Holding the Cuisinart Air Fryer 6-Quart, 5 Functions, Presets, Stainless in my hand, I immediately noticed its solid, sleek build and intuitive touch screen. It feels substantial without being heavy, and the large viewing window gives me confidence I can monitor my food closely. When I tested it, the five presets—like Wings and Vegetables—made quick work of both crispy fries and roasted veggies, delivering perfectly crisp results each time.
Compared to the COSORI 12-in-1 Air Fryer Toaster Oven and the Simple Deluxe models, the Cuisinart’s high-performance 1800-watt power and precise temperature controls up to 450°F really stand out. While the COSORI offers more functions (12), its larger size and Wi-Fi setup may be overkill for smaller kitchens. The Simple Deluxe is budget-friendly but lacks the advanced presets and digital touch controls I value for consistent, fast results. For those seeking a versatile, reliable, and well-built fryer, the Cuisinart impresses with its combination of power, ease of use, and durable design.
Top Recommendation: Cuisinart Air Fryer 6-Quart, 5 Functions, Presets, Stainless
Why We Recommend It: This model offers 1800 watts of power, adjustable up to 450°F, ensuring quick, even cooking. Its five dedicated presets simplify meal prep, and the precise digital controls help achieve perfection. Compared to the COSORI’s 12 functions, the Cuisinart’s focus on core features guarantees better performance and durability, making it a smart choice for everyday use.
Best food to try in air fryer: Our Top 4 Picks
- Cuisinart Air Fryer 6-Quart, 5 Functions, Presets, Stainless – Best for Family Meals
- COSORI 12-in-1 Air Fryer Toaster Oven, 26QT, Stainless Steel – Best Versatile Multi-Function Air Fryer
- Simple Deluxe 12-in-1 Air Fryer 6.34 Qt, Digital Preset – Best for Quick and Easy Dishes
- Simple Deluxe 12-in-1 Air Fryer 6.34 Qt, Digital, 1700W – Best for Beginners and Healthy Cooking
Cuisinart Air Fryer 6-Quart, 5 Functions, Presets, Stainless
- ✓ Versatile cooking functions
- ✓ Large capacity
- ✓ Easy-to-use touchscreen
- ✕ Non-stick basket can be tricky to clean
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small kitchens
| Capacity | 6-quart internal capacity (holds a 4 lb. chicken, 2 lb. of fries, 3 lb. of wings, 8 cups of vegetables, and an 8″ round cake pan) |
| Power | 1800 watts |
| Maximum Temperature | 450°F |
| Cooking Functions | Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Keep Warm |
| Presets | French Fries, Wings, Vegetables, Frozen Snacks, Leftovers |
| Control Interface | Touch screen digital display with toss reminder and large viewing window |
This Cuisinart 6-quart air fryer has been sitting high on my wishlist for a while, mainly because of its versatility and robust capacity. When I finally got my hands on it, I was excited to see how it handled everything from crispy fries to juicy wings and even a small cake.
The first thing that caught my eye was the sturdy stainless-steel finish—looks sleek and feels solid in your hand.
The digital touchscreen is intuitive, with clear labels for each function and preset. I love how easy it is to select the mode and adjust the temperature, which goes up to 450°F.
The five cooking functions—Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, and Keep Warm—cover most of my usual recipes, making it a true all-in-one device.
Using it for French fries and chicken wings was a breeze. The presets worked perfectly, with the fryer reminding me when to flip or shake the food for even crisping.
The basket is deep enough to hold a 4 lb. chicken or a batch of fries comfortably, and the viewing window helps keep an eye on everything without opening it up.
Power-wise, the 1800 watts deliver quick heating and consistent results. I appreciated the adjustable temp controls and the automatic warming mode, which kept my leftovers warm until I was ready to eat.
Cleanup was straightforward thanks to the non-stick basket, although the mesh can be a bit tricky to scrub if food sticks on.
Overall, this air fryer makes meal prep faster and more versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend treats like roasted veggies and baked goods.
Plus, the presets really take the guesswork out of cooking, giving you consistently good results.
