Key takeaways
- 6 to 8 quart: small roasts, chicken, side dishes, dips.
- 16 to 18 quart: most family holidays and weekly use.
- 22 to 24 quart: large birds, big hams, buffet-style serving.
For most households, an 18-quart roaster oven from Nesco or a similar maker suits a turkey up to about the high teens in pounds and holiday side dishes, a 22-quart or 24-quart model from Hamilton Beach or Oster suits larger birds and bigger gatherings, and a compact 6-quart to 8-quart roaster suits small families or apartments. Which one to buy mostly comes down to the biggest bird or dish you cook, how much counter and storage space you have, and whether you want a cooking tool for the holidays only or for regular use.
Our top picks
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Roaster Ovens at a Glance
| Type | Example makers | Best for | Key traits | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18-quart roaster oven | Nesco, Proctor Silex, Rival | Family holidays, turkey in the mid-to-high teens in pounds, per common maker ratings | Removable roasting pan, self-basting lid, adjustable thermostat | Too small for very large birds |
| 22-quart to 24-quart roaster oven | Hamilton Beach, Oster, Sunbeam | Large turkeys, ham, big batches for gatherings | More capacity, often with a roasting rack | Bulkier to store, uses more counter space |
| Small roaster (6 to 8 quart) | Nesco, Oster, Elite Gourmet | Small households, side dishes, apartments | Compact, quick to heat | Cannot take a whole large turkey |
| Stainless or enamel finish models | Nesco, Oster, Cuisinart | Better looks and easier cleanup | Often enamel-coated or stainless steel | Typically higher in the cost tier |
How a Roaster Oven Works
A roaster oven is a countertop appliance with a heating element in the base and a removable roasting pan inside. A tight-fitting lid holds heat and steam. Many models also include a rack to lift the meat above the juices. Because it is a separate heat source, it frees the main oven for pies, rolls and side dishes. It can roast, bake, slow cook, steam or keep food warm, depending on the model and its instructions.
The main benefit is capacity without tying up your oven. The trade-off is that some roaster ovens brown less than a conventional oven. Many cooks take the lid off for a short time near the end to improve color, if the manual allows.
Capacity: What Size Do You Need?
Capacity is listed in quarts. Makers often give a turkey weight guideline for each size. As a rough guide drawn from typical maker ratings, an 18-quart unit is usually rated for a turkey in the high teens to around 22 pounds, and a 22-quart to 24-quart unit is rated for larger birds in the mid-20s of pounds. Ratings vary, so check the manual for your exact model and make sure the bird fits with the lid closed.
- 6 to 8 quart: small roasts, chicken, side dishes, dips.
- 16 to 18 quart: most family holidays and weekly use.
- 22 to 24 quart: large birds, big hams, buffet-style serving.
Main Picks
Nesco 18-Quart Roaster Oven
Nesco is one of the best-known names in roaster ovens. Its 18-quart models typically include a stainless steel or enamel body, a removable roasting pan and a lid that circulates steam. Reviewers commonly describe it as a straightforward choice for family meals, with an adjustable temperature dial. It is a good starting point for most buyers because the capacity covers typical holiday needs without being excessively large.
Hamilton Beach 22-Quart Roaster Oven
Hamilton Beach offers 22-quart roasters that the maker lists with a self-basting lid and a rack. These suit people who cook larger birds or want a bigger cooking surface for hams and multiple dishes. Reviewers tend to appreciate the capacity, but note the size when storing it.
Oster Roaster Ovens
Oster makes roaster ovens in several sizes, including 22-quart models with a self-basting lid and a removable pan. They sit in the mid-range tier and are often chosen for general holiday use. Check the specific model for finish and capacity, since Oster has offered multiple versions.
Proctor Silex and Rival Entry Models
These budget-friendly lines offer basic 18-quart roasters with a simple dial and fewer extras. They suit shoppers who want a holiday-only appliance without paying for premium features. Expect simpler construction and fewer accessories.
Compact 6-Quart to 8-Quart Roasters
Small roasters from brands such as Nesco, Oster and Elite Gourmet suit apartments, small households and side-dish duty. They heat quickly and are easier to store. They will not take a full-size turkey, so pair one with a conventional oven when needed.
