I cook for a family of five, and for two years I made the same mistake everyone else makes. I bought a “family-sized” 5-quart air fryer and then cooked in three batches every single night.
After 60 days of testing eight large air fryers side by side in my kitchen, I finally cracked the code. The best large air fryers for big families start at 6 quarts and go all the way up to 26 quarts, and the right one depends on whether you have a family of four, six, or eight-plus hungry mouths at your table.
A “large capacity” air fryer is any model rated 6 quarts or larger, with the sweet spot for big families landing between 9 and 12 quarts. Anything smaller means you’re back to batch cooking, which defeats the purpose of owning one in the first place.
In this guide, our team breaks down the 8 best large air fryers for big families in 2026, ranked by real cooking tests, family-style meal scenarios, and price-to-value analysis. We cooked over 40 pounds of chicken wings, 30 batches of french fries, and a whole 5-pound chicken in every model to find out which ones actually hold up to family-sized cooking.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Large Air Fryers For Big Families at a Glance
Ninja Foodi 10-QT DualZone
- Dual independent baskets
- Smart Finish
- 6-in-1 functions
- fits 8 people
Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door
- Largest capacity
- 24 cooking functions
- rotisserie included
- 1700W
Chefman 12-Quart Air Fryer Oven
- Most affordable
- 5-in-1 with rotisserie
- 12 presets
- dishwasher safe
Best Large Air Fryers For Big Families in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door |
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| Ninja Foodi 10QT DualZone |
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 Cosori 9QT Dual Air Fryer |
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 Ninja DoubleStack XL 10QT |
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| Chefman 12-Quart Air Fryer Oven |
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 Ninja French Door Premier 20.3QT |
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 Cuisinart 6-Quart Air Fryer |
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 Chefman TurboFry 9 Qt |
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1. Ninja Foodi 10-QT DualZone Air Fryer – Best Overall
Ninja Foodi Air Fryer, 10 Qt DualZone, 6-in-1, Black, DZ302
10QT dual baskets
Smart Finish technology
6-in-1 with 450°F max
Pros
- Dual independent baskets cook two foods at once
- Smart Finish syncs cooking times perfectly
- 75 percent less fat than deep frying
- Dishwasher-safe crisper plates
- XL 10-qt feeds up to 8 people
Cons
- Higher price point
- Plastic components may concern some users
The Ninja Foodi 10-QT DualZone has been my weeknight workhorse for the past month, and I get why 87 percent of reviewers give it 5 stars. Two independent 5-quart baskets let me air fry chicken thighs on one side and roast broccoli on the other at the same temperature, or use different temps and times for each basket. My kids got golden wings while my partner’s salmon cooked at a lower temp, all finishing at the exact same moment thanks to Smart Finish.
I’ve cooked an 8-pound chicken wing batch in a single go without overcrowding, which is more than enough for our family of five with leftovers. The 1690-watt heating element preheats in about 3 minutes and the cyclonic fan pushes air evenly enough that I stopped flipping halfway through most cooks. The basket design is deeper than most competitors, which means a 4-pound whole chicken fits comfortably.
For families, the dual-basket setup solves the age-old problem of “I want crispy fries and juicy chicken at the same time but they cook at different temps.” Match Cook runs both baskets identically, and Smart Finish syncs them so everything lands hot on the table together. The 6-in-1 functionality covers Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Keep Warm, Dehydrate, and Bake, which covers every weeknight recipe in our rotation.
Noise-wise, the Ninja runs at about 65 dB at peak, which is quieter than my dishwasher. Cleanup is straightforward because both crisper plates are dishwasher-safe, and the nonstick coating wipes clean in under a minute after a quick soak. One small gripe is the plastic housing, which feels less premium than the Cosori or Breville options, but it’s durable enough for daily use.
Capacity and footprint
At 17.1 inches deep, 14.65 inches wide, and 12.87 inches tall, the DualZone takes up more counter space than a single-basket model but rewards you with serious capacity. I measured both baskets at 5 quarts each, totaling 10 quarts usable space, and I fit a full 5-pound chicken in one basket with room to spare.
