Hey everyone! If you’re searching for the best air fryer with a stainless steel basket, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve spent weeks testing some of the most popular models to see which ones actually deliver that crispy, golden texture without the mess.
From compact countertop units to full-sized oven combos, these air fryers bring both style and performance to your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole family, there’s something here for you. Stick around as I count down my top five picks.
My Top Picks
- Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer – Best Overall for Families
- Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro – Best Premium Performance
- Cuisinart 6-Quart Air Fryer – Best Mid-Range Everyday Option
- Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven – Best Compact Space-Saver
- Café Couture Oven with 14 Cooking Modes – Best for Versatility & Style
Top 5 Best Air Fryers With Stainless Steel Baskets for Healthier, Crispier Cooking
1. Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer
Taking the top spot, the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer is hands-down the best air fryer with a stainless steel basket for anyone who loves cooking big, hearty meals. The first thing you notice is its beautiful design — those elegant French doors make it feel premium, and the digital control panel is super intuitive. With a massive 26-quart capacity, you can easily roast, bake, or air fry enough food for a full family dinner or a weekend gathering.
When I tested it, the dual-speed fan made a huge difference. It pushed 360° hot air evenly, giving me that perfect golden crisp without extra oil. I roasted a 6-pound chicken in under an hour, and it came out tender, juicy, and evenly browned. Toast, pizza, and even rotisserie mode all worked flawlessly.
The stainless steel body looks amazing in any U.S. kitchen and wipes clean in seconds — no sticky residue. Plus, it comes with seven accessories, including a rotisserie set, baking tray, and crumb tray, which makes cooking so much easier.
If you want one appliance that replaces your oven, toaster, and air fryer, this is the one to get.
2. Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro
At number two, the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is the most premium pick here — and you can tell from the moment you unbox it. The brushed stainless steel body looks and feels professional. Inside, the Element iQ System uses five quartz elements and smart temperature algorithms to cook food precisely.
I found its Super Convection Mode especially impressive — it reduces cooking time by nearly 30% while keeping everything evenly browned. The air fry and dehydrate settings make it more than just an oven. The only downside? It’s large and pricey, but if you cook often, it’s worth it.
For U.S. users who love versatility and high-end build quality, this Breville is the “chef’s choice” of countertop ovens. Whether you’re roasting turkey or dehydrating fruit, it performs beautifully every single time.
3. Cuisinart 6-Quart Air Fryer
The Cuisinart 6-Quart Air Fryer grabs the third spot for its simple operation and dependable results. With five core functions — Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, and Keep Warm — it’s perfect for everyday use. The stainless steel and black design fits any kitchen, while the 6-quart capacity is large enough to fit a 4 lb chicken or a big batch of fries.
What I like most is the digital control panel with precise temperature settings up to 450°F and a toss reminder that keeps food evenly crisp. The stainless steel basket feels sturdy and dishwasher-safe, which is a big plus for busy homes.
If you’re in the U.S. and enjoy cooking for two to four people, this one hits that sweet spot between size and performance. It’s not flashy but does its job extremely well — a reliable mid-range air fryer for everyday meals.
4. Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven
At number four, the Ninja SP101 proves why Ninja remains a household favorite. This compact, stainless steel air fryer with a steel basket is built for speed and space-saving. Its Flip-Up Design is genius — once you’re done, it folds up against your backsplash, freeing up counter space.
I like how fast it preheats — literally 60 seconds — and cooks 60% faster than a regular oven. In my tests, chicken wings came out crisp, not greasy, and the fries were evenly browned. However, the basket depth is shallow, so it’s better for small batches.
For U.S. users with smaller kitchens or apartments, this model makes perfect sense. It’s lightweight, sleek, and delivers consistent results without hogging counter space. If you want solid performance with less fat and cleanup hassle, the Ninja SP101 is a reliable all-rounder.
5. Café Couture Oven with 14 Cooking Modes
Starting at number five, the Café Couture Oven is a stylish stainless steel air fryer that doubles as a full countertop oven. It’s packed with 14 cooking modes — from Air Fry and Bake to Dehydrate and Proof — which makes it one of the most versatile picks on this list. The CrispFinish mode is a real standout; it melts cheese and caramelizes the top of casseroles perfectly.
During my testing, I noticed the stainless steel basket and interior clean up easily, though the oven’s size might be overkill for small kitchens. For U.S. families who host dinners or love baking full trays, the spacious 25-liter capacity is a win. Plus, WiFi and voice control via Alexa or Google Home make it extra convenient. Overall, it’s smart, powerful, and perfect for modern kitchens that crave both style and performance.
Final Verdict
If I had to pick just one, the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer is my top recommendation — it’s the best overall air fryer with a stainless steel basket for families or serious home cooks. For those on a tighter budget or who want a smaller footprint, the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is the premium choice for precision and pro-level cooking.
Both offer incredible durability and versatility, but the Emeril Lagasse wins for its size, speed, and simplicity.
FAQs for Best air fryer with stainless steel basket
Is a stainless steel air fryer basket better than a nonstick one?
A stainless steel air fryer basket is often more durable and less likely to scratch or chip than a nonstick basket. While nonstick options are easier to clean, stainless steel provides a healthier alternative as it avoids the use of PTFE and PFOA coatings.
How do I clean a stainless steel air fryer basket effectively?
Cleaning a stainless steel air fryer basket is simple. Immediately after use, soak it in hot, soapy water. Use a non-abrasive sponge or brush to remove stuck-on food. For tough messes, a paste of baking soda and water can help the stainless steel shine.
What are the main advantages of using a stainless steel basket in an air fryer?
The main advantages include enhanced longevity and heat retention, which can lead to crispier results. Stainless steel is also a food-safe material that won’t leach chemicals, making the best air fryer with stainless steel basket a great choice for health-conscious cooks.
Do air fryers with stainless steel baskets cost more?
Generally, air fryers that feature a high-quality, durable stainless steel basket might have a slightly higher initial price point. This is due to the superior material and craftsmanship. However, the long-term durability often provides better value.
Can food stick to a stainless steel air fryer basket?
Yes, food can stick to a stainless steel basket if you don’t use a little oil or cooking spray. To prevent sticking, you should lightly coat the stainless steel basket or the food you are cooking with a high-heat cooking oil before air frying.
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