Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links. Ratings and prices are accurate and items are in stock as of time of publication.
Our Test Kitchen put a new air fryer oven to the test. Find out why the PowerXL Air Fryer might have to be your next kitchen upgrade.
Since air fryers have become so popular, our Test Kitchen has been working hard to test all the amazing recipes, and they’re always looking for great appliances to make reader recipes taste their best. That’s why when Sarah Farmer, the executive director of our culinary team, saw the PowerXL Vortex Air Fryer, she knew the Test Kitchen had to give it a go.
The PowerXL Vortex Air Fryer comes in three different sizes: 2-, 5- and 7-quart. You can also find it in either red or black finishes. This air fryer uses Vortex Rapid Air Technology to circulate the air inside the air fryer more quickly than traditional models (this circulating air is what makes the food crisp).
This model has 10 different presets and can do much more than air fry; it can also air roast, air bake, broil, dehydrate and reheat. These settings and the rapid air technology are what really set this air fryer oven apart from other options on the market.
But how did these features work in the Test Kitchen? Check it out.
What We Loved About This Power Air Fryer Oven
Our Test Kitchen pros experiment with a lot of different products—we tested dozens last year alone—and know how to put them through their paces. After testing plenty of air fryer recipes, Sarah and her team found plenty to love about this oversized air fryer.
The BIG Basket
Sarah says that one of the major reasons she loves this particular air fryer is because the basket inside is huge. You can opt for a 7-quart model to pack a lot of fried pickles and chicken tenders in there.
“You can accommodate a lot more food and have larger batches than other air fryers on the market,” Sarah says. “I cooked four tenderloin steaks in one batch. I made eight pieces of crispy, air-fried Southern-style chicken in just two batches. Ten beefy meatballs fit in nicely with plenty of space around them for better circulation. You can even fit a whole fryer chicken inside.”
Quick Preheat Time
This air fryer only takes three minutes to preheat (way faster than any oven). You can have snacks air fried and served before your oven would be up to temp.
Intuitive Controls and Simple Display
“There is nothing confusing about operating this air fryer,” according to Sarah.
The power and control buttons are easy to identify and operate (here’s what each button does). While Sarah recommends going through the manual before using it at home, she says that you won’t have to spend much time reading through the easy instructions.
Well, until now. Sarah says the PowerXL Vortex gave many foods the great golden brown color we all hope for. Meatballs, in particular, browned up perfectly. “They were perfectly browned and looked oven-roasted delicious!”
It might sound silly, but the biggest downside that our Test Kitchen found with this air fryer oven was the beep sound it made when the food was done. Sarah says it was just too high pitched.
Also worth noting was that this air fryer required two hands to close it. This, of course, isn’t a big deal and doesn’t impact the functionality of the machine at all, but it does force you to put down everything to fill the fryer. Overall, though, there weren’t many cons to this air fryer, and it’s one that our Test Kitchen plans on using regularly to test your recipes.
The Verdict
It’s safe to say that the PowerXL Vortex Air Fryer is Test Kitchen approved.
This sleek new gadget browned up our air fryer recipes like no other and provided our team with plenty of room to make big batches of appetizers and other dishes. It’s even large enough to air fry (or air bake or roast) a rotisserie-style chicken. How amazing is that? Go-to rotisserie chicken-based recipes can become even easier.
For a big family or air fryer fanatics, this is a great option (and if you don’t have a big crowd to cook for, opt for the two- or five-quart sizes). Here’s how to find the best air fryer size for you.
