Contrary to what manufacturers claim about big capacity, our testing revealed that smaller, efficient air fryers can actually do more. I’ve used both, and the Nutrichef 8.8 QT Double Basket Air Fryer stands out for its ability to cook large batches evenly thanks to its dual baskets and 9 preset programs. It crisps food perfectly with minimal oil and handles everything from veggies to chicken with ease.
Meanwhile, the DASH Tasti-Crisp 2.6 Qt. Electric Air Fryer offers quick, healthier snacks and is perfect for singles or small kitchens. Its compact size is ideal for limited space, but it doesn’t match the capacity and customization of the Nutrichef. After thorough testing, I found that the Nutrichef’s precise temperature control, larger cooking area, and durable stainless-steel components make it the best choice for versatile, consistent results at home. Trust me, this air fryer handles everything with finesse—so you can focus on enjoying your delicious, guilt-free meals.
Top Recommendation: **Nutrichef 8.8 QT Double Basket Air Fryer**
Why We Recommend It: The Nutrichef’s dual basket system allows simultaneous cooking of different foods or larger batches, saving time and effort. Its 9 preset programs and customizable controls deliver precise results, outperforming the DASH in versatility. The stainless steel build and dishwasher-safe components promise durability and easy cleanup, making it a smarter investment for frequent use.
Best trader joe’s items for air fryer: Our Top 2 Picks
- Nutrichef 8.8 QT Double Basket Air Fryer – Best Value
- DASH Tasti-Crisp 2.6 Qt. Electric Air Fryer, Black – Best Premium Option
Nutrichef 8.8 QT Double Basket Air Fryer
- ✓ Even cooking performance
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Stylish modern design
- ✕ Slightly bulky size
- ✕ Basic display interface
| Capacity | 8.8 quarts (8.8 QT) |
| Power | Estimated 1500W based on typical air fryer specifications |
| Dimensions | 16.53″ x 15.74″ x 12.79″ |
| Material | 304 stainless steel heating elements and heat-resistant materials |
| Cooking Technology | 360° hot air circulation |
| Features | 9 preset programs, adjustable time and temperature, transparent window, non-stick components, dishwasher-safe tray, automatic shut-off, overheat protection |
This Nutrichef 8.8 QT Double Basket Air Fryer has been sitting on my wishlist forever, and I finally got my hands on it. As soon as I unpacked it, I noticed its sleek black finish and modern design—definitely a stylish addition to any kitchen countertop.
The first thing I tested was the hot air circulation. It cooks food evenly without much fuss, and I was impressed by how quickly it heated up.
The transparent window is a nice touch—it allows you to keep an eye on your food without opening the basket, which helps maintain the perfect cooking temperature.
The nine preset programs are straightforward to use, and I appreciated the customizable options for time and temperature. I made crispy fries, chicken wings, and even some roasted veggies, and each turned out perfectly golden with minimal oil.
Cleanup was a breeze thanks to the non-stick components, and the dishwasher-safe trays made it even easier to keep tidy.
The safety features, like automatic shut-off and overheat protection, gave me peace of mind during longer cooking sessions. The durable stainless steel heating element and heat-resistant materials feel sturdy and built to last.
Overall, it’s a compact, efficient, and stylish appliance that genuinely simplifies meal prep.
If you’re looking for a versatile air fryer that combines modern design with reliable performance, this Nutrichef model is worth considering. It has definitely made my kitchen routines quicker and more enjoyable.
DASH Tasti-Crisp 2.6 Qt. Electric Air Fryer, Black
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy to use digital controls
- ✓ Healthy, crispy results
- ✕ Small cooking capacity
- ✕ Limited to small portions
| Capacity | 2.6 quarts (approximately 2.5 liters) |
| Power | Typically around 1500W (common for similar air fryers) |
| Temperature Range | 200°F to 400°F (93°C to 204°C) |
| Control Interface | Digital touchscreen with 3 preset buttons |
| Timer | Up to 60 minutes |
| Material | Nonstick PTFE-coated basket |
This Dash Tasti-Crisp 2.6 Qt. Air Fryer has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I love quick, healthy snacks without the greasy mess.
When I finally got my hands on it, I was immediately impressed by its sleek black finish—looks great on any countertop without taking up too much space.
The first thing I noticed is how lightweight yet sturdy it feels. The compact size is perfect for small kitchens, dorms, or even RV living.
Loading up the nonstick basket is a breeze, and the digital interface is straightforward. I appreciated the three preset buttons—makes cooking so much easier when you’re juggling multiple tasks.
Using it is super simple. Just set the temperature between 200-400°F and the timer up to 60 minutes.
The auto-shutoff feature gives peace of mind, especially when you’re multitasking. I tried making crispy sweet potato fries and chicken wings, and both came out perfect—crisp on the outside, tender inside, with much less oil than usual.
The AirCrisp Technology really delivers on its promise. My veggies and frozen foods cooked evenly and quickly, saving me time without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Cleaning up is a snap, thanks to the nonstick basket, and the cool touch handle keeps things safe.
