BELLA Air Fry Toaster Oven Review 7-in-1 Cooking Functions for Perfect Meals

Description

Unboxing and Initial Impressions

The bella Air Fry Toaster Oven, model 35217, caught my eye with its unique seaglass color and sleek design. It looked like it could easily fit into most kitchens without standing out awkwardly. Pulling it out of the box, I noticed how sturdy it felt. At nearly 19 pounds, this isn’t a flimsy appliance that will slide around your countertop. The dropdown tempered glass door and cool-touch handle were standout features right from the start, showcasing a mix of style and practicality.

The control system is a mix of knob controls and a digital panel, which seemed straightforward and easy to navigate. I was eager to test the 7 preset options: air fry, toast, roast, bake, broil, keep warm, and convection bake. Honestly, the idea of having a 7-in-1 cooking appliance appealed to my inner lazy chef because I hate cluttering my kitchen with multiple gadgets.

Key Benefits

Using this toaster oven daily has been a game-changer for several reasons:

• Versatility: From air frying chicken wings to baking cookies, this appliance can handle it all.
• Quick Heating: The 1700-watt system ensures food cooks evenly and quickly, a massive time-saver.
• Ease of Use: The intuitive digital control panel makes cooking almost foolproof.
• Convenience: The removable crumb tray and dishwasher-safe components make cleanup a breeze.

Performance That Speaks for Itself

The first thing I prepared was a 12-inch pizza, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The adjustable temperature range (up to 450°F) ensured the crust was crispy without burning the toppings. I also tried air frying some frozen French fries, and they came out golden and crunchy, almost like they were straight from a deep fryer—but without the guilt.

The 60-minute timer with auto shut-off is a lifesaver for someone like me who occasionally gets distracted. I particularly appreciated the audible timer, which is loud enough to hear from another room. The power indicator light is another nice touch, ensuring you never accidentally leave the unit on.

That said, while everything cooked evenly, I noticed the toaster oven runs slightly hotter than expected. I’d recommend keeping an eye on your food, especially when trying a recipe for the first time.

Areas for Improvement

While I genuinely enjoy using this toaster oven, there are some pitfalls worth mentioning:

• Size: Although it’s marketed as a 6-slice toaster, fitting six slices of bread is a tight squeeze. It’s better suited for four slices if you want even toasting.
• Knob Durability: The control knobs feel a bit flimsy, and I wonder how well they’ll hold up over time.
• Loud Fan: The convection fan is noisier than I expected, especially during longer cooking times.

How It Stacks Up Against Competitors

When compared to other air fryer toaster ovens, this one stands out for its dishwasher-safe parts and cool-touch handle, which not all competitors offer. For instance, brands like Ninja or Cuisinart often have similar features but lack the unique aesthetic appeal of the seaglass color.

However, Cuisinart’s models tend to have more robust knobs and quieter fans, which might be a better choice for those who prioritize durability or noise levels. On the other hand, the bella model 35217 excels in quick heating and ease of cleaning, making it ideal for busy households.

Cost Efficiency

Considering its 7-in-1 versatility, this appliance offers excellent value for money. You’re essentially getting an air fryer, toaster, and convection oven in one product. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the features and build quality justify the price. For someone who enjoys cooking varied meals without investing in multiple appliances, this is a smart choice.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely, but with the caveat that it might not be the best option for larger families or those sensitive to noise. Overall, it’s a reliable and stylish addition to any kitchen.

Additional information