Hamilton Beach Air Fryer Toaster Oven Review

The Hamilton Beach Air Fryer Toaster Oven (Model 31403) is a versatile, compact kitchen appliance that merges the functionality of an air fryer with a toaster oven. With its stainless-steel construction and a design that comfortably fits on most countertops, it is well-suited for small kitchens, apartments, and individuals who want a multi-purpose appliance.

This model features a powerful 1120-watt air circulation system designed to cook food evenly, delivering crispy, golden-brown results with minimal oil. With its intuitive knob controls and spacious interior that fits up to four slices of toast or a 9-inch pizza, the Hamilton Beach is one of the best air fryer toaster oven options for those looking to streamline their kitchen routine affordably.

Key Features

• Sure-Crisp Air Fry Technology

  Ensures even browning and crisping of food with little to no oil.

• 4 Cooking Functions

  Air frying, baking, broiling, and toasting.

• Compact Yet Spacious Interior

  Fits a 9-inch pizza, four slices of toast, or a 3-pound chicken.

• Convenient Accessories

  Includes an air-fry basket, bake pan, and broil rack.

• Adjustable Temperature

  Ranges from 200°F to 450°F for a wide variety of cooking needs.

• Easy Cleanup

  Slide-out crumb tray and dishwasher-safe accessories.

Specifications

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact Design: Space-saving, fits comfortably on countertops.
• Versatile Functions: Air fry, bake, broil, and toast in one appliance.
• User-Friendly: Simple knob controls make it easy to use.
• Even Cooking: Sure-Crisp technology provides consistent browning.
• Affordable: Cost-effective for a multi-purpose appliance.

Cons

• Limited Capacity: Small interior may not be suitable for large families.
• Manual Controls: No digital display for precise temperature control.
• Single Rack: Limits cooking options, especially for multi-dish meals.

Performance and Usability

Cooking Performance

The Hamilton Beach Air Fryer Toaster Oven’s 1120-watt heating element provides consistent, even heating. Its standout feature is the Sure-Crisp air circulation system, which circulates hot air around food for a crispy finish. This toaster oven can handle a wide variety of foods, from crispy French fries to baked goods, grilled meats, and roasted vegetables, all without excessive oil. Its air fry feature is highly effective, making it possible to achieve a crispy finish with as little as one teaspoon of oil.

Usability

This model is operated through four rotary knobs: one for function selection, another for temperature, and two additional controls for cooking time and toast shade. This analog approach to control allows for quick setting adjustments but lacks the precision of digital options. The oven also features a 30-minute timer with auto shutoff, ensuring that your food is cooked safely without the risk of overcooking or burning.

Capacity

The interior is spacious enough to accommodate a variety of foods, fitting up to four slices of bread or a 9-inch pizza. For a small to medium-sized family or an individual, this size is typically sufficient, though those looking to cook large meals may find it restrictive.

Conclusion

The Hamilton Beach Air Fryer Toaster Oven is an impressive kitchen appliance that combines air frying, baking, broiling, and toasting in one compact unit. Its Sure-Crisp air frying technology makes it ideal for creating crispy, delicious food with little to no oil, delivering a healthier option for fried foods. Though it may not have the capacity or features of high-end toaster ovens, its affordable price and effective functionality make it a valuable addition to smaller kitchens or households looking to simplify their cooking appliances.

With its user-friendly knob controls and thoughtful accessories, this model provides excellent value for money. Its consistent performance, efficient design, and multifunctionality make it a reliable tool for home cooks who want versatility without sacrificing countertop space.

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Comparison with Similar Products

Comparison Summary

• Hamilton Beach Air Fryer Toaster Oven

  Ideal for budget-conscious users, this model is compact, easy to use, and provides a good range of cooking options for its price. The Sure-Crisp air fry technology works well, though the lack of digital controls and larger capacity may limit its functionality for larger families.

• Cuisinart TOA-60 Air Fryer Toaster Oven

  : A premium option with a larger capacity and a wider variety of cooking options. This model is well-suited for families and those seeking high-performance air frying but at a higher price point.

• Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fryer Oven (SP101)

  Known for its innovative flip-up design, this model offers quick cooking and easy storage. The digital controls add precision, and it includes more cooking functions than the Hamilton Beach model, though it is more expensive.

• Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer

  With the highest price in the comparison, this model offers exceptional cooking precision with Element IQ technology and a wide temperature range. It’s perfect for those looking for an all-in-one appliance that can handle complex recipes with precision but may be more than needed for simpler cooking tasks.