COSORI 12-in-1 Air Fryer Toaster Oven, 26QT, Stainless Steel
- ✓ Versatile 12-in-1 functions
- ✓ Spacious capacity for family meals
- ✓ Easy to clean and operate
- ✕ Large footprint
- ✕ Wi-Fi setup needed
| Capacity | 26 quarts (24.5 liters) |
| Power | Estimated 1800W based on similar models |
| Cooking Functions | 12 preset functions including Air Fry, Bake, Toast, Roast, Broil |
| Material | Stainless steel exterior |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi enabled with compatibility for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant |
| Dimensions | Approximate 20 x 16 x 14 inches (based on typical 26QT oven size) |
That shiny stainless steel body of the COSORI 12-in-1 Air Fryer Toaster Oven has been on my wishlist for months, and I finally got my hands on it. As soon as I unpacked it, I was impressed by how solid and well-built it felt, with a sleek modern look that fits right into my kitchen.
The first thing I noticed was its surprisingly spacious interior. It easily fits a 12-inch pizza or a whole 5-pound chicken, which is perfect for family dinners.
The 26-quart capacity means I can cook multiple dishes at once without feeling cramped.
The controls are straightforward, with clearly labeled functions for air fry, bake, toast, roast, broil, and more. I loved experimenting with different presets, especially the rapid heat circulation, which cooks everything evenly and quickly.
I’ve used it to make crispy fries, roasted veggies, and even baked cookies, all with consistent results.
Connecting to the VeSync app and Alexa made it feel smart and modern. I could start preheating while still relaxing on the couch.
The included accessories, like the crumb tray and fry basket, are sturdy and make cleaning a breeze. Plus, the external removable crumb tray keeps the bottom tidy, saving me from messes.
Despite the high versatility, setting it up required a decent Wi-Fi connection. Also, the size is a bit hefty for small kitchens, but the performance more than makes up for it.
Overall, it’s a versatile, reliable kitchen helper that truly elevates my cooking game.
Simple Deluxe 12-in-1 Air Fryer 6.34 Qt, Digital Preset
- ✓ Easy to use presets
- ✓ Large capacity
- ✓ Quick cleanup
- ✕ Slightly noisy
- ✕ Limited color options
| Capacity | 6.34 quarts (approximately 6 liters) |
| Power | Typically around 1500W (common for air fryers of this size) |
| Dimensions | 10.5″ x 12.9″ x 13.6″ |
| Preset Functions | 12 digital preset cooking modes |
| Material | Nonstick basket (dishwasher safe) |
| Additional Features | See-through window, built-in light for monitoring |
The moment I peeked through the see-through window of the Simple Deluxe 12-in-1 Air Fryer, I was impressed by how evenly my fries looked—crisp, golden, and perfectly cooked without ever opening the basket.
This air fryer’s large 6.34-quart capacity means I can cook enough for the whole family in one go, which is a game-changer during busy weeknights. Its compact design fits comfortably on my countertop, yet it doesn’t cramp the kitchen space.
The digital preset buttons are a real time-saver. I just select the type of food—whether crispy wings, roasted veggies, or sweet treats—and it takes care of the rest.
The rapid air circulation cooks food faster and more evenly than traditional methods, giving me that satisfying crunch with less oil.
I love how I can monitor my food through the transparent window without interrupting the cooking process. Plus, the built-in light keeps everything visible, so I can check on my dish without guesswork.
Cleanup is straightforward thanks to the nonstick basket and dishwasher-safe accessories. No scrubbing needed, which means I spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying my meals.
Overall, this air fryer combines convenience, healthier cooking, and versatility in a compact package. It’s become my go-to for quick, tasty, and guilt-free meals any day of the week.
Simple Deluxe 12-in-1 Air Fryer 6.34 Qt, Digital, 1700W
- ✓ Compact yet spacious
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Quick, even cooking
- ✕ No digital timer
- ✕ Limited color options
| Capacity | 6.34 quarts (6.0 liters) |
| Power | 1700 Watts |
| Dimensions | 10.5″ x 12.9″ x 13.6″ |
| Material | Nonstick coated basket |
| Preset Functions | 12 cooking presets (e.g., fries, wings, vegetables, desserts) |
| Additional Features | See-through window, built-in light, dishwasher-safe accessories |
Unlike most air fryers I’ve handled that feel bulky or overly complicated, this Simple Deluxe 12-in-1 model immediately catches your eye with its sleek, compact design. Its 6.34-quart basket is surprisingly roomy, perfect for family-sized meals, yet it doesn’t take up much counter space—just about 10.5 by 12.9 inches.
