Let’s be honest, kitchen counter space is prime real estate. So, when an appliance comes along that promises to do the job of two, it’s easy to be intrigued. If you’ve recently welcomed a new multi-talented gadget into your home, you’re probably asking yourself how to use a microwave air fryer combo to its full potential. Did you just unbox a futuristic-looking machine that feels more complicated than your smartphone? You’re not alone. I remember my first one; it felt like upgrading from a flip phone to the latest iPhone. But trust me, once you get the hang of it, this single appliance will completely change your kitchen game.
This guide will walk you through everything, from the basic functions to pro-level tips that will have you whipping up perfectly crispy fries and juicy chicken without breaking a sweat.
So, What Exactly Is a Microwave Air Fryer Combo?
At its core, a microwave air fryer combo is a kitchen appliance that merges two powerful technologies. It’s a standard microwave oven for all your quick heating, defrosting, and popcorn-popping needs. But, with the flip of a switch or the press of a button, it transforms into a convection-powered air fryer.
Think of it this way:
- Microwave Mode: Uses microwaves (a type of electromagnetic wave) to excite water molecules in food, generating heat from the inside out. It’s fast and efficient for reheating.
- Air Fryer Mode: Uses a powerful heating element and a high-speed fan to circulate superheated air all around your food. This is called convection cooking, and it’s what creates that delicious, crispy, golden-brown finish, mimicking deep-frying but with a fraction of the oil.
Many advanced models, especially those with inverter technology, can even use both functions at the same time. This “combo cooking” can roast a chicken in record time, using microwaves to cook it through quickly while the convection air crisps the skin. It’s the best of both worlds.
Getting Started: Your First Steps with the New Appliance
Before you start dreaming of crispy chicken wings, let’s cover the basics. A little setup goes a long way.
- Unbox and Inspect: Carefully remove your appliance and all its accessories. You’ll typically find a glass turntable for microwaving and special metal accessories for air frying, like a tall rack and a crisper pan or basket. Do not mix these up!
- Read the Manual (Seriously!): I know, I know. But every model is slightly different. The manual is your best friend for understanding the specific icons, button names, and recommended cooking times for your particular machine.
- Find a Good Spot: Ensure the appliance has plenty of clearance on all sides for ventilation, especially the back and top where the convection fan vents hot air.
- Run a Test Cycle: Many manufacturers recommend running the air fryer or convection function empty for about 10-15 minutes before the first use. This helps burn off any residual manufacturing oils, which can produce a slight odor initially. Just open a window; it’s completely normal.
Mastering the Functions: How to Use Microwave Air Fryer Combo Modes
This is where the fun begins. Most units have dedicated buttons or menu options for each cooking style.
Using the Microwave Function (The Classic)
This is the mode you’re already familiar with. Use the glass turntable and microwave-safe cookware (glass, ceramic, specific plastics). It’s perfect for:
- Reheating leftovers
- Defrosting meat (many have an auto-defrost feature based on weight)
- Making popcorn
- Steaming vegetables
Simply set your power level and time, and you’re good to go. It’s the same reliable reheating food method you’ve always known.
Unleashing the Air Fryer Function (The Game Changer)
Ready for that crunch? It’s time to air fry.
- Swap the Accessories: Remove the glass turntable. Place the metal rack and the air fryer basket or crisper pan inside. This elevation allows hot air to circulate underneath the food.
- Preheat (If Necessary): Just like a regular oven, preheating the air fryer for 3-5 minutes can lead to better, crispier results. Check your manual; some models have an automatic preheat cycle.
- Prep Your Food: Pat your food dry for maximum crispiness. Toss it with a very small amount of oil—about a teaspoon is often enough. This helps with browning and flavor.
- Arrange in a Single Layer: This is the golden rule of air frying. Do not overcrowd the basket! Food needs space for the hot air to work its magic. Cook in batches if you have to.
- Set Temperature and Time: Select the Air Fry or Convection mode. Choose your desired temperature (e.g., 400°F / 200°C for fries) and time. Air frying is generally faster than conventional oven cooking, so you might need to adjust your favorite recipes.
- Shake and Flip: Halfway through the cooking time, give the basket a good shake or use tongs to flip the food over. This ensures even cooking and browning on all sides.
