Top 3 Under-Cabinet Toaster Ovens
Toshiba Digital Toaster Oven
This spacious toaster oven is ideal for larger households, capable of cooking a small chicken or six slices of toast.
- Includes a rotisserie kit and multiple accessories
- Hybrid controls for precise cooking
- Can produce a subtle nuisance sound
Black + Decker Toaster Oven
This stylish stainless steel toaster oven is perfect for small to medium meals, fitting four slices of toast or a personal pizza.
- Multiple cooking functions including broil and bake
- Easy to clean with removable crumb tray
- Timer cannot be manually stopped
Mueller Austria Toaster Oven
This affordable toaster oven combines excellent performance with user-friendly features, making it a popular choice.
- Simple dial controls for easy operation
- Detachable crumb tray for hassle-free cleaning
- Temperature selection can be imprecise
Which under-cabinet toaster ovens are best?
Under-cabinet toaster ovens are a fantastic addition to any kitchen, making it easy to whip up everything from a quick pizza to a delightful slice of avocado toast for breakfast. Renowned for their simplicity and versatility, these appliances are essential for any home. The Toshiba Digital Toaster Oven stands out for its capacity, accommodating a small chicken or six slices of toast, making it ideal for larger families.
What to consider before purchasing an under-cabinet toaster oven
Timer Features
A key feature of any toaster oven is its timer, which helps prevent overcooking or burning your meals. Many models come equipped with preset functions that cater to specific food items or a general 30-minute timer, particularly useful for defrosting.
Safety Considerations
While toaster ovens are incredibly handy, they can become hot quickly. It’s important to keep the appliance clean and free from food particles to prevent any fire hazards. Avoid leaving the kitchen unattended while it’s in use.
Temperature Range
Versatility in temperature settings is crucial for cooking a variety of dishes. Most toaster ovens offer a broad temperature range, with some capable of reaching up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing you to heat mini-pizzas quickly or gently toast a slice of bread.
Key Features of Quality Under-Cabinet Toaster Ovens
Cooking Settings
Look for a toaster oven with multiple settings such as warm, convection bake, toast, and broil. High-quality models often include food-specific settings tailored to optimal cooking for items like toast, cookies, or pizza.
Capacity
Consider the internal space of the toaster oven. A compact model may suffice for a small household of one to three, but larger families should opt for models with ample shelf space for bigger meals.
Visibility
Most toaster ovens feature a large glass panel, allowing you to monitor your food as it cooks. Keep in mind that the glass may become discoloured over time due to regular use.
Cost Expectations for Under-Cabinet Toaster Ovens
Prices for under-cabinet toaster ovens typically range from £20 to over £100. Entry-level models can be found for £20 to £60, while midrange options generally fall between £60 and £100, and premium models can exceed £100.
Frequently Asked Questions About Toaster Ovens
What advantages does a toaster oven have over a traditional toaster?
A. Unlike a conventional toaster, which is limited to bread, a toaster oven expands your culinary options, allowing you to cook items like pizza and other dishes. It also enables you to lay toast flat for melting cheese and other toppings.
When is a toaster oven preferable to a traditional oven?
A. Traditional ovens require more time to preheat and are better suited for larger meals or multi-course cooking. In contrast, toaster ovens excel at quickly heating smaller portions, making them ideal for rapid cooking and easy access to food.
What snacks can you prepare in a toaster oven?
A. Toaster ovens are great for making snacks like kale chips or homemade pizza bagels. For kale chips, roast kale with a sprinkle of lemon juice and Parmesan cheese. As for pizza bagels, they are a fun and nostalgic treat that can easily be made in your toaster oven.
Conclusion: Which Under-Cabinet Toaster Oven Should You Choose?
When selecting the right under-cabinet toaster oven for your needs, consider the space available, the types of meals you typically prepare, and the features that matter most to you. Whether you opt for the spacious Toshiba Digital Toaster Oven, the economical Black + Decker model, or the value-packed Mueller Austria option, you’ll find a fantastic appliance that enhances your cooking experience.