Does increasing a recipe in slow cooker require more cooking time?

Increasing a recipe in a slow cooker generally does not require more cooking time. Here's why:

* Slow cookers are designed for low and slow cooking. They use consistent heat to break down tough ingredients and develop flavors. Increasing the volume doesn't significantly change the overall temperature or cooking time needed.

* The recipe is based on the volume of liquid. The liquid acts as the heat transfer medium in the slow cooker. Adding more ingredients usually means adding more liquid, so the cooking time remains consistent.

* Check for doneness. Even with a larger batch, it's essential to check the doneness of your food. Use a meat thermometer or a fork to assess if the ingredients are cooked through.

However, there are some exceptions:

* If you drastically increase the recipe: A significantly larger batch (e.g., doubling or tripling) might require a slight increase in cooking time. But this is rarely necessary.

* If you're cooking dense ingredients: Very dense ingredients like a large roast might benefit from a slightly longer cooking time to ensure thorough cooking.

General rule of thumb: When increasing a slow cooker recipe, try to maintain the same liquid-to-ingredient ratio. If you're unsure, start with the same cooking time and adjust based on the doneness of your food.