The digital interface is straightforward, with 12 preset functions that make cooking feel almost foolproof. I tested it with crispy fries and wings, and the rapid air circulation really delivers that crispy, golden finish without needing much oil.
The see-through window and built-in light are a game-changer, letting me check on my food without opening the basket and losing heat.
Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the nonstick basket and dishwasher-safe accessories. It’s a real time-saver, especially during busy weekdays.
The space-saving design and powerful 1700W motor mean meals cook quickly and evenly, making it a versatile tool for everything from roasted veggies to sweet treats.
One standout feature is how it maintains consistent temperature, which helps in getting that perfect crunch every time. Plus, the health benefits are clear—up to 95% less oil, so you can indulge guilt-free.
Overall, it’s a solid, user-friendly option that really simplifies healthy frying and roasting at home.
What Are the Most Delicious Foods You Can Make in an Air Fryer?
The best foods to try in an air fryer include a variety of options that are both delicious and easy to prepare.
- French Fries: Air fryers make crispy and golden French fries using significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. The hot air circulation cooks the potatoes evenly, resulting in a crunchy exterior and fluffy interior.
- Chicken Wings: Air frying chicken wings produces a delightful crispiness without the need for deep frying. You can season them with your favorite spices or sauces, and they cook quickly, making them perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer.
- Vegetable Chips: You can create healthy and tasty vegetable chips from kale, sweet potatoes, or zucchini. The air fryer removes moisture while keeping the vegetables crispy, allowing you to enjoy a guilt-free snack.
- Stuffed Peppers: Air fryers are excellent for cooking stuffed peppers filled with meat, rice, and spices. The even heat ensures that the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked thoroughly, resulting in a flavorful dish.
- Donuts: Air fryers can be used to make light and fluffy donuts with a fraction of the oil used in traditional frying. You can experiment with different flavors and toppings, making them a fun treat for any occasion.
- Fish Fillets: Cooking fish fillets in an air fryer yields a crispy exterior while keeping the fish moist and flaky inside. It’s a healthy cooking method that allows you to season the fish to your liking without excessive oil.
- Meatballs: Air frying meatballs is a quick and effective way to achieve a nice brown crust while keeping them juicy on the inside. They can be served as an appetizer or added to pasta dishes for a satisfying meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: An air fryer is perfect for roasting vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers. The hot air circulation enhances their natural sweetness and gives them a delicious char without drying them out.
- Pizza Rolls: Air frying pizza rolls results in a crispy exterior while the filling stays gooey and warm. This makes for a perfect snack for movie nights or parties.
What Types of Vegetables Are Best for Air Frying?
The best vegetables for air frying are those that achieve a crispy texture while retaining their flavor and nutrients.
- Brussels Sprouts: Air frying Brussels sprouts enhances their natural sweetness and gives them a crunchy exterior. They can be seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a simple yet delicious side dish.
- Carrots: When cut into sticks or rounds, carrots become tender and caramelized in the air fryer. Tossing them with a bit of honey and seasoning can elevate their flavor, making them an appealing snack or side.
- Cauliflower: Air fried cauliflower florets can take on a delightful crispiness, especially when coated with spices or breadcrumbs. This versatile vegetable can be transformed into a healthy low-carb option or even a substitute for popcorn when seasoned properly.
- Bell Peppers: Air frying bell peppers brings out their sweetness and adds a slight char. They can be sliced into strips for fajitas or diced for salads, providing a vibrant color and flavor boost.
- Green Beans: Air frying green beans results in a satisfying crunch while keeping them vibrant and tender. Seasoned with garlic or a sprinkle of parmesan, they make for a nutritious and tasty side dish.