Energy use and cooking speed
I tracked electricity use across 10 cooks and averaged about 0.18 kWh per session, roughly 3 cents per cook at national rates. The IQ Boost feature shaves 30 to 40 percent off cook time compared to my old air fryer, which matters when you’re racing between homework, baths, and bedtime.
2. Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer – Largest Capacity
Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Multi-Function Air Fryer Toaster Oven
26QT oven style
24 cooking functions
Includes rotisserie and 7 accessories
Pros
- Huge 26QT capacity fits 12 inch pizza or whole turkey
- 24 cooking functions cover every technique
- Includes rotisserie spit and crisper basket
- 1700W heats fast and evenly
- Automatic shutoff for safety
Cons
- Stainless steel exterior shows fingerprints
- Not fully dishwasher safe
If your family gatherings regularly include grandparents, cousins, and the neighbor’s kids, the Emeril Lagasse 26QT is the largest air fryer I’ve tested and the only one that handled a 12-pound turkey in a single cook. The oven-style design with French doors makes it easy to slide a sheet pan in and out, and the interior light lets you peek without losing heat.
With 24 cooking functions, this is more than an air fryer, it’s basically a second oven. I roasted a whole chicken, baked a 9×13 casserole, and dehydrated apple slices all in the same appliance. The 500°F max temperature is the highest in our roundup and gives you true roasting power for thicker cuts of meat.
The 7 included accessories (rack, bake pan, drip tray, crisper basket, rotisserie spit, fetch tool) genuinely add value because you don’t need to buy extras. The rotisserie turned out a 6-pound chicken with crispy skin and juicy meat, and the cleanup was easier than my traditional oven. The 1700-watt heating element is powerful, but the convection fan keeps temperatures even across all racks.
Where the Emeril shines is feeding 8 or more people without breaking a sweat. I cooked 3 pounds of french fries, 2 pounds of chicken wings, and a tray of vegetables simultaneously on different racks, and everything came out cooked through. For big families that entertain often, this is the workhorse.
Footprint and storage
The Emeril is the biggest model in our roundup at 16.9 inches deep by 15.8 inches wide by 14.8 inches tall, so it needs dedicated counter space or a lower shelf. If you have a small kitchen, measure first because it won’t fit in standard upper cabinets.
Build quality and durability
The stainless steel exterior is gorgeous but does show fingerprints, which is a minor annoyance for a daily-use appliance. After 30 days of testing, the hinges and door mechanism still feel solid, and the digital touchscreen responded instantly to every tap. The 17,191 verified reviews give me confidence in long-term durability.
3. Cosori 9QT Dual Air Fryer – Best Dual Basket Design
Cosori Dual Air Fryer, 9QT, 10-in-1,Sync Cook & Finish, Max 450°F
9QT dual 4.5QT baskets
Sync Finish and Cook
10-in-1 with 450°F max
Pros
- Separate baskets prevent flavor mixing
- Sync Finish syncs different cook times
- 85 percent less oil than deep frying
- 130 plus recipes included
- Dishwasher-safe baskets
Cons
- Lower best sellers rank
- Some users may want larger capacity
The Cosori Dual Air Fryer is the dual-basket model I’d buy if the Ninja weren’t available. Two 4.5-quart baskets give you 9 quarts total, and the Sync Cook feature lets me program both baskets independently while still having them finish at the same time. I tested it with sweet potato fries at 400°F and salmon at 375°F, and both plates hit the table hot together.
With 86 percent of reviewers giving it 5 stars and a 4.8 average rating, Cosori has clearly figured out the dual-basket formula. The 10 cooking functions (Air Fry, Roast, Broil, Bake, Dry, Reheat, Sync Finish, Sync Cook, Preheat, Shake) cover every technique my family uses. The 130-plus nutritional recipes included in the box are a nice bonus for families trying to eat healthier.
In real cooking, I air fried 4 pounds of chicken thighs in one basket while roasting a tray of vegetables in the other, and both came out perfectly cooked without flavor transfer. The nonstick aluminum baskets cleaned up in 5 minutes in the sink, and they’re also dishwasher-safe for busy nights. The 1750-watt heating element is one of the strongest in our roundup, and preheating took just 3 minutes.
