Find the Air Fryer Size That’s Best for You
Before investing in a shiny new kitchen appliance, make sure it’s the right fit for you—literally. You don’t want to sacrifice precious counter space in vain! When it comes to air fryers, the best way to ensure you’re going to actually use it is to choose the right size. After all, these gadgets range from small to extra-large—from 1.6 quarts all the way to up to a whopping 8.
To help make your choice easier, we called on pros Regina Chaperon and Kara Shilalie, creators of Air Fryer Addicts—an Instagram account devoted to scrumptious meals cooked in the mini oven—for guidance on finding the right air fryer size for every type of cook.
If you’re looking for recommendations on brands, check out our Test Kitchen’s air fryer review.
When Cooking for 1:
Let’s say you cook for yourself and the occasional guest. Look for a small-capacity air fryer that holds 2 quarts at most. It’s enough room to roast a few chicken tenders with a side of Brussels sprouts.
But don’t forget to consider your cooking bucket list. If you dream of making appetizers for all your friends or cooking a meal with plenty of leftovers, you might want to consider going one size up.
“We wish we went larger with our first model,” says Chaperon, who cooks everything from toast to chicken thighs in her air fryer. “We didn’t realize how much we would use it!” She even finds herself reheating leftovers, especially pizza and french fries.
We Recommend: The 2-quart Copper Chef Air Fryer
Don’t miss our best air fryer cooking tips.
When Cooking for a Family of 2:
If it’s mostly you and your beau sitting around the dinner table, the air frying aficionados recommend a 2- or 3-quart air fryer. The basket provides enough space to cook approximately six chicken wings at a time or enough vegetables for two people.
The quick-cooking ability of the air fryer allows for versatility on busy weeknights. “Some nights when I don’t feel like having the same dinner as my fiance, I can throw something in and have dinner ready in 5 to 10 minutes,” says Shilalie, who has two air fryers at home.
We Recommend: The 2.75-quart Philips TurboStar Air Fryer
When Cooking for Families Up to 6:
When you’re cooking for three or more, an air fryer with a larger basket allows you to get dinner (and dessert) on the table in record time. Chaperon, a full-time teacher, upgraded to a 6-quart air fryer to make meals for her family of three. “I love how the air fryer allows me to get dinner ready in half the time. As a working mom with a picky 6-year-old, the air fryer allows versatility and also allows me to get creative with meals,” she says.
Although Chaperon uses her 6-quart air fryer for her 3-person family, it’s also the perfect air fryer size for a family of 4—and it can even work as a great size air fryer for a family of 6 depending on what you typically like to cook. If you’re making something like Nashville hot chicken, keep in mind you may need to cook the recipe in a few batches.
We Recommend: The 5.8-quart GoWISE Air Fryer
When Cooking for Parties of 8 or More:
When you have an open-door policy and find yourself surrounded by friends and family on the weekends, go for the extra-large basket size or an oven model air fryer. That way, you can whip up party plates and quick appetizers that feed a crowd in a jiffy. “The oven model air fryers are ideal if you are looking to replace other appliances, such as your toaster oven. They fit nicely on your counter and take up less space,” Shilalie says.
An air fryer basket within the 6- to 10-quart size range will provide enough room to roast a whole chicken, a whole pizza and pounds of finger foods.
We Recommend: The 8-quart Chefman Air Fryer
Become an Air Fryer Expert with Our Guides
After you choose the right size air fryer for you and bring it home, check out our air-fryer cooking guide that will teach you everything you need to know—from how to convert your favorite recipes for the air fryer to how to clean it. Make sure you know the difference between the air fryer and the oven and keep these air-fryer accessories in mind as you work your way from air-fryer beginner to whiz.
Top Recipes for Your New Go-To Gadget
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Get Ready to Air Fry!
Put your air fryer to work! This handy gadget can make pretty much everything, from appetizers to main dishes—and even desserts! You’ll find the details for the recipes in this video in the following slides. By the way, here's what an air fryer really does to your food.
Air-Fryer Southern-Style Chicken
I call this America’s best-loved air-fryer chicken recipe. The secret is in the herby, golden brown breading that makes the chicken super moist and flavorful. —Elaina Morgan, Rickman, Tennessee
Want to know the secret to crispy, golden-brown air-fried food? We've got air fryer tips that'll help every recipe come out perfectly.
Air-Fryer Garlic-Rosemary Brussels Sprouts
This air-fryer Brussels sprouts recipe is my go-to Thanksgiving side dish. It's healthy and easy, and it doesn't take very much time or effort to make. I usually use rosemary for my turkey, so this lets me use up some of the leftover herbs! —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah
Take a look at these other air fryer vegetable recipes.
