A roaster oven is a type of countertop electric oven that is specifically designed for roasting, baking, and slow cooking.
It is similar to a conventional oven, but it is smaller in size and operates at a lower temperature, which makes it ideal for slow cooking and roasting meats and vegetables.
best Roaster ovens typically have a removable pan and rack, which makes it easy to lift the food out of the oven and transfer it to a serving dish.
Some models also have a self-basting lid, which helps to keep the food moist and tender as it cooks.
Roaster ovens are a convenient and energy-efficient alternative to using a full-size oven, and they are often used for cooking large cuts of meat, such as turkey or roast beef, as well as for baking cakes and other desserts.
What Should Be in a Roaster Oven – Buying Guide
When choosing a roaster oven, there are a few factors to consider:
- Capacity: Consider the size of the oven and whether it will be able to accommodate the size of the dishes you plan to cook.
- Heat settings: Look for an oven with multiple heat settings, including a low setting for slow cooking and a high setting for roasting and baking.
- Ease of use: Look for an oven with clear and easy-to-use controls, as well as a removable rack and pan for easy cleaning.
- Durability: Choose a roaster oven that is made of durable materials and has a good track record for reliability.
Some popular roaster ovens on the market include the Hamilton Beach Roaster Oven, the Oster Roaster Oven, and the Nesco Roaster Oven. It’s a good idea to read reviews and compare features to find the best option for your needs.
what size roaster oven should I buy?
The size of the roaster oven you should buy will depend on your needs and the size of your kitchen.
In general, a 22-quart roaster oven is suitable for cooking a turkey or a large roast and can feed up to 20 people. A 16-quart oven is suitable for cooking a chicken or a small roast and can feed up to 12 people.
A 6-quart oven is suitable for cooking small dishes, such as a casserole or a roast chicken, and can feed up to 6 people.
What temperature range should an electric roaster oven have?

Most electric roaster ovens have temperature settings that range from 200 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
The low end of this range is suitable for slow cooking and roasting at a low temperature, while the high end is suitable for roasting and baking at a higher temperature.
Some roaster ovens may have a “warm” setting that maintains a temperature of around 200 degrees Fahrenheit, which is useful for keeping cooked food warm until it is ready to be served.
It’s important to note that the actual temperature of the oven may vary slightly from the temperature indicated on the control panel.
To ensure accurate cooking, it’s a good idea to use an oven thermometer to verify the temperature of the oven.
This is especially important when cooking meat, as cooking at the wrong temperature can result in under or overcooked food.
How much does an electric roaster oven weigh?
The weight of an electric roaster oven can vary significantly depending on the size and features of the oven.
In general, smaller roaster ovens tend to weigh less than larger models. Here are some rough estimates of the weight of different size roaster ovens:
- Small (6-quart) roaster oven: Approximately 10 pounds
- Medium (16-quart) roaster oven: Approximately 15-20 pounds
- Large (22-quart) roaster oven: Approximately 20-30 pounds
It’s worth noting that these are rough estimates and the actual weight of a particular model may vary.
If you are concerned about the weight of the oven, you can check the manufacturer’s specifications or the product listing for more accurate information.
self-basting lid
A self-basting lid is a feature found on some roaster ovens that helps to keep the food moist and tender as it cooks.
The lid is designed with a series of small holes or channels that allow steam to escape from the oven, which helps to prevent the food from becoming too moist.
At the same time, the steam that escapes from the oven helps to baste the food, which helps to keep it moist and flavorful.
Some self-basting lids also have a built-in thermometer, which allows you to monitor the temperature of the food as it cooks.
Self-basting lids are particularly useful for cooking large cuts of meat, such as turkey or roast beef, as they help to keep the meat moist and tender as it cooks.
They are also useful for cooking other types of dishes, such as casseroles and stews, which can benefit from being kept moist as they cook.
If you are considering purchasing a roaster oven, you may want to look for a model with a self-basting lid to help ensure that your food comes out moist and flavorful every time.
domed lid
A domed lid is a type of lid that is used on some roaster ovens and slow cookers.
