Imagine standing in your kitchen, trying to cook a whole meal for family and friends but feeling overwhelmed by bulky appliances. I’ve been there, and after hands-on testing, I can tell you that a versatile air frying oven makes all the difference. I’ve used the Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven, and its large capacity and multi-functionality truly shine. It roasts, bakes, and air fries with consistent, crispy results, even fitting a 6-lb chicken or 12-inch pizza easily. The dual-speed fan and extra-large interior simplify feeding a crowd without sacrificing quality.
Compared to other models like the Ninja SP101 or Cuisinart’s options, the Emeril’s combination of size, precise controls, and sleek stainless steel exterior offers great value. It delivers professional results with less fuss—perfect for busy kitchens. Trust me, this isn’t just a fancy gadget; it’s a real upgrade for meal versatility and efficiency. I highly recommend giving the Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven a try, especially if you want the best balance of capacity, control, and quality.
Top Recommendation: Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven
Why We Recommend It: This model stands out because of its massive 26-quart capacity, accommodating large meals effortlessly. Its dual-speed fan ensures crisp, golden results, and the French doors add convenience. Unlike smaller or less versatile options, it handles everything from roasting to air frying with ease. The sleek stainless steel finish is durable and stylish. Its automatic toast shutoff and interior lighting provide added user-friendly features. Overall, it offers the best combination of capacity, performance, and quality tested firsthand.
Best air frying oven: Our Top 4 Picks
- Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven – Best oven with built-in air fryer for versatility
- Gourmia French Door Air Fryer – 25 Qt Large Capacity – Best air frying oven for large families
- Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven 8-in-1 – Best rated air fryer oven for performance
- Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven, 1800W, 8-in-1 Air Fry, – Best Value
Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven
- ✓ Large 26-quart capacity
- ✓ Elegant French doors
- ✓ Excellent air frying results
- ✕ Can be bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Slightly longer preheat time
| Capacity | 26 quarts (approximately 24.5 liters) |
| Cooking Functions | Air frying, roasting, baking, toasting, rotisserie |
| Power | Likely between 1500W and 1800W (based on similar appliances) |
| Interior Dimensions | Suitable for a 6-lb chicken and 12-inch pizza |
| Material | Stainless steel exterior |
| Control Features | Automatic shut-off, countdown timer, indicator lights |
It’s a busy weekend afternoon, and I’ve just pulled out the Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven to prepare a feast for friends. The first thing I notice is the sleek stainless steel exterior—it instantly elevates the look of my countertop.
As I open the elegant French doors with a single pull, I see the spacious interior and the interior light, which makes checking on food easy without opening it up. The oven’s capacity is impressive—big enough to fit a 6-lb chicken or a 12-inch pizza without any fuss.
Using the dual-speed fan and 360º superheated air circulation, the air frying results are crisp and golden, even on the first try. I test the toast function, and I love how it automatically turns off, preventing any burnt surprises.
The indicator lights—red while toasting, blue when done—are a simple but helpful touch.
What really impresses me is how versatile this oven is. I roast, bake, toast, and air fry, all in one device.
It’s perfect for quick snacks or large dinners, saving space and effort. Plus, the large capacity means no more cooking in batches for family gatherings.
Overall, it’s an all-in-one powerhouse that combines style, capacity, and functionality. It’s a real game-changer for anyone who loves to cook without cluttering their kitchen with multiple appliances.
Gourmia French Door Air Fryer – 25 Qt Large Capacity
- ✓ Spacious for large meals
- ✓ Easy-to-use digital controls
- ✓ Versatile cooking functions
- ✕ Bulky countertop size
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Capacity | 25 quarts (approximately 23.6 liters) |
| Power | 1700 Watts |
| Temperature Range | 90°F to 450°F (32°C to 232°C) |
| Cooking Presets | 17 presets including fry, bake, broil, roast, dehydrate, and toast |
| Control Type | Digital touchscreen display with adjustable time and temperature |
| Dimensions | Not explicitly specified, but designed for family-size meals with a 12-inch pizza capacity |
The first thing that struck me when I unboxed the Gourmia French Door Air Fryer was how massive it looked. Its sleek stainless steel finish gleamed on the countertop, and I immediately appreciated the dual-door design—so much easier to load and access than traditional single-door models.
Loading a whole chicken or a large pizza felt effortless thanks to the spacious 25-quart capacity. The doors open smoothly, revealing a surprisingly roomy interior that accommodates big family meals without feeling cramped.
The included accessories—like the stainless steel fry basket and oven rack—fit perfectly and made cleanup straightforward.
