The modern kitchen is full of gadgets. From coffee makers to stand mixers, our countertops have never been busier. But every once in a while, a device comes along that claims to do the work of several. The Emeril Lagasse Air Fryer Toaster Oven is one such device.
It promises to replace your toaster, air fryer, dehydrator, rotisserie, and more, all in a single, compact unit. But can it really live up to the hype, or is it just another jack-of-all-trades, master of none? Let’s find out.
Our Top Pick
Design and Build Quality
Aesthetic and Dimensions
At first glance, the Emeril Lagasse Air Fryer Toaster Oven looks like it means business. With its stainless steel exterior and bright, bold branding, it’s not the type of appliance you’ll want to hide in a cupboard. It’s a bit larger than a standard toaster oven, measuring about 15 x 19 x 10.5 inches, so it needs a decent chunk of counter space. But for those with the room, it adds a touch of professional polish to the kitchen.
Materials and Durability
This isn’t a flimsy countertop gadget. The outer shell is made of brushed stainless steel, giving it a sturdy, professional feel. The interior is coated for easy cleaning, and the racks feel solid, not like the wire-thin ones you find in cheaper models. The door is thick and closes with a satisfying, secure click. It’s built to handle the heat, literally and figuratively.
Control Interface
One of the standout features of this model is the control panel. It combines both digital displays and physical knobs, offering the best of both worlds. The knobs have a tactile feel, while the display is clear and easy to read, even from a distance. You won’t need a magnifying glass to check the temperature. There’s a bit of a learning curve, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll appreciate the flexibility.
Key Features
Cooking Functions
This isn’t just a glorified toaster. It comes with 12 pre-set cooking functions, including air fry, toast, bake, broil, rotisserie, dehydrate, roast, bagel, pizza, slow cook, warm, and reheat. That’s a lot of versatility in one machine. You can toast your morning bagel, roast a chicken for dinner, and even dehydrate fruit for a healthy snack, all without switching appliances.
Heating Elements and Technology
The Emeril Lagasse Air Fryer Toaster Oven uses five heating elements to create a 360° cooking environment. This means food cooks evenly, with heat coming from multiple directions. It’s a step up from the basic heating rods found in most toaster ovens. The result? Crispy fries, juicy chicken, and evenly baked cookies.
Capacity and Versatility
This isn’t a single-serving machine. With enough room for a 12-inch pizza or a 4-pound chicken, it’s great for families or those who like to cook in batches. It can fit six slices of bread, which is perfect for Sunday brunch or when you’re feeding a crowd.
Accessories Included
Out of the box, you get a variety of accessories, including a crisper tray, baking pan, rotisserie spit, pizza rack, and drip tray. These aren’t just afterthoughts, either. They’re solid, well-made pieces that can stand up to regular use.
Performance Evaluation
Cooking Efficiency
This oven is quick. It preheats in a fraction of the time it takes a conventional oven, which means you can get dinner on the table faster. The air frying function is particularly impressive, producing crispy results without the grease. You’ll still want to toss your fries halfway through for even crispiness, but that’s a small price to pay for the convenience.
Food Quality
Food cooked in this unit comes out impressively crisp and evenly cooked. The 360° heating technology really shines here, eliminating cold spots and uneven browning. Chicken wings come out with crackling skin, and frozen foods like mozzarella sticks and tater tots get that satisfying crunch without drying out.
Noise Level
It’s not whisper-quiet, but it’s far from the loud hum you get with some air fryers. It’s about as noisy as a microwave, which is a fair trade for the versatility it offers.
User Experience
Setup and Installation
Setting it up is straightforward. Plug it in, set the clock, and you’re good to go. There’s no Wi-Fi or app to fuss with, which keeps things simple. Just make sure you’ve got enough counter space, because it’s a bit of a beast.
Daily Use and Maintenance
Day-to-day, it’s a breeze. The drip tray catches most of the mess, and the non-stick interior wipes clean with minimal effort. The racks and pans are dishwasher safe, which is a nice touch, though hand-washing will keep them looking better in the long run.
Emeril Lagasse Air Fryer Toaster Oven
All-in-one air fryer toaster oven for faster, healthier meals.
Comparison with Competitors
Emeril Lagasse vs. Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer
The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer is known for its precision and build quality, but it comes at a higher price point. The Emeril Lagasse model offers similar features at a more approachable price, making it a better value for those on a budget.
Emeril Lagasse vs. Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven
The Ninja model is more compact and slightly quieter, but lacks the rotisserie function. If you’re a fan of roast chicken, the Emeril Lagasse is the better choice.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a single appliance that can handle multiple cooking tasks, the Emeril Lagasse Air Fryer Toaster Oven is a strong contender. It’s not the cheapest option, but it offers a lot of bang for your buck, with solid build quality and impressive cooking performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Emeril Lagasse Air Fryer Toaster Oven suitable for large families?
Yes, it has enough capacity for family-sized meals.
How does the air frying function compare to standalone air fryers?
It’s comparable, with the added benefit of versatility.
Can I use my own baking pans and trays with this oven?
Yes, as long as they fit within the interior dimensions.
What safety features are included?
The oven has automatic shutoff and a tempered glass door for added safety.
Is there a warranty or customer support available?
Yes, most units come with a one-year warranty.
