Getting ready for holiday feasts often means juggling multiple dishes and appliances. To simplify this busy season, I’ve curated five standout kitchen appliances that excel in holiday cooking scenarios. From a spacious electric griddle perfect for breakfast buffets to a versatile air fryer for quick, crispy sides, each option offers unique benefits. While some appliances excel in size and capacity, others prioritize portability and multi-functionality. Understanding the key tradeoffs—like size versus versatility or control precision versus ease of use—helps me identify which appliance suits different cooking styles and kitchen setups best.
Get kitchen staples and gadgets delivered free — and shop member deals
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Access to Prime Big Deal Days deals on October 6–7
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
Key Takeaways
- Large appliances like the Chefman XL Griddle are ideal for cooking for crowds but require ample countertop space.
- Portable hot plates like the Elite Gourmet double burner are great for small kitchens or on-the-go cooking but may have uneven heat distribution.
- Multi-function appliances like the Emeril Lagasse Air Fryer Toaster Oven can replace several devices but tend to be bulky and less specialized.
- Capacity matters: roasters and large ovens handle big meals, but they often take up more space and can be heavy.
- Design and controls vary—manual controls are simpler but less precise, while digital options offer more accuracy at a higher price point.
| Chefman XL Electric Griddle with Removable Temperature Control and Nonstick Surface |  | Best for Large Meal Prep and Family Brunches | Size: 10 x 20 inches | Power: 1500 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Elite Gourmet Double Cast Iron Burner, 1500W Hot Plate, Adjustable Temp |  | Best for Small Spaces and On-the-Go Cooking | Power: 1500W | Number of burners: 2 | Cooking surface size: 6.5-inch and 5-inch | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Multi-Function Air Fryer Toaster Oven |  | Best for Versatile, Multi-Method Holiday Cooking | Capacity: 26 quarts | Type: Air fryer and toaster oven | Material: Stainless steel | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Sunvivi 24-Quart Electric Roaster Oven with Viewing Lid, 28lb Capacity, Stainless Steel & Blue |  | Best for Roasting and Big-Meal Cooking | Capacity: 24 quarts | Weight Capacity: 28 lbs | Material: Stainless steel | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Paris Hilton 6-Quart Manual Slow Cooker, Pink |  | Best for Stylish, Effortless Slow Cooking | Capacity: 6 quarts | Material: Ceramic stoneware | Color: Pink with gold accents | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| kitchen appliances for holiday cooking | Material | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Chefman XL Electric Griddle wi | Nonstick surface | — |
| Elite Gourmet Double Cast Iron | — | — |
| Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Doo | Stainless steel | 26 quarts |
| Sunvivi 24-Quart Electric Roas | Stainless steel | 24 quarts |
| Paris Hilton 6-Quart Manual Sl | Ceramic stoneware | 6 quarts |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Chefman XL Electric Griddle with Removable Temperature Control and Nonstick Surface
This large electric griddle stands out for its expansive 10 x 20 inch nonstick surface, making it ideal for cooking breakfasts, pancakes, or multiple dishes simultaneously during holiday gatherings. The adjustable temperature control from 200-420°F offers flexibility, whether searing meats or simmering delicate sauces. Unlike smaller appliances, its size can be a challenge on limited countertops. The removable drip tray simplifies cleanup, and being fully immersible makes maintenance straightforward. Compared with the Emeril Air Fryer, this offers more cooking space but lacks a lid, which can be frustrating for certain recipes that benefit from covered cooking. The power cord length is unspecified, which might limit placement options.
Pros:- Large cooking surface for big meals
- Removable temperature control for versatile cooking
- Easy to clean with fully immersible top
Cons:- No included cover or lid
- Requires significant countertop space
- Power cord length not specified
Best for: Large family meals, brunch buffets, or cooking for multiple guests
Not ideal for: Small kitchens with limited counter space or quick, small-batch cooking
- Size:10 x 20 inches
- Power:1500 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Temperature Range:200-420°F
- Material:Nonstick surface
Our verdict“This griddle is perfect for those needing a spacious, easy-to-clean surface for holiday cooking, but its size demands ample space and may be overkill for small kitchens.”
Elite Gourmet Double Cast Iron Burner, 1500W Hot Plate, Adjustable Temp
Compared with the large griddle, this double hot plate offers portability and convenient size for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or outdoor holiday setups. The two nonstick surfaces of 6.5 and 5 inches make it suitable for cooking two dishes at once, especially when space is limited. Its adjustable temperature controls provide decent versatility, though the temperature range isn’t specified, which can make precise cooking tricky. Cast iron plates can lead to uneven heat distribution, especially if the surfaces aren’t preheated properly. While easy to clean, this hot plate isn’t designed for large-scale meal prep but excels in quick, small-batch cooking or supplementing a main stove.