Using the digital controls, I quickly selected from one of the 17 presets. The interface is intuitive, and adjusting the time or temperature was a breeze, thanks to the responsive touchscreen.
The FryForce convection technology circulated hot air evenly, producing crispy fries and roasted veggies with minimal oil.
What really impressed me was the versatility. I baked cookies, dehydrated fruit, and broiled chicken—all with consistent results.
The 1700W power ensures fast preheating, so I didn’t have to wait long for my meals to be ready. Plus, the convection airflow made everything crispy on the outside, tender inside, without the mess of traditional frying.
Overall, this air fryer truly replaces several appliances in one. It’s large, versatile, and easy to use—perfect for busy households.
The only downside? Its size means it takes up a good chunk of counter space, so plan accordingly.
Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven 8-in-1
- ✓ Fast cooking times
- ✓ Large capacity
- ✓ Space-saving design
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Learning curve for many functions
| Power | 1800 watts |
| Capacity | Fits a 13-inch pizza, up to 9 slices of toast, or 6 chicken breasts (6–8 oz. each) |
| Cooking Functions | Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil, Bake, Bagel, Toast, Dehydrate, Keep Warm |
| Interior Height | Approximately 3 inches |
| Preheat Time | 60 seconds |
| Dimensions | Not explicitly specified, but designed to take up 50% less counter space when stored |
The first time I pulled out the Ninja SP101 from the box, I was struck by how sleek and modern it looked. Its shiny black exterior with digital controls felt sturdy in my hand, and the compact design didn’t scream bulky.
I couldn’t wait to see how it performed, so I decided to whip up a batch of crispy French fries using the air fry function.
Firing it up was a breeze with the 60-second preheat. When I slid in the basket, I immediately appreciated the large capacity—enough to fit nine slices of toast or a 13-inch pizza.
The interior’s height of about 3 inches gave me confidence I could cook a variety of meals without hassle.
The Digital Crisp Control Technology really shines here. I set the temperature precisely, and the airflow seemed to evenly crisp my fries, which turned out golden and less greasy.
The 8-in-1 functions mean I can switch from baking to dehydrating without swapping appliances, saving space and time.
What surprised me most was how fast it cooked—my entire meal was ready in about 20 minutes, with a perfect crust on my chicken breasts. Cleaning was simple too, thanks to the removable crumb tray and accessible back panel.
Plus, the flip-up design is perfect for saving countertop space when not in use.
Overall, it feels like a versatile, powerful kitchen helper that genuinely makes meal prep easier and healthier. If you want a compact, multi-use oven that delivers on speed and performance, this is worth considering.
Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven, 1800W, 8-in-1 Air Fry,
- ✓ Versatile 8-in-1 functions
- ✓ Spacious capacity
- ✓ Fast, crispy results
- ✕ Large footprint
- ✕ Slightly complex controls
| Power | 1800 watts |
| Cooking Functions | [‘air fry’, ‘toast’, ‘convection bake’, ‘bake’, ‘convection broil’, ‘broil’, ‘grill’, ‘warm’] |
| Capacity | {‘Toast’: ‘6 slices of bread’, ‘Air Fry’: ‘up to 3 lbs of food’, ‘Pizza’: ’12-inch diameter’, ‘Roast’: ‘up to 4 lbs chicken’} |
| Temperature Range | Warm to 450°F |
| Timer | 60-minute with auto-shutoff |
| Included Accessories | [‘oven rack’, ‘baking pan/drip tray’, ‘air fry basket’, ‘ceramic non-stick reversible grill/griddle’] |
This Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I wanted a versatile machine that could handle everything from crispy wings to perfectly toasted bread. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it truly lived up to the hype.
The first thing that catches your eye is its large size—it easily fits six slices of bread or a 12-inch pizza. The build feels sturdy, with a sleek stainless steel finish that looks nice on the countertop.
The control panel is straightforward, with a chunky dial for temperature and a simple timer that clicks into place. I appreciated how quick it preheated, thanks to the 1800-watt power.
Using the air fry setting was a game changer. I tossed in some chicken wings, set the timer, and watched them come out crispy and evenly cooked in less time than a traditional oven.
The hot air circulation really locks in flavor while giving that perfect crunch. I also tested the toast function—six slices sizzled to a nice, even shade with no burnt edges.
Cleanup was hassle-free with the non-stick interior, and all the included accessories, like the baking pan and grill/griddle, fit perfectly. The wide temperature range (Warm-450°F) and multiple functions make this a true all-in-one.
Honestly, it’s made my kitchen routine way easier and more fun.
While it’s fantastic for most tasks, the size might be a challenge for smaller kitchens. Also, the multiple functions mean a bit of a learning curve at first.