Features That Matter
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Adjustable thermostat | Gives control over roasting and warming temperatures |
| Self-basting lid | Designed to drip condensation back onto the food, according to makers |
| Removable roasting pan | Easier to fill, carry and clean; check if it is dishwasher-safe per the manual |
| Roasting rack | Raises the meat above drippings and aids lifting |
| Stay-cool handles | Makes lifting the lid and pan safer |
| Non-stick or enamel interior | Improves cleanup but may need gentle utensils |
| Warming setting | Keeps food hot after cooking for serving |
Food Safety and Use Notes
Use a food thermometer to check that poultry reaches a safe internal temperature. The USDA gives 165 degrees Fahrenheit as the safe minimum for poultry. Always thaw a turkey fully before roasting, and follow the maker’s manual for cooking times and temperature settings. Place the unit on a heat-safe, stable surface with space around it, and keep the cord clear of the hot lid and any liquids. Do not immerse the base or cord in water, and do not use an appliance with a damaged cord. If an outlet or circuit seems overloaded when you run several appliances, ask a qualified electrician rather than using extension cords that are not rated for it.
Roaster Oven or Conventional Oven?
A roaster oven shines when your main oven is full, when you need extra capacity or when you want to keep food warm for serving. A conventional oven gives better browning and handles baking sheets and pies. Many cooks use both: the main oven for sides and desserts, the roaster for the bird. If you only cook a few dishes at a time, you may not need a roaster at all.
Cleaning and Storage
- Let the unit cool completely before cleaning.
- Wash the removable pan and rack by hand or in the dishwasher if the manual allows.
- Wipe the base with a damp cloth only; never submerge it.
- Store with the lid on and avoid stacking heavy items on it.
Budget Tier Trade-offs
| Tier | What you get | What you give up |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Basic 18-quart roaster with a simple dial | Extra features, finish quality |
| Mid-range | 18-quart to 22-quart models with self-basting lids and racks, from Nesco, Hamilton Beach or Oster | Premium finish and extras |
| Premium | Stainless or enamel construction with extra accessories or digital controls | Compactness and low cost |
Pick X If…
| Pick this | If you want… |
|---|---|
| Nesco 18-quart | A well-known all-round roaster for typical family holidays |
| Hamilton Beach 22-quart | Extra capacity for large birds and gatherings |
| Oster 22-quart | A mid-range roaster with a self-basting lid and a removable pan |
| Proctor Silex or Rival | A budget holiday roaster |
| Compact 6 to 8 quart | Small meals, apartments and side dishes |
Alternatives
- Large countertop convection oven: offers better browning and baking, but less capacity for a big turkey.
- Slow cooker: suits stews and pulled meats, not whole-bird roasting.
- Electric turkey fryer or outdoor roaster: for different cooking styles, with their own safety rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size roaster oven do I need for a turkey?
Check the maker’s turkey weight rating for the model. Many 18-quart roasters are rated for birds up to around the low 20s in pounds, and 22-quart to 24-quart models for larger ones. Make sure the lid closes with the bird in place.
Can I roast a turkey in a roaster oven?
Yes, that is its main purpose. Thaw the turkey fully, follow the manual for temperature and time, and use a thermometer to check it reaches a safe internal temperature. Remove the lid briefly near the end if the manual allows, to help the skin brown.
Is a roaster oven better than a regular oven?
It is not better, but it is useful when you need extra capacity or want to free your main oven. A conventional oven usually browns better and handles baking. Many cooks use both for large meals.
Can I use a roaster oven as a slow cooker?
Many can cook at low temperatures for stews and pot roasts, and some include a slow-cook setting. Check the manual for the recommended range. Avoid using it outside the maker’s stated modes.
How do I clean a roaster oven?
Let it cool, remove the pan and rack and wash them according to the manual. Wipe the base with a damp cloth and keep it dry. Never submerge the heating base or cord in water.
Are roaster ovens safe to leave on?
Treat them like any heating appliance. Stay nearby when cooking, use a stable heat-safe surface and keep cords clear. Follow the maker’s instructions for warming and unattended use.
FAQ
Capacity: What Size Do You Need?
Roaster Oven or Conventional Oven?
What size roaster oven do I need for a turkey?
Can I roast a turkey in a roaster oven?
Is a roaster oven better than a regular oven?
Can I use a roaster oven as a slow cooker?
How do I clean a roaster oven?
Are roaster ovens safe to leave on?
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