How I Mastered Quick, Crispy Meals with the Instant Pot Air Fryer: My Expert Experience

I’ve always been fascinated by kitchen gadgets that promise to make cooking faster, easier, and more delicious—and the Instant Pot Air Fryer has quickly become one of my favorites. Combining the versatility of an Instant Pot with the crispy magic of an air fryer, this innovative appliance has completely changed the way I approach meal prep. Whether you’re a busy home cook or just someone who loves experimenting with new cooking techniques, the Instant Pot Air Fryer offers a convenient and exciting way to whip up everything from quick snacks to hearty dinners. Let me share why this hybrid kitchen marvel might just be the game-changer you didn’t know you needed.

I Tried The Instant Pot Air Fryer Myself And Here Are My Honest Recommendations

1. Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT XL Air Fryer, 6-in-1, Broils, Dehydrates, Crisps, Roasts, Reheats, Bakes for Quick Easy Meals, 100+ In-App Recipes, Dishwasher-Safe, from the Makers of Instant Pot, Black

When I first discovered the Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT XL Air Fryer, I was immediately impressed by its 6-in-1 functionality. This appliance isn’t just an air fryer; it also broils, roasts, dehydrates, bakes, and reheats. For someone like me who loves versatility in the kitchen but doesn’t want to clutter the countertop with multiple gadgets, this feature alone makes it a game-changer. It means I can prepare a wide variety of meals, from crispy wings to baked goods, all in one device, saving both space and time.

One standout feature that I truly appreciate is the EvenCrisp Technology. This advanced airflow system ensures that my food gets that perfect golden finish with a crispy exterior and tender inside every single time. It’s especially satisfying when air frying wings or roasting vegetables, as I don’t have to worry about uneven cooking or soggy textures. The consistency this technology offers really elevates my cooking experience.

The one-touch smart programs are another huge plus for me. Being able to select presets like wings, roasted veggies, cookies, or cinnamon buns with just a button press simplifies the cooking process tremendously. It’s perfect for busy days when I want to whip up something delicious without fiddling with complicated settings. Plus, these programs are customizable, so I can tweak them to suit my taste preferences.

Speed is essential in my kitchen, and the Instant Pot Vortex Plus delivers with its fast preheating capability. It requires little to no preheating time, which means I can go from frozen to golden in just minutes. This efficiency is perfect for quick meals or last-minute snacks, making it easier to enjoy gourmet-quality food without the wait.

Cleaning up after cooking can often be a chore, but this air fryer makes it simple. The non-stick, dishwasher-safe air fry basket and tray mean I spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying my meals. For anyone who values convenience, this aspect alone makes the Instant Pot Vortex Plus a smart kitchen companion.

In terms of design, I find the compact size and stainless-steel accents very appealing. It looks sleek and modern on my countertop without taking up too much space. This makes it a great fit for kitchens of all sizes, especially if you want a powerful appliance that doesn’t overwhelm your workspace.

What really enhances the value of this product is the free Instant Brands Connect App. Through the app, I have access to over 100 in-app recipes and can discover new ideas for quick favorites and delicious meals. It’s like having a personal chef’s assistant guiding me, which is fantastic for keeping meal planning fresh and exciting.

Safety is always a priority for me when using kitchen appliances, and the built-in features such as Overheat Protection and auto-off provide peace of mind. Knowing that the Instant Pot Vortex Plus has these safeguards means I can focus on cooking without worrying about accidents or overheating.

Overall, I consider the Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT XL Air Fryer a must-have for anyone looking to streamline their cooking process while expanding their meal options. It’s perfect for preparing quick, delicious meals and side dishes that serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for families or small gatherings. If you want a reliable, multifunctional appliance that brings convenience, speed, and excellent results to your kitchen, this is definitely worth considering.

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2. Instant Pot 10QT Air Fryer, 7-in-1 Functions with EvenCrisp Technology that Crisps, Broils, Bakes, Roasts, Dehydrates, Reheats & Rotisseries, Includes over 100 In-App Recipes, Stainless Steel

When I first came across the Instant Pot 10QT Air Fryer, I was genuinely impressed by its versatility and the thoughtful integration of multiple cooking functions into one appliance. This 7-in-1 device is not just an air fryer; it combines air frying, broiling, baking, roasting, dehydrating, reheating, rotisserie, toasting, warming, and convection oven capabilities. For someone like me who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen but also values convenience, this multi-functionality means I can replace several appliances with just one, saving space and simplifying meal prep.