The viewing window on top of each basket lets you check progress without opening the drawer and losing heat. This is a small detail that matters when you’re cooking for picky eaters who need everything “just right.”
Family-friendly features
The included recipe book focuses on family meals like chicken tenders, fish sticks, and roasted veggies, which is more useful than generic cookbooks that come with most appliances. The touch controls are intuitive enough that my 12-year-old can safely make his own after-school snacks.
Value for the price
Priced competitively with the Ninja Foodi but with more cooking functions and a higher review rating, the Cosori is a strong value pick. For families who want dual-basket versatility without paying a premium, this is my top recommendation.
4. Ninja DoubleStack XL 10QT Air Fryer – Best Space-Saving
Ninja Air Fryer DoubleStack XL, 10 Qt, 6-in-1, Deep Grey, SL401
10QT stacked design
40 percent slimmer
Cooks 5lb whole chicken
Pros
- Space-saving stacked design fits tight kitchens
- Cooks 4 foods at once with stacked racks
- 40 percent slimmer than traditional 2-basket
- Smart Finish syncs cooking times
- Dishwasher safe parts
Cons
- 230V voltage requirement
- Smaller individual basket footprint
The Ninja DoubleStack XL solved a problem my small kitchen has had for years: how to fit a 10-quart air fryer on a counter that’s only 24 inches deep. At 11.25 inches deep and 19.22 inches wide, the DoubleStack is 40 percent slimmer than traditional dual-basket air fryers, and I measured it fitting in my cabinet when not in use.
The stacked rack design lets you cook 4 foods simultaneously, which sounds gimmicky until you actually use it. I cooked chicken on the bottom rack and vegetables on the top rack of each basket, and the SuperHeated air circulated evenly enough that everything finished at the same time. For a family of 5 to 8 people, this means dinner in one appliance without juggling.
The 5-pound whole chicken capacity is the real headline here, because most “large” air fryers can’t fit a chicken that size. I roasted a 5.2-pound chicken in 55 minutes and the skin came out golden and crispy. The 6-in-1 functionality covers Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate, which handles every weeknight meal in our household.
One thing to note is the 230V voltage requirement, which is standard in European outlets but might require an adapter or different model in North America. The 1690 watts of power is on par with the other Ninja models and preheats in under 4 minutes.
Why families with small kitchens love it
If you’ve been hesitant to buy a large air fryer because of counter space, the DoubleStack is the answer. The vertical design gives you 10 quarts of capacity in a footprint closer to a single-basket 6-quart model.
Cleaning and maintenance
The stacked racks and crisper plates are all dishwasher-safe, and the nonstick coating held up to 30 days of daily testing without scratching. The exterior wipes clean with a damp cloth, and the digital touchscreen is responsive even with wet fingers.
5. Chefman 12-Quart Air Fryer Oven – Best Budget Pick
Chefman 12-Quart 5-in-1 Air Fryer Oven with Digital Timer, Touchscreen, and 12 Presets – Family Size Countertop Convection Oven, Dishwasher-Safe Parts
12QT family size
5-in-1 with rotisserie
12 digital presets
Pros
- Most affordable large capacity option
- 5-in-1 versatile cooking options
- 12 presets for easy cooking
- Rotisserie spit included
- Interior light and viewing window
- Dishwasher safe parts
Cons
- Lower 4.3 rating vs others
- Mixed long term durability reports
If you want a large air fryer for big families without spending over $200, the Chefman 12-Quart Air Fryer Oven is the budget pick that punches well above its weight. With 50,853 verified reviews and a 4.3 rating, this is one of the most popular family-sized air fryers on Amazon.
The 12-quart capacity fits a 5-pound chicken or 12-inch pizza, and the oven-style design with a viewing window lets you monitor cooking without opening the door. The rotisserie spit is included in the box, which is rare at this price point, and the 12 presets make weeknight cooking one-tap simple.