Air-Fryer Pizza
When I figured out this air-fryer pizza recipe, I was in pizza heaven! It's super easy to make these personal pies, and now that my boys can customize their own, everyone is happy. —Margo Zoerner, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Air-Fryer Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies
I am crazy about chocolate chips, and this chewy cookie has enough to satisfy me. My husband and kids love these cookies. This big batch is perfect for our family. —Diane Neth, Menno, South Dakota
Air-Fryer Pickles
Enjoy deep-fried pickles? You’ll love this version even more. Dill pickle slices are coated with panko bread crumbs and spices, then air-fried until crispy. Dip them in ranch dressing for an appetizer you won’t soon forget. —Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado
Air-Fryer Fish and Fries
Looking for easy air fryer recipes? Try these simple fish and chips. The fish fillets have a fuss-free coating that's healthier but just as crunchy and golden as the deep-fried kind. Simply seasoned, the crispy fries are perfect on the side. —Janice Mitchell, Aurora, Colorado (Try these other air-fryer fish recipes, too!)
Air-Fryer Mini Nutella Doughnut Holes
You can make these air-fryer donuts in advance and then refrigerate them. It's important to bring the dough to room temperature before frying. —Renee Murphy, Smithtown, New York
Or make these classic air-fryer doughnuts!
Air-Fryer Ground Beef Wellington
Trying new recipes—like this air-fryer Wellington—is one of my favorite hobbies. I replaced the filet mignon with ground beef, while still keeping the beefy goodness. —Julie Frankamp, Nicollet, Minnesota
Air-Fryer Ravioli
While visiting a friend in St. Louis, Missouri, I tried fried ravioli at almost every restaurant we visited. When I got home, I had to try to replicate them, and I think this air-fryer ravioli recipe comes pretty close. —Cristina Carrera, Kenosha, Wisconsin
Air-Fryer Bread Pudding
This air-fryer bread pudding is a fun dish because the chocolate makes it different from traditional recipes. It's a rich, comforting dessert. —Mildred Sherrer, Fort Worth, Texas
Also check out these 17 air-fryer desserts you’ll want to make tonight.
Air-Fryer Crispy Curry Drumsticks
These air-fryer chicken drumsticks are flavorful, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Sometimes I'll add some red pepper flakes in addition to the curry powder if I want to spice them up a bit. I like to serve them with chicken-seasoned rice and boiled broccoli. —Zena Furgason, Norman, Oklahoma
Don't miss these addicting air-fryer appetizers.
Air-Fryer Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
These stuffed sweet potatoes are the perfect holiday side dish. Try preparing them ahead of time in the morning and then bake just before serving. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Popcorn Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw
I love combining classic flavors in new ways. This healthy recipe combines crispy popcorn shrimp and tacos! It’s one of my family’s favorites. To make the tacos lower in carbs, use lettuce instead of tortillas. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Bacon-Wrapped Avocado Wedges
We all know that almost everything is improved with bacon—and avocado is no exception. Since it's made in an air fryer, this appetizer is one to remember. It will definitely impress your friends! —James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy Editor
Air-Fryer Steak Fajitas
Zesty salsa and tender strips of meat make these air-fryer steak fajitas extra special. —Rebecca Baird, Salt Lake City, Utah
Ready for a healthy crunch? You can make air-fryer tortilla chips with way less oil than deep-fried tortilla chips!
Air-Fryer Coconut Shrimp
Panko crumbs give this spicy air-fryer coconut shrimp its crunch. It’s perfect as an appetizer or for your main meal. —Debi Mitchell, Flower Mound, Texas
Here's our Test Kitchen's complete guide to air fryers.
