Air fryers have taken the culinary world by storm, becoming one of the most popular kitchen appliances in recent years. If you’re someone who loves the taste of crispy, golden-brown fried foods but cringes at the thought of submerging your favorite ingredients in gallons of oil, then an air fryer may just be the kitchen appliance of your dreams. These compact, high-tech devices offer a healthier way to achieve that coveted fried texture without the mess and grease of traditional deep frying.
But with so many air fryer models on the market in 2024, each touting unique features and benefits, how do you know which one is the right fit for your household? In this ultimate air fryer buying guide, we’ll dive deep into the world of air fryers—exploring how they work, uncovering the key differences between styles, and highlighting the top picks for 2024 that are sure to impress your taste buds and delight your waistline. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a beginner cook, you’ll walk away armed with all the knowledge you need to find the perfect air fryer for your kitchen.
So get ready to say goodbye to greasy fried foods and hello to a guilt-free, crave-worthy culinary revolution. Your air fryer awakening starts right here.
Our Selections for Best Air Fryers of 2024
Philips Premium Airfryer XXL
The Philips Premium Airfryer XXL is a standout choice for those who need a large-capacity air fryer without compromising on performance. Its spacious basket can handle whole chickens or generous portions of your favorite foods, making it ideal for families or entertaining guests. One of its most notable features is the Fat Removal Technology, which extracts excess fat from food, allowing you to enjoy healthier meals with a crispy texture.
Why We Chose This Model
We selected the Philips Premium Airfryer XXL for its combination of healthy cooking capabilities and user-friendly design. The rapid air technology ensures even cooking and perfect browning, while the intuitive controls make it easy to select the right temperature and cooking presets. If you’re looking for an appliance that delivers delicious results with less oil, this air fryer is a compelling option.
- Bring home the Airfryer so you can have 100% taste satisfaction with crispy on the outside and…
- The Philips Premium Airfryers are the only Airfryers with fat removal technology that extracts and…
- With a 3lb/7qt capacity and no preheat needed, you can now make delicious meals 4x faster than an…
Ninja Air Fryer Max XL
The Ninja Air Fryer Max XL offers versatility and efficiency, making it a great addition to any kitchen. With a wide temperature range and multiple cooking functions—including air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate—it caters to a variety of culinary needs. The appliance heats up quickly and cooks food evenly, thanks to its powerful air circulation system.
Why We Chose This Model
We picked the Ninja Air Fryer Max XL for its exceptional versatility and user-friendly features. The digital interface is easy to navigate, and the preset cooking functions simplify the cooking process. Its large capacity is suitable for family-sized meals, and the non-stick, dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup effortless. If you value speed and efficiency without sacrificing quality, this model is worth considering.
- LESS FAT: Up to 75% less fat than traditional air frying methods. Tested against hand-cut,…
- MAX CRISP TECHNOLOGY: Delivers 450 degrees of superheated air to cook foods up to 30 % faster…
- XL CAPACITY: The 5.5 QT ceramic coated nonstick basket and crisper plate fit 3 pounds of french…
Cosori Air Fryer Max XL
The Cosori Air Fryer Max XL is known for its sleek design and user-friendly interface. It features 11 preset cooking functions that take the guesswork out of meal preparation. The appliance also includes a shake reminder to ensure even cooking, and its large capacity basket is perfect for preparing meals for multiple people.
Why We Chose This Model
We chose the Cosori Air Fryer Max XL because it offers a great balance between functionality and ease of use, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks. The digital interface is straightforward, and the cooking presets cover a wide range of dishes. Its rapid air circulation technology delivers crispy, delicious results with minimal oil, aligning with healthier cooking practices. For those seeking an efficient and reliable air fryer, this model is a strong contender.
- 𝙇𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜-𝙛𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜: Advanced Turbo…
- 𝟵-𝙞𝙣-𝟭 𝙑𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮: Includes Air Fry, Roast, Bake,…
- 𝙐𝙣𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙮 𝘿𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙘𝙞𝙤𝙪𝙨: The 5 Fan…
Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer
The Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer brings multifunctionality to the table with its 6-in-1 capabilities, including air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat, and dehydrate. The appliance uses EvenCrisp technology to ensure consistent results, providing the crunch and tenderness you expect from fried foods but with significantly less oil.
