9 Best 18 Cubic Foot Refrigerators for 2026

Finding the perfect refrigerator that fits your space and keeps your food fresh can be a real challenge. You’re not alone if you’ve struggled to find a compact fridge that offers enough storage without overwhelming your kitchen. Many people face this dilemma, especially when looking for reliable and efficient options.

You’ll find great 18 cubic foot refrigerators in models like Hamilton Beach and Kenmore, offering frost-free operation, adjustable shelving, and energy-efficient designs that fit compact kitchens perfectly. Options include reliable top-freezer and sleek French door styles with features such as electronic temperature controls and humidity crisper drawers.

Whether you want a durable, quiet fridge with convenient storage or a commercial-grade unit, these picks balance modern features and efficiency.

Keep exploring to uncover the ideal fit for your needs.

Image	Name	Editor's Rating	Price
	HAMILTON BEACH, Frost Free Top Mount 2 D...	★★★★★ ★★★★★ 5 out of 5	Check Price
	Commercial Cool 18 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Ref...	★★★★★ ★★★★★ 5 out of 5	Check Price
	Kenmore 30" Top Mount Refrigerator with ...	★★★★★ ★★★★★ 4.5 out of 5	Check Price

Hamilton Beach 18 Cu Ft Frost Free Refrigerator

HAMILTON BEACH, Frost Free Top Mount 2 Door Apartment Size...

• LARGE CAPACITY - 18 Cu. Ft. Capacity, perfect for all the...
• FREEZER COMPARTMENT - Keeps your food well frozen at all...
• ADJUSTABLE THERMOSTAT - Control your food temperature to...

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The Hamilton Beach 18 Cu Ft Frost Free Refrigerator offers a smart solution for those seeking ample storage within a compact footprint. Its 18 cubic feet of space is thoughtfully divided, providing separate compartments for fresh food and frozen items. This separation helps keep your groceries organized and easy to access.

Designed to simplify your daily routine, the refrigerator features adjustable shelves and a built-in lamp that enhances visibility. These elements make it easier to customize storage and find what you need quickly. The frost-free technology minimizes ice buildup, significantly reducing maintenance time and effort.

The unit includes reversible door hinges, allowing flexible installation to fit your kitchen layout perfectly. While it delivers strong performance, the fridge’s 150-pound weight means moving it may require assistance. Additionally, the fresh food compartment, at around 8 cubic feet, might feel smaller compared to some other models.

Energy efficiency is balanced with practical capacity, consuming approximately 300 kWh annually. This makes it a sensible choice for households looking to manage energy use without sacrificing storage space.

Best for: Families or individuals seeking a spacious, energy-efficient refrigerator with customizable storage and easy maintenance features.

What We Like:

• Spacious 18 Cu. Ft. capacity with distinct fresh and freezer sections
• Frost-free design reduces the hassle of manual defrosting
• Adjustable shelves and built-in lighting enhance usability
• Reversible door hinges offer installation flexibility

Specification:

Commercial 18 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator White

Commercial Cool 18 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator with...

• Generous 18 Cu. Ft. Capacity: Our full size refrigerator...
• Independent Temperature Control: Maintain optimal freshness...
• Frost-Free Design: No need to manual defrost. Enjoy...

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Experience the convenience of the Commercial 18 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator in White, designed to optimize your kitchen storage effortlessly. Its spacious 18 cubic feet capacity offers ample room for fresh groceries and frozen goods, helping you keep everything neatly organized.

The top freezer compartment features an adjustable glass shelf and is ice maker ready, so you can customize your storage and enjoy easy access to frozen meals or ice treats. Independent temperature controls for the fridge and freezer ensure your food stays fresh and perfectly chilled.

Maintenance is straightforward with the frost-free design, which prevents ice buildup and eliminates the hassle of manual defrosting. This feature keeps your appliance running efficiently and cleanly over time.

Energy efficiency is a priority with this refrigerator. It’s Energy Star certified and equipped with a high-performance compressor that reduces energy use without sacrificing cooling power, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

Best for: Families or individuals needing a reliable, energy-efficient refrigerator with versatile storage for fresh and frozen foods in a home or apartment setting.

