Blackstone E-Series Electric Pizza Oven and Air Fryer Combo Review Unveils Versatility

Description

Strengths of the Blackstone 8013 Electric Pizza Oven and Air Fryer Combo

Testing the Blackstone 8013 E-Series Electric Pizza Oven and Air Fryer Combo has been quite an adventure. The standout feature for me has to be the rotating 14-inch steel pizza plate. This automatic rotation ensures that the pizza cooks evenly without any need for me to lift the lid and fiddle with it. The convenience of having a rotating pizza plate really impressed not only me but also my family, who enjoy the perfectly crispy crust and nicely melted cheese every time. The touchscreen control panel on the front is intuitive and sleek, allowing me to set both the temperature and timer with ease. It feels modern, and the LED display brightens up the kitchen counter.

One of the perks I appreciated was the versatility. This unit doubles as an air fryer, complete with a baking tray and a trivet that keeps food elevated for optimal air circulation. I cooked everything from crispy fries to juicy chicken nuggets, and the results were consistently impressive. The removable crumb tray made cleanup surprisingly simple, which is a blessing considering how messy pizza making can get. Plus, this combo is designed for both indoor and outdoor use, thanks to its electric power source and a generous 5-foot cord, giving me flexibility depending on the weather or occasion.

Drawbacks to Consider

Even though this pizza oven and air fryer combo rocks in many areas, a few drawbacks stood out. First, the unit weighs over 27 pounds, which makes it a bit bulky to move around frequently. It’s portable in a sense, but I wouldn’t be hauling it around like a lightweight toaster. Additionally, the drop-down glass door, while visually appealing and helpful for monitoring cooking progress, is a bit delicate and requires careful handling to avoid damage. Some users might find the glass hard to keep spotless, especially with frequent use.

Another downside is the capacity limitation. While the 14-inch pizza plate is good for most personal or family-sized pizzas, it might not be enough if you want to prepare larger meals or multiple pizzas at once. Also, the air fryer basket, which is essentially the baking tray, is smaller than some dedicated air fryers on the market. This means bigger batches of fries or wings need to be cooked in several rounds, which could be inconvenient during parties.

Price Worthiness of This Combo Oven

Evaluating the price to quality ratio of this electric oven and air fryer combo, it holds up reasonably well. The price point positions it as a mid-range option among countertop pizza ovens and air fryers. Given the dual functionality—being a pizza oven and air fryer—it delivers more bang for the buck than buying two separate appliances. The touch control interface, the rotating pizza plate, and the ability to use it indoors or outdoors add layers of value.

Despite the size and capacity considerations, the combo feels like a smart investment for someone who loves homemade pizza but also wants the convenience of an air fryer. I found it to be particularly attractive for small households or those with limited kitchen space. However, if you’re someone who regularly entertains large groups, this might stretch your patience due to the smaller cooking chamber and batch sizes.

Versatile Cooking Options and Features

One of the most enjoyable aspects of this pizza oven and air fryer combo is its versatility. Beyond pizzas, I experimented with a variety of foods: cooking frozen fries, baking small casseroles, and even trying out air-fried vegetables. The baking tray doubles as an air fryer basket, and the trivet underneath allows hot air to flow freely, which helps achieve that crispy texture without excess oil.

The temperature range is wide enough for most recipes, and the timer function prevents overcooking, which is a relief since I’m not always glued to the kitchen. The oven heats up quickly and maintains consistent heat, thanks in part to the electric power source and efficient design. The LED touchscreen displays the current settings clearly, and adjusting them is straightforward. There’s a bit of a learning curve in figuring out the perfect cooking times for different foods, but trial and error paid off.

Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning this unit was easier than expected. The removable crumb tray beneath the pizza plate collects all the fallen bits of dough or cheese, so I just slide it out and toss the crumbs. That simple feature saves a lot of hassle compared to traditional pizza ovens where crumbs get baked onto surfaces. The glass door requires a bit more attention to keep it spotless, especially after air frying greasy foods, but a quick wipe with a damp cloth usually does the trick.

The outer black finish held up well and didn’t show fingerprints or stains easily, which made the whole thing look cleaner for longer. Just be careful with the drop-down door during cleaning—it’s fragile and doesn’t inspire rough handling.

Alternative Products to Consider

Comparing this combo to other countertop pizza ovens and air fryers, a few names come to mind. The Ooni Koda 16 is a popular pizza oven known for its wood-fired flavor and larger cooking surface. It’s fantastic for pizza enthusiasts craving authentic taste, but it’s not electric, so indoor use is limited and it doesn’t double as an air fryer. On the other hand, the Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven offers extensive air frying and baking capabilities with a larger capacity but lacks the dedicated pizza rotating plate, which means less even cooking for pizza lovers.

In terms of safety and ease of use, this Blackstone combo stands out with its digital touchscreen and indoor/outdoor flexibility, whereas some competitors rely on manual dials or gas. However, if you prioritize batch cooking and larger capacity, some rival products might serve better. The Blackstone 8013 shines for its rotating pizza plate and combo versatility, balancing both functions well without overwhelming your kitchen space.

Good Aspects That Impress

• Rotating 14-inch steel pizza plate guarantees even cooking without manual intervention.
• Touchscreen LED display offers easy and precise control over temperature and timing.
• Dual-function design allows cooking pizzas and air frying in one compact unit.
• Removable crumb tray simplifies cleanup and maintenance.
• Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use with electric power and long cord.

Areas for Improvement

• The unit’s weight and bulkiness make portability somewhat limited.
• Cooking capacity may fall short for large gatherings or batch cooking.
• The glass door requires careful handling and frequent cleaning to maintain clarity.
• Air fryer tray size is smaller compared to standalone air fryers, which could slow meal prep for bigger portions.

Overall Experience with the Blackstone Electric Combo

Using this pizza oven and air fryer combo felt like a mini indoor pizza party every time. My kids loved watching the pizza spin on the rotating plate, and the air-fried fries came out crispy without the guilt of deep frying. The touchscreen controls brought a modern vibe to an otherwise traditional cooking ritual, and the versatility kept me experimenting with new dishes beyond pizza. Though it’s not perfect for every kitchen or cooking need, this combo fits well into my routine, especially for quick and tasty meals that don’t require a lot of fuss.

In the end, this appliance isn’t just a pizza oven or air fryer; it’s a multi-functional cooking tool that brings convenience, style, and solid performance to the countertop.

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