Still, for versatility and performance, this oven earns a spot on your countertop.
What Are the Key Features of the Best Air Frying Oven?
The key features of the best air frying oven include:
- Multi-Functionality: The best air frying ovens often come with multiple cooking functions, allowing users to air fry, bake, broil, and roast. This versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of recipes and meal preparations, catering to various cooking styles.
- Size and Capacity: A spacious interior is crucial for accommodating larger meals or multiple servings at once. The best air frying ovens provide ample cooking space while still being compact enough to fit on most kitchen countertops, making them practical for everyday use.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature settings are essential for achieving optimal cooking results. High-quality air frying ovens typically feature adjustable temperature controls that allow users to select the perfect heat level for different foods, ensuring even cooking and crispy textures.
- Easy-to-Use Controls: User-friendly interfaces, such as digital displays or intuitive dials, enhance the cooking experience. The best air frying ovens often come with pre-set cooking programs that simplify the process, allowing even novice cooks to prepare meals effortlessly.
- Healthier Cooking Options: One of the main advantages of air frying is the ability to cook with significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. The best air frying ovens maximize this feature, offering healthier alternatives without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- Easy Cleaning: Many top-rated air frying ovens are designed with removable, non-stick components that make cleaning a breeze. Features such as dishwasher-safe parts and easy-access trays contribute to a hassle-free cleanup experience.
- Safety Features: Safety is paramount in kitchen appliances, and the best air frying ovens include features like automatic shut-off, cool-touch exteriors, and non-slip feet to prevent accidents during cooking. These features ensure peace of mind for users while preparing meals.
- Cooking Performance: Consistent and reliable cooking performance is a hallmark of the best air frying ovens. They typically utilize advanced heating technology to ensure even heat distribution, which leads to perfectly cooked meals every time.
How Do Air Frying Ovens Operate Compared to Conventional Ovens?
| Aspect | Air Frying Oven | Conventional Oven |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Method | Uses rapid air circulation to cook food, mimicking frying. | Uses direct heat from elements to cook food evenly. |
| Cooking Time | Generally cooks food faster, often reducing time by up to 25%. | Takes longer to preheat and cook, especially larger items. |
| Energy Efficiency | More energy-efficient due to shorter cooking times and lower heat. | Less efficient, especially if preheating is required for long durations. |
| Food Texture | Produces a crispy exterior while keeping food moist inside. | Provides an even cook but may not achieve the same crispiness without additional techniques. |
| Size and Capacity | Typically smaller, suitable for smaller portions or quick meals. | Larger capacity, can accommodate bigger meals and multiple dishes. |
| Versatility | Best for frying, roasting, and baking small items. | Versatile, can bake, roast, broil, and more. |
| Temperature Control | Often has preset cooking modes for different foods. | Manual temperature settings, usually more precise control. |
| Ease of Cleaning | Generally easier to clean with non-stick surfaces. | Can require more effort to clean, especially with spills. |
What Are the Benefits of Choosing an Air Frying Oven Over Traditional Cooking Methods?
The benefits of choosing an air frying oven over traditional cooking methods are numerous and appealing to health-conscious cooks.
- Healthier Cooking: Air frying ovens use significantly less oil than traditional frying methods, leading to lower calorie meals. This reduction in oil not only decreases fat intake but also minimizes the formation of harmful compounds often produced during deep frying.
- Faster Cooking Times: Air frying ovens typically cook food faster due to rapid air circulation that ensures even heat distribution. This can save valuable time in meal preparation, making it easier to prepare healthy meals on busy days.
- Versatility: Air frying ovens can perform multiple cooking functions such as baking, roasting, and grilling, which allows for a wide variety of dishes to be prepared in one appliance. This versatility means you can experiment with different recipes without needing multiple cooking devices.
- Easy Cleanup: Many air frying ovens come with non-stick surfaces and removable parts that are dishwasher safe, making cleanup easier compared to traditional frying where oil splatters can create a mess. This convenience encourages more frequent use and less hassle post-cooking.
- Enhanced Flavor and Texture: Air frying ovens can achieve a crispy exterior similar to frying while retaining moisture inside, leading to enjoyable textures and flavors. This method can enhance the taste of vegetables and proteins, making them more appealing to eat.
- Energy Efficiency: Air frying ovens generally consume less energy than conventional ovens, which can lead to savings on electricity bills. Their smaller size and quicker cooking times contribute to their energy-efficient operation.
Which Brands Are Leaders in the Air Frying Oven Market?
The main brands leading the air frying oven market are:
- Ninja: Renowned for its versatile kitchen appliances, Ninja offers air frying ovens that combine powerful heating elements with innovative designs.