What We Like:

• Spacious 18 cubic feet capacity with adjustable shelves for flexible storage
• Frost-free technology simplifies upkeep by preventing ice buildup
• Energy Star certification ensures efficient and cost-effective operation
• Independent temperature controls for fridge and freezer compartments
• Top freezer design with ice maker readiness for added convenience

Specification:

Kenmore 30″ Top Mount Refrigerator with Freezer

Kenmore 30" Top Mount Refrigerator with Freezer - Adjustable...

• Spacious Yet Compact: This 30-inch, white refrigerator...
• Adjustable Edge-to-Edge Glass Shelves: Edge-to-edge tempered...
• Gallon Door Storage + Freezer Bins: 4 clear refrigerator...

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The Kenmore 30″ Top Mount Refrigerator with Freezer offers a practical solution for kitchens where space is limited but reliable storage is essential. Its 18.1 cubic feet capacity fits comfortably in smaller areas, ensuring you have enough room for daily essentials without crowding your space. The design focuses on usability, making it easy to organize and access everything you need.

Inside, adjustable edge-to-edge glass shelves provide flexible storage options, allowing you to customize the interior layout to suit your needs. Four clear door bins add convenience by keeping frequently used items within easy reach. Maintaining freshness is simple thanks to two humidity-controlled crispers, which help extend the life of your fruits and vegetables.

This model features an ENERGY STAR certified inverter compressor, delivering quiet and efficient performance while reducing energy costs. The modern recessed handle and flush-front design not only enhance the fridge’s sleek appearance but also make cleaning straightforward, minimizing dust and grime buildup.

While the standard-depth design optimizes space for smaller kitchens, it may offer less interior room compared to deeper models. The refrigerator is available only in white, which fits many decors but might not suit every style preference.

Best for: Those who need a reliable, energy-efficient refrigerator with ample storage for smaller spaces and prefer a modern, easy-to-clean design.

What We Like:

• ENERGY STAR certified with quiet, efficient inverter compressor
• Adjustable edge-to-edge tempered glass shelves for versatile storage
• Two humidity-controlled crispers to keep produce fresh longer
• Clear door bins for organized and accessible storage
• Modern recessed handle with flush-front design for easy cleaning

Specification:

Kenmore 30″ 18.1 cu. ft. Refrigerator/Freezer

Kenmore 30 in. 18.1 cu. ft. Capacity Refrigerator/Freezer...

• Spacious Yet Compact: This 30-inch, fingerprint resistant...
• Adjustable Full-Width Glass Shelves: Tempered glass shelves...
• Gallon Door Storage + Freezer Bins: 3 clear refrigerator...

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Offering a perfect balance between capacity and compact design, the Kenmore 30″ Refrigerator/Freezer provides 18.1 cubic feet of storage in a slim 30-inch width. It is ideal for kitchens where space is limited but ample refrigeration is still essential. This model helps keep your groceries well-organized with adjustable tempered glass shelves that can be repositioned to suit your needs.

The humidity-controlled crispers maintain optimal freshness for fruits and vegetables, reducing waste and enhancing food longevity. Its fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish simplifies maintenance by minimizing smudges and keeping the exterior looking clean. The recessed pocket handle adds a sleek, modern aesthetic without protruding parts.

Energy efficiency is another key benefit, as this refrigerator is ENERGY STAR certified to save on electricity costs. The factory-installed icemaker produces up to 3 pounds of ice daily, providing convenience without needing additional accessories. Reversible doors offer flexibility in kitchen placement, although this feature requires some setup adjustments during installation.

While the freezer includes two full-width bins for storage, space for larger frozen items is limited. Weighing 166 pounds, the unit may need assistance during installation or relocation. Overall, this refrigerator/freezer combines thoughtful design with practical features to enhance everyday kitchen use.

Best for: Those seeking a spacious yet compact refrigerator/freezer with energy efficiency and modern features suitable for kitchens with limited width.

