Ninja DG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill Review
The Ninja DG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill with Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, and Dehydrate is a versatile kitchen appliance that has quickly gained popularity among home cooks looking for efficiency and quality. With its sleek design in black and silver, this grill is not just a functional piece of equipment but also an aesthetically pleasing addition to any kitchen. Below, we delve into its features, performance, and overall user experience to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your culinary needs.
Design and Build Quality
At first glance, the Ninja DG551 impresses with its updated, modern design that fits seamlessly into contemporary kitchens. The dimensions of 11.1 inches in depth, 15.7 inches in width, and 16 inches in height make it compact enough to sit on most countertops without taking up excessive space. Weighing in at 25 pounds, it feels sturdy and well-built, which is essential for a grill that is expected to handle various cooking tasks.
The grill’s parts are made from high-quality ceramic material, which not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also enhances its durability. Additionally, the fact that the components are dishwasher safe makes cleanup a breeze. Users appreciate that both the ceramic-coated grill grate and the crisper basket can be placed in the dishwasher, significantly reducing the time spent on post-cooking chores.
Versatile Cooking Functions
One of the standout features of the Ninja DG551 is its 6-in-1 functionality, which includes grilling, air frying, roasting, baking, broiling, and dehydrating. This versatility allows users to explore a wide range of culinary options without needing multiple appliances. The grill operates at a powerful 1760 watts and uses Cyclonic Grilling Technology, which combines 500°F of hot cyclonic air with a grill grate to deliver perfectly charred and delicious meals.
The Smart Cook System is another remarkable feature that sets this grill apart. Equipped with a Foodi Smart Thermometer, it allows for precise temperature control, ensuring that meats are cooked to the desired doneness without any guesswork. With four protein settings and nine customizable doneness levels, it takes the anxiety out of cooking steak, chicken, and other proteins. Users have reported achieving perfect results time and again, with many expressing satisfaction with the ability to replicate the quality of outdoor grilling indoors.
Performance and Cooking Results
Users have overwhelmingly praised the cooking performance of the Ninja DG551. Many have noted that it effectively grills steak, chicken, fish, and vegetables, producing flavorful and moist results. Air frying capabilities have also been put to the test, with frozen fries and chicken strips coming out crispy yet tender. One user noted that the results were “cookbook-picture perfect,” highlighting the appliance’s ability to deliver restaurant-quality meals.
The smoke control system is another noteworthy feature that minimizes indoor smoke while cooking. This is particularly beneficial for those living in apartments or smaller homes where maintaining air quality is crucial. Users have reported minimal smoke, making indoor grilling a more pleasant experience. However, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid smoke triggers, especially when using oils with lower smoke points.
User Experience and Ease of Use
The Ninja DG551 is designed with user-friendliness in mind. The control panel is intuitive, providing easy access to all cooking functions and settings. Many users have commented on how simple it is to use, with straightforward instructions and a helpful recipe book included, which features 15 chef-created recipes. The ease of navigating through the settings relieves anxiety when trying new cooking techniques.
Cleaning the device is hassle-free, thanks to its removable and dishwasher-safe parts. Users have expressed appreciation for how easy it is to maintain, especially after grilling foods that may leave more residue than other cooking methods.
Areas for Improvement
While the Ninja DG551 has received rave reviews, it is not without some drawbacks. A few users have reported challenges with accessing the cleaning areas, particularly the top dome, which can be difficult to clean thoroughly. Additionally, there have been isolated instances where users experienced compatibility issues due to voltage differences (notably in regions outside North America), which could lead to electrical problems if not carefully noted.
Conclusion
In summary, the Ninja DG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill offers an impressive combination of versatility, performance, and ease of use that makes it a valuable addition to any kitchen. With its advanced cooking technology and user-friendly design, it stands out as a top choice for those looking to simplify their cooking processes while still achieving high-quality results.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 (★★★★½)
- Design and Build Quality: 5/5
- Versatility: 5/5
- Performance: 4.5/5
- Ease of Use: 4.5/5
- Cleaning and Maintenance: 4/5
Overall, the Ninja DG551 has proven itself as more than just a gadget; it’s a reliable cooking companion that empowers users to create delicious meals with ease.
