4 Best Outdoor Air Fryers for Effortless, Crispy Meals
If you’re tired of greasy takeout or messy backyard grilling, outdoor air fryers could be your solution for crispy, healthier meals outside. From propane-powered models like the Charbroil Big Easy, which promises even frying with less oil, to versatile countertop combos such as the Emeril Lagasse oven, these appliances offer convenience and efficiency. But with options ranging from electric to propane, how do you choose? There’s more to contemplate—let’s unpack the top contenders that truly stand out.
Charbroil® The Big Easy® Outdoor Propane Gas Air Fryer, Black – 24102165
If you want an outdoor air fryer that is powerful and easy to use, check out the Charbroil® The Big Easy®. It’s black and portable. You can cook a big 16-pound turkey or chicken in it. The heat spreads evenly because of the special infrared technology. This keeps your food tasty and stops hot spots or flare-ups.
It has 16,000 BTUs. That means it heats up fast and cooks large pieces of meat quicker than normal frying or roasting. The fryer is easy to carry with handles. You can take it to your backyard, camping site, or a tailgate party. It doesn’t need hot oil. That makes it safer and easier to clean up. Cleaning is simple with the front grease tray.
This outdoor fryer is good for families and outdoor cooks. It makes large, tasty meals fast and safe. It is portable and doesn’t use hot oil, so it’s less messy and safer for everyone.
Pros:
- Cooks big foods, like a 16-pound turkey or chicken, evenly.
- No hot oil needed, safer and easier to clean.
- Portable with handles, good for outdoor activities.
Cons:
- Runs on propane, so you need a tank.
- Takes up space outside.
- You need to connect it to a propane tank, which might not be easy everywhere.
Ninja OG751 Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill with Thermometer
The Ninja OG751 Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill with Thermometer is a great choice for people who want a versatile grill that can do many things. This all-in-one grill can handle grilling, smoking, air frying, baking, roasting, dehydrating, and broiling. It makes food with authentic smoky flavor, using just half a cup of pellets. The pellets are powered by electricity, so you don’t need a big propane tank.
The built-in thermometer helps you keep track of the food as it cooks. It alerts you when your food is ready, so you don’t have to guess. The grill is weather-resistant, so you can use it outside in different weather conditions. It combines many cooking tools into one machine. You don’t need a separate smoker or oven.
This grill is good for outdoor cooking fans who want a tool that is flexible and easy to control. It gives you a smoky flavor and precise temperatures. It’s also sturdy enough to handle outdoor use.
However, the grill is a bit bulky, so you need enough space outside to use it comfortably. It can take some time to learn how to use all the features. Also, it has a small pellet capacity, so you may need to refill it often during long cooks.
Emeril Lagasse Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, 24 Functions, Stainless Steel
The Emeril Lagasse Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo is a great choice for anyone who wants a powerful, all-in-one kitchen machine. It has a stainless steel body and French doors, which make it look nice and easy to open. The oven is big, with a 26-quart space that can hold a 6-pound chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
This oven has 24 simple buttons for different cooking styles. You can use it to air fry, bake, broil, dehydrate, and more. It uses hot air that moves all around, so your food gets crispy and cooked evenly every time. You don’t need to be a pro cook to use it; it makes cooking fast and easy.
This oven is best for busy families or people who want a big, versatile oven. It can cook a lot at once, saving you time.
Pros:
- It has a large space that fits big items like full chickens, pizzas, or many servings.
- It has 24 preset buttons to make cooking simple and consistent.
- The stainless steel look and French doors give it a modern, clean look.
Cons:
- It weighs around 26 pounds, so it can be tough to move or store.
- It uses a lot of power, with 1700 watts, which could use more electricity.
- Some people said it arrived with minor cosmetic defects, so check it when it arrives.
If you want a big, easy-to-use oven that combines many cooking options, this could be the right choice for you.
Ninja Foodi 10 Quart DualZone Air Fryer with 2 Baskets
If you need an outdoor air fryer that can do a lot at once, the Ninja Foodi 10 Quart DualZone Air Fryer is a good pick. It has two baskets, each 5 quarts large. You can cook two different foods or set different temps at the same time. This saves you time and makes cooking easier.
This air fryer’s total size is 10 quarts. It’s big enough to cook large meals, like 8 pounds of chicken wings. It’s great for family dinners or family gatherings. It has a special feature called DualZone Smart Finish. This makes sure both foods are ready at the same time, so everything stays hot and fresh. You can also change the temperature from 41°C up to 450°F for very precise cooking.
The Ninja Foodi is built with strong materials. It should last a long time. Some users said the paint on the baskets can chip. Ninja makes it easy by sending free replacements if needed.
This air fryer is perfect for families or people who host friends. It can cook different dishes at the same time and is easy to control once you get used to it.
Some downsides include the large size of the baskets, which can make cleaning a bit tricky. Also, it takes some practice to learn all the features and settings. But overall, it is a powerful tool to make big meals and save time.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Outdoor Air Fryer
When selecting an outdoor air fryer, you’ll want to think about how much food it can handle—are you feeding a small family or hosting a backyard feast for six? Compatibility with your fuel source, like propane or electricity, can make or break your setup, especially if your outdoor space has restrictions. Don’t forget to weigh features like portability, ease of cleaning, and how versatile the unit is—after all, a fancy gadget that’s a pain to clean isn’t worth the hype, even if it promises perfect crispy wings every time.