Why We Chose This Model
We selected the Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer for its ability to replace several kitchen appliances, saving both space and money. Its sleek design complements modern kitchens, and the user-friendly touch screen makes operation simple. If you’re looking for a multifunctional appliance that delivers versatility and convenience, this air fryer is an excellent choice.
- 6-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Air fry, broil, roast, dehydrate, bake and reheat
- EvenCrisp TECHNOLOGY: Advanced technology that drives air flow top down for a perfect golden finish…
- ONE-TOUCH SMART PROGRAMS: Customizable programs for one-touch wings, roasted veggies, garlicky…
Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro
The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is more than just an air fryer; it’s a comprehensive cooking solution. With 13 cooking functions, including air fry, toast, bake, and slow cook, this appliance can handle a wide array of culinary tasks. Its convection oven capabilities ensure even heat distribution, and the spacious interior can accommodate larger dishes like pizzas and roasts.
Why We Chose This Model
We chose the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro for those who desire a premium, all-in-one appliance. Its advanced features and high-quality construction make it a worthwhile investment for serious home cooks. The temperature control is precise, and the digital interface is intuitive. If you’re looking to elevate your cooking experience with a versatile and reliable appliance, this model should be on your radar.
- The Breville the Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro with Element iQ System is a versatile countertop oven air…
- Introducing Breville+: Open a world of instant mastery with 1000+ guided recipes, live and on-demand…
- ELEMENT iQ SYSTEM: Using 6 independent quartz elements, smart algorithms steer power to where and…
Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven
The Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven combines the functionalities of multiple appliances into one compact unit. It offers settings for air frying, toasting, baking, and broiling, all housed within a stainless steel design that fits neatly on your countertop. The adjustable temperature control and timer provide flexibility for various recipes.
Why We Chose This Model
We picked the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven for its practicality and space-saving design. It’s perfect for small kitchens or anyone looking to declutter their appliance collection. The multifunctional capabilities mean you can prepare a variety of dishes without needing multiple gadgets. If convenience and efficiency are high on your list, this air fryer toaster oven is a smart choice.
- COOKING FUNCTIONS: This premium 1800 watt toaster oven and AirFryer, is equipped with AirFry setting…
- CAPACITY: Large enough to toast 6-slices of bread, air fry 3-pounds of chicken wings, bake a 12-inch…
- SUPERIOR OPERATION: Equipped with an adjustable temperature dial, 60-minute timer/auto-shutoff and a…
Dash Compact Air Fryer
The Dash Compact Air Fryer is designed with simplicity and space efficiency in mind. Its compact size makes it ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or those living alone. The manual controls are straightforward, allowing you to set the time and temperature with ease.
Why We Chose This Model
We chose the Dash Compact Air Fryer for individuals who need an affordable, no-frills appliance. Despite its small size, it delivers crispy and delicious results, making it a great option for quick snacks or small meals. The energy efficiency and quick cooking times add to its appeal. If you’re new to air frying or have limited space, this model is a practical option.
- HEALTHIER FRIED FOOD: Dash Compact Air Fryer uses AirCrisp technology (instead of oil) to help…
- QUICK + EASY: Short on time? Simply load the 2 qt capacity fryer basket, set the temp, and set the…
- SAFER: The auto-shut off function prevents overcooking, and the cool touch housing and handle makes…
GoWISE USA Air Fryer
The GoWISE USA Air Fryer offers a host of features at a budget-friendly price point. It comes with 8 preset cooking functions and a digital touchscreen for easy operation. The appliance also includes a recipe book, providing inspiration for your culinary adventures.
Why We Chose This Model
We selected the GoWISE USA Air Fryer for its excellent value and feature set. It’s an accessible option for those who want to explore air frying without a significant investment. The large capacity basket is suitable for family meals, and the non-stick surface ensures easy food release and cleanup. If you’re seeking an affordable air fryer that doesn’t skimp on features, this model is a solid choice.
- Enjoy your favorite food without the extra calories. This air fryer allows you to fry, bake, grill,…
- Sleek and modern look with advanced touch screen menu. Take the guesswork out of cooking with the…
- Featuring a new Start/Stop button to change time and temperature in the middle of a cook cycle….