What We Like:

• ENERGY STAR certified for energy savings and efficiency
• Adjustable tempered glass shelves and humidity-controlled crispers
• Factory-installed icemaker producing up to 3 lbs. of ice daily
• Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish for easy cleaning
• Reversible doors for flexible kitchen placement

Specification:

Commercial 18 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator Freezer

Commercial Cool 18 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator with...

• Generous 18 Cu. Ft. Capacity: Our full size refrigerator...
• Independent Temperature Control: Maintain optimal freshness...
• Frost-Free Design: No need to manual defrost. Enjoy...

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Experience the perfect balance between storage capacity and energy efficiency with this Commercial 18 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator Freezer. Its generous 18 cubic-foot interior helps you keep fresh and frozen foods well organized, solving the common problem of cluttered refrigeration space. The top-mounted freezer features an adjustable glass shelf, allowing you to customize storage according to your needs.

This model offers independent temperature controls for the refrigerator and freezer compartments, ensuring your groceries stay fresh longer. Its frost-free design eliminates the hassle of manual defrosting, reducing maintenance time and effort. This makes it a practical choice for busy environments where convenience matters.

Designed with a sleek stainless steel finish, the refrigerator adds a modern touch to any kitchen, home, or apartment. While the ice maker is not included, the unit is ready for installation, giving you flexibility if you want to add this feature later. The top freezer placement may require some adjustment if you frequently access frozen items.

Best for: users looking for a spacious, energy-efficient refrigerator with easy maintenance and separate freezer storage for home or commercial settings.

What We Like:

• Large 18 Cu. Ft. capacity with customizable shelving for organized storage
• Independent temperature controls for precise freshness management
• Frost-free technology that minimizes upkeep and eliminates manual defrosting
• Sleek stainless steel design adaptable to various kitchen styles
• Ice maker ready for optional installation

Specification:

Honeywell H18TFW top Freezer Refrigerator, White

Honeywell H18TFW top Freezer Refrigerator, White

• Interior Light
• Electronic temperature control and automatic defrost
• Spill-proof glass shelving

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The Honeywell H18TFW top freezer refrigerator offers a practical solution for those seeking reliable refrigeration with user-centric features. Its 18 cubic feet capacity is efficiently divided into a 13.9 cubic feet fresh food compartment and a 4.1 cubic feet freezer, addressing everyday storage needs without overwhelming kitchen space.

Designed for convenience, the refrigerator features electronic temperature control, allowing precise adjustment to keep food fresh longer. The spill-proof glass shelving simplifies cleaning and prevents messes from spreading, while the humidity-controlled crisper maintains ideal moisture levels for produce, extending freshness.

This model’s reversible door enhances installation flexibility, fitting seamlessly into various kitchen layouts. Despite its solid build, it operates quietly at 45 decibels, minimizing noise disruption in your home environment. Weighing 162.8 pounds and measuring 32.9 x 29.5 x 67.6 inches, it’s manageable for most household setups but may require assistance during moves.

Maintenance is straightforward thanks to easy-to-clean surfaces and accessible compartments. The design balances efficiency and convenience, making it a dependable choice for everyday refrigeration without unnecessary complexity.

Best for: Users looking for a dependable mid-sized top freezer refrigerator that combines practical features with quiet, efficient performance for regular household use.

What We Like:

• Precise cooling with electronic temperature control
• Easy-to-clean spill-proof glass shelves
• Humidity-controlled crisper for longer produce freshness
• Flexible installation with reversible door design
• Quiet operation suitable for home environments

Specification:

Kenmore 30″ 18.1 cu. ft. Refrigerator-Freezer White

Kenmore 30 in. 18.1 cu. ft. Capacity Refrigerator/Freezer...

• Spacious Yet Compact: This 30-inch, white refrigerator...
• Adjustable Full-Width Glass Shelves: Tempered glass shelves...
• Gallon Door Storage + Freezer Bins: 3 clear refrigerator...