The dome shape of the lid allows for more space inside the cooking chamber, which can be useful for cooking large cuts of meat or other dishes that require a lot of space.
The domed shape of the lid also helps to circulate heat more evenly throughout the oven, which can help to ensure that the food cooks evenly.
Domed lids are often made of glass or clear plastic, which allows you to see the food as it cooks.
This can be useful for checking the progress of the food and making sure that it is cooking evenly.
Some domed lids also have a built-in thermometer, which allows you to monitor the temperature of the food as it cooks.
Overall, a domed lid can be a useful feature to look for in a roaster oven or slow cooker if you plan to cook large cuts of meat or other dishes that require a lot of space.
It can help to ensure that your food cooks evenly and comes out moist and flavorful every time.
Removable Roasting Pan
A removable roasting pan is a feature found on some roaster ovens that allows you to easily remove the pan from the oven for serving or cleaning.
The pan is typically made of metal and has a non-stick surface to help prevent the food from sticking. It sits inside the oven chamber and is used to hold the food as it cooks.
One of the main benefits of a removable roasting pan is that it makes it easy to lift the food out of the oven and transfer it to a serving dish.
This can be especially convenient when cooking large cuts of meat, such as turkey or roast beef, as it can be difficult to maneuver the food out of the oven without spilling it.
The pan is also easy to clean, as it can be removed from the oven and washed by hand or placed in the dishwasher.
Overall, a removable roasting pan is a useful feature to look for in a roaster oven if you want to make serving and cleaning the oven as easy as possible.
It can help to ensure that your food comes out moist and flavorful every time.
how to clean roaster oven
Cleaning an electric roaster oven is generally relatively easy, especially if the oven has a non-stick surface and removable parts. Here are a few tips for cleaning an electric roaster oven:
- Allow the oven to cool: Before you start cleaning the oven, make sure it has had time to cool completely. This will help to prevent any accidents or burns.
- Remove any food debris: Use a spatula or a spoon to remove any food debris or scraps from the oven chamber.
- Wipe down the surface: Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the surface of the oven, including the control panel and the handles.
- Clean the pan and rack: If the pan and rack are removable, you can wash them by hand or place them in the dishwasher. If they are not removable, you can use a soft scrub brush or a sponge to scrub away any food debris.
- Dry the oven: Once you have finished cleaning the oven, make sure to dry it thoroughly to prevent rust or other damage.
Overall, cleaning an electric roaster oven is generally a straightforward process as long as you follow these basic steps. If you have any concerns about cleaning the oven, you can refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for more detailed guidance.
Best Roaster Oven Reviews
1. Oster Roaster Oven with Self-Basting Lid – best overall
The Oster Roaster Oven with Self-Basting Lid is a popular countertop electric oven that is specifically designed for roasting, baking, and slow cooking.
It has a capacity of 18 quarts, which makes it suitable for cooking a turkey or a large roast, and it can feed up to 16 people.
One of the key features of this oven is the self-basting lid, which helps to keep the food moist and tender as it cooks.
The lid has a series of small holes or channels that allow steam to escape from the oven, which helps to prevent the food from becoming too moist.
At the same time, the steam that escapes from the oven helps to baste the food, which helps to keep it moist and flavorful.
The Oster Roaster Oven also has a removable pan and rack, which makes it easy to lift the food out of the oven and transfer it to a serving dish.
It also has multiple heat settings, including a low setting for slow cooking and a high setting for roasting and baking.
Overall, the Oster Roaster Oven with Self-Basting Lid is a convenient and reliable option for cooking a wide variety of dishes.
It is easy to use and easy to clean, making it a popular choice for home cooks.

The Oster Roaster Oven with Self-Basting Lid is a popular countertop electric oven that is designed for roasting, baking, and slow cooking.
Here are some pros and cons of this oven:
Pros:
- Large capacity: The Oster Roaster Oven has a 22-quart capacity, which is suitable for cooking a turkey or a large roast and can feed up to 20 people.
- Self-basting lid: The self-basting lid helps to keep the food moist and flavorful as it cooks.
- Multiple heat settings: The oven has multiple heat settings, including a low setting for slow cooking and a high setting for roasting and baking.