FAQs

How to air fry with Hamilton Beach toaster oven?

To air fry with the Hamilton Beach toaster oven, start by preheating the oven to the desired temperature, typically between 375°F and 400°F depending on the food you’re preparing. Arrange your food in a single layer in the air-fry basket or on the included baking tray, ensuring there’s enough space around each piece for air to circulate. Place the tray or basket on the rack positioned at the center of the oven, as this allows the air to flow evenly around the food. Set the timer according to your recipe or preference—most air-fried foods, like fries or chicken wings, will take about 15 to 20 minutes. Flip the food halfway through cooking for the crispiest results.

The Hamilton Beach toaster oven’s Sure-Crisp air frying function uses powerful convection to create crispy food with little to no oil. To enhance the crispiness, lightly coat your ingredients with a small amount of oil or cooking spray before placing them in the oven. Keep an eye on your food, especially when you’re trying out new recipes, as air fryers can cook more quickly than traditional ovens. When done, allow the food to cool slightly before serving, as it will be hot and crispy directly from the oven.

Is Hamilton air fryer good?

Yes, the Hamilton Beach air fryer toaster oven is a solid choice for anyone looking for a versatile and budget-friendly air fryer. Its Sure-Crisp air frying function provides even browning and a satisfyingly crispy texture on foods like fries, chicken, and vegetables with minimal oil. While it may not have the advanced digital controls or larger capacity of higher-end models, it performs well for a wide range of cooking needs, including baking, broiling, and toasting. Many users appreciate its ease of use, as it features simple knob controls and doesn’t require a complicated setup.

In terms of durability and performance, Hamilton Beach has a reputation for making reliable kitchen appliances, and this model lives up to that standard. The stainless steel design is sturdy and easy to clean, while the compact size makes it a practical addition to small kitchens. For those who want the benefits of an air fryer without the need for a separate appliance, this toaster oven is a convenient and effective solution.

Is it worth getting a toaster oven air fryer?

A toaster oven air fryer can be a worthwhile investment, especially if you’re looking for a versatile appliance that combines multiple cooking functions. This type of appliance offers the benefits of an air fryer—crisping food with minimal oil—while also allowing you to bake, broil, and toast, which can be helpful if you have limited kitchen space or want to streamline your cooking setup. The Hamilton Beach air fryer toaster oven, for example, is compact and affordable, making it an attractive option for those who want to experiment with air frying without dedicating counter space to a single-use device.

Additionally, having a toaster oven air fryer can save time and energy, as it typically preheats faster and cooks more efficiently than a full-sized oven. Whether you’re cooking for one or preparing a quick side dish, this multifunctional appliance can add convenience to your kitchen. If you frequently prepare small portions and appreciate the crispy results of air frying, a toaster oven air fryer is a smart choice.

Can you bake in a Hamilton Beach toaster oven?

Yes, the Hamilton Beach toaster oven is well-suited for baking a variety of dishes, from cookies and muffins to small casseroles and personal pizzas. Its temperature range of 200°F to 450°F provides enough flexibility to handle most baking tasks, and the compact size allows it to heat up quickly, making it a good alternative to using a large oven. When baking, simply set the temperature and place your dish on the center rack for even heat distribution. This model includes a baking pan, so you won’t need additional accessories for simple recipes.

The toaster oven’s compact design also means that it can bake items more efficiently, saving time and energy. Whether you’re making a small batch of brownies or heating up frozen treats, the Hamilton Beach toaster oven can handle it. Just be mindful of its size limitations—it’s ideal for small to medium portions, but it may not accommodate larger baking dishes.

Can you use aluminum foil in a Hamilton Beach toaster oven?

Yes, you can use aluminum foil in a Hamilton Beach toaster oven, but it’s important to follow some guidelines to ensure safe use. When using foil, place it on the baking tray or pan, rather than directly on the oven’s heating elements or walls, as this could cause overheating or damage the oven. You can use foil to line the baking tray or wrap foods, but make sure it doesn’t cover the entire surface, as this can restrict airflow, affecting the cooking results.

If you’re using foil to cover a dish or prevent spills, avoid letting it touch the sides of the oven, as this may interfere with the airflow and cause uneven cooking. It’s also advisable to avoid using highly reflective foil, which can trap heat and potentially cause burning. When used properly, aluminum foil can help with cleanup and keep certain foods from drying out, making it a useful tool in the Hamilton Beach toaster oven.