Pros:- Compact and portable design
- Nonstick surfaces are easy to clean
- Adjustable temperature controls
Cons:- Limited cooking surface size
- Potential uneven heat distribution
- Lack of detailed temperature range info
Best for: Small kitchens, camping, or adding extra burners during holiday cooking
Not ideal for: Cooking large meals or when precise temperature control is needed
- Power:1500W
- Number of burners:2
- Cooking surface size:6.5-inch and 5-inch
- Temperature control:Adjustable
- Safety features:Dual power indicator lights, non-skid feet
Our verdict“This hot plate makes the most sense for small-scale, on-the-move cooking rather than large holiday feasts, but it’s a reliable backup or supplement.”
Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Multi-Function Air Fryer Toaster Oven
This multi-function air fryer and toaster oven offers the flexibility to replace several appliances in one device. Its 26-quart capacity comfortably handles large roasts, multiple batches of fries, or baked goods, making it ideal for big holiday meals. The French doors make it easier to access food without disturbing other dishes, and the dual-speed fan ensures crispy, evenly cooked results. However, its size can be a drawback for smaller kitchens, and lacking specific temperature or wattage details makes it harder to gauge precision. Compared to the Sunvivi roaster, it offers more versatility but may require more counter space and isn’t as specialized for roasting alone.
Pros:- Multiple cooking functions in one device
- Large capacity for big meals
- Elegant stainless steel exterior with French doors
Cons:- Size may be inconvenient in small kitchens
- Lack of detailed specs on temperature/wattage
- Potentially complex operation for some users
Best for: Home chefs wanting a multi-cookery appliance that handles roasting, frying, and baking
Not ideal for: Kitchens with limited space or users who prefer precise temperature controls
- Capacity:26 quarts
- Type:Air fryer and toaster oven
- Material:Stainless steel
- Features:French doors, dual-speed fan, interior light
Our verdict“This appliance suits those seeking a versatile, space-saving device that can handle a variety of holiday dishes, despite size and control limitations.”
Sunvivi 24-Quart Electric Roaster Oven with Viewing Lid, 28lb Capacity, Stainless Steel & Blue
The Sunvivi electric roaster shines for its large capacity and versatility, making it suitable for roasting turkeys, baking casseroles, or slow cooking big batches. Its self-basting lid helps retain moisture, and the removable enamel pan simplifies cleaning. The adjustable temperature range from 150-450°F covers most cooking needs, but its bulky size can be a hurdle in small kitchens. It’s heavier than countertop appliances, which requires careful handling. Compared with the smaller slow cooker, the roaster offers more capacity and roasting options, but its size demands dedicated space during busy holiday cooking.
Pros:- Large capacity for big meals
- Self-basting lid for moisture retention
- Removable pan and rack for easy cleanup
Cons:- Heavy and bulky
- Limited color options
- Requires significant counter or storage space
Best for: Roasting large meats, baking, and slow-cooking big batches
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or those preferring compact appliances
- Capacity:24 quarts
- Weight Capacity:28 lbs
- Material:Stainless steel
- Temperature Range:150-450°F
- Features:Viewing lid, defrost/warm, removable pan
Our verdict“This roaster oven is a strong choice for holiday feasts needing large capacity and roasting versatility, but it’s less suitable for small kitchens or quick tasks.”
Paris Hilton 6-Quart Manual Slow Cooker, Pink
This stylish pink slow cooker offers a simple, manual interface with Low, High, and Warm settings, perfect for set-it-and-forget-it holiday stews or roasts. The ceramic stoneware insert is naturally nonstick and dishwasher safe, streamlining cleanup. Its 6-quart capacity comfortably serves a family or small gathering, but manual controls lack the precision of digital models, which could be a limitation for more controlled recipes. The eye-catching pink and gold accents make it a decorative addition, especially suited to kitchens with a flair for glamour. Compared with larger appliances, this slow cooker is less versatile but excels in ease of use and aesthetic appeal.
Pros:- Glamorous design adds aesthetic appeal
- Naturally nonstick ceramic insert
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
Cons:- Manual controls lack precision
- Limited to three heat settings
- Pink color may not match all decor
Best for: Small to medium-sized family meals, stylish kitchens, or those prioritizing aesthetics
Not ideal for: Large gatherings or precise temperature control needs
- Capacity:6 quarts
- Material:Ceramic stoneware
- Color:Pink with gold accents
- Settings:Low, High, Warm
- Dishwasher Safe:Yes
Our verdict“This slow cooker is perfect for those who want a stylish, easy-to-use device for everyday or holiday family meals, without the need for advanced controls.”