Karen Calagna –
I am absolutely obsessed with this appliance! I’ve been using it almost every day since I got it. I’ve tried numerous “miracle” gadgets in the past, but none have lived up to the hype and were soon forgotten. After moving from a house where I grilled or used a cast iron pan on a gas stove daily, I now have a glass top stove and can’t use cast iron or grill on the balcony. So far, I’ve grilled steak, chicken, fish, and veggies, and air-fried potatoes, frozen fries, and chicken strips, all turning out flavorful, moist, and photo-worthy. The built-in thermometer ensures everything is cooked to perfection—honestly, the results are even better than what I achieved on my beloved grill (don’t tell Weber!). It feels almost like cheating! The smoke alarm has gone off a couple of times, but only when the lid is open, and it stops quickly. Given my small apartment, I’m impressed that it rarely triggers.
I can’t wait to experiment with the other functions, like roasting and dehydrating. The grill, air fryer basket, and drip/roasting pan are all well-made and dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.
In short: while it’s not cheap, it’s definitely worth every penny. If you love grilled and air-fried food, those features alone justify the cost and the counter space. I typically don’t take pictures of my food, but I snapped one of a cedar-planked salmon and grilled Mexican street corn made on the Ninja grill. Both turned out perfect with hardly any effort, and the steaks and chicken looked just as stunning.
Abdalla mohamed –
Once you learn how to use it, you can prepare a meal in just a few minutes. It doesn’t have a non-stick coating.
Ken S. –
I received the device, and when I plugged it in, it caused a fire in my home and led to a significant electrical issue (power shut off). The device was damaged as a result. I found out it operates at 120V, which is incompatible with the 220V systems in Egypt and the UAE. This crucial information was not mentioned in the product details.
GmaDar –
I own two Cosori Airfryers, an Instant Pot, and have experimented with other similar appliances, but this Ninja Grill Foodi truly stands out. Before purchasing, I recommend doing your research as there are multiple models available; watching YouTube videos is particularly helpful.
First off, it produces no smoke! If you’re grilling indoors, it’s crucial to read and follow the instructions carefully. I use 100% Choice Avocado Oil spray or brush from the bottle, both of which have a high smoke point. Be cautious with certain oils, as they shouldn’t be applied.
The controls are user-friendly and offer all the necessary options. While I haven’t tried air frying yet, the grilling experience has been fantastic. Just remember to rearrange the food at the halfway mark if the grate is full, which is to be expected.
The filter is a fantastic feature that catches much of the splatter, making cleanup much simpler than with an air fryer, especially for items like hamburgers. The filter is dishwasher safe, but I usually soak mine in hot, soapy water when it gets really dirty and scrub it with the provided brush before putting it in the dishwasher.
The ceramic-coated griddle and pans are a significant plus, as they contain no Teflon. A quick rinse in the sink followed by soaking in hot, soapy water makes cleaning them easy. I prefer using a Dobbie pad and a toothbrush instead of the provided brush for these parts.
The preheating process gets the grate sizzling hot, and the unit cools down relatively quickly if you keep the lid open after cooking.
One downside is that the included thermometer isn’t very reliable. However, with experience, you can learn its inaccuracies and avoid overcooking your food.
This unit takes up a lot of space, so measuring your intended area is essential. We had to modify a kitchen cart because the lid needs a solid surface to rest on when opened.
I wholeheartedly recommend this grill for anyone with enough space. Both novice and experienced cooks will find it enjoyable and useful. While it may not replace a traditional outdoor grill for enthusiasts, it certainly can be a great alternative during colder months. If you’re looking to grill or air fry without using your oven’s broiler and smoky mess, this is definitely the right choice for you. Just keep in mind that you’ll still smell the delicious food cooking throughout your home, so having an exhaust fan nearby can help mitigate that.
Juan Carlos –
I am very satisfied with my purchase.
Juan Carlos –
I like that I spend less time and oil on meats and potatoes.
Jacquelyn Loehrke –
I purchased the Ninja Foodi primarily for its temperature probe and adjustable final internal temperature feature. My first use was a 12oz ribeye, which came out perfectly cooked and looked just like it had been grilled on my Weber. Cleanup is effortless thanks to the nonstick grill insert and pan. The controls are user-friendly, making adjustments a cinch. I’m really impressed with its versatility and valuable features at an affordable price.
Karen Calagna –
I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to use. The instructions are straightforward, and the ready-to-go recipes are incredibly handy. Using the thermometer takes the stress out of cooking steak, allowing you to focus on temperature rather than time. Cleanup is a breeze, and the results were excellent with minimal indoor smoke.
Jacquelyn Loehrke –
If you’re a fan of grilling but lack an outdoor grill, the Ninja Smart Grill is the perfect solution. It doesn’t produce smoke and its thermometer ensures you maintain the ideal temperature for your preferred doneness. The only minor downside is that cleaning the upper dome can be a bit tricky, but it’s a small price to pay for all the benefits it offers. I’m very happy with my purchase!