Money may earn a commission when you click on the products and services below. Compensation may determine where and how they appear. This content was created and/or updated by a third party and not by Money's editorial staff.

All the Different Types of Air Fryers and What You Can Make in Them

Published: Apr 14, 2023 5 min read
Asian wife made Oilless Air Fryer machine for cooking a fried chicken for today dinner, this image can use for food, kitchen and technology concept.
Courtesy of iStock

If you’re looking to make healthier meals with less oil, then an air fryer should be your go-to kitchen appliance. With an air fryer, you can make a wide variety of tasty foods without as much added fat and calories as traditional frying. But with so many different models available, it can be hard to figure out which one you should get.

In this post, we’ll take a look at the different types of air fryers available and what each one can do for you. We’ll discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each type to help you determine which model might be the right fit for your needs. Plus, we’ll share some delicious recipes that you can prepare in your new air fryer.

Types of air fryers

Basic air fryers

The most fundamental type of air fryer is the standard model. It uses a basket to hold the food being cooked and offers basic temperature and time controls. This type of air fryer is ideal for those just getting started, as it’s easy to use and generally more affordable.

Digital air fryers

For those wanting more control over their cooking experience, many manufacturers produce digital air fryers with advanced functions and capabilities. These machines allow users to precisely set temperature and timing through a user-friendly digital interface. They also typically have pre-programmed settings to prepare various foods like French fries or chicken in optimal ways.

Air fryers with convection modes

For those looking for an even more robust appliance, some manufacturers offer air fryers that also feature convection oven capabilities. These units are typically larger than standard models and offer much more cooking versatility. With the addition of convection baking, these units can be used to make all sorts of delicious dishes beyond those typically cooked in an air fryer, such as pizza and lasagna.

Foods you can cook in an air fryer

One of the best things about air frying is the variety of foods you can cook in them. Along with preparing traditional fried foods like French fries and chicken wings, you can also roast vegetables, bake cakes and cookies and much more. Air fryers are also great for reheating leftovers. The possibilities are truly endless!

Accessories to enhance your air fryer cooking

While an air fryer is a great tool on its own, there are a few accessories that can add even more versatility to your cooking experience. Here are a few you may want to consider:

  • Baking rack: This rack helps keep certain foods elevated for optimal air frying results, offering convection-style cooking to all sides.
  • Air fryer-safe parchment sheets: These parchment sheets act as liners to help prevent food from sticking to the air fryer basket during cooking.
  • Cookbooks: Cookbooks specifically designed for air fryers are a great way to explore new recipes and techniques.
  • Pizza pan: This pan is the perfect accessory if you’re looking to cook up a pizza with a crispy crust in your air fryer!

Tips for getting the most out of your air fryer

Air fryers can be a very useful appliance in the kitchen but they will only perform at their best if you understand how they work. Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your air fryer:

  • Preheat your air fryer before adding food. This will help ensure optimal temperatures and even cooking times for all your ingredients.
  • Shake or stir your ingredients regularly. This ensures that all food surfaces are exposed to the hot air for even cooking results.
  • Avoid overfilling your air fryer basket. Overcrowding the basket decreases circulation and reduces efficiency.
  • Use oil spray sparingly. Too much oil can affect cooking times and lead to greasy results.
  • Make sure to clean your air fryer after each use. This helps prolong its life while ensuring good hygiene practices!

Conclusion

Air fryers can be a great tool for making healthier meals with less oil and fuss. There are a variety of models available to choose from, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. By selecting the right one, learning how to regulate its temperature and time and investing in the right accessories and cookbooks, you can maximize its capabilities for optimal results. With all of this knowledge, you’ll be able to prepare delicious and satisfying meals in no time!