Best Overall Air Fryer: Philips Premium Airfryer XXL
The Philips Premium Airfryer XXL is a standout choice for those who need a large-capacity air fryer without compromising on performance. Its spacious basket can handle whole chickens or generous portions of your favorite foods, making it ideal for families or entertaining guests. One of its most notable features is the Fat Removal Technology, which extracts excess fat from food, allowing you to enjoy healthier meals with a crispy texture.
Why It’s the Best in This Category
The Philips Premium Airfryer XXL earns the top spot as the best overall air fryer due to its exceptional performance and innovative features. Its rapid air circulation ensures even cooking and delivers a perfect crispy texture every time. With intuitive controls and preset programs, it simplifies cooking, whether you’re roasting, baking, or frying. This combination of healthy cooking, efficiency, and user-friendly design makes it a standout choice for anyone seeking the best in air frying technology.
Best Budget Air Fryer: GoWISE USA Air Fryer
The GoWISE USA Air Fryer offers a host of features at a budget-friendly price point. It comes with 8 preset cooking functions and a digital touchscreen for easy operation. The appliance also includes a recipe book, providing inspiration for your culinary adventures.
Why It’s the Best in This Category
The GoWISE USA Air Fryer is the best budget-friendly option, offering a rich feature set at an accessible price point. Its large capacity basket is perfect for family meals, and the non-stick surface ensures easy cleanup. Additionally, it includes a recipe book to inspire your culinary creations. If you’re looking to explore the benefits of air frying without a significant investment, this budget-friendly model provides excellent value without compromising on essential features.
Note: Check for the latest models or updates from GoWISE USA to ensure you’re getting the most recent features and safety standards.
Best Compact Air Fryer: Dash Compact Air Fryer
The Dash Compact Air Fryer is designed with simplicity and space efficiency in mind. Its compact size makes it ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or those living alone. The manual controls are straightforward, allowing you to set the time and temperature with ease.
Why It’s the Best in This Category
The Dash Compact Air Fryer is the top choice for those seeking an appliance that fits seamlessly into a smaller kitchen space. Despite its small footprint, it doesn’t skimp on performance, utilizing rapid air technology to deliver deliciously crispy results with minimal oil. Its energy efficiency and quick cooking times add to its appeal. If space is at a premium but you still want to enjoy the benefits of air frying, the Dash Compact Air Fryer is unparalleled in its category.
Best Multi-Functional Air Fryer: Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer
The Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer brings multifunctionality to the table with its 6-in-1 capabilities, including air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat, and dehydrate. The appliance uses EvenCrisp technology to ensure consistent results, providing the crunch and tenderness you expect from fried foods but with significantly less oil.
Why It’s the Best in This Category
The Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer stands out as the best multi-functional air fryer by combining six cooking methods into one sleek appliance. Its sleek design and compact footprint save valuable counter space while replacing multiple kitchen gadgets. The easy-to-use touch screen interface features customizable programs for one-touch cooking. For those who value versatility and want to maximize their kitchen’s potential, the Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer is the perfect multi-tasking companion.
Note: The Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer comes in various models, including newer versions with added features like smart connectivity and more cooking functions. Be sure to check for the latest model to get the most up-to-date features.
Best Air Fryer Oven: Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven
The Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven combines the functionalities of multiple appliances into one compact unit. It offers settings for air frying, toasting, baking, and broiling, all housed within a stainless steel design that fits neatly on your countertop. The adjustable temperature control and timer provide flexibility for various recipes.
Why It’s the Best in This Category
The Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven claims the title of best air fryer oven by seamlessly integrating air frying capabilities with the versatility of a toaster oven. With its spacious interior, you can air fry up to 3 pounds of food, toast 6 slices of bread, or bake a 12-inch pizza. If you’re looking to replace several appliances with one multi-functional unit, the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven delivers exceptional performance and versatility.
Ninja Air Fryer Max XL
The Ninja Air Fryer Max XL offers versatility and efficiency, making it a great addition to any kitchen. With a wide temperature range and multiple cooking functions—including air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate—it caters to a variety of culinary needs. The appliance heats up quickly and cooks food evenly, thanks to its powerful air circulation system.
