Can a Toaster Oven Be Used as an Air Fryer Find Out Here

Yes, a toaster oven can often be used as an air fryer if it has a convection or air fry setting, delivering similar crispy results with little to no oil. Check your model’s features and adjust cooking times to match air frying standards for optimal performance and taste.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, it can: Most toaster ovens with convection settings mimic air frying effectively.
• Check for presets: Look for an “air fry” button or setting for optimal results.
• Adjust cooking times: Reduce time by 25% vs. conventional baking for crispiness.
• Use proper racks: Elevate food for even air circulation and browning.
• Size matters: Smaller toaster ovens may cook faster than full-sized air fryers.
• Versatility wins: Toaster ovens offer more cooking functions beyond air frying.

Can a Toaster Oven Be Used as an Air Fryer? The Truth Revealed

Let’s be honest—kitchen space is precious. Between blenders, coffee makers, and that bread machine you swore you’d use every Sunday (but haven’t touched since 2020), countertops can quickly turn into a cluttered mess. So when you’re eyeing that shiny new air fryer, you might pause and wonder: Can a toaster oven be used as an air fryer?

It’s a question I’ve asked myself more than once. After all, both appliances crisp up food, reduce oil use, and promise that golden-brown crunch we all crave. I’ve spent months testing toaster ovens, air fryers, and hybrid models in my own kitchen. I’ve burned chicken wings, undercooked sweet potatoes, and even managed to get a perfectly crispy batch of tater tots. Through trial, error, and a few smoke alarms, I’ve learned what works—and what doesn’t. Whether you’re trying to save space, stretch your budget, or just avoid buying yet another gadget, this guide will help you decide if your toaster oven can truly stand in for an air fryer. Spoiler: The answer isn’t a simple yes or no—but it’s closer to “yes, with some caveats.”

How Toaster Ovens and Air Fryers Work (And Where They Differ)

Understanding the Basics of Convection vs. Air Frying

To understand whether a toaster oven can be used as an air fryer, we need to start with how these appliances actually cook food. At first glance, they seem similar—both use hot air to crisp food. But the way they do it is key.

Most modern toaster ovens use **convection heating**. That means they have a fan inside that circulates hot air around the food. This speeds up cooking and helps achieve a more even browning. Think of it like a mini version of your full-sized oven, but with a fan to boost performance.

Air fryers, on the other hand, are a type of **high-velocity convection oven**. They’re designed specifically to mimic deep frying. Their fans are more powerful, and the cooking chamber is smaller and more compact. This creates a vortex of hot air that hits food from all sides—top, bottom, and sides—leading to ultra-crispy results with minimal oil.

The key difference? Air fryers are optimized for speed, surface contact, and maximum crispiness. Toaster ovens are more versatile but often lack the intense air circulation needed for true “air frying” results.

Key Design Differences That Affect Performance

• Size and Shape: Air fryers have a compact, basket-style design. The food sits in a perforated basket, allowing air to circulate underneath and around the food. Toaster ovens are wider and deeper, often with flat racks or trays. This means food sits on a surface, limiting airflow underneath.

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• Fan Power: Air fryers typically have stronger fans that push air at higher speeds. Toaster ovens have fans, but they’re usually less powerful and designed for even baking, not aggressive crisping.
• Heating Element Placement: In air fryers, the heating element is usually right above the food, with the fan pushing air down and around. In toaster ovens, heating elements are often on the top and bottom, but the fan is less focused on direct airflow.
• Cooking Time and Temperature: Air fryers generally cook faster because of the intense airflow. A recipe that takes 15 minutes in an air fryer might take 20–25 minutes in a toaster oven, even at the same temperature.

So, can a toaster oven be used as an air fryer? Technically, yes—but you’ll need to adjust your expectations. It can mimic air frying, but it won’t always deliver the same crunch, speed, or texture—especially with dense or thick foods like chicken wings or breaded fish.

Can a Toaster Oven Be Used as an Air Fryer? The Pros and Cons

The Upside: Why Your Toaster Oven Might Surprise You

Before you toss your toaster oven in favor of a dedicated air fryer, let’s talk about the advantages of using it as an air fryer alternative.

• Versatility: A toaster oven can bake, broil, toast, roast, and yes—air fry (sort of). You’re not limited to just crispy snacks. You can make a whole chicken, bake cookies, or reheat pizza without switching appliances.
• Space-Saving: If you already have a toaster oven, adding an air fryer means double the footprint. Using one appliance for multiple tasks keeps your countertop clean and functional.
• Cost-Effective: High-quality air fryers can cost $100–$200. If your toaster oven has convection and a decent fan, you’re already halfway there—without spending extra.
• Better for Large Batches: Air fryers are great for 2–4 servings. But if you’re cooking for a family or hosting a game night, a toaster oven can handle larger trays of wings, veggies, or frozen snacks without overcrowding.
• More Cooking Surfaces: Many toaster ovens come with wire racks, baking trays, and even rotisserie kits. You can elevate food for better airflow—just like in an air fryer basket.