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The Kenmore 30″ 18.1 cu. ft. Refrigerator-Freezer in White offers a practical solution for kitchens with limited space. Its standard-depth design fits seamlessly into compact layouts, ensuring you maximize your kitchen area without sacrificing essential cold storage. This model balances functionality and convenience, making food organization straightforward.

Inside, you’ll find adjustable full-width tempered glass shelves and multiple door bins that accommodate a variety of items, including gallon jugs. These features help keep your groceries neatly arranged and easily accessible. The two humidity-controlled crispers are designed to maintain optimal moisture levels, preserving the freshness of your fruits and vegetables longer.

Maintenance is simple with the covered dairy compartment that keeps butter and spreads contained and fresh. The factory-installed icemaker produces up to 3 pounds of ice daily, meeting typical household needs without frequent refills. Energy-efficient LED lighting illuminates the interior clearly, allowing you to find items quickly.

Energy-conscious users will appreciate the ENERGY STAR certification, which ensures this refrigerator-freezer operates efficiently and reduces utility costs. While the 18.1 cu. ft. capacity suits small to medium households, larger families may find it limiting. Its standard-depth design prioritizes kitchen fit over maximum interior space.

Best for: Compact kitchens needing an energy-efficient, well-organized refrigerator-freezer with reliable freshness features.

What We Like:

• ENERGY STAR certified for energy savings and eco-friendliness
• Adjustable tempered glass shelves and versatile door bins for organized storage
• Humidity-controlled crispers extend produce freshness
• Covered dairy compartment keeps spreads neat and fresh
• LED lighting enhances visibility inside the refrigerator

Specification:

KoolMore 18.5 cu.ft. French Door Refrigerator Stainless Steel

KoolMore 30-Inch and 18.5 cu. ft. Counter Depth French Door...

• Premium French Door Refrigerator – The KoolMore...
• Spacious Capacity And Adjustable Shelving – At 18.5 Cu....
• Modern Stainless-Steel Design – A Flat Finish With...

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The KoolMore 18.5 cu.ft. French Door Refrigerator in stainless steel blends modern style with practical storage solutions. Its counter-depth design allows it to fit seamlessly alongside other kitchen appliances, saving space without sacrificing capacity. This makes it ideal for homes where a sleek, integrated look is desired.

Inside, the refrigerator offers multiple compartments that help keep your food organized and fresh. Two large freezer drawers and two refrigerator drawers provide easy access to frequently used items. Adjustable glass shelves and six door bins add flexibility, so you can customize storage based on your needs.

Maintaining freshness is simplified with its double crispers featuring humidity control, which extends the life of fruits and vegetables. The double-flow cooling system ensures even temperature distribution throughout the unit, preventing hot spots and preserving your groceries longer.

This refrigerator is designed for everyday use with straightforward controls and durable materials that are easy to clean. While its 18.5 cubic feet capacity suits smaller households, its efficient layout maximizes usable space. The unit’s weight and energy consumption should be considered during installation and operation.

Best for: homeowners and renters seeking a stylish, space-efficient refrigerator with versatile storage and advanced cooling technology for a modern kitchen.

What We Like:

• Counter-depth stainless-steel design fits cleanly with other appliances
• Multiple storage options including adjustable shelves and large drawers
• Humidity-controlled crispers keep produce fresh longer
• Double-flow cooling ensures consistent cold distribution

Specification:

Upstreman 17.6 Cu.Ft Frost Free Top Freezer Refrigerator

Upstreman 17.6 Cu.Ft Top Freezer Refrigerator Large Capacity...

• Large Capacity:The refrigerator is spaciously constructed...
• Fingerprint Resistant Design in Stainless Steel: The...
• Electronic Temperature Control: From 3.2°F to -9.4°F in...

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The Upstreman 17.6 Cu.Ft Frost Free Top Freezer Refrigerator delivers efficient cooling in a compact design that fits smaller kitchens without compromising storage. Its frost-free technology ensures you won’t have to manually defrost, saving time and effort. This model balances space by offering 13.4 cu. ft. for fresh food and 4.2 cu. ft. for frozen items, making it practical for everyday family needs.