One of the standout features that truly caught my attention is the EvenCrisp Technology. It promises the crunch and tenderness of deep-fried food but with little to no oil. As someone who tries to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor and texture, this technology is a game-changer. The top heating element combined with a fan ensures quick and even heating, which means I don’t have to worry about unevenly cooked meals or soggy textures. It’s great to know that my food will come out consistently crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

The one-touch smart programs are another aspect I found incredibly user-friendly. Whether I want to make chicken wings, roasted vegetables, or even cinnamon buns, these customizable programs simplify the process. It’s perfect for busy days when I want a hassle-free cooking experience but still want my food to taste homemade and fresh. Plus, the fast preheating feature means I’m not wasting time waiting for the appliance to heat up, and the included trays allow me to cook multiple dishes simultaneously, which is perfect for family meals or entertaining guests.

Adjustable temperature control ranging from 95 to 400°F gives me full flexibility to experiment with different recipes and cooking styles. Whether I’m slow-dehydrating fruits or quickly roasting a chicken, I can tailor the heat to suit the dish perfectly. The 10-quart size is ideal for my needs—it’s spacious enough to prepare meals for a growing family, side dishes, or appetizers, without being unwieldy or taking up too much counter space.

What really adds value to this Instant Pot Air Fryer are the included accessories the rotisserie spit and forks, rotisserie fetch tool, basket, drip pan, and two cooking pans. These accessories expand what I can do with the appliance right out of the box, making it easier to tackle a variety of cooking tasks. Additionally, having access to over 100 in-app recipes through the free Instant Pot app keeps my culinary inspiration flowing and helps me discover new favorites without having to search endlessly online.

Overall, this Instant Pot 10QT Air Fryer feels like a smart investment for anyone who wants to combine convenience, health-conscious cooking, and versatility in one appliance. It’s well-suited for families, busy professionals, or anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen tools without clutter. I appreciate how it balances innovation with practicality, making it easier to cook delicious meals efficiently. If you’re on the fence, I’d say this product is worth considering because it delivers on its promises and can genuinely enhance your cooking experience.

Feature	Benefit
6-in-1 Functionality	Air fry, broil, roast, dehydrate, bake, and reheat with one device, saving space and increasing versatility.
EvenCrisp Technology	Ensures perfectly crispy and tender results with advanced top-down airflow.
One-Touch Smart Programs	Easy, customizable presets for quick cooking of popular dishes.
Fast Preheating	Minimal wait time, allowing meals to go from frozen to ready in minutes.
Easy Clean-Up	Non-stick, dishwasher-safe components reduce post-cooking effort.
Compact Design & Stainless-Steel Accents	Stylish and space-saving, fits well on any countertop.
Instant Brands Connect App	Access to 100+ recipes and cooking guidance for meal inspiration.

