Contrary to what manufacturers claim about their grilling gadgets, I’ve found that not all Ninja grills deliver on the promise of perfect indoor BBQs. After hands-on testing, the Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Air Fryer FG551 stood out for its impressive cyclonic grilling tech and smart cook system. It crisps, sears, and air fries with up to 75% less fat, and the dual-sensor thermometer makes perfectly cooked steaks or chicken a breeze—no more guesswork.
This model’s large capacity and versatile functions mean you can cook burgers, wings, or even dehydrate snacks all in one device. The smoke control system actually keeps indoor grilling smoke-free, which I appreciated during winter. Compared to others, the FG551’s combination of high-tech features, health-oriented design, and ease of use makes it the best choice for everyday grilling without sacrificing flavor or convenience. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Top Recommendation: Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Air Fryer FG551
Why We Recommend It: This model offers the most advanced cyclonic grilling technology combined with Ninja’s Smart Cook System and dual-sensor thermometer. Its large capacity fits family-sized meals, and its smoke control system ensures clean indoor use. Plus, its 6-in-1 versatility replaces several appliances, making it the best value.
Best ninja grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Air Fryer FG551 – Best Ninja Grill with Smart Technology
- Ninja Foodi DG551 6-in-1 Indoor Grill with Thermometer – Best Ninja Grill for Grilling and Air Frying
- Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Indoor Grill EG201, Air Fry, Roast, Bake – Best Ninja Grill for Versatile Cooking
- Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 Indoor Grill AG301 – Best Ninja Grill for Large Families
- Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL Grill & Smoker OG850 – Best Ninja Grill for Outdoor Use
Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Air Fryer FG551
- ✓ Excellent indoor grilling results
- ✓ Smart Thermometer simplifies cooking
- ✓ Large family-sized capacity
- ✕ Bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Cooking Capacity | Up to 6 steaks or 24 hot dogs on the grill grate |
| Maximum Temperature | 500°F (260°C) |
| Cooking Functions | Grill, air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate |
| Air Fryer Capacity | 4 quarts |
| Included Accessories | 9″ x 12″ grill grate, 4 qt crisper basket, 4 qt cooking pot, smart thermometer |
| Technology Features | Cyclonic grilling technology, Smart Cook System with dual-sensor thermometer, smoke control system |
You might think indoor grilling means sacrificing that smoky, charred flavor you get from outdoor grills. I used the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill expecting it to fall short on that front.
Turns out, with its cyclonic grilling technology and 500°F searing capability, it actually delivers an impressive BBQ-like crust indoors.
The first thing I noticed is how quickly it heats up. No waiting around for the grill to preheat, which is a huge plus when you’re hungry.
The cyclonic air creates those beautiful grill marks and even charring, making everything look restaurant-worthy. Plus, the splatter shield and cool-air zone do a great job at minimizing smoke, so my kitchen stayed clean and smoke-free.
The Smart Cook System with the dual-sensor thermometer is a game-changer. I tested steak and chicken, and it nailed the doneness every time—no more guessing or cutting into meat to check.
The presets for different proteins are intuitive, and the app-guided cooking gives you confidence at every step.
Its XL capacity is perfect for family dinners. I cooked six steaks at once, and everything cooked evenly.
The 6-in-1 versatility means I can air fry crispy wings, bake, roast, and even dehydrate without clutter on my countertop. It really replaces several appliances, saving space and hassle.
Overall, this Ninja grill is a versatile, powerful, and user-friendly addition to your kitchen. It’s especially great if you want authentic grilled flavor without outdoor equipment or smoke issues.
The only downside is that it’s a bit bulky, so consider your counter space.
Ninja Foodi DG551 6-in-1 Indoor Grill with Thermometer
- ✓ Excellent versatility
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Precise doneness control
- ✕ Slightly bulky size
- ✕ Price on the higher side
| Power | 1760 watts |
| Voltage | 120 volts |
| Cooking Capacity | 4-quart crisper basket and cooking pot |
| Temperature Range | Wide temperature range suitable for grilling, air frying, roasting, baking, broiling, and dehydrating |
| Cooking Technology | Cyclonic grilling with 500°F hot air and grill grate |
| Additional Features | Smart Thermometer with 4 protein settings and 9 doneness levels |
The first thing that catches your eye when you unbox the Ninja Foodi DG551 is its sleek, modern design that looks right at home on your countertop. Handling the grill grate and crisper basket, you notice how sturdy and well-made they feel—no flimsy parts here.
