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Toaster ovens have become a must-have appliance in today's kitchens due to their versatility and convenience. No longer are they limited to only toasting bread or bagels, but they can also bake, broil, and roast, like a full-size oven. This makes them a valuable addition to any home as they can save you time and energy. But with so many options available in the market, finding the right one for your needs can be a daunting task. In this blog post, we will guide you through the top nine best toaster ovens, factors to consider before buying one, and tips for maintaining them so that you can find the perfect one for your kitchen.
How to Choose the Right Toaster Oven for You
Navigating the world of toaster ovens can feel overwhelming, given the vast array of options on the market. To help you make an informed decision, here's a list of key factors to consider as you search for the ideal toaster oven to suit your needs:
Size
Think about your specific cooking requirements and the space available in your kitchen. If you're short on counter space, a compact toaster oven could be your ideal solution.
Versatile Cooking Functions
Seek out a toaster oven that boasts multiple cooking functions, such as baking, broiling, and toasting. This versatility will empower you to create a diverse range of delicious dishes.
Precise Temperature Control
Choose a toaster oven with adjustable temperature control settings, enabling you to fine-tune your cooking process for each unique dish.
Timing is Everything
A built-in timer will help you set the perfect cooking duration for your food, ensuring consistently delectable results without the risk of overcooking or burning.
Price Considerations
Keep your budget in mind and look for a toaster oven that not only satisfies your culinary needs but also remains affordable.
Trustworthy Brands
Opt for a reputable brand with glowing reviews to guarantee a high-quality toaster oven that will stand the test of time.
Extra Perks
Keep an eye out for additional features, such as a removable crumb tray, non-stick interior, and built-in light. These enhancements can streamline your cooking.
By considering these factors, you can choose the right toaster oven for your needs and enjoy delicious and perfectly cooked meals every time.
Tips for Maintaining Your Toaster Oven
Toaster ovens are a handy appliance to have in any kitchen, but like all appliances, they require proper maintenance to work effectively and last a long time. Here are some tips for maintaining your toaster oven:
Keep it clean
Regularly wipe down the interior and exterior of your toaster oven with a damp cloth. Use a mild cleaning solution if necessary, but be sure to rinse thoroughly and let the toaster oven dry completely before using it again.
Remove crumbs
Toaster ovens are notorious for accumulating crumbs, which can burn and create a fire hazard. Use the crumb tray to collect any crumbs, and clean it out regularly.
Use non-abrasive cleaners
When cleaning your toaster oven, use non-abrasive cleaners to avoid scratching the interior or exterior surfaces. Avoid using steel wool or other abrasive scrubbers.
Check the heating elements
Over time, the heating elements in your toaster oven can become dirty or corroded. Check them periodically and clean them if necessary. If they are damaged, replace them.
Use the right cookware
To avoid damaging your toaster oven, use only cookware that is designed for use in a toaster oven. Avoid using aluminum foil or other metal items, which can cause a fire hazard.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions
Read the user manual that came with your toaster oven and follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance. This will help ensure that your toaster oven lasts a long time and operates safely.
By following these tips, you can keep your toaster oven in good working condition and avoid the need for costly repairs or replacements.
Our Favorite Toaster Ovens to Try
In this collection, we have handpicked the best toaster ovens on the market, perfect for all your toasting, baking, and broiling needs. From compact designs for small kitchens to high-capacity models for avid home chefs, each of these toaster ovens combines style, functionality, and innovation. Whether you're a busy parent searching for quick meal solutions, a student looking for a versatile appliance, or a gourmet cook seeking to elevate your culinary creations, our curated list of top toaster ovens will cater to your every requirement. Dive in to explore the various features, user experiences, and unique benefits of our recommended toaster ovens and find the perfect match for your kitchen.
Best Splurge
These sleek stainless steel convection toaster ovens option introduces Element IQ technology for lightning-fast heat-up times and oh-so-even cooking. With 10 pre-set functions (baking, broiling, toasting, and more), you'll never have to worry about unevenly cooked food again. Its spacious 1 cu. ft interior can easily fit six slices of bread or even a 13-inch pizza! Plus, it comes with an extra set of accessories (pizza pan, baking pan, and broil rack) for all your culinary adventures.