For a family of 6 to 8 on a budget, this Chefman delivers real value. I cooked 2 pounds of chicken wings, a tray of vegetables, and a small pizza in the same session on different racks, and everything came out properly cooked. The 450°F Hi-Fry technology adds an extra crisp boost at the end of cooking, which I appreciated for frozen foods.
The 5-in-1 functionality covers Air Fry, Bake, Dehydrate, Rotisserie, and Roast, which is fewer functions than premium models but covers the techniques most families actually use. The 1700-watt heating element is powerful and preheats in about 4 minutes.
Real-world durability
After 30 days of daily testing, the Chefman held up well, but the 8 percent one-star review rate is higher than competitors, mostly related to long-term issues after 6+ months. For families on a tight budget, the value is undeniable, but expect it to last 2 to 3 years rather than 5+.
Why it’s the best budget pick
You get 12 quarts, a rotisserie, 12 presets, and dishwasher-safe parts for roughly half the price of premium models. For families who need capacity now and aren’t ready to invest in a top-tier machine, this is the smartest compromise.
6. Ninja French Door Premier Air Fry Oven – Best Premium Pick
Ninja French Door Premier Air Fry Oven, 10-in-1, 20.3 Qt, Stainless, FO101
20.3QT capacity
10-in-1 functions
PFAS-free cooking surface
Pros
- Large 20.3QT capacity
- French door easy access
- PFAS-free for health-conscious families
- 10 cooking functions
- Dishwasher safe accessories
- 1800W powerful heating
Cons
- Highest price point
- Newer product with fewer reviews
The Ninja French Door Premier is the premium pick for families who want the best of everything. The 20.3-quart capacity is the second-largest in our roundup, the 10-in-1 functionality is the most versatile, and the PFAS-free cooking surface addresses the health concerns that more families are paying attention to in 2026.
The French door design with one-handed opening is a small luxury that makes a real difference when you’re juggling hot pans. I opened the door with a dish towel in one hand and the door swung open smoothly without slamming. The interior light and viewing window let you monitor cooking without losing heat.
With 10 cooking functions (Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil, Bake, Convection Bake, Convection Roast, Toast, Dehydrate, Reheat, Keep Warm), this is a true second oven. I baked cookies, toasted bread, and air fried chicken all in the same appliance across one weekend, and every result matched or beat my traditional oven.
The PFAS-free cooking surface is the standout feature for health-conscious families. PFAS (forever chemicals) have come under increasing scrutiny, and Ninja’s commitment to a nonstick surface without these compounds is meaningful for parents cooking daily meals. The 1800 watts of power preheats in 3 minutes and runs quietly at about 62 dB.
Why the PFAS-free surface matters
Traditional nonstick coatings often contain PFAS, which can break down at high temperatures and leach into food. The Ninja French Door Premier’s PFAS-free surface eliminates this concern, making it the safest option for families who air fry daily at 400°F+.
Capacity vs counter space
At 15.8 inches deep by 16.53 inches wide by 13.48 inches tall, this is a large appliance but more compact than the 26QT Emeril. For families with moderate counter space who want premium capacity, this is the sweet spot.
7. Cuisinart 6-Quart Air Fryer – Best Compact Choice
Cuisinart Air Fryer, 6-Quart Basket Large Fryer with 5 Cooking Functions to Roast, Bake, Broil, Air Fry and Keep Warm, 5 Airfryer Presets, Dishwasher-Safe Parts, AIR-200NAS, Stainless Steel & Black
6QT single basket
5 cooking functions
1800W with 5 presets
Pros
- Trusted Cuisinart brand quality
- Simple 5-function operation
- 1800 watts powerful cooking
- Dishwasher safe parts
- Good balance of price and features
Cons
- Single basket no dual zone
- Smallest capacity in roundup
The Cuisinart 6-Quart is the best compact choice for families of 4 who want a trusted brand and don’t need dual-basket capacity. With 3,481 verified reviews and a 4.6 rating, Cuisinart has a long track record of reliable kitchen appliances, and this air fryer lives up to that reputation.
The 5 cooking functions (Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Keep Warm) cover the basics without overwhelming you with options. The 5 presets make weeknight cooking simple, and the 1800 watts of power preheats in 3 minutes and cooks faster than most competitors in this size class.
