From air fryers to microwave meals, Americans are leaning hard into kitchen shortcuts. A recent YouGov study reveals how much time people really want to spend cooking, who’s buying ready-made meals, and why Gen Z is leading the charge. It also breaks down the rising popularity of air fryers—and what matters most when choosing fast food options at home. Here’s how the convenience revolution is changing America’s cooking habits.
Most People Want Dinner Done in 30 Minutes
Nearly half of Americans (48%) say they prefer to spend less than 30 minutes cooking dinner. Another 35% are fine going over that threshold, while 12% would rather skip cooking altogether. Men are slightly more likely than women to avoid it entirely.
Scratch Cooking Still Has a Strong Showing
Even in the age of shortcuts, 58% of Americans still cook from scratch at least once a week. Another 47% combine frozen items with fresh elements, and 38% go full freezer mode. About 1 in 3 heat up ready-made meals with zero extra prep.
Gen Z Leads the Ready-Made Meal Trend
More than half of Gen Z (52%) prepare ready-made meals at least weekly—far more than Millennials (33%) or older generations. Their lifestyle and preference for convenience are shaping the next wave of food habits.
1 in 5 Americans Buy Ready-Made Meals Weekly
Eighteen percent of Americans say they purchase ready-made meals every week. Another 18% buy several times a month. Gen Z again leads, with 25% buying weekly, compared to just 16% of Gen X and 13% of Boomers.
Taste and Price Drive Ready-Made Choices
When choosing ready-made meals, 70% of frequent buyers say taste and price matter most. But ingredients (51%), microwavability (43%), and quick cook times (37%) also rank high. Convenience isn’t just about speed—it’s about value too.
Air Fryers Have Earned Their Place
One-third of Americans use an air fryer at least once a week. While stovetops, microwaves, and ovens still dominate, air fryers are clearly carving out a regular spot in many kitchens.
Ease of Use Is Why Air Fryers Win
Seventy-six percent of weekly air fryer users cite ease of use as their top reason for using one. Crispier food (64%) and shorter cooking time (64%) are also big factors. Half of users also like that they can cut down on oil.
Men and Women Use Air Fryers Differently
Men are especially driven by ease of use (82%), while women are more motivated by healthier cooking and recipe inspiration. Both groups are helping normalize the air fryer as a go-to kitchen tool.
Many Americans Plan to Buy an Air Fryer Soon
Sixteen percent of Americans say they’re likely to buy an air fryer in the next year. Nearly one-third already own one, and only a small fraction are on the fence. For many, it’s no longer a trend—it’s a staple.