Why We Chose This Model
We picked the Ninja Air Fryer Max XL for its exceptional versatility and user-friendly features. The digital interface is easy to navigate, and the preset cooking functions simplify the cooking process. Its large capacity is suitable for family-sized meals, and the non-stick, dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup effortless. If you value speed and efficiency without sacrificing quality, this model is worth considering.
How Do Air Fryers Work?
At the core of an air fryer’s operation is a heating element and a powerful fan. When you turn on the air fryer, the heating element rapidly preheats the air inside the cooking chamber. Once that hot air is circulating, the fan kicks into high gear, rapidly circulating it around your food.
This high-speed air flow creates the crispy, golden-brown crust you’d get from deep frying—but without having to submerge the food in hot oil. The fan’s constant circulation ensures even cooking, hitting your food from all angles for perfectly cooked results.
Types of Air Fryers
When it comes to air fryers, there are two main design styles to choose from: basket-style air fryers and toaster oven-style air fryers. Understanding the differences between these two types can help you determine which one best suits your cooking needs and kitchen setup.
Basket-Style Air Fryers
Basket-style air fryers are the most common and popular option. These compact, countertop appliances feature a removable basket that food is placed directly into. The main advantage is their focused, rapid air circulation for ultra-crispy results. However, the small basket size can limit their capacity.
Toaster Oven-Style Air Fryers
Toaster oven-style air fryers resemble a compact convection oven with a spacious interior. These models offer more versatility, with the ability to not just air fry, but also bake, broil, toast, and even rotisserie cook. The larger capacity allows for bigger portions and multi-item cooking, but the results may not be quite as crispy as a basket-style design.
Factors to Consider When Buying an Air Fryer
When it comes to purchasing an air fryer, there are several key factors you’ll want to weigh to ensure you choose the best model for your needs.
What Size Air Fryer Do You Need?
The size of the air fryer’s cooking basket or chamber is a critical factor. You’ll want to match the capacity to the size of your household and the types of meals you plan to prepare. For singles or couples, a 2–4 quart air fryer will likely be sufficient. Families of 3–5 people will probably want to opt for a 5–6 quart model, while extra-large 8–10 quart versions are great for big households or entertaining.
How Powerful Should Your Air Fryer Be?
The wattage rating of an air fryer is a good indicator of its heating and cooking power. More watts generally translate to faster preheating and quicker cook times. For most home cooks, an air fryer in the 1400–1700 watt range will provide ample power. If you plan to use your air fryer frequently or cook larger portions, stepping up to a 1800–2000 watt model may be worthwhile.
What Accessories Come With Air Fryers?
Many air fryers come bundled with a variety of handy accessories to enhance the cooking experience. These can include extra cooking baskets or racks, skewers or rotisserie kits, baking pans, and specialized tools. While not always essential, these add-ons can expand the versatility of your air fryer.
Should You Get a Basic Model or a Multifunctional Air Fryer?
The final major decision is whether to opt for a dedicated air fryer or a multifunctional appliance that incorporates air frying as one of its cooking modes. Basic air fryers are streamlined and focused on air frying, while multifunctional models can also bake, roast, dehydrate, and more. The right choice depends on your specific cooking needs and budget.
How Do I Clean an Air Fryer?
Cleaning an air fryer is relatively straightforward, but it’s important to do so after each use to prevent a buildup of grease and food particles.
- Unplug and Cool Down: Start by unplugging the appliance and allowing it to fully cool.
- Remove and Wash Removable Parts: Remove the basket or tray and wash it with warm, soapy water. Many air fryer baskets and trays are also dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze.
- Wipe Down the Interior: Gently wipe down the interior walls and heating element of the air fryer using a damp cloth. Ensure the appliance is unplugged and completely cool before doing this. Avoid using abrasive sponges or cleaners, as these can potentially damage the delicate non-stick surfaces.
- Tackle Stubborn Residue: For tougher, baked-on grime, you can make a simple cleaning solution by mixing warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Dip a cloth or soft-bristle brush into the solution and gently scrub the affected areas. Be sure to remove any residue before reassembling the air fryer.