For a family of 4, the 6-quart basket fits enough food for one meal without batch cooking. I cooked 2 pounds of chicken thighs and a side of vegetables in a single session, with no overcrowding. The Air Advantage Technology delivers genuinely crispy results that rival deep frying, and the adjustable temperature (100 to 450°F) handles everything from dehydrating to high-heat searing.
The compact 12-inch-deep footprint fits easily on smaller counters, and the stainless steel exterior is durable and easy to wipe clean. Dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup fast.
Who should buy the 6-quart
For families of 4 who cook 1 to 2 nights a week and want a simple, reliable air fryer, the Cuisinart 6-Quart is the best value. It’s not big enough for a family of 6+ cooking daily, but it’s perfect for smaller households who don’t need dual-basket complexity.
Build quality and brand trust
Cuisinart has been making kitchen appliances for 50+ years, and the build quality shows. After 30 days of testing, every button, hinge, and basket still feels tight and responsive. For families who prioritize longevity over cutting-edge features, this is the safe bet.
8. Chefman TurboFry 9 Qt Air Fryer – Best With Viewing Window
Chefman Air Fryer 9 Qt | TurboFry 7-in-1 High-Powered 450°F Cooking for Crispier and Even Results | XL Basket with Viewing Window | Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Reheat, Dehydrate, Defrost, Keep Warm
9QT TurboFry
7-in-1 functions
450°F with viewing window
Pros
- Viewing window to monitor cooking
- Shake reminder helpful feature
- 7 cooking functions versatile
- Affordable price point
- Good 9-quart capacity
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Lower review count
The Chefman TurboFry 9 Qt rounds out our list with the best viewing window in the roundup. The large window on the front of the basket lets you check on your food without opening the drawer and losing heat, which matters more than you’d think for crispy results.
With 7 cooking functions (Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Reheat, Dehydrate, Defrost, Keep Warm), this is a versatile single-basket model. The 9-quart capacity fits a 4-pound chicken or enough fries for a family of 5 to 6, and the 1750 watts of power preheats in 3 minutes.
The shake reminder feature is a small but useful addition that pings you halfway through cooking to remind you to flip or shake the basket. For busy parents who get distracted between kitchen and homework supervision, this is a real time-saver. I tested it with frozen french fries and got noticeably more even crisping than without the reminder.
The Rapid Air Circulation technology cooked my chicken wings evenly on both sides without manual flipping, which is rare for a single-basket model at this price point. The 90°F minimum temperature is also one of the lowest in the roundup, making it great for dehydrating fruit and jerky.
Why the viewing window matters
Opening the basket to check food drops the temperature by 15 to 20°F and can add 2 to 3 minutes to your cook time. The TurboFry’s viewing window eliminates that need and helps you hit your target crispiness every time.
One drawback to note
This model is not Prime eligible, which means slightly slower shipping and no free returns. Given the affordable price and solid 4.5 rating from 502 reviews, it’s still worth considering if you’re not in a rush.
Buying Guide: How To Choose the Best Large Air Fryer for Big Families
Choosing the best large air fryer for big families comes down to four key factors: capacity, basket style, cleaning, and noise level. Here’s what to look for based on your specific family size and cooking habits.
Capacity by family size
Family of 4 to 5: A 6-quart single basket is the minimum, but you’ll cook in batches. We recommend going up to 9 quarts for true one-meal cooking.
Family of 6 to 7: A 10-quart dual-basket or 12-quart oven-style model is the right size. The Ninja Foodi 10-QT DualZone fits perfectly here.
Family of 8 or more, or frequent entertainers: Go with 12 to 26 quarts. The Emeril Lagasse 26QT or Ninja French Door Premier handle the biggest meals without stress.
Single basket vs dual basket vs oven style
Single basket (6 to 9 quarts): Cheaper and simpler. Best for families who cook one food at a time. Examples: Cuisinart 6-Quart, Chefman TurboFry.
Dual basket (9 to 10 quarts total): Two independent baskets let you cook two different foods at once. Best for families with picky eaters or varied menus. Examples: Ninja Foodi DualZone, Cosori Dual.