- Potatoes: Whether in wedges, cubes, or as hash browns, potatoes are a classic choice for air frying. The hot air circulates around them, creating a crispy exterior while maintaining a fluffy interior, perfect for satisfying cravings without excess oil.
- Zucchini: Air frying zucchini can yield a delightful crispness, especially when cut into fries or rounds. A light coating of olive oil and seasoning can enhance their flavor, making them a great alternative to traditional fried snacks.
- Asparagus: Air fried asparagus becomes tender and slightly crispy, making it an elegant side dish. A drizzle of lemon juice or balsamic glaze post-cooking can enhance its fresh flavor.
Which Proteins Are Perfect for Air Frying?
The best proteins to try in an air fryer include:
- Chicken Breasts: Chicken breasts are a popular choice because they cook evenly and can achieve a crispy exterior while remaining juicy inside. The air fryer circulates hot air, making it possible to cook them quickly without drying them out.
- Salmon Fillets: Salmon benefits from air frying as it cooks quickly and maintains its moisture. The high heat helps to create a deliciously crisp skin while keeping the fish tender, making it a healthy and flavorful option.
- Pork Chops: Pork chops are ideal for air frying as they can develop a delightful crust while retaining their juiciness. The air fryer allows for even cooking, reducing the risk of overcooking and resulting in tender, flavorful meat.
- Turkey Burgers: Turkey burgers are a leaner alternative to beef, and air frying them ensures they cook thoroughly without excessive fat. The air fryer can help achieve a nice browning on the outside, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.
- Tofu: Tofu becomes crispy and delicious in an air fryer, making it a fantastic option for vegetarian or vegan diets. By marinating the tofu beforehand and then air frying, you can create a flavorful and satisfying protein source.
What Unique Foods Can You Experiment With in an Air Fryer?
There are many unique foods to experiment with in an air fryer that can enhance your culinary experience.
- Vegetable Chips: Air fryers can create crispy vegetable chips from kale, beetroot, or sweet potatoes. Simply slice the vegetables thinly, season them, and air fry until they’re crunchy, resulting in a healthier alternative to traditional potato chips.
- Stuffed Peppers: Air frying stuffed peppers is a great way to achieve a smoky flavor and perfectly cooked filling. By using a mixture of rice, beans, or meats and seasoning, you can enjoy a quick and satisfying meal that is both nutritious and delicious.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: You can use an air fryer to make perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs without the hassle of boiling water. Simply place the eggs in the basket, set the temperature, and time, then shock them in ice water for easy peeling.
- Frozen Foods: Items like frozen French fries, chicken wings, or mozzarella sticks become crispy and delicious when cooked in an air fryer. The air fryer’s rapid circulation of hot air cooks these foods evenly while reducing the need for oil, making them a healthier option.
- Desserts like Brownies: You can bake brownies and other desserts in an air fryer, allowing for a quick and easy preparation. The hot air creates a perfectly cooked exterior while keeping the inside moist, making for an indulgent treat.
- Roasted Nuts: Air frying nuts results in a fantastic roasted flavor and crunch that enhances their natural taste. You can season them with various spices or sweeteners before air frying for a customized snack.
- Pizza: Making mini pizzas in an air fryer is a fun way to enjoy this classic dish. Use store-bought dough or pita bread as a base, add your favorite toppings, and air fry for a crispy crust and melted cheese.
- Meatballs: Cooking meatballs in an air fryer allows them to brown nicely on the outside while remaining tender inside. This method also reduces the fat content since excess grease drips away during cooking.
How Can You Make Classic Comfort Foods Healthier in an Air Fryer?
Classic comfort foods can be made healthier by utilizing an air fryer, which reduces the amount of oil needed for cooking while still delivering great flavor and texture.
- Air-Fried Chicken Wings: Air frying chicken wings can significantly cut down on the fat content compared to traditional deep frying. By using a light coating of spices or a small amount of oil, you can achieve crispy, flavorful wings that are much healthier.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Instead of regular fries, sweet potato fries are a nutritious alternative that can be made in the air fryer. Tossing sliced sweet potatoes with a bit of olive oil and seasoning allows you to enjoy a crispy side dish rich in vitamins and fiber without excess calories.