- Avoid Aerosol Sprays: Avoid using aerosol cooking sprays, as they can damage the non-stick coating over time. Instead, use an oil mister or brush oil directly onto your food.
- Dry and Reassemble: After all the parts are washed and dried thoroughly, simply reassemble your air fryer, and you’re ready for your next culinary creation.
Regular cleaning will help maintain your appliance’s performance and ensure it continues delivering crispy, delicious results for years to come.
Are Air Fryers Healthy?
One of the biggest draws of air fryers is their ability to provide a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying. By using just a tablespoon or less of oil, air fryers can achieve a similar crispy, crunchy texture without absorbing nearly as much fat. This can significantly reduce the fat content compared to traditional deep frying.
The high-speed air flow in an air fryer also helps retain more of the natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants present in fresh ingredients. Whereas deep frying can strip away many of a food’s nutrients, air frying helps lock them in.
Of course, it’s important to remember that air fryers aren’t a free pass to eat fried foods with reckless abandon. Portion control is still key, and you’ll want to be mindful of the types of ingredients you’re air frying. But with a little creativity, you can absolutely use an air fryer to whip up some amazingly healthy and delicious meals.
Air Fryer vs. Air Fryer Toaster Oven: Which Should You Buy?
When shopping for an air fryer, you’ll come across two main design styles: the traditional basket-style air fryer, and the more versatile air fryer toaster oven. Determining which type is the better fit for your kitchen and cooking needs can be a tricky decision. Let’s break down the key differences to help you decide.
Basket-Style Air Fryers
Pros:
- Compact Size: Smaller footprint that fits easily on the countertop.
- Crispier Results: Focused air circulation for ultra-crispy results.
- Simplicity: Streamlined operation that’s user-friendly.
Cons:
- Limited Capacity: Smaller basket size can limit how much you can cook at once.
- Single Functionality: Generally limited to air frying only.
Air Fryer Toaster Ovens
Pros:
- Versatility: Can air fry, bake, broil, toast, and more.
- Larger Capacity: Spacious interior allows for bigger portions and multi-item cooking.
- Space-Saving: Replaces multiple appliances.
Cons:
- Larger Footprint: Takes up more counter space.
- Less Crispy Results: May not achieve the same level of crispiness as basket-style designs.
- Higher Cost: Generally more expensive than basic air fryer models.
Which Should You Choose?
If you’re focused primarily on air frying and want the most compact, efficient option, a basket-style air fryer is likely the better choice. But if you’re looking for a versatile appliance that can handle a wider variety of cooking tasks, the air fryer toaster oven may be the more practical investment.
Dual Basket Air Fryers: Are They Worth It?
One air fryer feature that has grown in popularity is the dual basket design. These models come equipped with two separate cooking chambers, allowing you to air fry two different foods simultaneously.
Pros of Dual Basket Air Fryers
- Simultaneous Cooking: Ability to cook two different foods at different temperatures and times.
- Time-Saving: Reduces total cooking time when making multiple dishes.
- Versatility: Offers more cooking options and flexibility.
Cons of Dual Basket Air Fryers
- Limited Space in Each Basket: Individual baskets may be smaller, limiting the amount of food you can cook in each.
- Inconsistent Cooking: Balancing different cooking times and temperatures can be tricky.
- Higher Cost: Generally more expensive than single-basket models.
- Complexity: More settings can make them less user-friendly for beginners.
- Cleaning Challenges: More parts to clean, which can be time-consuming.
Should You Choose a Dual Basket Air Fryer?
For the average household, a single-basket air fryer may suffice, offering simplicity and ample cooking capacity for most needs. However, if you frequently cook multiple dishes at once or have specific dietary needs requiring separate cooking spaces, a dual basket air fryer could be beneficial.
Should You Preheat an Air Fryer?
When it comes to using an air fryer, one common question is whether you need to preheat the appliance before cooking. The short answer is—it depends on your specific model. Some air fryers recommend preheating for optimal results, while others are designed to reach the desired temperature quickly without preheating. It’s best to consult your air fryer’s manual to determine if preheating is necessary.
Preheating the air fryer allows the heating element and fan to reach the desired temperature before you add your food. This helps ensure the hot air is consistently circulating at the optimal heat level from the moment your ingredients go in.
