Why the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Changed My Kitchen Forever
If you’re anything like me, you’re probably searching for a way to make cooking faster, easier, and more versatile without sacrificing counter space.
Let me introduce you to the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer. Trust me—this little powerhouse isn’t just an appliance; it’s a game-changer. Whether you’re reheating leftovers, baking cookies, or whipping up crispy, guilt-free fries, the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer delivers top-notch results.
What Made Me Look for a Toaster Oven in the First Place
I live in a small kitchen that gets warm fast, and my full-sized oven felt excessive for everyday meals. Turning it on for small portions—like a tray of cookies or reheating a single slice of pizza—was a hassle and an energy drain. When I heard about a countertop oven that could do everything from air frying to slow cooking, I couldn’t resist. Enter the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer.
Rating: 4.6/ 5 from 2, 487 ratings
Why the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Stands Out
After researching and comparing models, I landed on the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer (model BOV860BSS) because it checked all the boxes.
Here’s why it’s worth the hype:
Element IQ Technology for Precision Cooking
The Breville’s Element IQ System is a dream for anyone who loves consistent results. It uses five independent quartz heating elements and smart algorithms to steer heat exactly where it’s needed. That means no cold spots, no uneven baking, and perfectly crispy air-fried foods every time.
Versatility with 11 Cooking Functions
This oven isn’t just a one-trick pony. With 11 cooking functions, you can:
- Toast
- Bake
- Air fry
- Roast
- Broil
- Warm
- Slow cook
- Make cookies
- Reheat leftovers
- Cook bagels
- Even bake a pizza (up to 13 inches!)
Honestly, I didn’t realize how much I needed all these options until I had them. Now I can toast a bagel for breakfast, air fry chicken wings for lunch, and bake a batch of cupcakes—all with one appliance.
Super Convection Technology
I’m all about saving time in the kitchen, and the super convection feature speeds things up by up to 30%. It circulates hot air more efficiently, so everything cooks faster without compromising on flavor or texture. Think golden-brown fries and perfectly roasted veggies in half the time.
Air Frying Without the Guilt
Air frying was one of the main reasons I bought this oven, and it’s lived up to the hype. The dedicated air fry setting delivers crispy, golden French fries, chicken wings, and sweet potato wedges with barely any oil. My only nitpick? If you’re air frying something oily, like breaded chicken thighs, it can get a bit smokey. But with the easy-to-clean grease tray and dishwasher-safe parts, cleanup is a breeze.
Thoughtful Design
The little details make a big difference:
- LCD display: Super intuitive and tells you exactly when preheating is done.
- Interior light: Helps you check on your food without opening the door.
- Generous size: With a 0.8 cubic foot capacity, it fits a 9-cup muffin tin, a whole chicken, or six slices of toast.
How It Changed My Cooking Routine
Before I had the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer, my full-size oven handled almost everything. Now? It barely gets used. Here’s how the Breville fits into my life:
- Weeknight dinners: Air-fried salmon, roasted veggies, and baked potatoes all cook faster and turn out perfectly.
- Baking experiments: Cookies are chewy in the middle and crispy on the edges, thanks to the precise temperature control.
- Reheating leftovers: Say goodbye to soggy microwave pizza—this oven reheats food so it’s as good as (or better than) fresh.
Specs You’ll Love
If you’re a details person, here’s the rundown:
- Material: Brushed stainless steel
- Dimensions: 15” D x 20” W x 11” H
- Power: 1800 watts
- Capacity: 0.8 cubic feet (fits a 13” pizza or 6 slices of toast)
- Included accessories: Air fry basket, broiling rack, enamel roasting pan, wire rack, and 13-inch nonstick pizza pan
- Warranty: 2 years limited
Cons of the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer
While this oven is impressive, it’s not without its downsides. Here are a few things to consider:
- Price: At $349.95, it’s an investment. While the versatility and performance justify the cost for me, it might not be the best option if you’re on a tight budget.
- Air Frying Smoke: If you’re air frying something oily, the oven can get a bit smokey. It’s manageable, but it’s worth noting if you’re sensitive to smoke or cooking smells.
- Counter Space: Despite being a countertop appliance, it’s not small. Make sure you have enough room before committing.
- Learning Curve: With 11 cooking functions, there’s a bit of a learning curve to figure out which settings work best for different foods. Once you get the hang of it, though, it’s smooth sailing.
Should You Get the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer?
If you’re looking for a countertop oven that can replace multiple appliances, save you time, and elevate your cooking game, the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer is 100% worth the investment. At $349.95, it’s not cheap, but the versatility, convenience, and performance make it a steal. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or someone who just wants perfectly toasted bread, this oven will exceed your expectations.
Have you tried the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer? What’s your favorite feature? Let me know in the comments below!