Cooking Capacity Needs
Choosing the right outdoor air fryer depends on how much food you want to cook at once. If you have a big family or like to host gatherings, look for models with larger spaces. Some can cook a 16-pound turkey or many chicken breasts at the same time. These big air fryers save you time because you don’t need to cook in multiple batches. But if you usually cook for just yourself or a small family, a small to medium air fryer works well. These usually hold 2 to 4 servings.
Fuel Type Compatibility
When you pick an outdoor air fryer, think about what kind of fuel it uses. This helps you know where and how you can use it. Some air fryers run on propane. These models need a propane tank and special connectors. They are best for open areas where you can connect to a propane supply.
Other air fryers are electric. These need a regular outdoor power outlet. Electric models are easy to use and heat quickly. But, they work best in places with power nearby.
There are also new kinds of air fryers, like the Ninja Woodfire Pro. This model uses wood pellets and can grill or air fry. It gives you different flavor options.
Always check what fuel your outdoor air fryer needs. Make sure all connections are safe. Turn on the appliance safely, especially if you use propane or wood pellets. Safety is very important when using these fuels outdoors.
Portability Features
Have you ever tried to carry a big appliance over bumpy ground? If yes, you know that portability is important. When choosing outdoor air fryers, look for ones with handles or wheels. These make moving them over gravel or grass easier. Pick a small and light device, usually under 20 pounds. This way, it’s simple to carry and store. Some air fryers have parts that come off or fold down. This helps reduce space for packing into your car. If you move a lot, find models with strong cases or covers. These protect the air fryer from weather and damage. Outdoor air fryers are made from tough materials and resist weather. They keep working well no matter where you take them.
Cooking Versatility
When you look at outdoor air fryers, it’s good to think about how many things they can do. Some models are more than just fryers. They can roast, bake, grill, dehydrate, and broil. That means you get a small, portable kitchen in one device. For example, you can cook a big turkey or a rotisserie chicken outside. This gives you more options for your meals.
Features like adjustable temperature and preset modes make cooking easier. Even if you are not a chef, you can follow the simple settings to get good results. Some air fryers have special options, like infrared or woodfire flavoring. These add smoky tastes to grilled or roasted foods, making them extra tasty. You can also use different accessories for different types of cooking. This keeps your patio tidy and makes cooking outside more fun.
Having a versatile outdoor air fryer means you are ready for any meal. You can make weekend barbecues or Sunday dinners easily. It’s a useful tool that helps you cook many kinds of food outside.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning an outdoor air fryer is easy if you pick the right one. Look for models with parts you can remove and put in the dishwasher, like trays, baskets, or grease containers. These parts make cleaning quick and simple. Some air fryers have grease trays or drip pans you can easily access from the front, so you don’t need to take apart the whole machine. Non-stick surfaces help prevent food from sticking, which makes wiping clean faster. Smooth, stain-resistant surfaces also help you wipe off food spills easily. Parts that can be washed or replaced save you time and make cleanup less of a chore. Choosing a model with these features means you spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your tasty meals.
Safety Considerations
When choosing an outdoor air fryer, safety is very important. You want to make sure it’s safe to use outside. First, put the fryer on a flat, heat-proof surface. Keep it away from leaves, wooden furniture, or other things that can catch fire.
Look for safety features like automatic shut-off. This means the fryer turns off by itself if it gets too hot or if you forget. Cool-touch handles are helpful because they keep your hands safe from burns. These features are not just nice—they help prevent accidents.
Make sure your air fryer has good ventilation. Keep it at least 3 feet away from walls or buildings. This stops it from getting too hot or producing dangerous gases if it’s gas-powered.
Check if the fryer has safety certifications. Certifications prove it’s been tested and is safe to use. Also, clean your fryer regularly. Take out grease trays and watch for gas leaks. Doing these simple steps keeps everyone safe and happy.
Safety is very important. Always follow these tips so your outdoor cooking stays fun and safe for everyone.
Outdoor Weather Resistance
Ever wonder if your outdoor air fryer can handle the weather? Whether it’s rain, wind, or humidity, outdoor equipment needs to last. Look for air fryers made from weatherproof materials. Coatings that fight rust are a big plus because rain and damp air can cause metal to turn bad fast. Good sealing keeps water out so the inside parts don’t get wet and broken. Waterproof features are important, too. They stop moisture from reaching the electrical parts and causing problems.
Vents should be made to resist wind and stop leaves or dirt from getting in. Imagine a gust of wind blowing leaves inside your air fryer! Also, check if the feet of the unit are non-slip or if it can be securely attached somewhere. That helps keep the air fryer from tipping over when it’s windy outside.
An outdoor-rated air fryer can handle different weather conditions. That means you can use it without worry and enjoy crispy, delicious food, rain or shine!
Price and Warranty
Wondering if a pricey outdoor air fryer is worth it? Prices range from about $100 to over $300. Usually, higher prices mean better features, stronger build, and longer warranty coverage. More expensive models often have the latest technology and better materials. They also tend to come with warranties that last longer than a year, which helps if something breaks. A good warranty covers parts, repairs, and damages that can happen outside. Always read the warranty details to see what is covered. Some brands give options to add extra protection plans for more coverage. Spending more on an air fryer can be worth it. It may last longer, work better, and give you better support if you have problems later.
Hello! I’m Eloise Wilson, the culinary enthusiast behind SimplyCookings. Cooking is my canvas and flavors are my palette. I’m here to share easy-to-follow recipes and kitchen wisdom that will make your cooking journey joyful and delicious. Join me and let’s turn everyday meals into extraordinary experiences!