Content Summary
Move over, microwave & air fryer. Step aside, stovetop. It's time to give the toaster oven some love. This underrated kitchen appliance can do so much more than just toast bread and reheat leftovers. With a little creativity (and some foil), you can make all sorts of delicious dishes in a toaster oven. Not convinced? Read on for 10 toaster oven meals that will change your mind.
What Can You Cook In A Toaster Oven?
Cooking in a toaster oven is simple, quick, and easy. With just a short prep time, you can have a delicious meal or snack that's hot and fresh from the oven. The possibilities are endless. Don't be afraid to experiment—you might just be surprised at what you can make in a toaster oven!
1. Roasted Veggies
What better way to show off your toaster oven's roasting capabilities than with a tray of beautifully roasted veggies?
Simply preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, then toss your favorite veggies (we recommend garlic, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes) with olive oil and sea salt.
Spread them out on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper, and roast for 20-25 minutes. Voila! A healthy and delicious side dish, courtesy of your toaster oven.
2. Grilled Cheese
There's nothing more classic than a grilled cheese sandwich. And there's nothing easier to make in a toaster oven than one, either.
Simply preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, then place your sandwich (bread + cheese) on a piece of foil or parchment paper on the wire rack inside the oven.
Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is golden brown and crispy. Serve with soup or salad for a complete meal.
3. Chicken Nuggets
Why order takeout when you can make your own chicken nuggets at home? And there's no need to fire up the big ol' frying pan—a toaster oven will do just fine.
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, then line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and arrange your chicken nuggets on it.
Cook for 10-12 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
4. Pizza
Yep, you can totally make pizza in a toaster oven!
Just preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and place your favorite frozen pizza or homemade pizza on a piece of foil or parchment paper directly on the wire rack inside the oven.
Cook for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown and crispy. Slice and serve immediately!
5. Quiche
A quiche may sound like an intimidating dish to make, but it's actually quite simple—and perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Just preheat your toaster oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and blind bake your pie crust for 10 minutes (don't forget to line it with foil or parchment paper first!).
While the crust is pre-baking, whisk together your eggs, milk, shredded cheese, and desired mix-ins (think ham, bacon, veggies...the sky's the limit!).
Pour the mixture into the crust once it's pre-baked, then bake for 20-25 minutes more until set in the center. Let cool slightly before serving hot or cold—enjoy!
6. Salmon
This healthy seafood dish is a cinch to make in a toaster oven.
Just preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
Place your salmon filets on the baking sheet, then season with olive oil, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Cook for 12-15 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and flaky. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
7. Cookies
Yes, please! Making cookies in a toaster oven is super easy—and you don't even need to preheat the oven first.
Simply place your dough (homemade or store-bought) on a piece of foil or parchment paper on the wire rack inside the oven and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes.
Voila! Perfectly baked cookies, hot and fresh from the oven.
8. Baked Potatoes
A toaster oven is the perfect size for baking a potato (or two).
Just preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, then wash your potatoes and prick them a few times with a fork.
Place them directly on the wire rack inside the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, until they're nice and tender. Serve with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
9. Lasagna
This classic Italian dish is easier to make than you might think—and it's perfect for feeding a crowd.
Just preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and assemble your lasagna in a baking dish that will fit on the wire rack inside the oven. (You may need to cut the noodles to fit.)
Cover with foil or parchment paper and bake for 45 minutes, then remove the cover and bake for an additional 15 minutes to brown the top. Let cool slightly before serving hot. Enjoy!
10. Roasted Chicken
A whole roasted chicken is a great way to feed a family or group of friends—and it's easy to make in a toaster oven!
Just preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, then line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
Place your chicken on the baking sheet, season as desired, then roast for 40-50 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving. Enjoy!
In A Nutshell
As you can see, there are all sorts of delicious dishes you can make in a humble toaster oven—you just need a little creativity (and some foil). So next time you're thinking about firing up the stove, consider using your toaster oven instead. Chances are good that it'll do the job just as well...if not better!
Need to buy a toaster oven? Make sure you read our comprehensive review as below link first! We'll help you choose the perfect model for your needs, whether you're looking for something simple or more advanced. So what are you waiting for? Find your perfect toaster oven today!
Jane Vo
Happy cooking!
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