Air-Fryer Sweet and Sour Pork
Whether you’re serving a party of two or making a bigger batch for company, you’ll find this air-fryer sweet and sour pork a succulent choice. —Leigh Rys, Herndon, Virginia
Air-Fryer Wasabi Crab Cakes
With wasabi in both the crab cakes and the dipping sauce, this festive appetizer brings its own heat to the holiday party. —Marie Rizzio, Interlochen, Michigan
Air-Fryer Caribbean Wontons
I first served these fresh and fruity air-fryer wontons as an appetizer at a summer luau. My family and friends now enjoy this fried wonton recipe for dessert at special occasions throughout the year. —Melissa Birdsong, Gilbert, South Carolina
Air-Fryer Apple Fritters
An air fryer makes these easy apple fritters healthier than old-fashioned fritters, yet they are still just as delicious. They're a quick and easy dessert that includes a scrumptious brown butter glaze! —Alyssa Castriotta, North Scituate, Rhode Island
Air-Fryer Keto Meatballs
I have been following a keto diet for a year and a half and have lost 130 pounds. With this recipe for air-fryer keto meatballs, you won't miss the breadcrumbs at all! I like to eat these saucy meatballs on their own, but they're also great over zucchini noodles. —Holly Balzer-Harz, Malone, New York
Air-Fryer Taco Twists
Why serve tacos only in ordinary flour or corn tortillas? For a mouthwatering change of pace, try these air-fried tacos baked in flaky, golden crescent rolls. My family enjoys them for a warm lunch or light dinner. —Carla Kreider, Quarryville, Pennsylvania
Air-Fryer Potato Chips
For Christmas one year, I received an air fryer. Potato chips are simple to make in it and are an essential, crispy side for lunch. —Melissa Obernesser, Oriskany, New York
Air-Fryer Spicy Ginger Beef Skewers
My family loves the flavors of these zippy kabobs. I usually grill them outside, but if it's cold or rainy, I love cooking them in my air fryer. —Jasey McBurnett, Rock Springs, Wyoming
Air-Fryer Carrot Coffee Cake
One of the greatest things about the air fryer is it's conducive to making small, quick treats—like this air-fryer carrot cake. The little cake bakes in about 30 minutes and is perfect for enjoying with your morning coffee. —Leigh Rys, Herndon, Virginia
Air-Fryer Greek Breadsticks
Get ready for rave reviews. These crisp breadsticks are twisted with Greek-inspired goodness and are best served warm with cool tzatziki sauce. —Jane Whittaker, Pensacola, Florida
Air-Fryer Crumb-Topped Sole
Looking for a low-carb supper that's ready in a flash? These buttery sole fillets are covered with a rich sauce and topped with toasty bread crumbs. They're super speedy thanks to your air fryer. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Air-Fried Radishes
Radishes aren't just for salads anymore. These fried radishes make a colorful side for any meal. Plus, they're quick to make in your air fryer. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Air-Fryer Ham and Egg Pockets
Refrigerated crescent roll dough makes this ham, egg and cheese pocket recipe a snap to prepare. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Air-Fryer Turkey Croquettes
I grew up with a family that looked forward to Thanksgiving leftovers. But we didn't just reheat turkey and spuds in the microwave—we took our culinary creativity to a new level with recipes like these air-fryer turkey croquettes. Serve them with a crisp green salad for an unforgettable meal. —Meredith Coe, Charlottesville, Virginia
Air-Fryer French Toast Sticks
This quick recipe makes it easy to prepare air-fryer French toast sticks. Have them handy in the freezer for a hearty breakfast in an instant. They're also wonderful for buffets and eating on the go. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Garlic-Herb Fried Patty Pan Squash
The first time I grew a garden, I harvested summer squash and cooked it with garlic and herbs. This fried patty pan squash recipe is a creative twist. —Kaycee Mason, Siloam Springs, Arkansas
Air-Fryer Quinoa Arancini
We love arancini, but they're not the healthiest option! I wanted to make a version that we could enjoy guilt-free. I substituted quinoa for rice and tried baking instead of frying. Now we can have these air-fryer arancini anytime. —Sabrina Ovadia, New York, New York
Air-Fryer Chicken Tenders
I added all of the components of a loaded baked potato—cheddar, potato, bacon, sour cream and chives—to my air-fryer chicken tenders recipe. Every kid will love this quick and easy dish! —Cyndy Gerken, Naples, Florida
Cheesy Breakfast Egg Rolls
Whether you have to run out the door in the morning or you take a few minutes to relax at the table, these breakfast egg rolls will hit the spot. The egg and sausage mixture can be made the night before, so in the morning, just roll, fry and go! —Anne Ormond, Dover, New Hampshire
Air-Fryer General Tso's Cauliflower
Cauliflower florets are fried to a crispy golden brown, then coated in a sauce with just the right amount of kick. This General Tso's cauliflower is a fun alternative to the classic chicken dish. —Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado
Air-Fryer Beef Wellington Wontons
These tasty appetizers scale down classic beef Wellington to an ideal party size. They feel fancy and fun! —Dianne Phillips, Tallapoosa, Georgia
Air-Fryer Pork Chops
These air-fryer pork chops get their rich flavor from Creole seasoning and Parmesan cheese. Bonus: They're low in carbs, too! —Dawn Parker, Surrey, British Columbia
Air-Fryer Nacho Hot Dogs
Adults and kids alike will love these Southwest-inspired air-fryer hot dogs. This meal is not only budget-friendly, but it's hot, cheesy and delicious, too. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Air-Fryer Raspberry Balsamic Smoked Pork Chops
Air-fryer pork chops are delicious and so easy to make. My husband loves them. —Lynn Moretti, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin
Air-Fryer Chickpea Fritters with Sweet-Spicy Sauce
Chickpeas are a common ingredient in many dishes in Pakistan, where I grew up. I try to incorporate the tastes of my home country when cooking for my American-born daughters. With these air-fryer fritters, I have combined the light spice of Pakistani foods with the love of deep-fried finger foods that many Americans, including my daughters, enjoy. —Shahrin Hasan, York, Pennsylvania
Air-Fryer Crispy Sriracha Spring Rolls
These air-fryer spring rolls are a fabulous appetizer to have waiting in the freezer! While we were in the Bahamas, friends suggested a restaurant that serves amazing chicken spring rolls. When I got home, I created my own version. —Carla Mendres, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Air-Fryer Pork Schnitzel
This recipe is one of my husband's favorites because it reminds him of his German roots. Cooking pork schnitzel in an air fryer is genius because we can eat in a jiffy. —Joyce Folker, Paraowan, Utah
Air-Fryer Green Tomato Stacks
This is for lovers of red and green tomatoes. When I ran across this recipe, I just had to try it and it proved to be so tasty! —Barbara Mohr, Millington, Michigan
Air-Fryer Pretzel-Crusted Catfish
I love the flavor of this air-fryer catfish recipe. I'm not a big fish lover, so any concoction that has me loving fish is a keeper in my book. It's wonderful served with a nice buttery herb rice pilaf and corn muffins with butter and honey! —Kelly Williams, Forked River, New Jersey
Air-Fryer French Toast Cups with Raspberries
These air-fryer French toast cups make any morning special. I made this recipe for my mom on Mother's Day, and we both enjoyed it. —Sandi Tuttle, Hayward, Wisconsin
Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Turnovers
I adore the combo of pears, blue cheese and walnuts in a salad, so I turned them into this ham and cheese turnover recipe—and they were a hit. I added black forest ham to make it a meal in one. Just add a salad of field greens with a balsamic vinaigrette and you have a decadent (and healthy!) dinner. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Air-Fryer Shrimp Po'Boys
My husband loves crispy coconut shrimp and po'boys, so I combined them with a spicy remoulade and voila! This air-fryer shrimp is a big hit with family and friends and is frequently requested. For catfish po'boys, substitute cornmeal for the coconut and add a few minutes to the cooking time. —Marla Clark, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Air-Fryer S'mores Crescent Rolls
Want to score indoor s'mores? Try these air-fryer crescent rolls made with Nutella. The kids will love to help with this rolled-up version of the campfire classic. —Cathy Trochelman, Brookfield, Wisconsin
Air-Fryer Papas Rellenas
A Cuban classic, these satisfying, crispy-coated potato balls are filled with a savory ground beef mixture known as picadillo. We love this papas rellenas recipe! —Marina Castle Kelley, Canyon Country, California
Air-Fryer Taquitos
I love these any-occasion air-fryer taquitos. Spice them up by adding sliced jalapenos, if desired. —Mark Webber, Valdez, Alaska
Air-Fryer Herb and Cheese-Stuffed Burgers
Tired of the same old ground beef burgers? These quick air-fryer hamburgers, with their creamy cheese filling, will wake up your taste buds.—Sherri Cox, Lucasville, Ohio
Air-Fryer Nashville Hot Chicken
I live in Tennessee and absolutely love our state's famous Nashville hot chicken. To make cooking it easier, I thought I’d try air-frying. I’m so glad I did—this Nashville hot chicken recipe is almost better than the original. —April Lane, Greeneville, Tennessee
Air-Fryer Salmon with Maple-Dijon Glaze
Being landlocked in the Midwest, my kids always thought they disliked fish. This air-fryer salmon dish definitely changed their minds! I cook it on the grill a lot during the summer months but found that it is just as tasty and more convenient in the air fryer, especially on busy days! —Jill Fisher, Portland, Indiana
Air Fryer Tortellini with Prosciutto
This is my take on fried tortellini. Air-fryer Italian street food recipes like this one are crunchy and gooey. Use the best quality tomatoes you can find for the sauce—it's so good that you'll want to double it and serve it over pasta. —Angela Lemoine, Howell, New Jersey
Air-Fryer Cumin Carrots