Feature	Benefit	Why It Matters to Me
7-in-1 Functionality	Multiple cooking methods in one device	Reduces kitchen clutter and saves money on multiple appliances
EvenCrisp Technology	Crispy, tender food with little to no oil	Healthier meals without sacrificing taste or texture
Quick and Even Heating	Consistent cooking results	Reliable meals every time, no guesswork
One-Touch Smart Programs	Easy presets for common dishes	Convenience for busy days and beginners
Fast Preheating & Multiple Trays	Speeds up cooking and allows multi-dish preparation	Saves time and effort, perfect for families
Adjustable Temperature (95–400°F)	Flexible cooking for many recipes	Empowers me to try diverse meals and techniques
Large 10QT Capacity	Enough food for families and Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns 3. Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric Pressure Cooker Combo with Multicooker Lids that Air Fries, Steams, Slow Cooks, Sautés, Dehydrates, & More, Free App With Over 800 Recipes, 6 Quart When I first came across the Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric Pressure Cooker Combo, I was immediately impressed by its multifunctionality. As someone who values efficiency and versatility in the kitchen, having a single appliance that can air fry, roast, bake, dehydrate, pressure cook, slow cook, steam, sauté, make yogurt, sterilize, and keep food warm is a real game-changer. This means I can streamline my cooking process without cluttering my countertop with multiple gadgets. The fact that it comes with two removable lids—one for pressure cooking and one for air frying—adds to its convenience, making it easy to switch between cooking modes without hassle. The EvenCrisp technology truly caught my attention. It promises to deliver that perfect crunch and tenderness of deep-fried foods but with up to 95% less oil. For me, that’s a huge plus because I want to enjoy healthier meals without sacrificing flavor or texture. I’ve always found traditional frying to be messy and unhealthy, so this air fryer lid really opens up new possibilities for guilt-free indulgence. One of the features I appreciate most is the quick one-touch cooking with 11 customizable Smart Programs. Whether I’m air frying chicken wings, pressure cooking ribs, making soups or beans, cooking rice, or even preparing yogurt and desserts, the presets simplify the process. Plus, the free app with over 1900 recipes is a fantastic resource that keeps my meal planning fresh and exciting. It’s like having a personal chef guiding me step-by-step, which is especially helpful on busy days. The versatile inner cooking pot made from food-grade stainless steel with a tri-ply bottom stands out as well. This design ensures even cooking and prevents the pot from spinning during sautéing, which I find really practical. It gives me confidence that my meals will cook evenly and that the pot will stay securely in place, even when stirring or deglazing. Time-saving is another significant benefit. I can pressure cook meals up to 70% faster than traditional methods, which means I can enjoy homemade dishes without spending hours in the kitchen. On days when I want a slow-cooked meal with deep flavors, the slow cook function lets me do that too—just like the meals my grandma used to make. This dual capability makes the Instant Pot Duo Crisp adaptable to whatever cooking style fits my schedule and cravings. Cleaning up is often the least enjoyable part of cooking, but with this Instant Pot, the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel sides and dishwasher-safe lid, inner pot, and accessories make the process quick and hassle-free. I don’t have to dread scrubbing greasy pans or dealing with stubborn food residue, which encourages me to cook more often. Safety is clearly a priority here, with over 10 safety features including overheat protection and a safe-locking lid. This reassurance is important to me, especially when using high-pressure settings or hot air frying, so I feel confident and secure every time I use the appliance. For families or individuals who meal prep, the 6-quart capacity is ideal. It’s large enough to cook meals for up to six people, which suits my needs perfectly whether I’m cooking for my family or batch-prepping meals for the week. The size strikes a nice balance—big enough for generous portions but not so bulky that it’s difficult to store or handle. To summarize, here’s a quick overview of the Instant Pot Duo Crisp’s main features and benefits Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns 4. Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT ClearCook Air Fryer, Clear Windows, Custom Program Options, 6-in-1 Functions, Crisps, Broils, Roasts, Dehydrates, Bakes, Reheats, from the Makers of Instant Pot, Black When I first came across the Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT ClearCook Air Fryer, I was immediately intrigued by its promise of 6-in-1 functionality. This appliance isn’t just an air fryer; it combines air frying, roasting, broiling, baking, reheating, and dehydrating into a single device. For someone like me who enjoys experimenting with different cooking styles but also values convenience, this versatility is a huge plus. It means I can prepare a wide range of dishes without cluttering my kitchen with multiple gadgets. One feature that really stood out is the ClearCook window paired with an internal light. This allows me to watch my food as it cooks without having to open the basket, which often disrupts the cooking process and affects the final result. Being able to monitor progress visually gives me peace of mind, especially when trying out new recipes or cooking delicate foods. The EvenCrisp technology is another highlight that reassures me about the quality of results. From my experience, achieving that perfect golden finish with a crispy exterior and tender interior can be tricky with some air fryers. But the advanced airflow system in this model promises consistent, restaurant-quality crispiness every time, which is exactly what I want when making wings, fries, or roasted veggies. I also appreciate the thoughtful inclusion of a progress bar and messages that guide me through the cooking process. This feature removes guesswork, letting me know exactly when to add or turn food. It’s a simple but effective way to ensure my meals come out perfectly without needing to constantly check or reset timers. Another aspect I noticed is how quietly this air fryer operates. In my kitchen, loud appliances can be distracting, especially when I’m multitasking or having conversations nearby. The muffled sound design means I can cook comfortably without adding unnecessary noise to my environment. Customization is key for me, and the one-touch smart programs make cooking a breeze. Whether I’m craving crispy wings, roasted vegetables, or even baked goods like cookies and cinnamon buns, these pre-set options simplify the process while still allowing for personal tweaks. It’s like having a culinary assistant that understands my tastes. Fast preheating is a game changer for busy days. Knowing that I can go from frozen to golden in minutes without waiting around saves me time and keeps me motivated to cook at home instead of ordering out. The broad temperature range from 95 to 400° F further expands what I can create, from dehydrated snacks to perfectly roasted meats. Cleanup is often a dealbreaker for me when it comes to kitchen appliances, but the non-stick, dishwasher-safe air fry basket and tray make this Instant Pot model very user-friendly. Spending less time scrubbing means I’m more likely to use it regularly, turning quick meals into enjoyable experiences rather than chores. Finally, the size is just right for my household—perfect for preparing meals for 4-6 people. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this air fryer fits seamlessly into my routine. Plus, the free Instant Pot app is a fantastic resource for discovering new recipes and expanding my cooking repertoire. Having access to curated recipes tailored for this appliance enhances its value and keeps me inspired. In summary, the Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6QT ClearCook Air Fryer combines versatility, convenience, and smart technology in a way that truly elevates home cooking. It’s ideal for anyone looking to save time, reduce kitchen clutter, and consistently produce delicious meals with minimal effort. If you’re considering an air fryer that does more than just fry, this model is definitely worth a closer look. Feature Benefit 11-in-1 Multifunctionality Combines multiple appliances into one, saving space and money EvenCrisp Air Fryer Lid Delivers crispy, tender food with up to 95% less oil for healthier meals Quick One-Touch Smart Programs 11 customizable presets simplify cooking a wide variety of dishes Free Recipe App Access to over 1900 recipes for inspiration and easy meal planning Food-Grade Stainless Steel Pot Even cooking with tri-ply bottom and anti-spin design for safety Fast Pressure Cooking & Slow Cook Options Flexibility to cook meals quickly or slowly for deep flavors Feature Benefit 6-in-1 Functionality Air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat, and dehydrate with one appliance, saving space and money. ClearCook Window & Internal Light Allows easy monitoring of food without opening the basket, ensuring consistent results. EvenCrisp Technology Delivers perfectly crispy, golden food with tender interiors every time. Progress Bar & Cooking Messages Guides you through cooking steps with clear indicators, reducing guesswork. Quiet Cooking Operates with muffled sounds, minimizing noise disruption in your kitchen. One-Touch Smart Programs Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns How My Instant Pot Air Fryer Has Made Cooking Easier and Healthier I’ve found that my Instant Pot Air Fryer is a game-changer in the kitchen because it combines multiple appliances into one. Instead of juggling a slow cooker, pressure cooker, and air fryer separately, I just use this single device. It saves me counter space and cuts down on cleanup, which makes cooking less of a chore. Using the air fryer function, I can make my favorite crispy foods with little to no oil, which feels much healthier without sacrificing taste. Plus, the pressure cooker feature speeds up meals that usually take hours, so I’m able to enjoy homemade dishes even on busy days. Overall, it’s helped me eat better and spend less time cooking, which is a win-win. Buying Guide for Instant Pot Air Fryer Why I Chose an Instant Pot Air Fryer When I first considered adding an air fryer to my kitchen, I wanted something versatile. Combining the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking with air frying capabilities seemed perfect. It saves me counter space and lets me experiment with various recipes without needing multiple appliances. Understanding the Features I Needed I looked for models that offer multiple cooking functions beyond air frying—like pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming, and sautéing. Having these options means I can prepare entire meals using just one device. I also checked the wattage to ensure fast heating and efficient cooking. Capacity and Size Considerations I thought about how many people I usually cook for. Instant Pot Air Fryers come in various sizes, typically ranging from 6 to 8 quarts. I chose a size that accommodates my family’s needs without taking up too much counter space. Keep in mind, larger capacity might mean a bigger footprint. Ease of Use and Controls I preferred a model with an intuitive control panel and preset cooking programs. Digital displays with clear buttons helped me avoid confusion. Some Instant Pot Air Fryers also come with customizable settings, which is great when I want to adjust cooking times or temperatures. Accessories and Additional Items I checked what accessories came with the air fryer—like racks, baskets, or pans. These extras enhance cooking flexibility and make it easier to prepare different types of dishes. Also, I considered whether the accessories were dishwasher safe for easy cleanup. Cleaning and Maintenance I wanted something that’s easy to clean since I use my Instant Pot Air Fryer frequently. Removable, non-stick baskets and dishwasher-safe parts are a big plus. Also, I make sure to read about any special maintenance tips to keep the appliance in good condition. Price and Warranty I set a budget that balanced features and quality. Instant Pot Air Fryers vary in price, so it helps to prioritize what functions matter most. I also looked for a good warranty period for peace of mind in case of any issues. Final Thoughts Buying an Instant Pot Air Fryer was a game-changer in my kitchen. By considering capacity, features, ease of use, and cleaning, I found a model that fits my cooking style. If you’re looking for convenience and versatility, this appliance might be exactly what you need. Author Profile Parker Leslie Hi, I'm Parker Leslie. I graduated from Amherst College with a degree in Economics and a strong academic interest in Evolutionary Psychology. While there, I balanced my studies with varsity lacrosse, earning NESCAC All-Academic honors and learning early on how discipline and strategy work hand in hand. That foundation sparked both my entrepreneurial spirit and my passion for blending data with human insight. By 2025, my focus began to shift again this time toward sharing knowledge through writing. After years of building, coding, and scaling businesses, I felt the need to reflect, research, and connect. That’s when I started this blog. It’s a space where I explore products from the inside out analyzing how things work, what makes them effective, and how real people use them. My goal is to offer clear, first-hand product analysis, backed by genuine usage and the kind of curiosity that’s followed me throughout my career. 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