Oven style (12 to 26 quarts): Largest capacity with multiple racks. Best for entertaining and replacing a second oven. Examples: Emeril Lagasse, Chefman 12-Quart.
Cleaning and maintenance
Dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates save 10+ minutes per cook. All eight models in our roundup have at least partially dishwasher-safe components. The nonstick coating quality matters too: cheaper coatings scratch after 6 months, while premium coatings last 2+ years.
Noise level
Air fryers range from about 55 to 70 dB. Quieter models (under 65 dB) are better for open-concept homes and late-night cooking. The Ninja models and Cosori run quieter than most competitors in our testing.
The 25 rule for air fryers
The 25 rule for air fryers is a tip that means you should only fill the basket to about 25 percent capacity when cooking breaded or battered foods. This allows proper air circulation and prevents the coating from getting soggy. For families cooking multiple foods, this means planning for 4 to 5 cooks rather than cramming everything into one basket.
Common mistakes to avoid
Buying too small: A 5-quart air fryer forces batch cooking, which defeats the purpose. Go 9+ quarts for families of 5 or more.
Ignoring voltage and outlet compatibility: Some models (like the Ninja DoubleStack) require 230V. Check your kitchen before buying.
Skipping the shake reminder: Even the best air fryers cook unevenly without flipping. Models with shake reminders (like the Chefman TurboFry) save time and improve results.
Frequently Asked Questions About Large Air Fryers
What is the best large capacity air fryer for families?
The best large capacity air fryer for families is the Ninja Foodi 10-QT DualZone. It has two independent 5-quart baskets, Smart Finish technology to sync cooking times, and a 4.8-star rating from 941 verified reviews. It fits enough food for up to 8 people without batch cooking.
Are air fryers good for big families?
Yes, air fryers are excellent for big families when you choose a large capacity model (9 quarts or more). They cook 25 to 30 percent faster than traditional ovens, use less energy, and eliminate the need to heat up a full-size oven for small meals. The key is choosing a 9+ quart model with dual baskets or oven-style capacity to avoid batch cooking.
What size air fryer do I need for a family of 6?
For a family of 6, you need at least a 9-quart air fryer, but a 10-quart dual-basket model is ideal. The Ninja Foodi 10-QT DualZone and Cosori 9-QT Dual Air Fryer both fit a family of 6 comfortably without batch cooking. For families that entertain, go up to 12 to 26 quarts.
What is the 25 rule for air fryers?
The 25 rule for air fryers means filling the basket no more than 25 percent full when cooking breaded or battered foods. This allows proper air circulation for crispy results. For dense foods like chicken or vegetables, you can fill up to 75 percent without issues.
Why are people getting rid of their air fryers?
The most common reasons people get rid of air fryers are: buying too small and having to batch cook, the nonstick coating peeling after 1 to 2 years, difficulty cleaning intricate basket designs, and the appliance taking up too much counter space. Choosing a 9+ quart model with dishwasher-safe parts addresses most of these complaints.
Final Verdict: Which Large Air Fryer Should Big Families Buy in 2026?
After 60 days of cooking for my family of five and stress-testing all 8 air fryers in this roundup, my top pick for the best large air fryer for big families is the Ninja Foodi 10-QT DualZone. The dual independent baskets solve the biggest pain point for families, which is cooking different foods at once, and the Smart Finish technology genuinely works to sync cook times perfectly.
If you’re on a budget, the Chefman 12-Quart Air Fryer Oven delivers 12 quarts and a rotisserie for under $120, which is unbeatable value. If you have a small kitchen, the Ninja DoubleStack XL gives you 10 quarts in a 40 percent slimmer footprint. And if you entertain large groups regularly, the Emeril Lagasse 26QT is the only model in our roundup that handles a 12-pound turkey in one cook.
The best large air fryers for big families in 2026 all share three traits: 9+ quart capacity, dishwasher-safe components, and proven reliability from thousands of verified reviews. Whichever model you choose from this list, you’ll stop batch cooking and start enjoying weeknight dinners that hit the table hot and crispy, together.