- Easy to use: The oven has clear and easy-to-use controls, as well as a removable pan and rack for easy cleaning.
Cons:
- Heavy: The Oster Roaster Oven is relatively heavy, weighing around 24 pounds. This may make it difficult to move or store.
- No timer: The oven does not have a built-in timer, so you will need to set a separate timer if you want to time your cooking.
- No temperature probe: The oven does not have a built-in temperature probe, so you will need to use an external thermometer to check the temperature of the food as it cooks.
Overall, the Oster Roaster Oven with Self-Basting Lid is a versatile and easy-to-use countertop oven that is suitable for cooking a wide range of dishes.
While it does have some limitations, such as its weight and lack of a timer and temperature probe, it is a reliable and affordable option for those looking to roast, bake, or slow cook at home.
2. Hamilton Beach 22-Quart Roaster Oven with Self-Basting Lid – best value

The Hamilton Beach 22-Quart Roaster Oven is a popular countertop electric oven that is designed for roasting, baking, and slow cooking. Here are some features of this oven:
- Large capacity: The oven has a 22-quart capacity, which is suitable for cooking a turkey or a large roast and can feed up to 20 people.
- Multiple heat settings: The oven has multiple heat settings, including a low setting for slow cooking and a high setting for roasting and baking.
- Easy to use: The oven has clear and easy-to-use controls, as well as a removable pan and rack for easy cleaning.
- Convenient features: The oven has a built-in timer and a temperature probe, which makes it easy to monitor the cooking time and temperature of the food.
- Compact size: Despite its large capacity, the Hamilton Beach Roaster Oven is relatively compact, making it easy to store in a kitchen cabinet or pantry.
The Hamilton Beach 22-Quart Roaster Oven with Self-Basting Lid is a popular countertop electric oven that is designed for roasting, baking, and slow cooking. Here are some pros and cons of this oven:
Pros:
- Large capacity: The oven has a 22-quart capacity, which is suitable for cooking a turkey or a large roast and can feed up to 20 people.
- Self-basting lid: The self-basting lid helps to keep the food moist and flavorful as it cooks.
- Multiple heat settings: The oven has multiple heat settings, including a low setting for slow cooking and a high setting for roasting and baking.
- Easy to use: The oven has clear and easy-to-use controls, as well as a removable pan and rack for easy cleaning.
Cons:
- No timer: The oven does not have a built-in timer, so you will need to set a separate timer if you want to time your cooking.
- No temperature probe: The oven does not have a built-in temperature probe, so you will need to use an external thermometer to check the temperature of the food as it cooks.
- Heavy: The oven is relatively heavy, weighing around 24 pounds. This may make it difficult to move or store.
Overall, The Hamilton Beach 22-Quart Roaster Oven With Self-Basting Lid Is A Versatile And Easy-To-Use Countertop Oven That Is Suitable For Cooking A Wide Range Of Dishes.
While It Does Have Some Limitations, Such As Its Weight And Lack Of A Timer And Temperature Probe, It Is A Reliable And Affordable Option For Those Looking To Roast, Bake, Or Slow Cook At Home.
3. Sunvivi Electric Roaster Oven with Self-Basting Lid

The Sunvivi Electric Roaster Oven is a countertop electric oven that is designed for roasting, baking, and slow cooking. Here are some features of this oven:
- Large capacity: The oven has a 22-quart capacity, which is suitable for cooking a turkey or a large roast and can feed up to 20 people.
- Multiple heat settings: The oven has multiple heat settings, including a low setting for slow cooking and a high setting for roasting and baking.
- Easy to use: The oven has clear and easy-to-use controls, as well as a removable pan and rack for easy cleaning.
- Self-basting lid: The self-basting lid helps to keep the food moist and flavorful as it cooks.
- Temperature probe: The oven has a built-in temperature probe, which allows you to monitor the temperature of the food as it cooks.
Overall, the Sunvivi Electric Roaster Oven is a reliable and easy-to-use countertop oven that is suitable for cooking a wide range of dishes.