Maintenance is straightforward with its automatic defrost system, which prevents frost buildup and keeps the freezer running smoothly. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish reduces smudges, making cleaning easier and maintaining a sleek look. Adjustable shelves and two crispers allow you to customize storage for fruits, vegetables, and other perishables.

Designed with user convenience in mind, this refrigerator features electronic temperature controls for precise cooling. However, the top freezer layout might require bending when accessing fresh foods often. Its quiet operation and ENERGY STAR certification demonstrate its energy efficiency, helping reduce electricity costs.

Best for: those needing a compact, energy-efficient refrigerator with flexible storage and a modern design suited to smaller kitchen spaces.

What We Like:

• ENERGY STAR certified for quiet, low-energy operation
• Frost-free technology with automatic defrost
• Adjustable shelves and dual crisper drawers for versatile storage

Specification:

Factors to Consider When Choosing an 18 Cubic Foot Refrigerator

When you’re choosing an 18 cubic foot refrigerator, it’s important to think about storage capacity options that really fit your needs. You want enough space for all your groceries without wasting room. Plus, energy efficiency ratings are key because they can help you save money on your electricity bills over time.

Also, don’t overlook temperature control features—they play a big role in keeping your food fresh for longer. And while you’re at it, consider the design and aesthetics so the fridge complements your kitchen style nicely.

Finally, maintenance and durability are worth considering. Go for a model that’s easy to clean and built to last, so you don’t have to worry about repairs or replacements anytime soon.

Storage Capacity Options

An 18 cubic foot refrigerator usually gives you about 13 to 14 cubic feet of fresh food space and 4 to 5 cubic feet of freezer space, making it ideal for small to medium-sized families. When choosing your model, check for adjustable shelves and door bins to customize storage for different food items and containers.

Frost-free designs are a smart pick since they save you from manual defrosting and simplify maintenance. Also, look for separate temperature controls for the fresh food and freezer compartments. This helps keep your groceries fresh longer.

Keep in mind that these refrigerators typically measure around 30 inches wide and 66 inches tall. So, they fit well in most kitchens without taking up too much space.

Energy Efficiency Ratings

Along with storage features, energy efficiency plays a big role in choosing the right 18 cubic foot refrigerator. Look for models with ENERGY STAR certification, as they meet strict guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These refrigerators consume less electricity, with some using as little as 300 kWh annually, helping you save on utility bills.

You can estimate operating costs by dividing the annual energy use by 1,000 and multiplying by your local electricity rate. Energy-efficient units often include inverter compressors, which run quietly and maintain stable temperatures while using less power. Choosing a refrigerator with a strong energy efficiency rating not only reduces your long-term expenses but also supports environmental sustainability by lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

Temperature Control Features

Since keeping your food fresh depends heavily on precise temperature settings, you’ll want to choose an 18 cubic foot refrigerator with reliable temperature control features. Look for models offering independent temperature controls for the fridge and freezer, so you can tailor settings for ideal freshness.

Electronic controls are ideal because they let you easily adjust temperatures with precision. This helps you preserve different types of food effectively. Adjustable thermostats give you even more control over food storage conditions.

A frost-free design is another important feature. It prevents ice buildup by regulating temperatures efficiently, which reduces maintenance. Plus, energy-efficient refrigerators often use advanced compressors to maintain steady temperatures while keeping power consumption low. This saves you money and ensures your food stays fresh longer.

Design and Aesthetics

Controlling temperature well keeps your food fresh, but how your refrigerator looks and fits in your kitchen matters just as much. When choosing an 18 cubic foot model, consider finishes like classic white or sleek stainless steel to match your style. Designs with recessed pocket handles or flush fronts not only look modern but also simplify cleaning.

Pay attention to shelf layouts. Adjustable glass shelves and humidity-controlled crispers offer flexible storage tailored to your needs. A fingerprint-resistant finish helps keep the exterior looking spotless, reducing constant cleaning.

Inside, energy-efficient LED lighting improves visibility and adds a contemporary touch. By focusing on these design and aesthetic features, you’ll find a refrigerator that complements your kitchen’s look while offering practical benefits.