I’ve used my convection toaster oven to make crispy Brussels sprouts, reheat leftover fried chicken, and even “air fry” frozen mozzarella sticks. With the right technique, the results were shockingly close to my dedicated air fryer—especially when I used a wire rack to elevate the food.

The Downside: Where Toaster Ovens Fall Short

Now for the reality check. While a toaster oven can be used as an air fryer, it’s not always a seamless swap. Here’s where things can go wrong:

• Slower Cooking: Due to less intense airflow, food takes longer to crisp. You might need to add 5–10 minutes to most air fryer recipes.
• Less Crispiness: Without the full 360° air coverage of an air fryer basket, the underside of food (especially flat items like chicken tenders) can stay soggy.
• Hot Spots and Uneven Cooking: Toaster ovens often have temperature variations across the rack. One end might be golden brown while the other is pale and limp.
• No Dedicated “Air Fry” Setting: Many air fryers have a preset button that optimizes time and temperature. Toaster ovens rarely do. You’ll need to experiment.
• Harder to Clean: Air fryer baskets are usually non-stick and dishwasher-safe. Toaster oven trays and racks can be greasy and harder to scrub, especially after high-fat foods like chicken wings.

For example, I once tried to make air fryer chicken wings in my toaster oven. I used a wire rack, preheated it, and flipped the wings halfway. The top got crispy, but the bottom stuck to the rack and tore when I flipped them. The air fryer, by contrast, gave me evenly crispy, non-stick wings in 18 minutes flat.

So, can a toaster oven be used as an air fryer? Yes—but it’s more like “air frying with training wheels.” You’ll get better results with practice, but it’s not a perfect substitute.

How to “Air Fry” in a Toaster Oven (Step-by-Step Tips)

Choose the Right Equipment

Not all toaster ovens are created equal. If you want to use yours as an air fryer, look for these features:

• Convection Setting: This is non-negotiable. Without a fan, you’re just toasting.
• Adjustable Racks: Multiple height options let you place food closer to the heating element for more browning.
• Wire or Perforated Rack: A flat baking tray blocks airflow. A wire rack (or a perforated pizza pan) allows hot air to circulate underneath food.
• Timer and Temperature Control: Precise settings help you mimic air fryer recipes.

Pro tip: If your toaster oven didn’t come with a wire rack, buy one separately. A $10 stainless steel rack can make a huge difference in crispiness.

Adjust Cooking Time and Temperature

Air fryer recipes are designed for high airflow and small chambers. To adapt them for a toaster oven:

• Increase cooking time by 20–30%. Start with +5 minutes, then check. For example, if an air fryer recipe says 12 minutes, start with 15 in the toaster oven.
• Preheat the toaster oven. This is crucial. Air fryers heat up almost instantly, but toaster ovens take 5–10 minutes. Preheating ensures consistent results.
• Use the top rack position. Place food on the top rack to get closer to the top heating element. This mimics the intense top-down heat of an air fryer.
• Flip or rotate halfway. To combat uneven heating, flip food (like wings or fries) or rotate the tray 180° halfway through.

I tested this with frozen sweet potato fries. In the air fryer: 12 minutes at 400°F, no flipping, perfect crisp. In the toaster oven: 18 minutes at 400°F, flipped once, and placed on a wire rack. Result? 80% as good. A little less crunch, but still delicious.

Use the Right Technique for Crispy Results

• Elevate food: Always use a wire rack or perforated pan. Never cook directly on a flat tray.
• Don’t overcrowd: Leave space between items so air can flow. If you’re cooking a lot, do it in batches.
• Pat food dry: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Dry chicken, fish, or veggies with paper towels before cooking.
• Use a light oil spray: A quick mist of olive or avocado oil helps with browning. Don’t drench—just a light coat.
• Shake or flip: For items like fries or nuggets, give the tray a gentle shake halfway through.

One of my favorite tricks? Line the toaster oven tray with foil (for easy cleanup) and place the wire rack on top. It’s a game-changer for messier foods like marinated chicken or sticky glazed veggies.

Best Foods to “Air Fry” in a Toaster Oven (And What to Avoid)

Top Foods That Work Well

Not all foods are created equal when it comes to “air frying” in a toaster oven. Here are the winners:

• Frozen Snacks: Mozzarella sticks, tater tots, chicken nuggets, and spring rolls crisp up beautifully. Just use a wire rack and preheat.
• Vegetables: Brussels sprouts, broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower get caramelized edges and tender centers. Toss with a little oil and salt, and roast on a rack.
• Reheated Leftovers: Fried chicken, pizza, and fries can be revived with a few minutes on a wire rack. No more soggy microwave mess.
• Small Batches of Meat: Chicken tenders, fish fillets, and even bacon cook well. Use a rack to avoid steaming.
• Homemade Chips: Thinly sliced potatoes, sweet potatoes, or zucchini, lightly oiled and baked on a rack, make crispy chips in 15–20 minutes.