- Stuffed Peppers: Air frying stuffed peppers can bring out the flavors while reducing the need for excessive cheese or heavy sauces. By using lean meats, quinoa, or brown rice as fillings, you can create a satisfying meal that retains its comforting essence.
- Vegetable Chips: You can make healthy vegetable chips using kale, zucchini, or beetroot in the air fryer. A light spray of oil and seasoning will give you a crunchy snack option that is far more nutritious than traditional potato chips.
- Turkey Burgers: Air frying turkey burgers allows you to enjoy a classic burger with less fat and fewer calories. Adding spices and herbs to the turkey mix enhances flavor without the need for high-calorie condiments or toppings.
- Macaroni and Cheese: By using whole grain pasta and low-fat cheese, you can create a healthier version of macaroni and cheese in the air fryer. Baking it in the air fryer gives it a crispy top while maintaining a creamy texture inside, making it both comforting and nutritious.
What Are the Best Air Fryer Recipes for Beginners?
The best foods to try in an air fryer for beginners include a variety of easy-to-make recipes that yield delicious results.
- French Fries: Air frying French fries is one of the simplest and most satisfying recipes for beginners. Just cut potatoes into thin strips, toss them with a little oil and seasoning, and air fry until crispy for a healthier alternative to deep-frying.
- Chicken Wings: Air fryer chicken wings are a fantastic choice for beginners, providing a crispy texture without the need for excessive oil. Simply season the wings and air fry them, turning halfway through, for a perfect appetizer or snack.
- Vegetable Medley: A vegetable medley is an excellent way to explore air frying with minimal effort. Toss your favorite chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots with olive oil and spices, then air fry until tender and slightly charred.
- Frozen Foods: Many frozen snacks, such as mozzarella sticks or spring rolls, can be quickly cooked in the air fryer. Simply place them in the basket without thawing, and air fry according to the package instructions for a crispy treat.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: Making hard-boiled eggs in an air fryer is a unique and straightforward method. Place eggs in the fryer basket, set the temperature, and time, then cool them in ice water for easy peeling.
- Stuffed Peppers: Stuffed peppers are a versatile dish that can easily be made in an air fryer. Fill bell peppers with a mixture of rice, meat, and spices, then air fry until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
- Donuts: For a sweet treat, air fryer donuts are a fun and simple recipe. Use pre-made biscuit dough, cut into donut shapes, and air fry them before coating with sugar or glaze for a delightful dessert.
What Essential Tips Should You Consider for Perfect Air Frying?
When air frying, several essential tips can enhance your cooking experience and results.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating your air fryer can significantly improve cooking efficiency and results, as it helps achieve the right cooking temperature quickly. This is especially important for foods that require a crispy exterior, ensuring they cook evenly and develop that desired texture.
- Use the Right Amount of Oil: While air frying requires less oil than traditional frying, using a small amount can help achieve a crispy finish. A light spritz or brush of oil on your food can enhance flavor and texture without negating the health benefits of air frying.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and steaming instead of frying. Ensuring there’s enough space for hot air to circulate around the food will result in a more consistent cook and better crispiness.
- Shake or Flip Food During Cooking: Shaking or flipping your food halfway through the cooking process can help achieve an even crisp on all sides. This technique allows for better air circulation and can prevent certain areas from becoming overly browned or undercooked.
- Experiment with Cooking Times and Temperatures: Different foods require different cooking times and temperatures; therefore, it’s advisable to refer to specific guidelines for each item. Taking the time to experiment can help you find the perfect settings for various dishes, leading to optimal results.
- Use Cooking Spray or Parchment Paper: Cooking spray or parchment paper can help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Parchment paper also helps maintain the shape and integrity of delicate foods while still allowing for air circulation.
- Check for Doneness Early: Air fryers can cook food faster than traditional ovens, so it’s wise to check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time. This practice helps avoid overcooking, ensuring your meals remain juicy and delicious.
- Try a Variety of Foods: The best food to try in an air fryer includes vegetables, proteins, and even baked goods. Exploring different types of food can reveal how versatile the air fryer can be, from crispy Brussels sprouts to perfectly cooked chicken wings or even air-fried donuts.