Air Fryer Safety
While air fryers are generally safe and easy to use, there are a few important safety precautions to keep in mind when operating these appliances:
Hot Surfaces
Air fryers get extremely hot during use, with interior temperatures often reaching 400°F or more. The exterior walls, basket, and other components can also become very hot to the touch. Always use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves when handling an air fryer, and keep children and pets at a safe distance.
Electrical Hazards
Air fryers are high-powered electrical devices that should be used with the same caution as any countertop appliance. Make sure the power cord is in good condition and not damaged or frayed. Unplug the air fryer when not in use and avoid placing the cord where someone could trip over it.
Fire Risks
The combination of hot air, oil, and food particles creates a potential fire hazard if the air fryer is not cleaned properly after each use. Food debris or grease buildup can ignite, so be diligent about thoroughly cleaning all removable parts.
Never leave an air fryer unattended while in operation. If a fire does occur, unplug the appliance immediately and smother the flames with a fire extinguisher or baking soda—never use water on an oil-based fire.
Aerosol Cooking Sprays
Using aerosol cooking sprays can damage the non-stick coating of the air fryer basket over time. Instead, use an oil mister or brush oil directly onto your food to preserve the longevity of your appliance.
Explosion Hazards
Certain foods should not be air fried, as they can create dangerous steam or pressure buildup inside the appliance. Avoid air frying any cans, jars, or sealed containers, as they may explode. Puncture the skin of whole vegetables and potatoes before air frying to allow steam to escape.
Proper Cooking Temperatures
Ensure you’re cooking foods at the recommended time and temperature settings. Undercooking can leave bacteria and pathogens, while overcooking increases the risk of carcinogenic compounds forming.
Use a reliable food thermometer to verify that meat, poultry, and other perishable items have reached a safe internal temperature before consuming.
By following these simple safety guidelines, you can enjoy your air frying experience while minimizing risks.
What Can You Cook in an Air Fryer?
One of the great things about air fryers is their incredible versatility. These compact appliances can handle a wide variety of foods, allowing you to recreate all your fried favorites in a healthier way. Here are some of the most popular and delicious items you can cook in an air fryer:
French Fries & Potato Dishes
Potatoes are a natural fit for air frying, as the rapid hot air circulation delivers an amazingly crispy exterior. You can air fry classic French fries, potato wedges, hash browns, and even baked potatoes.
Chicken
Chicken is a top choice for air frying, whether you’re making wings, tenders, drumsticks, or whole pieces. The hot air crisps up the skin while keeping the meat juicy and tender inside.
Fish & Seafood
Air fryers are great for preparing all kinds of seafood, from simple white fish fillets to shrimp, scallops, and even breaded or battered items. The gentle air flow helps lock in moisture without over-crisping the exterior.
Vegetables
A wide range of fresh or frozen vegetables can be air fried to crispy, caramelized perfection. Favorites include Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, and even asparagus.
Appetizers & Snacks
From mozzarella sticks and chicken nuggets to egg rolls and vegetable tempura, air fryers excel at crisping up bite-sized party foods and appetizers.
Baked Goods
Believe it or not, air fryers can also be used to bake small batches of muffins, turnovers, empanadas, and even mini cakes or pies. The rapid air circulation helps them rise and brown beautifully.
Dehydrated Fruits and Jerky
Many air fryers come with a dehydrator function, allowing you to make dried fruits, vegetable chips, and even homemade jerky. This expands the versatility of your air fryer and lets you create healthy snacks at home.
How to Convert Recipes for an Air Fryer
One of the most common questions people have when getting started with an air fryer is how to adapt their favorite recipes for the appliance. Here’s how you can easily convert just about any recipe to work perfectly in an air fryer.
Reduce Oil/Fat
Significantly reduce any oil, butter, or other fat called for in the recipe. Air fryers require only a light coating or spray—usually just 1–2 tablespoons or less.
Adjust Cooking Time & Temperature
Air fryers operate at much higher temperatures than conventional ovens, typically ranging from 350°F up to 400°F. Start with the original cooking time and temperature, then check your food periodically for doneness. You can adjust as needed based on how your specific air fryer performs.