Sure, it's a bit pricey compared to other models, but its 4.6-star average and over 6,800 verified five-star ratings speak for themselves. One happy customer gushed, "I love using this when I want to avoid heating up our large ovens. Great for toasting, baking and warming up food. I learned long ago that digital is the best option for toaster ovens. I checked with a thermometer and this one is very close to accurate." It's time to elevate your kitchen game with the Breville Smart Oven Pro!
Best Overall
The Cuisinart Chef's Convection Toaster Oven is a game-changer for any kitchen. Its generous interior can accommodate up to 6 slices of bread or a 9-inch pizza, making it suitable for both small and large cooking needs. Its 15 cooking functions are a standout feature, including dehydrate, convection bake, broil, and bagel, enabling you to prepare a wide range of dishes with ease.
Utilizing the convection setting of the toaster oven, you can achieve quicker and more consistent cooking outcomes. The upper and lower elements of the oven collaborate seamlessly to guarantee that your food is cooked flawlessly every time. Furthermore, the package comes with indispensable accessories like a baking tray, broiling rack, crumb tray, and recipe book, equipping you with all the necessary tools to commence your cooking journey.
This versatile toaster convection oven offers an array of convenient features that take the hassle out of meal preparation. It also has a convection fan that allows you to cook excellent rotisserie-style chicken. Its intuitive controls and easy-to-read display make it simple to adjust the temperature, cooking time, and cooking function to suit your preferences. It is a perfect appliance for busy families or individuals looking to make healthy and delicious meals in a hurry.
With over 2,800 verified five-star ratings and an impressive 4.5-star average, it's no wonder that the Cuisinart Chef's Convection Toaster Oven has been deemed an "Excellent Toaster Oven." While it may be on the pricier side, this kitchen appliance is definitely worth the investment. Say goodbye to burnt toast and unevenly cooked meals, and hello to delicious, perfectly cooked dishes every time.
Best Affordable
Boasting four dynamic cooking functions, including toasting, broiling, baking, and keeping food warm, this versatile appliance is the perfect culinary companion for individuals or small families seeking to create scrumptious meals with ease. The toaster oven is specifically designed to accommodate those who prefer preparing single servings or smaller food items, and its compact interior space is ideally suited for those with limited kitchen counter space, making it an outstanding space-saving solution.
In addition to its space-conscious design, this toaster oven is also budget-friendly, providing an exceptional option for those on a tight budget. Its multi-functionality and efficient design make it a trustworthy kitchen appliance capable of delivering consistent results with minimal effort.
But don't just take our word for it – the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster Oven garners an impressive 4.4-star average and boasts over 17,900 verified five-star ratings. One elated customer raves, "We've had this toaster oven for about 3 months now. Love it! It's more compact than our previous toaster oven but still roomy enough for the two of us." This versatile appliance can easily accommodate four slices of bread, reheat a slice of pizza, and even create mouthwatering toasted cheese sandwiches, making it an invaluable addition to any kitchen.
Whether you're scrambling to prepare breakfast, dinner, or a quick snack, this toaster oven delivers the flexibility and convenience necessary to concoct a delectable meal in a snap. It's the ultimate appliance for those who desire a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen or putting a strain on their budget.
Best Practical
The Oster Toaster Oven is a practical and budget-friendly kitchen essential that boasts seven versatile cooking functions, such as toasting, baking, broiling, and pizza making. It is expertly designed to cater to the needs of individuals or families seeking swift and efficient meal preparation without monopolizing valuable counter space.
Furthermore, this toaster oven features a spacious interior that can accommodate six slices of bread or a 12-inch pizza with ease. It also comes with a baking pan, broiling rack, and crumb tray, which streamline the cooking process.
