Top 5 Roaster Ovens for Your Kitchen

Buying Guide for Roaster Ovens

Ready to buy now? Shop the best:

• Best of the Best: Ninja Foodi 6-in-1
• Best Bang for your Buck: Emeril Lagasse Extra Large Air Fryer
• Best Looking: NutriChef 30 QT Convection Oven
• Easiest to Use: Proctor Silex 24-Pound Electric Roaster Oven
• Trusted Brand: Hamilton Beach 22-Quart Roaster Oven

Whether it’s for a weekly family dinner or a festive feast, nothing impresses quite like a large roast, whether turkey, brisket, or prime rib. However, preparing such grand dishes can monopolise your conventional oven, which is where a roaster oven comes into play.

Integrating a roaster oven into your kitchen provides extra cooking space, allowing your traditional oven to focus on side dishes or desserts.

Although using a roaster oven is straightforward, selecting the right one can pose a challenge. You must consider the size, temperature range, and features that best suit your needs.

At FranksWaffle, we pride ourselves on providing clear and honest recommendations. We do not accept perks or products from manufacturers, ensuring our reviews are unbiased.

We conduct thorough research, consult experts, and gather customer feedback to deliver the essential information you need.

If you’re ready to invest in a roaster oven, check out the product list above for our top five recommendations.

If you’re still uncertain, keep reading for more detailed insights.

Do You Need a Roaster Oven?

• A roaster oven expands your cooking space, freeing up your oven for additional dishes. By using a roaster for your main dish, you can prepare sides and desserts simultaneously.

• It features a smaller cooking area and heating elements, creating a moist environment that results in juicy meats.

• Due to its compact size, a roaster oven heats quickly and uses less power than a conventional oven.

• Though primarily used for meat, roaster ovens are versatile and can bake, steam, slow cook, and warm various dishes.

What to Consider When Buying a Roaster Oven

Controls

Most roaster ovens come equipped with simple dial controls, enabling easy operation for turning the appliance on and off as well as adjusting the temperature.

Temperature Range

For the most versatility, select a roaster oven with a broad temperature range. Most models reach a maximum of 450°F, which is typically sufficient for roasting large cuts of meat and achieving a golden exterior.

Some options may have minimum temperatures between 200°F and 250°F, which could be higher than desirable for specific recipes.

Lid

All roaster ovens feature lids to trap heat and moisture during cooking. High-dome lids are generally preferable for accommodating larger cuts of meat, such as turkeys. Some models also include self-basting lids that recirculate moisture, eliminating the need for manual basting.

Roasting Pan and Rack

Many roaster ovens come with removable inserts or roasting pans to facilitate cleaning. Opt for a dishwasher-safe insert for added convenience. Additionally, a wire roasting rack elevates food above the heating element for even cooking.

Functions

An appropriate temperature range allows your roaster oven to serve multiple functions, including baking, steaming, and even serving as a buffet server. However, roaster ovens are less insulated than slow cookers, so refer to your manual for proper usage.

Capacity

The size of your roaster oven determines the cuts of meat it can accommodate. Capacities typically range from 16 to 22 quarts, with some smaller models available.

• 6.5 Quarts: Ideal for small households, this size is best suited for small chickens or side dishes, as it cannot fit a turkey.

• 16 Quarts: Perfect for mid-sized families and smaller holiday gatherings, it can hold up to a 20-pound turkey.

• 18 Quarts: Suitable for larger households, accommodating an 18- to 22-pound turkey.

• 22 Quarts: Great for large families or those hosting extensive holiday dinners, fitting a 24- to 26-pound turkey.

Tips and Tricks for Using a Roaster Oven

• The standard roasting temperature is 350°F, but this may adjust by 50° depending on the meat you’re preparing.

• Always place meat on the provided roasting rack to avoid sitting in fat drippings, promoting a less greasy and more flavourful dish.

• When baking items like cakes or bread, ensure you preheat the roaster for optimal results.

• Before using your roaster oven, clean it with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris from packaging.

• Roasting is a straightforward method for cooking meats like prime beef, pork, and lamb, resulting in a tender and crispy exterior.

• Due to its compact design, a roaster oven is often more efficient than a conventional oven, so adhere to recommended cooking times and temperatures.

Roaster Oven Prices

The cost of a roaster oven varies based on size and features, typically ranging from £40 to £150.

A basic model with generous capacity and minimal features generally costs between £40 and £60.

Higher-end units with extensive features often fall between £100 and £150.

FAQ

Q. What’s the difference between a roaster oven and a rotisserie?

A. A roaster oven serves as a countertop version of a conventional oven, large enough to hold a turkey or other substantial cuts of meat. In contrast, a rotisserie has a rotating spit to cook meats evenly but usually has a smaller capacity and less versatility.

Q. How does a roaster oven differ from a slow cooker?

A. Slow cookers typically have a smaller capacity and can’t accommodate a whole turkey. They also have fewer temperature settings, whereas roaster ovens can be adjusted to specific temperatures, making them more suitable for large cuts of meat.

Q. What other dishes can I prepare in a roaster oven?

A. Beyond roasting turkey, a roaster oven can bake, steam, and slow cook. It’s suitable for brisket, spare ribs, ham, baked potatoes, roasted vegetables, and even desserts like cakes or bread pudding.