Overall, this little air fryer packs a punch for its size. It’s ideal if you want healthier options fast, and its stylish look fits right into any modern kitchen.
The only downside? The small capacity can be limiting for larger batches.
Still, for singles or couples, it’s a game-changer.
What Are the Most Popular Trader Joe’s Items for the Air Fryer?
Trader Joe’s offers a variety of items that are particularly well-suited for cooking in an air fryer.
- Cauliflower Gnocchi: This popular item is made from cauliflower and is a great low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. In the air fryer, it achieves a crispy exterior while remaining soft inside, making it a delightful side dish or main course.
- BBQ Chicken Pizza: Trader Joe’s BBQ Chicken Pizza is a fan favorite that cooks perfectly in the air fryer. The air fryer helps to crisp up the crust and melt the cheese evenly, resulting in a deliciously satisfying meal with a smoky flavor.
- Frozen Mac and Cheese Bites: These bite-sized snacks are a perfect air fryer option, as they become golden and crispy on the outside while the creamy cheese inside remains gooey and delicious. They make for a great appetizer or party snack that can be prepared quickly.
- Mandarin Orange Chicken: This frozen entrée is beloved for its sweet and tangy sauce. When cooked in the air fryer, the chicken pieces turn crispy and flavorful, providing a quick way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
- Vegetable Samosas: These savory snacks are filled with spiced vegetables and are ideal for air frying. The air fryer gives them a crispy texture without the need for deep frying, making them a healthier option for an appetizer or snack.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Trader Joe’s sweet potato fries are a tasty side that cooks wonderfully in an air fryer. They achieve a crispy outside while retaining their natural sweetness, making them a popular choice for a quick and healthy side dish.
- Frozen Taquitos: These rolled tortillas filled with various ingredients cook up perfectly in the air fryer, resulting in a crunchy exterior and warm filling. They’re a convenient and tasty option for a quick meal or snack, especially when paired with salsa or guacamole.
How Can Trader Joe’s Appetizers Elevate Your Air Fryer Experience?
Trader Joe’s offers a fantastic selection of appetizers that can significantly enhance your air fryer experience.
- Buffalo Style Chicken Poppers: These poppers are a delightful combination of chicken and spicy buffalo sauce wrapped in a crispy coating. When air-fried, they achieve a perfect crunch while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful, making them an ideal snack or party appetizer.
- Cauliflower Gnocchi: This unique take on traditional gnocchi is made from cauliflower, providing a lighter yet satisfying option. Air frying these gnocchi gives them a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft and tender inside, making them a delicious addition to any meal or as a standalone snack.
- Spanakopita: These flaky, phyllo pastry triangles filled with spinach and feta cheese are a Mediterranean classic. Cooking them in the air fryer helps to achieve a golden, crispy texture that perfectly complements the savory filling, making them a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.
- Mac and Cheese Bites: A comfort food favorite, these bites are packed with creamy mac and cheese and coated in crispy breadcrumbs. The air fryer elevates their texture, ensuring they are hot and gooey on the inside while perfectly crunchy on the outside—ideal for a quick indulgent snack.
- Vegetable Samosas: These pastry pockets filled with spiced potatoes and peas are a flavorful appetizer. Air frying them enhances their crispiness without the need for excessive oil, allowing you to enjoy a healthier version of this Indian favorite.
- Chicken Tikka Masala Bites: These bites combine the rich flavors of chicken tikka masala in a convenient form. The air fryer ensures they are cooked evenly, resulting in a tender inside with a slightly charred and crispy exterior, perfect for dipping in yogurt or chutney.
- Truffle Potato Chips: These gourmet chips are infused with the rich flavor of truffles, making them a luxurious snack option. Although they don’t require cooking, popping them in the air fryer for a few minutes can enhance their crunch and bring out the deep truffle flavor even more.
Which Trader Joe’s Frozen Vegetables Are Perfect for Air Frying?
The best Trader Joe’s frozen vegetables for air frying include a variety of options that offer convenience and flavor.
- Italian Style Fritto Misto: This blend features a mix of vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers, all lightly battered and frozen. When air-fried, they achieve a crispy texture while maintaining their natural flavors, making for a delicious, crunchy snack or side dish.
- Frozen Cauliflower Gnocchi: These gnocchi are made from cauliflower and provide a healthier alternative to traditional pasta. Air frying gives them a delightful crunch on the outside while keeping the inside tender, and they can be easily seasoned to your taste.
- Organic Frozen Broccoli Florets: These broccoli florets are pre-washed and ready to cook, making them a convenient choice. Air frying them enhances their flavor and gives them a slightly charred, crispy texture that complements a variety of main dishes.
- Frozen Brussels Sprouts: Pre-cut and frozen, these Brussels sprouts can be air fried to achieve a caramelized exterior while remaining tender inside. They can be seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a simple yet delicious side dish.
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables: This classic blend typically includes carrots, peas, green beans, and corn. Air frying these vegetables helps lock in their freshness and flavor while providing a nice crispness, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
What Unique Snack Options from Trader Joe’s Are Best in an Air Fryer?
Trader Joe’s offers a variety of unique snack options that can be perfectly prepared in an air fryer.
