PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

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.

  • PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review
  • PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review
  • PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review
  • PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review
  • PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air fryers are the next big kitchen appliance and for good reason: they make crispy food that tastes just as good as the fried stuff without all the extra grease.

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.

Check out our Test Kitchen’s complete guide to air fryers.

All About the PowerXL Vortex Air Fryer

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.

Browning Power

While this easy trick helps air-fried goodies get a little extra color, we do know that air fryers don’t always give you the same golden hues as a traditional fryer.

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!”

Easy Cleanup

Both the basket and tray are covered in nonstick coating, making it super easy to clean after frying up some of your favorite snacks. Follow these air fryer cleaning tips when you’re done.

Are There Any Downsides?

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.

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Make These Recipes in Your Air Fryer

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Get Ready to Air Fry!

Put your air fryer to work! This handy gadget can make pretty much everything, from appetizers to main dishes—and even desserts! You’ll find the details for the recipes in this video in the following slides. By the way, here's what an air fryer really does to your food.

PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Southern-Style Chicken

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

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Want to know the secret to crispy, golden-brown air-fried food? We've got air fryer tips that'll help every recipe come out perfectly.

PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Garlic-Rosemary Brussels Sprouts

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

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Take a look at these other air fryer vegetable recipes.

PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Pizza

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

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If you're making dinner classics like pizza in your air fryer, you'll love our air fryer cooking time guide.

PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Garlic Bread

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review
Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Meatballs

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Asparagus

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Coconut Shrimp

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Chicken Legs

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Pickles

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Fish and Fries

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!)

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Mini Nutella Doughnut Holes

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

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Or make these classic air-fryer doughnuts!

PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Ground Beef Wellington

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Calamari

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Ravioli

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Bread Pudding

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Crispy Curry Drumsticks

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

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Don't miss these addicting air-fryer appetizers.

PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

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

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Next, try making these air-fryer stuffed peppers.

PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Popcorn Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Bacon-Wrapped Avocado Wedges

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Steak Fajitas

Zesty salsa and tender strips of meat make these air-fryer steak fajitas extra special. —Rebecca Baird, Salt Lake City, Utah

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Ready for a healthy crunch? You can make air-fryer tortilla chips with way less oil than deep-fried tortilla chips!

PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Coconut Shrimp

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

Go to Recipe

Here's our Test Kitchen's complete guide to air fryers.

PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Sweet and Sour Pork

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Wasabi Crab Cakes

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Caribbean Wontons

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Apple Fritters

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Keto Meatballs

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Taco Twists

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Potato Chips

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Spicy Ginger Beef Skewers

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Carrot Coffee Cake

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Greek Breadsticks

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Crumb-Topped Sole

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fried Radishes

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Ham and Egg Pockets

Refrigerated crescent roll dough makes this ham, egg and cheese pocket recipe a snap to prepare. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Turkey Croquettes

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer French Toast Sticks

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Garlic-Herb Fried Patty Pan Squash

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Quinoa Arancini

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review
Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Chicken Tenders

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Cheesy Breakfast Egg Rolls

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer General Tso's Cauliflower

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Beef Wellington Wontons

These tasty appetizers scale down classic beef Wellington to an ideal party size. They feel fancy and fun! —Dianne Phillips, Tallapoosa, Georgia

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Pork Chops

These air-fryer pork chops get their rich flavor from Creole seasoning and Parmesan cheese. Bonus: They're low in carbs, too! —Dawn Parker, Surrey, British Columbia

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Nacho Hot Dogs

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Raspberry Balsamic Smoked Pork Chops

Air-fryer pork chops are delicious and so easy to make. My husband loves them. —Lynn Moretti, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Chickpea Fritters with Sweet-Spicy Sauce

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Crispy Sriracha Spring Rolls

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Pork Schnitzel

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Green Tomato Stacks

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Pretzel-Crusted Catfish

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer French Toast Cups with Raspberries

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Turnovers

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Shrimp Po'Boys

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer S'mores Crescent Rolls

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Fish Tacos

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Quesadillas

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Taquitos

I love these any-occasion air-fryer taquitos. Spice them up by adding sliced jalapenos, if desired. —Mark Webber, Valdez, Alaska

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Herb and Cheese-Stuffed Burgers

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Breaded Shrimp

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Nashville Hot Chicken

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Salmon with Maple-Dijon Glaze

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air Fryer Tortellini with Prosciutto

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Cumin Carrots

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Mini Chimichangas

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Loaded Pork Burritos

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Honey Cinnamon Roll-ups

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Acorn Squash Slices

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review
Taste of Home

Sweet and Spicy Air-Fryer Meatballs

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Beefy Swiss Bundles

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Pineapple Pork

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Coconut Shrimp and Apricot Sauce

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Bourbon Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Bone-In Pork Chops

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Fiesta Chicken Fingers

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Strips

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Green Tomato BLT

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Brownies

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Roasted Green Beans

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Spicy Air-Fryer Chicken Breasts

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Reuben Calzones

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Lemon Slice Sugar Cookies

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Scotch Eggs

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

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Next, learn how to make a poached egg in the air fryer.

PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Peppermint Lava Cakes

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Brats

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

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PowerXL Vortex air fryer 2 qt review

Air-Fryer Rosemary Sausage Meatballs

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

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Originally Published: November 13, 2019

Lisa Kaminski

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.

Is the power XL air fryer any good?

This is my first air fryer and I truly love it. Its the only thing I put my meats in and some vegetables and it saves so much time. Also the heat of standing over a hot stove no longer exists because of this air fryer, I have even put cinnamon rolls in it and it only took 7 mins. This is a great 1st air fryer.

Is the vortex air fryer a good air fryer?

The Instant Vortex earned a spot on our winners list because the streamlined control panel is easy to use, the large-capacity cooking basket is easy to clean, and the powerful air fry function delivered near-perfect results.

Is a 2 quart air fryer worth it?

If it's mostly you and your beau sitting around the dinner table, the air frying aficionados recommend a 2- or 3-quart air fryer. The basket provides enough space to cook approximately six chicken wings at a time or enough vegetables for two people.