The success of the air fryer can be attributed to the power of marketing and social media. Brands effectively highlighted the many benefits the device offers and positioned the air fryer as a healthier alternative to fried foods. Health-conscious consumers were attracted to the ability to create crispy, delicious foods using less oil than traditional fried foods. The versatility of the air fryer also played a role. Air fryers can fry, bake, roast and reheat a variety of foods, making them an all-in-one solution for busy households.
Most models are easy to use, and the preset features make it easy for even those with less culinary skills to use. They also cook faster, requiring much less preheating time compared to a regular oven. From the get-go, air fryer hacks and recipes became a hot topic on social media platforms, with influencers and home cooks sharing their air fryer creations and reviews on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and later TikTok.
Users highlighted how best to use their air fryers, how to cook everything from vegetables and meat to desserts and snacks, and which models they prefer. These posts featured recipes like air fried pasta, steak bites, and green beans, and often went viral. This, combined with effective marketing and word-of-mouth recommendations, has made the air fryer an essential appliance in the American kitchen. Don't have one yet? Check out our picks for the best air fryers of 2023.