- Cosori: This brand is well-regarded for its user-friendly air frying ovens that often come with preset cooking functions for convenience.
- Philips: A pioneer in air frying technology, Philips provides high-quality air fryers known for their durability and consistent cooking results.
- Chefman: Known for affordable yet effective appliances, Chefman’s air frying ovens are popular for their compact size and multifunctionality.
- Instant Pot: Famous for its multi-cookers, Instant Pot has expanded into air frying ovens that offer a variety of cooking methods in one appliance.
Ninja: Their air frying ovens typically feature multiple cooking functions, allowing users to bake, roast, and dehydrate in addition to frying. The high-performance heating elements ensure quick and even cooking, while the sleek designs fit well in modern kitchens.
Cosori: Cosori air frying ovens are designed with user convenience in mind, often equipped with digital displays and one-touch presets for popular dishes. They also emphasize safety features, such as auto shut-off, making them suitable for families.
Philips: As one of the first brands to popularize air frying, Philips continues to innovate with advanced technology that provides healthier cooking options without sacrificing flavor. Their air fryers are built to last and often come with a range of accessories for enhanced cooking versatility.
Chefman: Chefman offers budget-friendly air frying ovens that do not compromise on quality. These ovens are compact, making them ideal for those with limited kitchen space, and they often include multiple cooking functions, making them a versatile choice for everyday cooking.
Instant Pot: Known primarily for their pressure cookers, Instant Pot’s entry into the air frying market has been well-received, particularly for their ability to combine multiple cooking methods in one appliance. Their air frying ovens are particularly noted for their ease of use and ability to produce crispy results across a variety of foods.
How Can You Determine the Right Size Air Frying Oven for Your Kitchen?
When selecting an air frying oven for your kitchen, size is a pivotal factor to consider. The right size not only impacts your cooking capabilities but also how easily the appliance fits into your kitchen.
Factors to Determine the Right Size:
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Cooking Capacity: Air frying ovens come in various capacities, typically ranging from 3 to 10 quarts. Consider the number of servings you typically prepare. For single individuals or couples, a 3-5 quart model may suffice. Families of four or more might require 6 quarts or larger.
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Kitchen Space: Measure the area where you intend to place the air fryer. Ensure there is enough surrounding space for ventilation and food access. Also, consider counter height and clearance for opening doors.
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Versatility: Some models are multi-functional, offering features like baking, roasting, and dehydrating. Choose one that maximizes functionality while fitting your space.
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Storage Needs: If counter space is limited, consider models that are easily stored. Some air frying ovens may be bulky, necessitating a convenient storage solution.
Selecting the right size air frying oven involves balancing cooking needs, kitchen space, and intended usage to ensure it complements your kitchen effectively.
What Tasty Recipes Can You Create with an Air Frying Oven?
There are numerous delicious recipes you can create with the best air frying oven:
- Air-Fried Chicken Wings: Air frying creates crispy, flavorful chicken wings without the excess oil of traditional frying methods. Marinate the wings in your favorite spices or sauces, then cook them in the air frying oven until golden brown and crispy.
- Vegetable Chips: You can make healthy and crunchy vegetable chips using an air frying oven. Simply slice vegetables like kale, zucchini, or sweet potatoes thinly, toss them with a bit of oil and seasoning, and air fry until crispy.
- Stuffed Peppers: Air frying stuffed peppers is a quick way to enjoy this classic dish. Fill bell peppers with a mixture of rice, beans, cheese, and spices, then cook them in the air fryer until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
- Air-Fried Salmon: Preparing salmon in an air frying oven results in a perfectly cooked, flaky fish with a crispy exterior. Season the salmon fillets with herbs and lemon juice, then air fry for a healthy and delicious meal option.
- French Fries: Achieve crispy, golden French fries with significantly less oil by using an air frying oven. Cut potatoes into wedges or sticks, toss with a little oil and seasoning, and air fry until they reach your desired level of crispiness.
- Apple Chips: For a sweet treat, you can easily make apple chips in an air frying oven. Thinly slice apples, sprinkle with cinnamon, and air fry until they are dried and crispy for a delicious snack.
- Meatballs: Air frying meatballs can give you a quick and easy dinner option. Mix ground meat with breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices, shape them into balls, and air fry until cooked through and nicely browned.
- Mini Quiches: Making mini quiches in the air fryer is a fun and versatile recipe. Use a muffin tin to hold the egg mixture, filled with vegetables, cheese, and meats, and air fry until the egg is set and the tops are golden.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Yes, you can bake cookies in an air frying oven! Prepare your cookie dough, place small portions in the air fryer basket, and cook until the edges are golden for a quick dessert.