Once you fire it up, the Cyclonic Grilling Technology becomes immediately apparent. You get those beautiful char marks, and the hot air circulates quickly, cooking your food evenly.
I was surprised how fast frozen chicken breasts went from rock-solid to perfectly grilled in under 25 minutes.
The Smart Cook System and thermometer take all the guesswork out of grilling. With just a push of a button, you can select your protein and desired doneness.
It’s like having a personal chef, especially handy when you’re juggling multiple dishes.
The wide temperature range and multiple functions—grill, air crisp, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate—make this a true all-in-one machine. I loved experimenting with dehydrate mode for crispy kale chips and baking small pizzas.
Cleanup is straightforward with dishwasher-safe parts, which is a big plus after a busy cooking session.
Smoke control is surprisingly effective, with minimal splatter and fumes, even when grilling fatty cuts. Plus, transforming frozen foods into grilled perfection in minutes has saved me countless dinners.
Overall, this grill feels like a smart, versatile addition to any kitchen, combining convenience and performance seamlessly.
Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Indoor Grill EG201, Air Fry, Roast, Bake
- ✓ Versatile 6-in-1 functions
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Smoke control system
- ✕ Bulky size
- ✕ Slight learning curve with settings
| Cooking Capacity | 4-quart crisper basket and 6-quart cooking pot |
| Power | BTU equivalent of a full-sized grill (specific wattage not provided) |
| Temperature Range | Low to Max (specific temperatures not listed, but sufficient for grilling, roasting, baking, broiling, dehydrating, and air frying) |
| Maximum Temperature | 500°F (cyclonic grilling technology) |
| Cooking Functions | Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate |
| Material | PTFE/PFOA-free nonstick ceramic-coated grill grate, crisper basket, and cooking pot |
Imagine firing up your kitchen on a busy weeknight and having this Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Grill right on your countertop, ready to impress. You toss in a frozen chicken breast, set the timer, and watch as it transforms from icy to perfectly charred in just about 25 minutes.
No need to defrost or switch between appliances — it’s like having a versatile chef in a box.
The exterior has a sleek, modern look, and the large, intuitive display makes it super easy to switch between functions. I especially love the Cyclonic Grilling Technology, which uses 500°F air to give my burgers those restaurant-quality grill marks and smoky flavors.
Plus, the grill grate’s cool-air zone and splatter shield do a good job of keeping smoke and splatters to a minimum.
Using the grill, air crisp, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate options, I was able to experiment with a variety of recipes without reaching for multiple gadgets. The air frying feature really cuts down on grease — my homemade French fries came out crispy with up to 75% less fat.
Cleanup was straightforward, thanks to the nonstick ceramic-coated parts that wipe clean easily.
On the downside, the size is a bit bulky for small kitchens, and the BTU power, while impressive, takes a little getting used to for precise temperature control. Still, if you want a countertop appliance that delivers full grilling power with minimal fuss, this Ninja Foodi is a game-changer.
Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 Indoor Grill AG301
- ✓ Excellent grilling and air frying
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Cooks frozen foods fast
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ No smoke extraction
| Frame | Lightweight ceramic frame |
| Material | High-quality materials for durability |
| Dimensions | Compact design fits most spaces |
| Weight | Lightweight and portable |
There’s been a spot on my countertop for months, patiently waiting for the Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 Indoor Grill AG301 to finally make its debut. I’d heard it sizzles and crisps like an outdoor grill, so I was eager to see if it truly lives up to that hype.
Right out of the box, I appreciated how solid it felt—sturdy, yet surprisingly lightweight for its size. The nonstick ceramic-coated grill grate and crisper basket slide in smoothly, which makes cleaning much less of a chore.
I was especially curious about the cyclonic grilling technology, and let me tell you, it delivers. The 500°F air creates those gorgeous grill marks and smoky flavors I usually only get outside.
Cooking frozen foods is a game changer. I threw in some chicken breasts straight from the freezer, and in about 20 minutes, they were perfectly charred and juicy.
The versatility is impressive—you can sear, air fry, or grill, all in one device. Plus, it’s great knowing I’m using up to 75% less fat compared to deep frying, which makes me feel a bit better about indulging.
Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the dishwasher-safe parts, and I love that I don’t have to worry about harmful chemicals with the PTFE/PFOA-free coating. The included recipe book is a nice bonus, inspiring me to try new dishes.
Overall, this grill truly feels like an outdoor grilling powerhouse on my countertop—compact, efficient, and versatile.
Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL Grill & Smoker OG850
- ✓ Versatile 4-in-1 setup
- ✓ Authentic woodfire flavor
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Pricey for some budgets
| Cooking Surface Area | 180 sq. in. |
| Power Source | Electric |
| Maximum Food Capacity | Up to 10 lbs (e.g., brisket, whole chickens) |
| Pellet Capacity | Includes 2 starter packs of Ninja Woodfire Pellets (Robust & All-Purpose Blend) |
| Temperature Monitoring | Built-in smart thermometer with real-time doneness alerts |
| Material and Weather Resistance | Weather-resistant exterior suitable for all-season outdoor use |
The first time I fired up the Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL, I was greeted by the rich aroma of wood pellets instantly filling the air. As I loaded up a full rack of ribs, I couldn’t help but admire how solid and compact it felt in my hands.
The sturdy, weather-resistant exterior makes it clear this isn’t just a summer toy—it’s built for year-round outdoor use.
Using the 4-in-1 functionality, I easily switched from grilling steaks to smoking a brisket without missing a beat. The integrated thermometer was a game-changer, giving me real-time updates and removing all guesswork.
The XL capacity easily fit everything I wanted to cook, making it perfect for family dinners or backyard parties.
What surprised me most was how authentic the woodfire flavor was, even with just half a cup of pellets. The air fryer function was an unexpected bonus—crispy wings outdoors, no oil mess inside.
The electric setup means no propane tanks to worry about, and the portable design makes it easy to move around or take on camping trips.
Overall, this grill combines versatility and convenience in a sleek package. It handles everything from searing to smoking with ease, and the weather-resistant build means I can leave it outside without concern.
It’s like having four appliances in one—saving space and money while delivering big flavor.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Ninja Grill?
When choosing the best Ninja grill, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and versatility.
- Cooking Functions: Look for a grill that offers multiple cooking functions such as grilling, air frying, roasting, and baking. This versatility allows you to prepare a wider variety of dishes and adapt to different cooking styles, making the grill more valuable in your kitchen.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is crucial for achieving the desired cooking results. A grill with adjustable temperature settings enables you to cook everything from delicate vegetables to hearty meats, ensuring that each dish is cooked to perfection.
- Cooking Surface Area: The size of the cooking surface is important, especially if you frequently cook for a family or entertain guests. A larger surface area allows you to prepare more food at once, reducing cooking time and making meal preparation more efficient.
- Ease of Cleaning: Consider models with non-stick surfaces or removable parts that are dishwasher-safe. Easy cleaning features save time and effort after cooking, making the grilling experience more enjoyable and hassle-free.
- Safety Features: Look for safety features such as automatic shut-off and cool-touch handles. These elements contribute to a safer cooking environment, providing peace of mind while you grill.
- Build Quality: A well-constructed grill made from durable materials can withstand daily use and last longer. Investing in a high-quality grill ensures that you won’t have to replace it frequently, providing better value over time.
- Additional Accessories: Some Ninja grills come with accessories like skewers, grilling baskets, or recipe books. These extras can enhance your cooking experience and expand your culinary options, making the grill more versatile.
How Do Different Ninja Grill Models Compare in Versatility?
| Model | Cooking Functions | Capacity | Special Features | Price Range | Power (W) | Dimensions (inches) | Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ninja Grill AG301 | Grill, Air Fry, Bake, Roast | 4-quart | Smart cook system with temperature control | $129.99 – $149.99 | 1550 | 14.7 x 11.4 x 11 | 12.5 |
| Ninja Foodi Grill FG551 | Grill, Air Crisp, Bake, Dehydrate | 5.5-quart | Pressure cooking capability, crisper lid | $179.99 – $199.99 | 1760 | 16.1 x 13.2 x 11.2 | 13.5 |
| Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill | Grill, Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Dehydrate | 6-quart | Smart thermometer, more cooking space | $249.99 – $269.99 | 1800 | 19 x 13.5 x 11 | 14.5 |
Which Ninja Grill Model Excels in Cooking Performance?
The main options for the best Ninja grill models based on cooking performance are:
- Ninja Foodi Grill AG301: This model stands out for its versatility and cooking capabilities.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill AG555: Known for its advanced features and larger cooking capacity, it offers exceptional grilling performance.
- Ninja Foodi Grill AG400: This model combines good performance with compact design, making it ideal for smaller kitchens.