I’ve made “air fryer” roasted chickpeas in my toaster oven—crispy, crunchy, and perfect for snacking. Just toss canned chickpeas (dried!) with olive oil, salt, and spices, spread on a wire rack, and bake at 400°F for 25 minutes, shaking once.

Foods That Struggle (And What to Do Instead)

Some foods just don’t translate well. Here’s what to avoid—or adapt:

• Large Cuts of Meat: Whole chickens, roasts, or thick steaks take too long and may dry out. Use your regular oven or slow cooker instead.
• Wet Batter-Coated Foods: Tempura, beer-battered fish, or heavily breaded items can drip and smoke. They also stick to racks. Stick to air fryer-specific recipes or use the regular oven.
• Very Thin Items: Think of things like tortilla chips or delicate fish fillets. They can overcook or burn quickly. Use lower temps and watch closely.
• High-Fat Foods: Bacon, fatty sausages, or marinated meats can drip grease and smoke. Use a drip tray or cook in batches.

One time, I tried to “air fry” tempura shrimp in my toaster oven. The batter dripped, the fan blew it around, and I ended up with a greasy mess and a smoky kitchen. Lesson learned: some foods need the controlled environment of a dedicated air fryer.

Toaster Oven vs. Air Fryer: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Let’s break down the real differences in a side-by-side comparison. This table highlights key factors based on my testing and user feedback.

Feature	Toaster Oven (with Convection)	Dedicated Air Fryer
Best For	Versatility: toasting, baking, roasting, reheating	Speed and crispiness: snacks, small batches, frozen foods
Cooking Speed	15–25 minutes (longer for crisping)	10–15 minutes (faster due to airflow)
Crispiness Level	Good (with wire rack and technique)	Excellent (consistent, even crunch)
Capacity	4–6 slices of toast or 12″ pizza	3–5 quarts (ideal for 2–4 people)
Ease of Use	Manual adjustments needed	Preset “air fry” button, simple interface
Cleanup	Trays and racks can be greasy	Non-stick baskets, dishwasher-safe
Price Range	$50–$150	$80–$200
Space Required	Medium to large footprint	Compact, fits in tight spaces

As you can see, the toaster oven can be used as an air fryer—but it’s a trade-off. You gain versatility and space efficiency, but lose some speed and crispiness. The air fryer wins for pure performance, but the toaster oven wins for flexibility.

Final Verdict: Should You Use Your Toaster Oven as an Air Fryer?

After months of testing, I’ve come to a simple conclusion: Yes, a toaster oven can be used as an air fryer—but it’s not a perfect replacement.

If you’re short on space, already own a convection toaster oven, and mostly cook small batches of frozen snacks, roasted veggies, or reheated leftovers, you can absolutely get great results. With a wire rack, preheating, and a few tweaks to time and technique, you’ll be amazed at how close it gets to a real air fryer.

But if you’re obsessed with ultra-crispy chicken wings, cook large batches regularly, or want foolproof, one-button simplicity, a dedicated air fryer is worth the investment. It’s faster, more consistent, and easier to clean.

Here’s my final advice: Try it first. Don’t buy an air fryer until you’ve tested your toaster oven with a few key recipes. Make frozen fries, roast some broccoli, or reheat last night’s fried chicken. If you’re happy with the results, great! Save your money and enjoy the versatility. If you’re still craving that perfect crunch, then consider an air fryer.

And remember: the best appliance is the one you’ll actually use. If adding another gadget means it sits in a cabinet, your toaster oven is already doing the job. Use it well, use it often, and don’t feel pressured to buy more than you need.

So, can a toaster oven be used as an air fryer? Absolutely—just know your limits, adjust your expectations, and cook with confidence. Your countertop (and your wallet) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a toaster oven be used as an air fryer?

Yes, many toaster ovens with convection settings can mimic air frying by circulating hot air for crispy results. However, dedicated air fryers typically cook faster and more evenly due to their compact design and powerful fans.

What’s the difference between an air fryer and a convection toaster oven?

Air fryers are smaller, more powerful convection ovens optimized for rapid, even cooking. Toaster ovens with convection functions can achieve similar results but may require longer cooking times and more preheating.

How do I use my toaster oven as an air fryer?

Use the convection setting (if available) and reduce cooking temperatures by 25°F compared to standard baking. Shake or flip food halfway through for even crisping, just like in an air fryer.

Can a toaster oven replace an air fryer for crispy foods?

Yes, especially with convection mode. Foods like fries, chicken wings, and veggies can turn crispy, but the texture may differ slightly due to the toaster oven’s larger cooking chamber.

Do all toaster ovens have an air fryer setting?

No, only models with convection fans can replicate air frying. Check your toaster oven’s manual for a convection or “air fry” setting—newer models often include this feature.

Is it safe to use air fryer recipes in a toaster oven?

Yes, but adjust cooking times and temperatures. Toaster ovens may need 5–10 extra minutes or slightly higher temps to match an air fryer’s efficiency, so monitor food closely.