I used to think air fryers were just another overhyped kitchen gadget, something that would collect dust after a few uses. But after hearing so many people rave about the Gourmia 4 QT Digital Air Fryer, especially those who, like me, weren’t professional chefs, I finally gave in and bought one. I wasn’t expecting much, but this compact appliance quickly became one of the most-used tools in my kitchen. From weeknight dinners to quick snacks, it has made cooking faster, cleaner, and way more convenient. And judging by the reviews I’ve read, I’m definitely not the only one who feels this way.
My First Impressions
Right out of the box, I was surprised at how compact and lightweight it was. I don’t have a lot of counter space, so I appreciated that it wasn’t bulky like some other kitchen appliances. It also blends in nicely with my other black appliances. The digital display is clean and easy to understand. I didn’t have to pore over the manual, even though one is included, because the interface was super intuitive.
I selected the preset for chicken, hit start, and watched the machine preheat. When it was ready, it flashed a friendly “Add Food” message. Midway through cooking, it gave me a reminder to flip the chicken. The result? Perfectly crispy and juicy chicken breasts with zero oil splatter and almost no cleanup. I was hooked.
Cooking Performance: From Frozen to Fantastic
Since that first try, I’ve used the air fryer for everything from shrimp to tater tots to filet mignon. Yes, I even tackled steak. One reviewer mentioned using the broil function for their filet mignon and described it as perfectly medium rare. Inspired by that, I gave it a shot, and sure enough, I got restaurant-quality results without standing over a grill or dirtying a pan.
Another user talked about air frying a bag of frozen tater tots in the 6-quart model, and I could relate. That size is ideal if you’re cooking for a family or enjoy leftovers. But even my 4-quart unit handles more than enough food for me and one other person. I’ve done pork chops, roasted potatoes, onion rings, you name it and they’ve all come out crisp and evenly cooked.
One user even took theirs out on the porch to avoid heating up the kitchen on hot days. I haven’t done that yet, but it’s a clever idea.
Looking for more top-rated options? See our curated list of the Best Air Fryers for Every Budget and Kitchen Size.
Clean-Up Is the Best Part
If I’m being honest, what really made me fall in love with this appliance was the cleanup, or rather, the lack of it. A lot of folks mentioned how easy it is to clean, and I agree completely. The non-stick bucket design keeps all the mess contained. Most of the time, I just rinse it with a bit of soap and water and I’m done. On lazier days, I just pop it in the dishwasher.
That said, one user gave a useful warning: if you’re cooking something really sticky like teriyaki wings, the sauce can stick to the grate and pan. They had a hard time cleaning it afterward and noticed some of the coating came off. That’s exactly why I decided to get silicone liners, which I can’t recommend enough. They prevent stubborn messes, save the non-stick coating, and make cleanup even easier.
Perfect for Newbies Like Me
Several reviewers admitted they were first-time air fryer users, and I found myself nodding along as I read their experiences. One person said they bought the Gourmia during a sale just to test it out, and ended up loving it. That’s exactly how I felt. There’s definitely a learning curve, especially with timing and temperature, but the included recipe guide helps. And honestly, even when I overcooked a batch of fries once, they still came out golden and crispy. Not a total loss.
Another buyer mentioned using their Google Assistant to look up cook times. I’ve started doing the same, and it makes the whole experience even smoother.
Small Touches That Make a Big Difference
Here are a few other things I appreciated that reviewers also called out:
- Versatility: From frozen appetizers to fresh fish, it handles a wide range of foods.
- Digital controls: Let you fine-tune temperature and time for perfect results.
- Lightweight: Easy to store (one person keeps it on top of the fridge!).
- Low noise and steam: I was surprised by how quiet it is while cooking, and the top vent gives off very little heat.
- Modern design: Sleek, compact, and doesn’t dominate the kitchen counter.
Need help choosing the right air fryer? Check out our Air Fryer Buying Guide to understand what features really matter for your cooking style.
Final Verdict: Should You Get One?
Absolutely. Whether you’re a solo cook or feeding a small family, the Gourmia air fryer punches way above its price tag. It’s simple to use, versatile, and a true time saver. One reviewer said it best: it doesn’t heat up the whole kitchen, it doesn’t waste energy, and your food will be ready before most ovens even preheat.
If you’re still on the fence or don’t want to invest in a high-end model just yet, this is a great starter option. And don’t let the low price fool you. Multiple users pointed out that despite being affordable, it doesn’t feel cheaply made.
Personally, I’m using it almost every day now. From crispy wings to juicy chicken parm, it’s delivering consistent results with minimal effort. And for me, that’s worth every penny.
