Dash Air Fryer 17L Compact User Guide Tips and Tricks

Why the Dash Air Fryer 1.7L Compact Might Be Your Kitchen’s Best Friend

Let’s be honest—cooking can feel like a chore, especially when you’re juggling work, family, and the eternal question: “What’s for dinner?” That’s why countertop gadgets like the Dash Air Fryer 1.7L Compact have become kitchen staples. It promises crispy, golden food with little to no oil, and it’s small enough to fit in cramped spaces. But does it deliver? After testing it for weeks in my own kitchen, I can say it’s more than just a pretty face. It’s a practical tool that simplifies cooking without sacrificing flavor.

This guide isn’t just a dry manual—it’s a real-world companion for anyone who’s ever opened the box, stared at the controls, and thought, “Now what?” Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or someone who just wants to eat healthier, I’ll walk you through everything from setup to cleaning, plus tips and tricks I’ve learned the hard way. Think of this as your friendly, no-BS Dash Air Fryer 1.7L Compact user guide—packed with practical advice, relatable stories, and honest feedback.

Getting Started: Unboxing and First Steps

What’s in the Box?

When you open the Dash Air Fryer 1.7L Compact, here’s what you’ll find:

Visual guide about dash air fryer 1.7l compact user guide

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• The main unit (with a 1.7-liter basket)
• Air fryer basket (removable, non-stick)
• Recipe book (with 15+ beginner-friendly ideas)
• Quick-start guide

The design is minimalist—white or black plastic with a simple control panel. No fancy touchscreens here, just a dial for temperature (175°F to 400°F) and another for time (up to 60 minutes). It feels sturdy, not flimsy, and the compact size (about 10” x 8”) fits neatly on most countertops. Pro tip: Place it at least 4 inches from walls for proper airflow.

Setting It Up Right

Before your first cook, there’s a crucial step most manuals skip: seasoning the basket. Here’s how:

1. Wash the basket and tray with warm, soapy water. Avoid abrasive sponges.
2. Dry thoroughly, then lightly coat the non-stick surface with 1 tsp of neutral oil (like canola).
3. Run the air fryer at 375°F for 5 minutes with the basket empty.

Why? This “seasons” the coating, reducing sticking over time. I skipped this once and regretted it—my first batch of chicken tenders stuck like glue. Lesson learned!

Understanding the Controls

The Dash Air Fryer 1.7L Compact has two dials:

• Temperature dial: Ranges from 175°F (for gentle reheating) to 400°F (for crispy fries).
• Time dial: Up to 60 minutes. The unit shuts off automatically when time’s up.

There’s no digital display, so you’ll need to set both dials manually. For example, to make frozen fries: set temperature to 400°F and time to 12 minutes. The “shake” light (a small icon) flashes halfway through cooking—a handy reminder to flip or shake your food for even crispiness. Note: The light is subtle, so keep an eye on it!

Mastering Cooking: Recipes, Timing, and Pro Tips

Best Foods to Cook (and What to Avoid)

The Dash Air Fryer 1.7L Compact excels with foods that need crisping. Here’s what works—and what doesn’t:

• Winners: Frozen fries, chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, salmon fillets, Brussels sprouts, and even reheated pizza.
• Challenging: Wet batters (like tempura) or large, dense foods (whole chickens). The small basket (1.7L) holds about 1.5 lbs of food max.
• No-nos: Liquids (soups, stews) or leafy greens (they’ll blow around).

Real-world example: I tried making “air fryer donuts” using canned biscuit dough. They puffed up beautifully but stuck to the basket. Solution? I now lightly oil the dough before placing it in—problem solved!

Time and Temperature Cheat Sheet

Use this quick-reference guide for common foods:

Note: Times are for fresh or fully thawed foods. Add 2–3 minutes for frozen items (e.g., frozen chicken nuggets). The Dash Air Fryer 1.7L Compact user guide recommends preheating for 3–5 minutes, but I’ve found it’s optional for most recipes.

Pro Tips for Even Cooking

• Don’t overcrowd: Leave space between items. For example, cook 8–10 chicken wings, not 15. Overcrowding = soggy results.
• Shake, don’t stir: Use tongs or a spatula to gently shake the basket (not stir). This prevents delicate foods from breaking.
• Use parchment liners: They’re a game-changer for sticky foods (like glazed chicken) and simplify cleanup.
• Oil is your friend: A light spritz of oil (1 tsp per pound) boosts crispiness. I use a refillable oil sprayer for even coverage.

Anecdote: I once cooked 12 wings at once—half were perfect, half were rubbery. Now I cook in two batches, and they’re all crispy. Worth the extra 10 minutes!

Cleaning and Maintenance: Keeping It Fresh

Daily Cleaning Routine

The Dash Air Fryer 1.7L Compact is dishwasher-safe (basket and tray only), but I recommend hand-washing for longevity. Here’s my 3-minute routine:

1. Let the basket cool for 10 minutes (never clean it hot).
2. Soak the basket in warm, soapy water for 5 minutes to loosen stuck bits.
3. Scrub with a soft sponge or brush. Avoid steel wool.
4. Rinse and dry thoroughly before storing.

Warning: The heating element (inside the unit) is not removable. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth—never submerge the main body in water.

Deep Cleaning Every 2 Weeks

Over time, grease and food particles can build up. For a deep clean:

• Mix 1 tbsp baking soda + 1 tbsp vinegar + 1 cup water in the basket.
• Run the air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes.
• Let cool, then wipe with a microfiber cloth.

This removes stubborn residue and eliminates odors. I do this after cooking fish or strong-smelling foods (like garlic shrimp).

Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

• Using abrasive cleaners: They damage the non-stick coating. Stick to mild dish soap.
• Letting food dry in the basket: Scrub immediately after cooling, or it’ll stick.
• Ignoring the crumb tray: It collects grease. Empty it after every use.

Tip: Store the basket and tray separately (not nested) to prevent moisture buildup. I keep mine in a drawer with a silica packet to absorb humidity.

Troubleshooting: Fixing Common Issues

Food Sticking to the Basket

Cause: Worn non-stick coating or insufficient oil.
Fix:

• Season the basket monthly (see “Getting Started”).
• Use parchment paper or a light oil spray.
• Replace the basket if coating flakes (after ~2 years of regular use).

My experience: After 18 months, my basket started sticking. I ordered a replacement ($12 on Amazon) and kept cooking.

Uneven Cooking

Cause: Overcrowding or not shaking.
Fix:

• Cook in smaller batches.
• Set a timer to shake halfway (the Dash’s light helps, but I use my phone alarm).
• Rearrange food if one side browns faster.

Example: I cook 10 frozen mozzarella sticks in two batches of 5. The result? All perfectly golden, not half-burnt.

Smoke or Burning Smell

Cause: Grease buildup or cooking fatty foods (like bacon) without a drip tray.
Fix:

• Place a piece of bread or parchment at the basket’s bottom to catch drips.
• Clean the crumb tray after every use.
• Reduce temperature by 25°F for fatty foods (e.g., cook bacon at 350°F, not 400°F).

Note: A little smoke is normal with high-fat foods, but excessive smoke means it’s time to clean.

Beyond the Basics: Creative Uses and Hacks

Reheating Like a Pro

Air fryers are perfect for reheating leftovers. The convection heat crisps food without drying it out. Here’s how:

• Pizza: 325°F for 4–5 minutes (place on parchment paper).
• Fried chicken: 350°F for 6–8 minutes (flip halfway).
• French fries: 375°F for 3–5 minutes (shake halfway).

Pro hack: Sprinkle a few drops of water on soggy fries before reheating—they’ll crisp up better!

Baking Small Treats

The 1.7L basket fits mini muffin tins, ramekins, and even small cake pans. Try these:

• Brownies: Use a 6” round pan. 325°F for 15–18 minutes.
• Hard-boiled eggs: 300°F for 15 minutes (cool in ice water).
• “Air fryer mug cake”: Mix ingredients in a mug, cook at 325°F for 8–10 minutes.

Warning: Avoid overflowing liquids (like batter). Fill containers only ¾ full.

Dehydrating (Yes, Really!)

While not a dedicated dehydrator, the Dash can make jerky, fruit chips, or dried herbs:

• Apple chips: Thinly slice apples, sprinkle with cinnamon, 275°F for 30 minutes (flip halfway).
• Beef jerky: Marinate strips, 175°F for 2–3 hours (check every 30 minutes).

Tip: Dehydrating takes longer, so start with small batches to test results.

Final Thoughts: Is the Dash Air Fryer 1.7L Compact Worth It?

After months of testing, I can confidently say the Dash Air Fryer 1.7L Compact is a solid choice for small households, dorm rooms, or anyone who wants quick, healthy meals. It’s not perfect—the small basket limits batch cooking, and the manual controls lack precision—but its simplicity is a strength. You won’t spend hours reading manuals or fiddling with apps. Just set the dials, press start, and enjoy crispy food with minimal cleanup.

The real magic? How it fits into real life. Need dinner in 20 minutes? Frozen chicken strips at 375°F for 14 minutes. Craving a midnight snack? Reheat last night’s pizza in 5. Want to impress your date? Roast Brussels sprouts with garlic and Parmesan. The Dash handles it all, and the Dash Air Fryer 1.7L Compact user guide tips I’ve shared here will help you avoid rookie mistakes.

So, is it worth $50–$70 (depending on sales)? If you value convenience, speed, and versatility—yes. It’s not a replacement for your oven, but a reliable sidekick that makes cooking less stressful. And honestly, that’s worth every penny. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use the Dash Air Fryer 1.7L Compact for the first time?

Before first use, wash the basket and tray with warm, soapy water and wipe down the exterior. Preheat the air fryer for 5 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to remove any manufacturing residues. This ensures optimal performance and flavor when cooking your meals.

What are the best Dash Air Fryer 1.7L Compact cooking tips for crispy food?

For crispier results, lightly coat food with oil and avoid overcrowding the basket. Shake or flip items halfway through cooking to ensure even browning—this trick works especially well for fries, chicken wings, and veggies.

Can I cook frozen foods in the Dash Air Fryer 1.7L Compact?

Yes! This compact air fryer handles frozen foods like fries, nuggets, and fish sticks perfectly. Add 1–3 minutes to the recommended cooking time and check for doneness. No preheating is needed for most frozen items.

How do I clean my Dash Air Fryer 1.7L Compact safely?

Unplug the unit and let it cool completely. The nonstick basket and tray are dishwasher-safe, but handwashing with mild detergent preserves the coating longer. Wipe the interior and exterior with a damp cloth to avoid damaging heating elements.

Why is my Dash Air Fryer not heating properly?

Ensure the basket is fully inserted and the timer is set above 0. If issues persist, check for food debris blocking airflow or contact customer support. Always preheat for 3–5 minutes to verify the heating function.

What accessories work with the Dash Air Fryer 1.7L Compact model?

Universal accessories like silicone liners, grill pans, and skewers fit this model. Look for items labeled “1.7L” or “small air fryer” to ensure compatibility. Avoid metal tools to prevent scratching the nonstick surface.