Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned slow cooker chef, here are some general tips to help you get the most out of the experience. Grab your apron and your favorite slab of meat — here are some genius ways to use your crockpot that you hadn’t thought of before…

Make room for the slow cooker | 0:13
Choose low-prep recipes | 0:42
Use the right meats | 1:08
Think outside the crock | 1:34
Don’t use too much alcohol | 1:55
Don’t overfill, and layer ingredients carefully | 2:29
Keep the lid on | 2:59