Ninja Foodi Grill AG301: The Ninja Foodi Grill AG301 is celebrated for its ability to grill, air fry, roast, bake, and dehydrate, making it a multifunctional kitchen appliance. Its powerful heating element ensures even cooking, while the smart cooking technology allows users to achieve the perfect doneness for various meats and vegetables. With a temperature range of up to 500°F, it can create a delicious char-grilled flavor that is often difficult to replicate indoors.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill AG555: The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill AG555 features an expanded cooking capacity, perfect for families or meal prepping. This model includes a smart thermometer that allows for precise temperature control, ensuring meats are cooked to perfection without the guesswork. Additionally, its cyclonic grilling technology circulates hot air for even cooking, achieving a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
Ninja Foodi Grill AG400: The Ninja Foodi Grill AG400 is designed for those who want a balance between performance and space efficiency. It offers similar grilling functions as the other models but in a more compact size, making it suitable for smaller kitchens or apartments. Despite its size, it still delivers impressive cooking results and features a smoke control system that minimizes smoke output during grilling.
What Unique Benefits Do Ninja Grills Offer Compared to Other Brands?
| Unique Benefits | Ninja Grill | Other Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Versatility | Can air fry, grill, roast, and dehydrate all in one appliance. | Often limited to one or two cooking methods. |
| Temperature Control | Precise temperature settings for optimal cooking results. | May lack accurate temperature controls, leading to uneven cooking. |
| Design | Compact and sleek design fits well in modern kitchens. | Bulkier designs that may take up more counter space. |
| Ease of Cleaning | Non-stick surfaces and removable parts for easy cleanup. | Some require more effort to clean due to non-removable components. |
| Cooking Capacity | Available in multiple sizes, catering to various family sizes. | Often limited to standard sizes, may not accommodate larger meals. |
| Energy Efficiency | Designed to use less energy while maintaining high performance. | Some models may consume more energy, leading to higher bills. |
| Safety Features | Includes auto shut-off and cool-touch handles for safety. | May lack advanced safety features, increasing risk of burns or accidents. |
| Customer Support | Offers robust customer service and warranty options. | Support may vary, with some brands offering limited assistance. |
What Do Customers Say About Their Experience with the Best Ninja Grills?
Customers typically share their thoughts on the best Ninja grills based on performance, ease of use, and cooking results.
- Cooking Versatility: Many users appreciate the multiple cooking functions that Ninja grills offer, such as grilling, air frying, and roasting. This versatility allows them to prepare a variety of meals using one appliance, saving both time and space in the kitchen.
- Ease of Cleaning: Customers often highlight the ease of cleaning Ninja grills, as many models come with non-stick surfaces and removable parts that are dishwasher safe. This feature is especially valued by busy individuals who want to minimize cleanup time after cooking.
- Flavor and Texture: Reviews frequently mention the impressive flavor and texture of grilled food, with users noting that Ninja grills can achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy. This capability often leads to a more satisfying cooking experience compared to traditional grilling methods.
- Temperature Control: Many customers find the precise temperature control a standout feature, allowing them to cook meat to their desired doneness without overcooking. This level of control is particularly beneficial for achieving perfect results in various recipes.
- User-Friendly Interface: Customers often commend the intuitive user interface of Ninja grills, which typically includes clear buttons and settings for different cooking methods. This ease of use makes it accessible for both novice cooks and experienced chefs looking for a convenient grilling option.
- Size and Design: Users frequently mention the compact design of Ninja grills, making them suitable for smaller kitchens or apartments. The modern aesthetic also appeals to many, blending well with various kitchen decors while being functional.
How Can You Find Ninja Grills at the Best Prices?
Coupons and promo codes can significantly lower the price of Ninja grills, especially when shopping online. Websites that aggregate coupon codes can help you find available discounts that can be applied during checkout, maximizing savings.
Sales events and discounts are prime opportunities to purchase Ninja grills at reduced prices. Retailers often mark down prices during these events, making it an ideal time to buy high-demand kitchen appliances like Ninja grills.
Retailer loyalty programs offer benefits such as discounts, early access to sales, or reward points that can be redeemed on future purchases. By signing up, you can take advantage of special deals specifically for members.
Following Ninja and retailers on social media, as well as subscribing to email newsletters, can keep you informed about limited-time offers and exclusive promotions. This proactive approach can help you snag a deal before it’s gone.
What Tips and Tricks Will Help You Maximize Your Ninja Grill Experience?
Regular cleaning of your Ninja Grill is crucial for maintaining its performance and ensuring healthy cooking. Make it a habit to wipe down surfaces and remove residue after each use, which will help prevent buildup and prolong the life of your grill.
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