. Key Principles of Food Safety

The key principles of food safety are based on four main pillars: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill.

  • Clean: Wash your hands, utensils, and surfaces frequently with soap and water.

  • Separate: Keep raw meats, poultry, and seafood separate from other foods to prevent cross-contamination.

  • Cook: Cook foods to a safe internal temperature to kill harmful bacteria.

  • Chill: Refrigerate perishable foods promptly to prevent bacterial growth.

5.3. Recognizing and Avoiding Food Safety Myths

There are many myths and misconceptions about food safety that can lead to unsafe practices. Here are a few common myths:

  • Myth: If food smells okay, it’s safe to eat.

    • Fact: Many harmful bacteria do not affect the smell, taste, or appearance of food.
  • Myth: The “five-second rule” is valid.

    • Fact: Bacteria can transfer to food within seconds of contact with a contaminated surface.
  • Myth: Freezing food kills bacteria.

    • Fact: Freezing slows down bacterial growth but does not kill bacteria.
  • Myth: Marinating meat at room temperature is safe.

    • Fact: Marinating meat at room temperature allows bacteria to multiply rapidly.

5.4. Food Safety Resources and Certifications

There are numerous resources and certifications available to help you learn more about food safety and best practices. Some valuable resources include:

  • USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS): Provides information and resources on food safety regulations and best practices.
  • FDA Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN): Offers guidance on food labeling, safety standards, and recalls.
  • ServSafe: Provides food safety training and certification for food service professionals.
  • National Restaurant Association: Offers resources and training on food safety and sanitation.

6. Slow Cooker Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance and care of your slow cooker can help ensure its longevity and safe operation. Here are some tips:

6.1. Cleaning Your Slow Cooker

Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining your slow cooker. Follow these steps:

  1. Unplug the Slow Cooker: Always unplug the slow cooker before cleaning.
  2. Let it Cool: Allow the slow cooker to cool completely before cleaning.
  3. Remove the Insert: Remove the ceramic or metal insert from the slow cooker.
  4. Wash the Insert: Wash the insert with warm, soapy water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can damage the surface.
  5. Clean the Base: Wipe down the base of the slow cooker with a damp cloth.
  6. Dry Thoroughly: Dry all parts of the slow cooker thoroughly before reassembling.

6.2. Troubleshooting Common Slow Cooker Issues

Here are some common slow cooker issues and how to troubleshoot them:

  • Food is Not Cooking Evenly: Ensure the slow cooker is placed on a level surface. Avoid opening the lid frequently, as this can release heat and extend cooking times.

  • Food is Overcooking: Reduce the cooking time or temperature. Use a programmable slow cooker with automatic shut-off features.

  • Food is Burning: Ensure there is enough liquid in the slow cooker. Stir the food occasionally to prevent sticking.

  • Slow Cooker is Not Heating: Check the power cord and outlet. Ensure the slow cooker is turned on and set to the appropriate temperature.

6.3. Extending the Life of Your Slow Cooker

To extend the life of your slow cooker, follow these tips:

  • Avoid Overfilling: Do not overfill the slow cooker, as this can cause spills and affect cooking times.

  • Use the Right Setting: Use the appropriate temperature setting for the recipe.

  • Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can damage the surface of the slow cooker.

  • Store Properly: Store the slow cooker in a safe place where it will not be damaged.

7. The Science Behind Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is a unique cooking method that relies on low temperatures and long cooking times to tenderize tough cuts of meat and develop rich flavors. Understanding the science behind slow cooking can help you achieve optimal results.

7.1. How Slow Cookers Work

Slow cookers, also known as crock-pots, consist of a ceramic or metal insert surrounded by a heating element. The heating element heats the insert, which in turn cooks the food inside. Slow cookers operate at low temperatures, typically between 170°F (77°C) and 280°F (138°C).

7.2. Benefits of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking offers several benefits:

  • Tenderizes Tough Cuts of Meat: The long cooking time breaks down tough connective tissues, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.
  • Develops Rich Flavors: The slow cooking process allows flavors to meld and deepen, creating complex and satisfying dishes.
  • Convenient: Slow cookers are easy to use and require minimal supervision.
  • Energy Efficient: Slow cookers use less energy than ovens or stovetops.

7.3. Understanding the Maillard Reaction

The Maillard reaction is a chemical reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars that occurs when food is heated. This reaction is responsible for the browning and flavor development in many cooked foods. While slow cookers do not typically reach high enough temperatures for significant Maillard reaction to occur, searing meats before adding them to the slow cooker can help enhance flavor.