Its large capacity, multiple heat settings, and self-basting lid make it a popular choice for home cooks looking to roast, bake, or slow cook.
Pros
- Easy temperature settings
- Removable rack and pan
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Doesn’t brown as well
- Reports of smoking smell on first use
4. NESCO MWR18-14 Roaster Oven

The NESCO MWR18-14 Roaster Oven is a countertop electric oven that is designed for roasting, baking, and slow cooking.
Here are some features of this oven:
- Large capacity: The oven has an 18-quart capacity, which is suitable for cooking a turkey or a large roast and can feed up to 14 people.
- Multiple heat settings: The oven has multiple heat settings, including a low setting for slow cooking and a high setting for roasting and baking.
- Easy to use: The oven has clear and easy-to-use controls, as well as a removable pan and rack for easy cleaning.
- Convenient features: The oven has a built-in timer and a temperature probe, which makes it easy to monitor the cooking time and temperature of the food.
- Compact size: Despite its large capacity, the NESCO MWR18-14 Roaster Oven is relatively compact, making it easy to store in a kitchen cabinet or pantry.
Overall, the NESCO MWR18-14 Roaster Oven is a reliable and convenient countertop oven that is suitable for cooking a wide range of dishes.
Its large capacity, multiple heat settings, and convenient features make it a popular choice for home cooks looking to roast, bake, or slow cook.
The NESCO MWR18-14 Roaster Oven is a popular countertop electric oven that is designed for roasting, baking, and slow cooking. Here are some pros and cons of this oven:
Pros:
- Large capacity: The oven has an 18-quart capacity, which is suitable for cooking a turkey or a large roast and can feed up to 15 people.
- Multiple heat settings: The oven has multiple heat settings, including a low setting for slow cooking and a high setting for roasting and baking.
- Easy to use: The oven has clear and easy-to-use controls, as well as a removable pan and rack for easy cleaning.
- Compact size: Despite its large capacity, the NESCO Roaster Oven is relatively compact, making it easy to store in a kitchen cabinet or pantry.
Cons:
- No timer: The oven does not have a built-in timer, so you will need to set a separate timer if you want to time your cooking.
- No temperature probe: The oven does not have a built-in temperature probe, so you will need to use an external thermometer to check the temperature of the food as it cooks.
- Limited warranty: The oven comes with a limited one-year warranty, which may not provide as much protection as a longer warranty.
5. NutriChef Convection Countertop Toaster Oven

Convection toaster ovens are a type of countertop oven that uses a fan to circulate hot air around the cooking chamber, which helps to cook the food more evenly and quickly. They are often more energy-efficient than conventional ovens and can be used for a wide range of cooking tasks, including baking, broiling, and toasting.
Some unique features of convection toaster ovens that may be worth considering include:
- Multiple cooking functions: Many convection toaster ovens have multiple cooking functions, such as bake, broiling, and toasting, which allows you to use the oven for a variety of tasks.
- Digital controls: Some convection toaster ovens have digital controls, which can make it easier to set and adjust the cooking temperature and time.
- Large capacity: Some convection toaster ovens have a larger capacity than traditional toaster ovens, which can be useful if you plan to cook larger dishes.
Overall, convection toaster ovens are a versatile and convenient option for home cooks who want to bake, broil, or toast small to medium-sized dishes. They are often more energy-efficient than conventional ovens and can be a good choice for those with limited kitchen space.
Here are some pros and cons of this oven:
Pros:
- Large capacity: The oven has a 22-litre capacity, which is suitable for cooking a wide range of dishes and can accommodate a 12-inch pizza.
- Convection cooking: The oven has a convection setting, which uses a fan to circulate hot air evenly throughout the oven, helping to cook food faster and more evenly.
- Multiple cooking functions: The oven has multiple cooking functions, including baking, roasting, broiling, and toasting, making it a versatile appliance for your kitchen.
- Easy to use: The oven has clear and easy-to-use controls, as well as a removable crumb tray for easy cleaning.
Cons:
- Limited warranty: The oven comes with a limited one-year warranty, which may not provide as much protection as a longer warranty.