The Oster Toaster Oven has garnered a remarkable 4.6-star average and over 8,000 verified five-star ratings. Customers have lauded its consistent performance, even heating, and exceptional value for the money. In fact, one enthusiastic customer shared that their entire family enjoys using this toaster oven, with older members appreciating the absence of bending over and younger ones relishing the rapid heating time. Moreover, this customer highlighted that the toaster oven bakes flawlessly and evenly, and can even accommodate a 12-inch pizza, prompting them to abandon their larger oven altogether.
Best Budget Friendly
The Hamilton Beach toaster excels in toasting, baking, and broiling, thanks to its precision timer and auto shut-off function. Effortlessly accommodating six slices of bread or a 12-inch pizza, this toaster oven streamlines meal preparation. Its innovative easy-reach roll-top door provides hassle-free access to your culinary creations, while the removable crumb tray ensures a swift and simple cleaning process. The convenience and efficiency of this appliance make it an indispensable addition to any kitchen.
But don't just take our word for it – over 5,200 delighted customers have awarded this toaster oven an impressive 4.6-star average rating, with many extolling its straightforward operation and versatile functionality. One satisfied customer even exclaimed, "Bought one for our home, just bought it again for our vacation home. Works great, very easy to use, reasonably priced, would buy it again." With its budget-friendly price and practical features, the Hamilton Beach 6-Slice Countertop Toaster Oven is an essential kitchen addition for anyone seeking to simplify their mornings and enhance their culinary experience.
Best Design
The KitchenAid Air Fryer Toaster Oven is a remarkably versatile kitchen appliance adept at tackling an extensive array of cooking tasks. With 12 preset cooking functions, effortlessly roast, bake, fry, and grill an assortment of scrumptious meals and desserts. Whether you're whipping up a meal for one or catering to a crowd, this toaster oven has your culinary needs covered.
A standout feature of this exceptional toaster oven is its advanced dual convection technology, ensuring your food is cooked evenly and swiftly, yielding impeccable results every time. Boasting a spacious 12-inch interior equipped with a bake and broil function, you'll enjoy ample room to prepare delightful dishes for your family and guests. Furthermore, the non-stick interior simplifies the cleaning process, allowing you to spend less time tidying up and more time savoring your mouthwatering creations.
In summary, the KitchenAid Toaster Oven is an excellent investment for those seeking a multi-functional and efficient kitchen appliance. Don't just take our word for it – customers rave about this model, with one reviewer enthusing, "Great value and it works really, really well." Its sleek and stylish matte black design is poised to complement any kitchen décor, and while it may be pricier than other options, the outstanding 4.7-star average rating speaks volumes. You won't regret investing in this top-of-the-line kitchen essential.
Best Compact
The Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven revolutionizes efficient cooking with its groundbreaking double infrared heating technology, ensuring faster and more even cooking compared to traditional toaster ovens. Featuring six versatile cooking functions, including toast, bake, and reheating, effortlessly craft a diverse array of dishes with ease.
A standout attribute of this toaster oven is its intuitive digital timer and temperature control, complete with pre-set settings for various types of food. This guarantees perfect results every time, eliminating the need for guesswork. Despite its compact design, this toaster oven can comfortably accommodate up to four slices of bread or a small pizza, making it an ideal fit for small kitchens, dorm rooms, and RVs.
In summary, the Panasonic NB-G110P FlashXpress Toaster Oven is a wise investment for those seeking to elevate their culinary prowess. Its cutting-edge technology and adaptable cooking functions render it an indispensable addition to any kitchen. With over 6,300 verified five-star ratings and an impressive 4.5-star average, it's no surprise that customers are singing its praises. In fact, one delighted customer even dubbed it the "World's Best Toaster Oven!!!!" Don't hesitate - to enhance your kitchen experience with the Panasonic Toaster Oven FlashXpress today!
Best Multi-Functional
The Toaster Oven 4 Slice by Mueller Austria is a must-have for anyone looking for a versatile and compact appliance for their kitchen. With eight cooking functions, including toast, bake, broil, and rotisserie, this toaster oven can handle all your cooking needs. Its natural convection and 1100 watts of power ensure that it heats up quickly and evenly, making it the perfect solution for anything you'd normally put in your oven without heating up the whole kitchen.
