In recent years, toaster ovens with built-in air fryers have gained a lot of attention. These multi-functional appliances promise the convenience of a toaster oven combined with the crispy cooking power of an air fryer. But are they truly the game-changer they seem to be, or just another kitchen gadget taking up precious counter space? Let’s break down the pros and cons to help you decide if this hybrid appliance is a must-have or simply hype.
What Is a Toaster Oven with Built-In Air Fryer?
A toaster oven with a built-in air fryer is essentially a 2-in-1 appliance that functions as both a toaster oven and an air fryer. Air frying works by circulating hot air around the food, creating a crispy, fried texture without the need for much, if any, oil. When combined with a toaster oven, these appliances promise the convenience of a compact oven while also delivering crispy, air-fried food with less mess.
Many models feature additional settings, such as baking, broiling, roasting, and toasting, making them versatile enough to handle a variety of cooking tasks.
The Benefits of Toaster Ovens with Air Fryers
1. Versatility in Cooking
The major selling point of a toaster oven with an air fryer is its versatility. Unlike a traditional toaster oven, which is mostly used for toasting, baking, and broiling, these hybrids can replace several appliances in your kitchen. You can:
- Air fry crispy fries, chicken wings, and even vegetables
- Bake casseroles or cookies
- Toast bread or bagels
- Broil fish or steak
This multi-functional convenience means you can save counter space by investing in a single appliance that handles multiple cooking styles.
2. Healthier Cooking
Air frying is often seen as a healthier alternative to deep frying, as it requires significantly less oil. When paired with a toaster oven, you can prepare your favorite crispy foods like French fries, chicken, and fish with much less oil, reducing overall calorie content. This is a big draw for anyone trying to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor or texture.
3. Energy-Efficient
Toaster ovens are generally more energy-efficient than conventional ovens, and when combined with an air fryer, they offer faster cooking times as well. Air frying requires less preheating and cooks food more quickly, making it a great option for busy individuals or small households who need fast, tasty meals without using much energy.
4. Crisp and Even Cooking
One of the standout features of air frying is the crispy texture it gives foods. Many toaster ovens with built-in air fryers come with air circulation fans or convection settings that ensure food is cooked evenly and comes out crisp, even if you don’t use a lot of oil. This means you can enjoy the texture of deep-fried foods with far less grease and mess.
The Downsides to Consider
1. Smaller Cooking Capacity
While a toaster oven with a built-in air fryer is convenient, most models come with a smaller cooking capacity compared to a traditional oven or standalone air fryer. This can be an issue if you’re cooking for a large family or planning to make multiple servings of a dish at once. You may need to cook in batches, which can add extra time.
2. Higher Price Point
Toaster ovens with built-in air fryers tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum. While you are technically getting two appliances in one, the initial cost can be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers. Additionally, some models may not perform as well as dedicated air fryers or toaster ovens, so it’s important to do research and choose wisely.
3. Can Be Bulky
Depending on the brand and model, some of these hybrid appliances can be relatively large and take up quite a bit of counter space. If you have a small kitchen with limited space, it may not be the most practical choice, especially if you’re only going to use the air fryer function occasionally.
4. Learning Curve
While toaster ovens are generally easy to use, the air fryer function can require a bit of a learning curve. You may need to adjust cooking times and temperatures, and finding the right amount of oil and settings for specific dishes might take some experimentation.
Is It Worth It?
So, is a toaster oven with a built-in air fryer a must-have or just hype?
The answer largely depends on your cooking habits, kitchen space, and budget. If you’re someone who loves the idea of having an appliance that can handle a variety of tasks—baking, toasting, broiling, and air frying—all in one compact design, then a hybrid toaster oven with an air fryer could be a great investment.
On the other hand, if you’re limited by counter space or cooking for larger groups, you might find a standalone air fryer or toaster oven more suitable for your needs. Additionally, if you’re just interested in crispy foods, a dedicated air fryer may give you better results.
Top Models to Consider
If you’re leaning towards trying out a toaster oven with an air fryer, here are a few highly rated models that have impressed users with their performance:
- Cuisinart TOA-60 Convection Toaster Oven Airfryer
- Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro
- Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven
- Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer Oven
Toaster ovens with built-in air fryers may be a must-have for some, especially those looking to consolidate appliances and cook healthy, crispy meals in less time. However, they might not be necessary for everyone—especially if you have specific cooking needs or limited counter space.
Ultimately, whether this hybrid appliance is worth it comes down to your preferences, budget, and kitchen setup. But if you’re in the market for a versatile, energy-efficient, and healthier way to cook, it could be just the upgrade your kitchen needs.