I call this America’s best-loved air-fryer chicken recipe. The secret is in the herby, golden brown breading that makes the chicken super moist and flavorful. —Elaina Morgan, Rickman, Tennessee
This air-fryer Brussels sprouts recipe is my go-to Thanksgiving side dish. It's healthy and easy, and it doesn't take very much time or effort to make. I usually use rosemary for my turkey, so this lets me use up some of the leftover herbs! —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah
When I figured out this air-fryer pizza recipe, I was in pizza heaven! It's super easy to make these personal pies, and now that my boys can customize their own, everyone is happy. —Margo Zoerner, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
This air-fryer garlic bread turns out perfectly toasted in a hurry. I use fresh garlic, but substitute 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder if you don't have any fresh on hand. —Peggy Woodward, Shullsburg, Wisconsin
I am always on a quest for meatballs that pack a sweet and savory punch. These air-fryer meatballs are a snap to pull together and can be served over rice or buttered noodles.—Tami Kuehl, Loup City, Nebraska
This air-fryer asparagus recipe is packed with flavor, thanks to the lemon-garlic dressing that the spears are tossed in before roasting. It's a simple, quick side that goes with almost anything. —Tina Mirilovich, Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Coconut flakes and panko crumbs give my spicy air-fryer coconut shrimp recipe its crunch. It’s perfect for an appetizer or for your main meal. —Debi Mitchell, Flower Mound, Texas
I am crazy about chocolate chips, and this chewy cookie has enough to satisfy me. My husband and kids love these cookies. This big batch is perfect for our family. —Diane Neth, Menno, South Dakota
For years, I tried to find the perfect bottled barbecue sauce for chicken legs. After a few years, I threw in the towel and created my own using ketchup, honey and spicy brown mustard. It works perfectly with this air-fryer chicken legs recipe. —Kathleen Criddle, Lake Worth, Florida
Enjoy deep-fried pickles? You’ll love this version even more. Dill pickle slices are coated with panko bread crumbs and spices, then air-fried until crispy. Dip them in ranch dressing for an appetizer you won’t soon forget. —Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado
Looking for easy air fryer recipes? Try these simple fish and chips. The fish fillets have a fuss-free coating that's healthier but just as crunchy and golden as the deep-fried kind. Simply seasoned, the crispy fries are perfect on the side. —Janice Mitchell, Aurora, Colorado
(Try these other air-fryer fish recipes, too!)
You can make these air-fryer donuts in advance and then refrigerate them. It's important to bring the dough to room temperature before frying. —Renee Murphy, Smithtown, New York
Trying new recipes—like this air-fryer Wellington—is one of my favorite hobbies. I replaced the filet mignon with ground beef, while still keeping the beefy goodness. —Julie Frankamp, Nicollet, Minnesota
Thanks to the air fryer, you can make crispy calamari that tastes just as good as your favorite Italian restaurant's version! A quick coat in crunchy panko bread crumbs and a few minutes in the air fryer are all it takes to make this air-fryer calamari appetizer. —Peggy Woodward, Shullsburg, Wisconsin
While visiting a friend in St. Louis, Missouri, I tried fried ravioli at almost every restaurant we visited. When I got home, I had to try to replicate them, and I think this air-fryer ravioli recipe comes pretty close. —Cristina Carrera, Kenosha, Wisconsin
This air-fryer bread pudding is a fun dish because the chocolate makes it different from traditional recipes. It's a rich, comforting dessert. —Mildred Sherrer, Fort Worth, Texas
These air-fryer chicken drumsticks are flavorful, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Sometimes I'll add some red pepper flakes in addition to the curry powder if I want to spice them up a bit. I like to serve them with chicken-seasoned rice and boiled broccoli. —Zena Furgason, Norman, Oklahoma
These stuffed sweet potatoes are the perfect holiday side dish. Try preparing them ahead of time in the morning and then bake just before serving. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
I love combining classic flavors in new ways. This healthy recipe combines crispy popcorn shrimp and tacos! It’s one of my family’s favorites. To make the tacos lower in carbs, use lettuce instead of tortillas. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
We all know that almost everything is improved with bacon—and avocado is no exception. Since it's made in an air fryer, this appetizer is one to remember. It will definitely impress your friends! —James Schend, Dairy Freed