Despite its powerful capabilities, this toaster oven is compact and space-saving. It features a spacious interior that can fit four slices of bread or a 9” pizza, making it ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, and RVs. The included accessories, such as a baking pan, crumb tray, and rotisserie kit, provide everything you need to get started. With over 7,400 verified five-star ratings and a 4.1-star average, this toaster oven is a fan-favorite.
However, it's worth noting that the limited temperature control may not suit all cooking needs. If precise temperature control is important to you, this may not be the best option. But if you're looking for a versatile and compact appliance that can handle a variety of cooking tasks, the Toaster Oven 4 Slice by Mueller Austria is a great choice. Upgrade your kitchen game and add this toaster oven to your countertop today!
Best Value
This remarkable 10-in-1 appliance is the ultimate solution for crafting everything from crispy pizzas to mouthwatering rotisserie chicken. Boasting 10 versatile cooking functions, including baking, broiling, and cooking, you can effortlessly prepare all your cherished dishes.
The capacious interior of this toaster oven accommodates up to 6 slices of bread or a 12-inch pizza, making it perfect for families or entertaining guests. It comes complete with multiple racks to fulfill all your cooking requirements, and the included baking pan, broiling rack, and crumb tray ensure you have everything you need to dive into culinary adventures straight out of the box. Its intuitive digital controls and pre-set modes make it incredibly user-friendly and a breeze to operate.
With over 3,600 verified five-star ratings and an impressive 4.6-star average, it's no surprise that this appliance has captured the hearts of countless customers. The only potential drawback is that it may take a bit longer to heat up compared to other models; however, considering its wealth of features and functionalities, we believe it's well worth the wait.
Toaster Ovens FAQ
Toaster ovens are versatile and compact kitchen appliances that can be used for a wide variety of cooking tasks, from toasting bread to baking pizzas and roasting vegetables. With all the toaster ovens options on the market, it can be challenging to know which one to choose. If you're in the market for a toaster oven, you likely have some questions about features, brands, and usage. This toaster ovens FAQ will answer some of the most common questions about toaster ovens to help you make an informed decision and get the most out of your appliance.
How to clean a toaster oven?
To clean a toaster oven, first, unplug it and allow it to cool completely. Remove the crumb tray and wash it with warm, soapy water. If the tray is not removable, wipe it out with a damp cloth. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior of the toaster oven, being careful not to get water or cleaning solution in any of the heating elements or vents. For tougher stains, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water or a commercial oven cleaner. Apply the cleaner to a damp cloth and gently scrub the affected areas. Rinse the cloth and wipe away any residue. Finally, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe down the exterior of the toaster oven. Allow everything to dry completely before plugging the toaster oven back in and using it again. It's important to clean your toaster oven regularly to prevent the buildup of grease and food debris, which can cause it to smoke or even catch fire.
What can you cook in a toaster oven?
A toaster oven is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to prepare a variety of dishes. Due to its compact size and quick heating capabilities, a toaster oven is perfect for cooking small meals and snacks. Some of the dishes that can be cooked in a toaster oven include toast, bagels, frozen pizzas, frozen french fries, roasted vegetables, baked potatoes, and even small cuts of meat like chicken breasts or fish fillets. Additionally, a toaster oven can be used to reheat leftovers and bake desserts like cookies or small cakes. The precise temperature control and shorter cooking times of a toaster oven make it a useful tool in any kitchen, whether you're cooking for one or a small family.
What is the disadvantage of a toaster oven?
One disadvantage of a toaster oven is its limited capacity. Due to its smaller size, a toaster oven can only cook small portions of food at a time, making it less suitable for cooking for larger groups or families. Additionally, some toaster ovens may not distribute heat evenly, resulting in unevenly cooked or burnt food if not monitored closely. Another potential disadvantage is that some models may take longer to preheat than a conventional oven, which can be inconvenient if you're in a hurry. Lastly, while a toaster oven can be a convenient alternative to a full-sized oven, it may not be able to achieve the same level of precision and consistency in cooking that a larger oven can provide.
Can I use a toaster oven instead of a regular oven?