FAQs: best roaster oven
Here are some unique questions you might have about roaster ovens:
What is a roaster oven and how does it work?
A roaster oven is a type of countertop electric oven that is specifically designed for roasting, baking, and slow cooking. It is similar to a conventional oven, but it is smaller in size and operates at a lower temperature, which makes it ideal for slow cooking and roasting meats and vegetables. Roaster ovens typically have a removable pan and rack, which makes it easy to lift the food out of the oven and transfer it to a serving dish. Some models also have a self-basting lid, which helps to keep the food moist and tender as it cooks.
What size roaster oven should I buy?
The size of the roaster oven you should buy will depend on your needs and the size of your kitchen. Consider the size of the dishes you plan to cook and choose an oven with a suitable capacity. You should also consider the amount of counter space you have available and choose an oven that will fit comfortably in your kitchen. If you only plan to use the roaster oven for special occasions, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas, you may want to choose a larger model. If you plan to use it more frequently, a smaller model may be sufficient.
How do I clean a roaster oven?
Cleaning a roaster oven is generally relatively easy, especially if the oven has a non-stick surface and removable parts. Allow the oven to cool completely, then use a spatula or a spoon to remove any food debris or scraps from the oven chamber. Wipe down the surface of the oven with a damp cloth or sponge, including the control panel and the handles. If the pan and rack are removable, you can wash them by hand or place them in the dishwasher. If they are not removable, you can use a soft scrub brush or a sponge to scrub away any food debris. Once you have finished cleaning the oven, make sure to dry it thoroughly to prevent rust or other damage.
Are roaster ovens energy efficient?
Roaster ovens are generally more energy efficient than conventional ovens because they are smaller in size
Can I use a roaster oven to cook a frozen turkey?
Yes, you can use a roaster oven to cook a frozen turkey. In fact, cooking a turkey in a roaster oven can be a convenient and energy-efficient alternative to using a full-size oven. To cook a frozen turkey in a roaster oven, place the turkey in the roaster oven, add any desired seasonings or herbs, and set the temperature to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook the turkey for approximately 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I use a roaster oven to bake bread or cookies?
Yes, you can use a roaster oven to bake bread or cookies. In fact, many people prefer using a roaster oven for baking because the lower temperature and moist heat of the oven can help to produce a softer and more evenly baked product. To bake bread or cookies in a roaster oven, preheat the oven to the desired temperature and place the dough or cookie dough in the oven. Cook for the recommended time, or until the bread or cookies are golden brown and fully cooked.
Can I use a roaster oven to cook a roast beef?
Yes, you can use a roaster oven to cook a roast beef. In fact, roaster ovens are well-suited for cooking large cuts of meat, such as roast beef, because they provide a moist and evenly heated cooking environment that helps to keep the meat tender and flavorful. To cook a roast beef in a roaster oven, place the roast in the oven, add any desired seasonings or herbs, and set the temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook the roast for approximately 1 hour per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare.
Can I use a roaster oven to cook a pot roast?
Yes, you can use a roaster oven to cook a pot roast. In fact, roaster ovens are well-suited for cooking pot roasts because they provide a moist and evenly heated cooking environment that
conclusion
There are many factors to consider when choosing the best roaster oven for your needs, including capacity, heat settings, ease of use, and durability.
Some popular roaster ovens on the market include the Hamilton Beach Roaster Oven, the Oster Roaster Oven, and the Nesco Roaster Oven.
It’s a good idea to read reviews and compare features to find the best option for your needs.
In general, a 22-quart roaster oven is suitable for cooking a turkey or a large roast and can feed up to 20 people.
A 16-quart oven is suitable for cooking a chicken or a small roast and can feed up to 12 people.
A 6-quart oven is suitable for cooking small dishes, such as a casserole or a roast chicken, and can feed up to 6 people.
When shopping for a roaster oven, look for a model with multiple heat settings, including a low setting for slow cooking and a high setting for roasting and baking.
Look for an oven with clear and easy-to-use controls, as well as a removable rack and pan for easy cleaning.
Choose a roaster oven that is made of durable materials and has a good track record for reliability.