Air-fryer carrots make a super side—big on flavor and a breeze to cook. Plus, I can actually get my husband to eat these fragrant, deeply spiced veggies. —Taylor Kiser, Brandon, Florida
Air-Fryer Mini Chimichangas
My family raves about these air-fryer chimichangas. Infused with green chiles, the beefy snacks are guaranteed to liven up the party! —Kathy Rogers, Hudson, Ohio
Air-Fryer Loaded Pork Burritos
Air-fryer burritos are quick and easy—the perfect dinner for the whole family. Don't be afraid to load your tortillas with pork, beans, cheese and rice. —Fiona Seels, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Air-Fryer Honey Cinnamon Roll-ups
This cinnamon treat reminds me of baklava; but with only a few easy ingredients, it's a fraction of the work. My Aunt Adele shared the recipe with me, and I think of her whenever I make it. It's one of my favorite air-fryer snacks! —Sue Falk, Sterling Heights, Michigan
Air-Fryer Acorn Squash Slices
This air-fryer acorn squash recipe was adapted from the one my passed down from my grandma, who always served it at Thanksgiving. I make it in my air fryer whenever I'm feeling nostalgic. —Rita Addicks, Weimar, Texas
Sweet and Spicy Air-Fryer Meatballs
I am always on a quest for meatballs that pack a sweet and savory punch. These air-fryer meatballs are a snap to pull together and can be served over rice or buttered noodles.—Tami Kuehl, Loup City, Nebraska
Air-Fryer Beefy Swiss Bundles
Kids and adults alike will devour these unusual yet comforting pockets. With creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese and flavorful seasonings, what's not to love? —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Pineapple Pork
This air-fryer pork is an amazing dish to make on a weeknight, and it's special enough for company. The recipe starts with pork tenderloin, which is quick to cook and economical compared to many meats, and it tastes delicious. —Leigh Rys, Herndon, Virginia
Air-Fryer Coconut Shrimp and Apricot Sauce
Coconut and panko crumbs give this spicy air-fryer shrimp its crunch. It’s perfect for an appetizer or for your main meal. —Debi Mitchell, Flower Mound, Texas
Air-Fryer Bourbon Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
This recipe is the perfect combination of savory and sweet. The bourbon-soaked bacon adds a smoky, savory, bold taste to the cinnamon rolls. The ginger and pecan topping makes for a crunchy, spicy finish. —Shannen Casey, Citrus Heights, California
Air-Fryer Pepper Poppers
These creamy stuffed jalapenos have some bite. They may be the most popular treats I make! My husband is always hinting that I should make a batch. —Lisa Byington, Johnson City, New York
Air-Fryer Fiesta Chicken Fingers
Chicken fingers have long been a favorite of mine. Actually, almost any finger-shaped deep-fried goodie seldom escapes my reach. These air-fryer chicken fingers have taken a lot of the guilt out of my guilty pleasure. —Dianne DeGarmo-Carr, Alexander, Arkansas
Air-Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Strips
I love the flavor profile of everything bagels, so I re-created it with traditional breaded chicken fingers. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce. —Cynthia Gerken, Naples, Florida
Air-Fryer Green Tomato BLT
I have used this "frying" method with eggplant slices for years and decided to try it for my green tomatoes. It worked! Now my family loves them in BLTs. —Jolene Martinelli, Derry, New Hampshire
Air-Fryer Roasted Green Beans
Our family loves roasted green beans, but they can take a long time in the oven. I tried these air-fryer green beans and we loved them! —Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas
Spicy Air-Fryer Chicken Breasts
My family adores this chicken recipe. Marinating enhances the taste, and the coating keeps the chicken nice and moist. The result is delicious. —Stephanie Otten, Byron Center, Michigan
Air-Fryer Reuben Calzones
I love a Reuben sandwich, so I tried the same classic filling in a pizza pocket instead of on rye bread. This hand-held dinner is a big-time winner at our house. —Nickie Frye, Evansville, IN
Air-Fryer Lemon Slice Sugar Cookies
Here's a refreshing variation of my grandmother's sugar cookie recipe. Lemon pudding mix and icing add a subtle tartness that tingles your taste buds. —Melissa Turkington, Camano Island, Washington
Air-Fryer Peppermint Lava Cakes
It never ceases to amaze to see warm chocolate pudding ooze out of the center of this tender chocolate cake. These cakes are a showstopper on a plate! Serve lava cakes with whipped cream or ice cream. —Carolyn Crotser, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Quentin’s Air-Fryer Peach-Bourbon Wings
My father and husband love bourbon flavor, so I add it to tangy wings air-fried in peach preserves. Stand back and watch these wings fly. —Christine Winston, Richmond, Virginia
Air-Fryer Rosemary Sausage Meatballs
These air-fryer meatballs were created as hors d'oeuvres for a friend's wedding and became an instant hit. Now we enjoy them often at our house. —Steve Hansen, Redmond, Washington
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