Yes, a toaster oven can be used instead of a regular oven for many types of cooking and baking tasks, especially for smaller portions or for when you don't want to heat up a larger oven. A toaster oven can be used to cook or bake a variety of dishes, including toast, bagels, frozen pizzas, roasted vegetables, baked potatoes, and even small cuts of meat like chicken breasts or fish fillets. Additionally, a toaster oven can be used to reheat leftovers and bake desserts like cookies or small cakes. However, it's important to keep in mind that a toaster oven has a smaller capacity and may not distribute heat as evenly as a conventional oven, so it may take longer to cook some dishes or require more frequent monitoring. Overall, a toaster oven can be a useful alternative to a regular oven for smaller cooking tasks and for those with limited space in their kitchen.
What are common problems with a toaster oven?
Some common problems with toaster ovens include uneven heating, malfunctioning timer or temperature settings, burnt or undercooked food, and issues with the door or hinge. Uneven heating can result in some areas of the food being overcooked while others remain undercooked. A malfunctioning timer or temperature settings can cause the toaster oven to overheat or not cook the food properly. Burnt or undercooked food can be caused by incorrect temperature settings or not monitoring the cooking process closely enough. Issues with the door or hinge can make it difficult to open or close the toaster oven, or may prevent it from staying closed during cooking. Additionally, some toaster ovens may develop a build-up of crumbs or grease over time, which can cause it to smoke or produce an unpleasant odor. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent many of these common problems with toaster ovens.
What is a toaster oven good for?
A toaster oven is a small kitchen appliance that can be used for a variety of cooking tasks. It is essentially a mini oven that can be used to bake, roast, broil, and toast food. Because of its compact size, it heats up quickly and can be used to cook small portions of food without having to heat up a large oven. A toaster oven can be used to toast bread, bagels, and other baked goods, as well as cook small dishes such as pizzas, casseroles, and roasted vegetables. It can also be used for reheating leftovers and cooking frozen foods. Overall, a toaster oven is a versatile and convenient appliance that can be a great addition to any kitchen, especially for those who cook small meals or have limited space.
What is a toaster oven good for?
Toaster ovens can be a worthwhile investment for many people, especially those who have limited space in their kitchens or who often cook small meals. They are versatile appliances that can be used for a variety of cooking tasks, from toasting bread to roasting vegetables. Because of their smaller size, they heat up quickly and can save time and energy compared to using a full-size oven. Additionally, most toaster ovens come with features such as multiple cooking settings, timers, and temperature control, allowing for precise cooking and customization of meals. However, the value of a toaster oven may depend on individual cooking habits and preferences. For those who rarely cook or have ample kitchen space, a toaster oven may not be necessary. But for those who enjoy cooking and want a convenient and versatile appliance, a toaster oven can be a great addition to their kitchen.
Can toaster ovens air fry?
Yes, some toaster ovens come with an air fryer function or feature, which allows them to function as an air fryer. These toaster ovens use a combination of hot air and high-speed air circulation to cook food, which creates a crispy, fried texture without the need for oil.
Toaster ovens with air fryer capabilities typically have a basket or tray that allows the hot air to circulate around the food, which helps to cook it evenly. Some models may also include additional accessories, such as a baking pan or a rack, to increase the versatility of the appliance. However, it's important to note that not all toaster ovens have air fryer functions, so if this is a feature you're interested in, be sure to look for a model that specifically includes it.
Final Thoughts
These nine toaster ovens are sure to make your mornings totally irresistible! With features like adjustable temperature settings, multiple cooking functions, and spacious interiors, these appliances will help you make the perfect toast every time. Whether you're in the mood for bagels, English muffins, or traditional toast, these toaster ovens have got you covered.
If you're in the market for a new toaster oven, we highly recommend considering one of the models we have reviewed. From the budget-friendly Hamilton Beach to the high-end Breville, there is a toaster oven for every budget and need. So why settle for plain old toast when you can have deliciously crispy, perfectly toasted bread every morning? Be sure to leave your comments below and let us know which toaster oven is your favorite!
Reviews in this blog post have been edited for clarity and/or length.