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Our Picks for the Best Microwave Oven in 2025
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| Num | Product | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Countertop Oven and Toaster Oven, Small, Brushed Stainless Steel |
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| 2 | COMFEE\' EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black |
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| 3 | Cooks Innovations Non-Stick Oven Protector Mat - Heavy Duty Nonstick Oven Rack Liners to Protect Convection, Electric, Gas, & Microwave Ovens - BPA & PFOA Free Heat Resistant Baking Mat |
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| 4 | Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Stainless |
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| 5 | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button - Black |
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| 6 | BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft |
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| 7 | TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartment, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Black Stainless Steel |
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| 8 | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel Microwave 1000 Watts with 6 Auto Menus, 10 Power Levels, Eco Mode, Memory, Mute Function, Child Safety Lock, Easy Clean |
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| 9 | TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4\" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W |
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| 10 | BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, Stainless Steel, 0.9 Cu Ft |
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The Magic of Combination Cooking
This is the secret weapon of high-end models. Combo modes use microwave power and convection heat simultaneously. For example, a “Combi Roast” setting might cook a small roast in 30 minutes instead of an hour. The microwaves cook the inside quickly while the convection air browns the outside. Refer to your manual’s cooking chart for specific food recommendations and settings, as this feature varies greatly between microwave types.
Safety First: Never, ever use metal cookware, racks, or aluminum foil when the microwave function is active, either on its own or in a combination mode. It can cause dangerous sparks (arcing) and damage your appliance. Only use the manufacturer-provided metal accessories in their specified modes (Air Fry, Convection, Grill).
Pro Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
After countless hours experimenting with my own kitchen appliance, I’ve picked up a few tricks.
- Don’t Overcrowd: I’m saying it again because it’s that important. Give your food personal space.
- A Little Oil Goes a Long Way: You don’t need to drench your food. A light spritz or toss in a teaspoon of oil is all it takes for that golden crunch.
- Pat Food Dry: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Whether it’s chicken wings or potato wedges, pat them thoroughly dry with a paper towel before seasoning and oiling.
- Shake, Shake, Shake: For small items like fries or tater tots, shaking the basket halfway through is non-negotiable for even cooking.
- Check for Doneness Early: These machines are powerful. Check your food 5 minutes before the recipe says it should be done to avoid overcooking.
John Miller, an appliance technician with over 15 years in the field, always emphasizes, “The biggest mistake people make is treating their combo oven like a standard microwave for every task. Understanding which accessory—the glass plate or the metal rack—goes with each function is the key to both great food and a long-lasting appliance.”
Cleaning and Maintaining Your Combo Appliance
A clean machine is a happy machine. Since you’re dealing with both microwave splatters and the grease from air frying, regular cleaning is a must.
- Unplug the Appliance: Safety first!
- Clean the Interior: Mix a cup of water with a few tablespoons of white vinegar or lemon juice in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 3-5 minutes until it steams up. Let it sit for another 5 minutes, then easily wipe down the interior with a soft cloth.
- Wash the Accessories: The glass turntable, metal rack, and air fryer basket should be washed after each use in warm, soapy water. Most are dishwasher safe, but check your manual.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a damp cloth to clean the outside and the control panel. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the surface.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use metal in my microwave air fryer combo?
A: It depends entirely on the mode. Yes, you can and should use the provided metal racks and baskets for Air Fry, Convection, and Grill modes. No, you must never use any metal (including the provided accessories) in the standard Microwave mode or any Combi mode that uses microwave power.
Q: Do I really need to preheat the air fryer function?
A: While not always mandatory, preheating for 3-5 minutes usually gives you a crispier, more evenly cooked result, especially for things like frozen foods or baked goods. It’s a habit worth getting into.
Q: Is a microwave air fryer combo as good as a standalone air fryer?
A: For most tasks, yes! A combo unit is incredibly effective and can produce results that are virtually identical to a standalone unit, saving you significant counter space. High-end standalone models might offer slightly more capacity or power, but for everyday use, the combo is a fantastic performer.
Q: What’s the best wattage for a microwave air fryer combo?
A: For the microwave function, look for at least 1000 watts for efficient cooking and reheating. The air fryer performance is more dependent on the convection element and fan design, but a higher-wattage microwave often indicates a more powerful overall appliance.
Q: How do I get my food extra crispy in the air fryer mode?
A: There are three keys to extra crispiness: make sure your food is very dry, use a tiny bit of high-smoke-point oil (like avocado or canola), and do not overcrowd the basket. Giving the food space is crucial.
Your All-in-One Kitchen Powerhouse
Learning how to use a microwave air fryer combo might seem a little daunting at first, but it’s an incredibly rewarding process. You’ve essentially combined two of the most useful modern kitchen appliances into one sleek package. By understanding the different functions, using the right accessories for the job, and keeping it clean, you’ll unlock a world of quick, healthy, and delicious meals. From perfectly reheated pizza to crunchy, guilt-free french fries, your new appliance is ready to become the most valuable player in your kitchen.
Now I’d love to hear from you! What’s the first thing you’re excited to cook in your new combo oven? Share your ideas or questions in the comments below.