7.4. Impact of Slow Cooking on Nutrients

Slow cooking can have both positive and negative effects on the nutrient content of food. On the one hand, slow cooking can help retain vitamins and minerals that are lost during high-heat cooking methods. On the other hand, prolonged cooking times can lead to the degradation of some nutrients, such as vitamin C and thiamine.

8. Slow Cooking and Food Preservation

Slow cooking can be used in conjunction with food preservation techniques to create shelf-stable products. However, it’s essential to follow strict guidelines to ensure food safety.

8.1. Canning with a Slow Cooker

While slow cookers can be used to prepare foods for canning, they are not suitable for the canning process itself. Canning requires specific temperatures and pressures to kill harmful bacteria and create a vacuum seal. Use a pressure canner or boiling water bath canner for safe canning.

8.2. Dehydrating with a Slow Cooker

Slow cookers can be used to dehydrate foods, but they are not as efficient as dedicated dehydrators. To dehydrate foods in a slow cooker, spread the food in a single layer on the bottom of the cooker and set it to the lowest setting. Leave the lid slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape.

8.3. Infusing Oils and Vinegars

Slow cookers can be used to infuse oils and vinegars with herbs, spices, and other flavorings. To infuse oils and vinegars, combine the ingredients in the slow cooker and set it to the lowest setting. Heat for several hours, then strain the mixture and store in a cool, dark place.

9. Slow Cooker Variations Around the World

Slow cooking is a popular cooking method in many cultures around the world. Here are a few examples of slow cooker variations:

9.1. Tagine (Morocco)

A tagine is a traditional Moroccan stew cooked in a conical earthenware pot. Tagines are typically made with meat, vegetables, and spices, and are cooked over low heat for several hours.

9.2. Cassoulet (France)

Cassoulet is a classic French stew made with meat, beans, and vegetables. Cassoulet is traditionally cooked in a earthenware pot and baked in the oven for several hours.

9.3. Feijoada (Brazil)

Feijoada is a Brazilian stew made with black beans and various cuts of pork and beef. Feijoada is typically cooked in a large pot over low heat for several hours.

9.4. Coq au Vin (France)

Coq au Vin is a French dish of chicken braised with wine, mushrooms, onions, and bacon. Traditionally, this dish simmers slowly on the stovetop.

10. Emerging Trends in Slow Cooking

Slow cooking continues to evolve with new trends and innovations. Here are a few emerging trends:

10.1. Sous Vide Slow Cooking

Sous vide is a cooking method that involves sealing food in a vacuum-sealed bag and cooking it in a water bath at a precise temperature. Sous vide can be combined with slow cooking to achieve exceptionally tender and flavorful results.

10.2. Plant-Based Slow Cooking

Plant-based diets are becoming increasingly popular, and slow cookers are a great way to prepare delicious and nutritious vegan and vegetarian meals.

10.3. Global Flavors in Slow Cooking

Slow cookers are being used to explore global flavors and cuisines, from Asian curries to Latin American stews.

10.4. Slow Cooking with Technology

Smart slow cookers with app integration and remote monitoring capabilities are making it easier than ever to prepare meals with precision and convenience.

FAQ: Leaving Food in Slow Cooker Overnight Off

  1. Is it safe to leave food in a slow cooker overnight off?

    • Generally, it’s not recommended due to the risk of bacterial growth in the “danger zone” (40°F – 140°F).
  2. What if my slow cooker has a “warm” setting?

    • The “warm” setting can keep food above 140°F, but it’s best to refrigerate leftovers as soon as possible to ensure optimal safety.
  3. How quickly should I refrigerate leftovers from a slow cooker?

    • Within two hours of cooking, or within one hour if the ambient temperature is above 90°F.
  4. What’s the best way to cool food quickly for refrigeration?

    • Divide food into smaller portions and store them in shallow containers. An ice bath can also help speed up the cooling process.
  5. Can I use a slow cooker for canning?

    • No, slow cookers are not suitable for canning due to their inability to reach the high temperatures needed to kill harmful bacteria.
  6. What are some signs that food has spoiled in a slow cooker?

    • Changes in smell, taste, color, or texture. If in doubt, throw it out.
  7. How can I prevent foodborne illnesses when using a slow cooker?

    • Follow proper food safety practices, including washing hands, using separate cutting boards, cooking food to a safe internal temperature, and refrigerating leftovers promptly.
  8. Are there any slow cooker recipes that are safer to leave overnight?

    • No, all slow cooker recipes should be refrigerated properly to avoid the risk of bacterial growth.
  9. Can I reheat food in the slow cooker the next day?

    • Yes, but it’s best to reheat food on the stovetop or in the microwave to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) quickly. Then, you can transfer it to the slow cooker to keep warm.
  10. What if I accidentally left food in the slow cooker overnight off?

    • When in doubt, throw it out. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to food safety.

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