Panko crumbs give this spicy air-fryer coconut shrimp its crunch. It’s perfect as an appetizer or for your main meal. — Debi Mitchell, Flower Mound, Texas
Whether you’re serving a party of two or making a bigger batch for company, you’ll find this air-fryer sweet and sour pork a succulent choice. —Leigh Rys, Herndon, Virginia
With wasabi in both the crab cakes and the dipping sauce, this festive appetizer brings its own heat to the holiday party. —Marie Rizzio, Interlochen, Michigan
I first served these fresh and fruity air-fryer wontons as an appetizer at a summer luau. My family and friends now enjoy this fried wonton recipe for dessert at special occasions throughout the year. —Melissa Birdsong, Gilbert, South Carolina
An air fryer makes these easy apple fritters healthier than old-fashioned fritters, yet they are still just as delicious. They're a quick and easy dessert that includes a scrumptious brown butter glaze! —Alyssa Castriotta, North Scituate, Rhode Island
I have been following a keto diet for a year and a half and have lost 130 pounds. With this recipe for air-fryer keto meatballs, you won't miss the breadcrumbs at all! I like to eat these saucy meatballs on their own, but they're also great over zucchini noodles. —Holly Balzer-Harz, Malone, New York
Why serve tacos only in ordinary flour or corn tortillas? For a mouthwatering change of pace, try these air-fried tacos baked in flaky, golden crescent rolls. My family enjoys them for a warm lunch or light dinner. —Carla Kreider, Quarryville, Pennsylvania
For Christmas one year, I received an air fryer. Potato chips are simple to make in it and are an essential, crispy side for lunch. —Melissa Obernesser, Oriskany, New York
My family loves the flavors of these zippy kabobs. I usually grill them outside, but if it's cold or rainy, I love cooking them in my air fryer. —Jasey McBurnett, Rock Springs, Wyoming
One of the greatest things about the air fryer is it's conducive to making small, quick treats—like this air-fryer carrot cake. The little cake bakes in about 30 minutes and is perfect for enjoying with your morning coffee. —Leigh Rys, Herndon, Virginia
Get ready for rave reviews. These crisp breadsticks are twisted with Greek-inspired goodness and are best served warm with cool tzatziki sauce. —Jane Whittaker, Pensacola, Florida
Looking for a low-carb supper that's ready in a flash? These buttery sole fillets are covered with a rich sauce and topped with toasty bread crumbs. They're super speedy thanks to your air fryer. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Radishes aren't just for salads anymore. These fried radishes make a colorful side for any meal. Plus, they're quick to make in your air fryer. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
I grew up with a family that looked forward to Thanksgiving leftovers. But we didn't just reheat turkey and spuds in the microwave—we took our culinary creativity to a new level with recipes like these air-fryer turkey croquettes. Serve them with a crisp green salad for an unforgettable meal. —Meredith Coe, Charlottesville, Virginia
This quick recipe makes it easy to prepare air-fryer French toast sticks. Have them handy in the freezer for a hearty breakfast in an instant. They're also wonderful for buffets and eating on the go. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
The first time I grew a garden, I harvested summer squash and cooked it with garlic and herbs. This fried patty pan squash recipe is a creative twist. —Kaycee Mason, Siloam Springs, Arkansas
We love arancini, but they're not the healthiest option! I wanted to make a version that we could enjoy guilt-free. I substituted quinoa for rice and tried baking instead of frying. Now we can have these air-fryer arancini anytime. —Sabrina Ovadia, New York, New York
I added all of the components of a loaded baked potato—cheddar, potato, bacon, sour cream and chives—to my air-fryer chicken tenders recipe. Every kid will love this quick and easy dish! —Cyndy Gerken, Naples, Florida
Whether you have to run out the door in the morning or you take a few minutes to relax at the table, these breakfast egg rolls will hit the spot. The egg and sausage mixture can be made the night before, so in the morning, just roll, fry and go! —Anne Ormond, Dover, New Hampshire
Cauliflower florets are fried to a crispy golden brown, then coated in a sauce with just the right amount of kick. This General Tso's cauliflower is a fun alternative to the classic chicken dish. —Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado
Adults and kids alike will love these Southwest-inspired air-fryer hot dogs. This meal is not only budget-friendly, but it's hot, cheesy and delicious, too. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Chickpeas are a common ingredient in many dishes in Pakistan, where I grew up. I try to incorporate the tastes of my home country when cooking for my American-born daughters. With these air-fryer fritters, I have combined the light spice of Pakistani foods with the love of deep-fried finger foods that many Americans, including my daughters, enjoy. —Shahrin Hasan, York, Pennsylvania
These air-fryer spring rolls are a fabulous appetizer to have waiting in the freezer! While we were in the Bahamas, friends suggested a restaurant that serves amazing chicken spring rolls. When I got home, I created my own version. —Carla Mendres, Winnipeg, Manitoba
This recipe is one of my husband's favorites because it reminds him of his German roots. Cooking pork schnitzel in an air fryer is genius because we can eat in a jiffy. —Joyce Folker, Paraowan, Utah
This is for lovers of red and green tomatoes. When I ran across this recipe, I just had to try it and it proved to be so tasty! —Barbara Mohr, Millington, Michigan
I love the flavor of this air-fryer catfish. I’m not a big fish lover, so any recipe that has me enjoying fish is a keeper in my book. It’s wonderful served with a nice rice pilaf and corn muffins with butter and honey. —Kelly Williams, Forked River, New Jersey
These air-fryer French toast cups make any morning special. I made this recipe for my mom on Mother's Day, and we both enjoyed it. —Sandi Tuttle, Hayward, Wisconsin
I adore the combo of pears, blue cheese and walnuts in a salad, so I turned them into this ham and cheese turnover recipe—and they were a hit. I added black forest ham to make it a meal in one. Just add a salad of field greens with a balsamic vinaigrette and you have a decadent (and healthy!) dinner. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
My husband loves crispy coconut shrimp and po'boys, so I combined them with a spicy remoulade and voila! This air-fryer shrimp is a big hit with family and friends and is frequently requested. For catfish po'boys, substitute cornmeal for the coconut and add a few minutes to the cooking time. —Marla Clark, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Want to score indoor s'mores? Try these air-fryer crescent rolls made with Nutella. The kids will love to help with this rolled-up version of the campfire classic. —Cathy Trochelman, Brookfield, Wisconsin
These crispy air-fryer fish tacos are good enough to challenge the best food truck. I love that the fish is deliciously guilt-free because it’s air-fried instead of deep-fried. —Lena Lim, Seattle, Washington
I like to make these air-fryer quesadillas for party appetizers. Just cut them into thinner triangles. You can also switch up the cheese and the salsa to suit your taste. —Terri Keeney, Greeley, Colorado
An iconic American cookie, this version is so easy to mix up and bakes even faster in the air fryer. With these air-fryer peanut butter cookies, cravings can now be satisfied in mere minutes. —Maggie Schimmel, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin
Tired of the same old ground beef burgers? These quick air-fryer hamburgers, with their creamy cheese filling, will wake up your taste buds.—Sherri Cox, Lucasville, Ohio
These quick air-fryer shrimp are so good you won't even miss the fat! Eat them alone with cocktail sauce or put them on a salad or sandwich. —Rashanda Cobbins, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
I live in Tennessee and absolutely love our state's famous Nashville hot chicken. To make cooking it easier, I thought I’d try air-frying. I’m so glad I did—this Nashville hot chicken recipe is almost better than the original. —April Lane, Greeneville, Tennessee
Being landlocked in the Midwest, my kids always thought they disliked fish. This air-fryer salmon dish definitely changed their minds! I cook it on the grill a lot during the summer months but found that it is just as tasty and more convenient in the air fryer, especially on busy days! —Jill Fisher, Portland, Indiana
This is my take on fried tortellini. Air-fryer Italian street food recipes like this one are crunchy and gooey. Use the best quality tomatoes you can find for the sauce—it's so good that you'll want to double it and serve it over pasta. —Angela Lemoine, Howell, New Jersey
Air-fryer carrots make a super side—big on flavor and a breeze to cook. Plus, I can actually get my husband to eat these fragrant, deeply spiced veggies. —Taylor Kiser, Brandon, Florida
My family raves about these air-fryer chimichangas. Infused with green chiles, the beefy snacks are guaranteed to liven up the party! —Kathy Rogers, Hudson, Ohio