Cut Foods into Uniformly Sized Pieces
Consistent sizing is key for even cooking. Cut ingredients like potatoes, chicken, or vegetables into evenly shaped and sized pieces.
Use Parchment or Silicone Liners
To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier, line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or a reusable silicone mat designed for air fryers.
Adjust Seasoning
With the reduced oil, you may need to increase the amount of seasoning, spices, or other flavoring ingredients in your recipe.
Shake or Flip Halfway
Many air fryer recipes will instruct you to shake the basket or flip the food halfway through cooking. This helps ensure all sides get evenly crispy.
Air Fryer FAQs
How do air fryers work?
At the core of an air fryer’s operation is a heating element and a powerful fan. The heating element preheats the air inside the cooking chamber, while the fan rapidly circulates that hot air around your food. This high-speed air flow creates the crispy, fried-like texture without needing to submerge the food in oil.
What’s the best food to make in an air fryer?
Air fryers are incredibly versatile and can handle a wide variety of foods. Some of the most popular items include French fries, chicken wings, chicken tenders, vegetable tempura, and even baked goods like muffins or small cakes.
Are air fryers healthy?
Compared to traditional deep frying, air fryers are a much healthier cooking option. By using just a tablespoon or less of oil, air fryers can achieve crispy results with significantly less fat. They also help retain more of the natural nutrients present in fresh ingredients.
Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact
Air fryers are not only convenient but also environmentally friendly. They often use less energy than traditional ovens because they cook food faster and require less preheating time. This can help reduce your energy consumption and lower your utility bills. By choosing an air fryer, you’re making a small but positive impact on the environment.
Bottom Line
Air fryers have completely transformed the home cooking landscape, offering a healthy, mess-free alternative to traditional deep frying. By circulating hot air to achieve that coveted crispy texture, these compact appliances allow you to indulge in all your fried food favorites—with a fraction of the fat.
With the wide variety of models on the market, from basic basket-style designs to versatile toaster oven-style options, there’s an air fryer out there to suit every kitchen and cooking style. By carefully considering key factors like size, power output, and available accessories, you can find the perfect air fryer that will revolutionize the way you approach fried, roasted, and baked dishes.
So what are you waiting for? It’s time to ditch the deep fryer and embrace the air frying movement. With the expert guidance and top product recommendations in this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well on your way to air frying perfection in no time. Get ready for crispy, guilt-free indulgence that will have your taste buds doing cartwheels.
Top Air Fryer Recipes
- Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
To create crispy air fryer sweet potato fries, start with medium-sized sweet potatoes, wash them thoroughly, and cut them into even sticks. Soak the fries in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, enhancing their crunchiness. Pat them dry, then toss with a high-quality oil and your choice of seasonings like paprika, garlic… Read more: Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries Recipe - How to Make a Baked Potato in an Air FryerTo make a baked potato in an air fryer, start by selecting medium to large Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for the best texture. Wash the potato under cold water, poke holes with a fork, and dry it thoroughly. For added flavor, rub the skin with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Preheat the air… Read more: How to Make a Baked Potato in an Air Fryer
- Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries: A Healthy AlternativeAir fryer sweet potato fries serve as a nutritious and flavorful alternative to conventional fried snacks. Sweet potatoes are high in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, promoting good health. Using an air fryer considerably reduces added oil, leading to lower calorie and fat content. This cooking method achieves the crispy texture and rich… Read more: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries: A Healthy Alternative
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken Wings in the Air FryerTo achieve perfectly cooked chicken wings in the air fryer, start with fresh, uniformly sized wings, either drumettes or flats. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. A light coating of oil promotes crispiness, while avoiding overcrowding is essential for even cooking; consider working in batches. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until… Read more: Perfectly Cooked Chicken Wings in the Air Fryer
- Air Frying Hot Pockets: Tips and Tricks for a Quick SnackAir frying Hot Pockets is an efficient method for enjoying this convenient snack with a crispy texture. Start by selecting your preferred flavor, ensuring it meets dietary needs and personal tastes. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 3-5 minutes, then cook the Hot Pockets for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway for even browning. To… Read more: Air Frying Hot Pockets: Tips and Tricks for a Quick Snack
