Canning is an excellent way to preserve fresh fruits, vegetables, and even meats for long-term storage. However, to ensure your food remains safe and free from harmful bacteria, you need a high-quality pressure cooker designed specifically for canning. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best pressure cookers for canning, providing a full breakdown of their features, pros, cons, and more to help you make an informed decision.
Why You Need a Pressure Cooker for Canning
A pressure cooker is crucial for canning because it allows you to reach the high temperatures required to safely preserve low-acid foods such as meats, beans, and vegetables. Unlike water bath canning, which is only suitable for high-acid foods (like jams and pickles), pressure canning ensures all bacteria, including Clostridium botulinum, are eliminated during the canning process.
Key Features to Look for in a Pressure Cooker for Canning:
- Capacity: Larger cookers allow for more jars, improving efficiency.
- Material: Heavy-duty materials like stainless steel or aluminum are best for durability and heat distribution.
- Pressure Gauge: Precision is crucial. Opt for a reliable pressure gauge, either dialed or weighted.
- Safety: Look for safety locks, release valves, and automatic shut-off mechanisms.
- Multi-purpose: Some models can also be used for everyday pressure cooking, making them a versatile addition to your kitchen.
–Our Top Picks–
Best Overall Pressure Cooker for Canning
The All American 921 Pressure Canner is a top-tier, 21.5-quart canner, built with durable cast aluminum. It features metal-to-metal sealing, and adjustable pressure settings, and holds up to 19-pint jars—ideal for serious canners seeking efficiency and longevity.
Best Budget Pressure Cooker for Canning
The Presto 01781 23-Quart Pressure Canner is a budget-friendly, versatile option perfect for beginners. It features a durable aluminum build, a reliable pressure gauge, and safety locks, making it ideal for canning large batches or regular pressure cooking.
Best for Beginners and Multi-Use
The T-fal 22 Quart Pressure Cooker is perfect for beginners, offering adjustable pressure settings (5, 10, 15 PSI) for safe and versatile canning. Its lightweight design, large capacity, and compatibility with most stovetops make it ideal for multi-use cooking.
Best Electric Pressure Cooker for Canning
The Nesco NPC-9 Smart Electric Pressure Cooker & Canner offers automated pressure control, a 9.5-quart capacity, and versatile functionality. Perfect for small-batch canning, it features a digital interface, safety locking lid, and auto-shutoff for convenient, worry-free use.
Best Lightweight Pressure Cooker for Canning
The Mirro 92122A Polished Aluminum Pressure Canner is a lightweight, budget-friendly option with a 22-quart capacity. It features adjustable pressure settings, a locking lid, and a pressure release valve, making it perfect for medium to large-batch canning.
Top 5 Best Pressure Cookers For Canning In 2024
1. All American 921 Pressure Canner
- Capacity: 21.5 quarts
- Material: Cast aluminum
- Pressure Settings: 5, 10, and 15 PSI
- Safety Features: Metal-to-metal sealing system, overpressure release valve, and no gasket to replace
- Multi-functionality: No (for canning only)
Why it’s great:
The All-American 921 is the top choice for experienced canners due to its durability, size, and performance. It can hold up to 7-quart jars or 19-pint jars in one go, making it ideal for large batches.
Perfect for:
Serious canners who want a long-lasting, high-capacity pressure cooker.
2. Presto 01781 23-Quart Pressure Canner and Cooker
- Capacity: 23 quarts
- Material: Heavy-gauge aluminum
- Pressure Settings: Dial gauge (requires periodic calibration)
- Safety Features: Locking lid, overpressure plug, and air vent/cover lock
- Multi-functionality: Yes, it can be used for regular cooking
Why it’s great:
The Presto 01781 offers the best value for money. It’s lightweight yet holds up to 7-quart jars or 20-pint jars, making it an excellent option for both beginners and seasoned canners.
Perfect for:
Budget-conscious home canners or those just getting started with pressure canning.
3. T-Fal Pressure Cooker, 22 Quart
- Capacity: 22 quarts
- Material: Polished aluminum
- Pressure Settings: 5, 10, and 15 PSI
- Safety Features: Pressure indicator, release valve, and overpressure plug
- Multi-functionality: Yes, it can be used for canning and regular cooking
Why it’s great:
This T-fal pressure cooker is an excellent option for beginners, thanks to its simple-to-use design. It offers three different pressure settings and can handle both high-acid and low-acid foods, ensuring versatile use in the kitchen.
Perfect for:
Beginners who want an easy-to-use, versatile pressure cooker for canning and cooking.
4. Nesco NPC-9 Smart Electric Pressure Cooker & Canner
- Capacity: 9.5 quarts
- Material: Stainless steel
- Pressure Settings: Digital controls with automatic settings
- Safety Features: Locking lid, auto-shutoff, and overpressure release
- Multi-functionality: Yes, it works as a pressure cooker and canner
Why it’s great:
For those who prefer the convenience of electric pressure cookers, the Nesco NPC-9 offers a smart solution with automated pressure control. Though it has a smaller capacity, it’s perfect for small-batch canning and everyday cooking.
Perfect for:
People who want a set-it-and-forget-it appliance for small-batch canning and daily meals.
5. Mirro 92122A Polished Aluminum Pressure Canner
- Capacity: 22 quarts
- Material: Polished aluminum
- Pressure Settings: 5, 10, and 15 PSI
- Safety Features: Pressure release valve, locking lid, and overpressure plug
- Multi-functionality: Yes, it can be used for both canning and cooking
Why it’s great:
The Mirro 92122A is a lightweight, budget-friendly option that still delivers excellent results for canning. With its large capacity, it’s perfect for handling medium to large batches without the heft of other models.
Perfect for:
Home canners who want a large-capacity, lightweight option at an affordable price.
How to Choose the Best Pressure Cooker for Canning
When choosing a pressure cooker for canning, consider these key factors:
- Capacity: If you plan on canning in bulk, a large capacity (20 quarts or more) is essential. Smaller models are fine for occasional or small-batch canning.
- Material: Stainless steel is more durable but heavier, while aluminum is lightweight and heats faster but may not last as long.
- Pressure Settings: Make sure the cooker has at least 10-15 PSI pressure settings for safe canning of low-acid foods.
- Safety: Always choose a model with safety locks, pressure gauges, and release valves to prevent accidents.
- Stovetop Compatibility: Not all pressure cookers are compatible with induction or glass stovetops, so be sure to check before purchasing.
See More: Best Blender Food Processor Combo
FAQs
Q1. Can I use a pressure cooker that’s not designed for canning?
No, regular pressure cookers may not reach the required pressure for safe canning. Always choose a pressure cooker specifically designed for canning.
Q2. What foods require pressure canning?
Low-acid foods like meats, vegetables, and soups need pressure canning to ensure safety. High-acid foods, such as fruits and pickles, can be safely canned with boiling water.
Q3. How do I maintain my pressure canner?
Ensure you regularly clean the gasket, check the pressure gauge for accuracy, and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines.
Conclusion
Finding the best pressure cooker for canning depends on your canning needs, kitchen size, and budget. For large-batch canning, the All American 921 offers the best performance and durability. If you’re just starting out, the Presto 01781 provides great value without sacrificing essential features. For those who prefer electric models, the Nesco NPC-9 is a great pick for small-batch canning.
No matter which option you choose, investing in a quality pressure cooker for canning will ensure your preserved foods stay safe, fresh, and delicious.
Affiliate Disclaimer
This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!