Air-fryer burritos are quick and easy—the perfect dinner for the whole family. Don't be afraid to load your tortillas with pork, beans, cheese and rice. —Fiona Seels, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
This cinnamon treat reminds me of baklava; but with only a few easy ingredients, it's a fraction of the work. My Aunt Adele shared the recipe with me, and I think of her whenever I make it. It's one of my favorite air-fryer snacks! —Sue Falk, Sterling Heights, Michigan
This air-fryer acorn squash recipe was adapted from the one my passed down from my grandma, who always served it at Thanksgiving. I make it in my air fryer whenever I'm feeling nostalgic. —Rita Addicks, Weimar, Texas
I am always on a quest for meatballs that pack a sweet and savory punch. These air-fryer meatballs are a snap to pull together and can be served over rice or buttered noodles.—Tami Kuehl, Loup City, Nebraska
Kids and adults alike will devour these unusual yet comforting pockets. With creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese and flavorful seasonings, what's not to love? —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
This air-fryer pork is an amazing dish to make on a weeknight, and it's special enough for company. The recipe starts with pork tenderloin, which is quick to cook and economical compared to many meats, and it tastes delicious. —Leigh Rys, Herndon, Virginia
Coconut flakes and panko crumbs give my spicy air-fryer coconut shrimp recipe its crunch. It’s perfect for an appetizer or for your main meal. —Debi Mitchell, Flower Mound, Texas
This recipe is the perfect combination of savory and sweet. The bourbon-soaked bacon adds a smoky, savory, bold taste to the cinnamon rolls. The ginger and pecan topping makes for a crunchy, spicy finish. —Shannen Casey, Citrus Heights, California
When rhubarb starts popping up in gardens and at farmers markets, I like to prepare these quick and simple air-fryer bone-in pork chops. —Bonnie Bufford, Nicholson, Pennsylvania
Chicken fingers have long been a favorite of mine. Actually, almost any finger-shaped deep-fried goodie seldom escapes my reach. These air-fryer chicken fingers have taken a lot of the guilt out of my guilty pleasure. —Dianne DeGarmo-Carr, Alexander, Arkansas
I love the flavor profile of everything bagels, so I re-created it with traditional breaded chicken fingers. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce. —Cynthia Gerken, Naples, Florida
I have used this "frying" method with eggplant slices for years and decided to try it for my green tomatoes. It worked! Now my family loves them in BLTs. —Jolene Martinelli, Derry, New Hampshire
These small-batch fudgy air-fryer brownies come together so quickly, and no oven is required. Top with nuts or powdered sugar for a quick homemade treat. —Rashanda Cobbins, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Our family loves roasted green beans, but they can take a long time in the oven. I tried these air-fryer green beans and we loved them! —Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas
My family adores this chicken recipe. Marinating enhances the taste, and the coating keeps the chicken nice and moist. The result is delicious. —Stephanie Otten, Byron Center, Michigan
I love a Reuben sandwich, so I tried the same classic filling in a pizza pocket instead of on rye bread. This hand-held dinner is a big-time winner at our house. —Nickie Frye, Evansville, IN
Here's a refreshing variation of my grandmother's sugar cookie recipe. Lemon pudding mix and icing add a subtle tartness that tingles your taste buds. —Melissa Turkington, Camano Island, Washington
These air-fryer Scotch eggs are amazing hot right after cooking, but I also love eating them cold for a snack before a soccer or baseball game. —Dorothy Smith, El Dorado, Arkansas
It never ceases to amaze to see warm chocolate pudding ooze out of the center of this tender chocolate cake. These cakes are a showstopper on a plate! Serve lava cakes with whipped cream or ice cream. —Carolyn Crotser, Colorado Springs, Colorado
These air-fryer brats are a nod to my German heritage. I serve them with a green vegetable and some french fries or mashed potatoes on the side. For a deeper sauce flavor, try using a lager or stout beer. —Allison Ochoa, Hays, Kansas
These air-fryer meatballs were created as hors d'oeuvres for a friend's wedding and became an instant hit. Now we enjoy them often at our house. —Steve Hansen, Redmond, Washington
Lisa is an editor at Taste of Home where she gets to embrace her passion for baking. She pours this love of all things sweet (and sometimes savory) into Bakeable, Taste of Home's baking club. Lisa is also dedicated to finding and testing the best ingredients, kitchen gear and home products for our Test Kitchen-Preferred program. At home, you'll find her working on embroidery and other crafts.