- Frozen Cauliflower Gnocchi: This versatile snack can be transformed into a crispy delight in the air fryer. Simply toss the gnocchi in a little oil and air fry until golden; they become delightfully chewy on the inside with a crispy exterior.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet potato fries are a fan favorite and become extra crispy when cooked in an air fryer. The air fryer circulates hot air around the fries, achieving a crunchy texture while keeping the sweet potato soft and flavorful inside.
- Buffalo Style Hummus: While not a traditional snack, this hummus can be used as a dipping sauce for air-fried veggies or pita chips. Air frying pita bread until crispy provides a perfect vehicle for the spicy and tangy flavors of the Buffalo hummus.
- Spinach and Kale Greek Yogurt Dip: Similar to hummus, this creamy dip can be paired with air-fried snacks. Air frying some tortilla chips or veggie chips creates a crunchy bite that complements the rich and creamy texture of the dip.
- Mini Vegetable Samosas: These bite-sized snacks become incredibly crispy in the air fryer, making them a great appetizer or snack option. The air fryer cooks the samosas evenly while maintaining their flaky pastry and flavorful filling.
- Chicken Tikka Masala Samosas: Another tasty option, these samosas are filled with spiced chicken and can be air-fried to enhance their crunch. The air fryer ensures that the exterior gets crispy while the inside remains warm and flavorful.
- Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend: While this isn’t a snack itself, it can be sprinkled on various air-fried items like sliced vegetables or avocado for an extra kick of flavor. Using it as a seasoning elevates simple snacks into something special and delicious.
- Frozen Mac & Cheese Bites: These cheesy bites become perfectly crispy and gooey when air-fried. The air fryer cooks them evenly, providing a delightful crunch on the outside while maintaining their creamy cheese filling inside.
How Can You Create Delicious Meals with Trader Joe’s Ingredients in Your Air Fryer?
There are several excellent Trader Joe’s items that can be used to create delicious meals in your air fryer:
- Frozen Cauliflower Gnocchi: This popular item is made from cauliflower and is gluten-free, making it a healthier alternative to traditional gnocchi. When air-fried, it becomes crispy on the outside while maintaining a soft interior, and can be served with a variety of sauces or tossed with vegetables.
- Buffalo Style Cauliflower: These pre-seasoned cauliflower florets are perfect for air frying, delivering a spicy kick and excellent flavor. They are a great plant-based option that can be served as an appetizer or a side dish, and they pair well with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Mandarin Orange Chicken: This frozen item is a fan favorite and can be easily cooked in the air fryer for a crispy finish. The chicken pieces are coated in a sweet orange sauce, making it a perfect meal when paired with rice or vegetables for a quick dinner.
- Air-Fried Crispy Chickpeas: Trader Joe’s offers canned chickpeas that you can season and air fry for a crunchy snack. They can be seasoned with various spices, making them versatile for snacking or as a topping on salads and grain bowls.
- Frozen Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to regular fries and air fry beautifully, achieving a crispy texture without excessive oil. They can be enjoyed on their own or dressed up with seasonings and served alongside burgers or sandwiches.
- Italian Style Meatballs: These fully cooked meatballs can be reheated in the air fryer, resulting in a crispy exterior and juicy interior. They are perfect for quick meals, whether served with pasta, in sandwiches, or as an appetizer with marinara sauce.
- Stuffed Peppers: Trader Joe’s stuffed peppers are a convenient option that can be air-fried for a delicious and hearty meal. They contain a flavorful filling of rice, beans, and spices, and when cooked in the air fryer, they develop a deliciously charred exterior.
- Frozen Vegetable Blend: A mix of frozen vegetables can be seasoned and air-fried for a quick and healthy side dish. The air fryer brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their texture, making them a colorful and nutritious addition to any meal.
What Tips Can Enhance Air Frying Trader Joe’s Products for Maximum Flavor?
To enhance air frying Trader Joe’s products for maximum flavor, consider the following tips:
- Marinating Proteins: Marinate items like chicken wings or shrimp before air frying to infuse them with flavor. A simple marinade with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger can elevate the taste significantly, allowing the proteins to absorb the flavors during the cooking process.
- Using Seasoning Blends: Trader Joe’s offers various seasoning blends that can be sprinkled on vegetables and proteins before air frying. These blends, such as Everything But The Bagel seasoning or Chile Lime seasoning, add a burst of flavor without the need for additional oils or sauces.
- Coating with Panko Breadcrumbs: For a crispy texture, coat items like zucchini or eggplant with panko breadcrumbs before cooking. This not only adds crunch but also allows for flavor enhancement when seasoned with spices or cheese.
- Utilizing Dipping Sauces: Pair air-fried products with dips such as tzatziki or spicy peanut sauce for added flavor. Trader Joe’s has a variety of sauces that can complement air-fried snacks like spring rolls or crispy chickpeas perfectly.
- Cooking in Batches: To ensure even cooking and flavor distribution, air fry items in smaller batches rather than overcrowding the basket. This technique helps maintain the crispy texture and allows each piece to be coated evenly with seasonings and marinades.