Maintenance and Durability

When you choose an 18 cubic foot refrigerator, considering maintenance and durability can save you time and money in the long run. Opt for frost-free models to avoid manual defrosting and prevent ice build-up. This reduces upkeep and makes your life easier.

Energy-efficient refrigerators, especially those with ENERGY STAR certification, often come with high-performance compressors. These compressors need less maintenance and help cut energy costs, which is a win-win.

Look for adjustable shelves and storage bins to keep the interior organized. This also makes cleaning easier, so you’re not stuck with a big chore every time.

Don’t forget to clean the condenser coils regularly. This simple step extends your refrigerator’s lifespan and boosts efficiency.

Finally, pick models featuring durable materials like tempered glass shelves and stainless steel finishes. They withstand daily wear and tear, making sure your fridge stays reliable for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Energy Efficient Are 18 Cubic Foot Refrigerators Generally?

You’ll find that 18 cubic foot refrigerators are generally quite energy efficient, especially newer models. They use modern compressors and better insulation to reduce power consumption. While exact efficiency varies by brand and features, many meet Energy Star standards.

That means they use at least 10% less energy than standard models. If you want to save on electricity bills, picking one with an Energy Star label is a smart move. It’s a simple way to be more eco-friendly and keep costs down.

What Is the Typical Lifespan of an 18 Cubic Foot Refrigerator?

You can expect your 18 cubic foot refrigerator to stick around for about 10 to 15 years before it starts showing signs of its golden years. With proper care and regular maintenance, it might even surprise you with a few extra years of reliable service.

Just treat it well, keep it clean, and don’t overload it. You’ll enjoy its cool companionship for quite a while without any hiccups.

Can 18 Cubic Foot Refrigerators Fit in Small Kitchen Spaces?

Yes, 18 cubic foot refrigerators can fit in small kitchen spaces since they’re designed to be compact yet spacious enough for essentials. Before buying, you should measure your available space carefully, including door clearance and ventilation needs.

These models offer a good balance between size and storage, making them ideal if you want a fridge that doesn’t overwhelm your kitchen but still holds enough food for you and your family. So, if space is tight, this size could be just right for you.

Are There Smart Features Available in 18 Cubic Foot Refrigerators?

Yes, you’ll find smart features in some 18 cubic foot refrigerators. These models often include Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control temperature and receive alerts from your smartphone.

Some even have touchscreens, voice control compatibility, or energy usage monitoring. While not all 18 cubic foot fridges have these options, you can definitely get a compact fridge with smart technology to make managing your food and energy more convenient.

How Noisy Are Most 18 Cubic Foot Refrigerators During Operation?

Most 18 cubic foot refrigerators operate at around 40 to 45 decibels, which is about the noise level of a quiet library. You probably won’t notice the hum unless you’re in a very quiet room.

Modern models keep noise minimal thanks to improved compressors and insulation, so your kitchen stays peaceful. If noise bothers you, look for units labeled “quiet” or with noise ratings below 40 decibels to guarantee a calmer environment.

Conclusion

Imagine opening your new 18 cubic foot refrigerator, feeling the cool freshness envelop your groceries like a gentle breeze. Choosing the right one means more than space—it’s about preserving your meals and making your kitchen feel like home.

Whether you want sleek stainless steel or a trusty top mount, pick a fridge that fits your lifestyle effortlessly. With the right choice, every meal starts with a chill that’s just right, every single day.

Finding the best 18 cubic foot refrigerator ensures your food stays fresh and your kitchen stays stylish. Make your selection count and enjoy the perfect balance of space and functionality.

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June Brandt

Founder at Fryer House

Hello! I'm June Brandt, the heart and soul behind FryerHouse.com. My love for perfecting fried recipes led me to create this sanctuary for fellow fryer enthusiasts. Whether it's air fryers, deep fryers, or turkey fryers, I've curated guides and tips to help you master the art of frying from your own kitchen. From seasoned cooks to beginners, everyone will find a golden nugget of information at FryerHouse.com. Dive in and discover the joy of cooking with me, one fry at a time!

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