How We Picked
My selection process centered on identifying appliances that significantly enhance holiday cooking. I prioritized size and capacity to accommodate large meals, versatility for multiple cooking methods, ease of cleaning, and safety features. I also considered user reviews and feedback on performance, especially during busy holiday seasons, to determine which appliances deliver consistent results. Budget considerations and design aesthetics played a role, too, helping me recommend options suitable for various kitchen styles and needs.
| kitchen appliances for holiday cooking | Material |
|---|---|
| Chefman XL Electric Griddle wi | Nonstick surface |
| Elite Gourmet Double Cast Iron | — |
| Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Doo | Stainless steel |
| Sunvivi 24-Quart Electric Roas | Stainless steel |
| Paris Hilton 6-Quart Manual Sl | Ceramic stoneware |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Kitchen Appliances For Holiday Cooking
Choosing the right appliance for holiday cooking depends on your kitchen space, the scale of your gatherings, and the types of dishes you prefer to prepare. Size and capacity are primary considerations—large appliances like the Chefman XL Griddle and Sunvivi Roaster are great for big meals but require substantial space. Versatility comes into play with multi-function devices like the Emeril Air Fryer, which can handle multiple tasks but may not excel at any single one. Portability and ease of cleaning also influence choices, especially if you plan to move appliances around or want quick cleanup after busy cooking days. Balancing these factors helps me recommend appliances that will make holiday cooking more manageable and enjoyable.
Size and Capacity
For large holiday meals, size matters. Appliances like the Chefman XL Griddle and Sunvivi Roaster offer significant capacity, capable of handling big roasts or multiple servings. But larger appliances demand more countertop or storage space. Smaller options like the Paris Hilton Slow Cooker are better suited for intimate gatherings but won’t support large-scale cooking. Assess your typical meal size and available space before choosing.
Versatility and Multi-Functionality
Multi-purpose appliances like the Emeril Lagasse Air Fryer Toaster Oven can replace several devices, saving space and simplifying your cooking process. These are ideal if you want to prepare various dishes simultaneously or if you enjoy experimenting with different cuisines. However, they can be bulky and sometimes less precise. Dedicated appliances like a large griddle or roaster excel at specific tasks but lack the flexibility of all-in-one devices.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
Manual controls are straightforward but may lack precision, while digital controls offer more accuracy at a higher cost. Also, consider how easy it is to clean appliances—removable parts, nonstick surfaces, and dishwasher-safe components make cleanup faster, which is especially important during the busy holiday season. Fully immersible appliances like the Chefman Griddle stand out here, while larger, non-immersion appliances require more effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size of appliance is best for large holiday gatherings?
For large holiday gatherings, appliances with high capacity like the Sunvivi Roaster or Chefman XL Griddle are ideal. They can handle big roasts, multiple side dishes, and large batches, reducing the need for multiple pots and pans. Keep in mind, larger appliances require enough space on your countertop and may be heavier to handle.Are multi-function appliances worth the extra cost?
Multi-function appliances such as the Emeril Lagasse Air Fryer Toaster Oven are valuable for their versatility, allowing you to air fry, roast, bake, and toast in one device. They can replace several smaller appliances, saving space, and are especially useful during busy holiday seasons. However, they tend to be bulkier and sometimes less specialized, so if you prefer dedicated appliances for specific tasks, they may not be the best fit.How important is ease of cleaning for holiday appliances?
Ease of cleaning is very important during the holiday season when multiple dishes are prepared. Appliances with removable parts, nonstick surfaces, and dishwasher-safe components significantly reduce cleanup time. Fully immersible appliances like the Chefman Griddle offer the most straightforward cleaning, freeing up time for other preparations.Can portable hot plates replace a full-sized stove during the holidays?
Portable hot plates like the Elite Gourmet double burner are excellent for supplementing your main stove or cooking in small spaces, especially during holidays when extra burners are helpful. However, they are limited in size and may have uneven heat distribution, so they work best for small dishes or as backups rather than primary cooking sources for large meals.What features should I prioritize for holiday cooking appliances?
Prioritize size and capacity if you’re cooking for many people, along with versatility if you want to handle different types of dishes. Easy-to-clean features are also critical to manage the busy holiday schedule. Safety features, adjustable controls, and durable materials further enhance convenience and reliability during the hectic season.Conclusion
If you’re cooking for large groups or hosting multiple dishes at once, the Sunvivi Roaster or Chefman Griddle will serve you best. Those with limited space or who prefer quick, small-batch cooking will appreciate the portable hot plate or the stylish slow cooker. For versatile, all-in-one solutions that can replace several appliances, the Emeril Lagasse Air Fryer Toaster Oven provides excellent value. Ultimately, your choice depends on your kitchen size, meal scale, and specific cooking preferences, ensuring holiday cooking becomes less stressful and more enjoyable.
Fall Picks
fall essentials
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
