*comes in from walking the dog* "Man, I wish The Salted Pepper had a new video for me to watch." *Notification comes in.* This woman never fails to deliver.!
Get a baker’s rack or kitchen utility cart. I have all my Ninja products on it and it saves me a lot of counter space. Now I want to upgrade all my models to the newer ones 😩
I bought a big stainless steel baker’s rack from Sam’s club and have my stuff on that and it’s working for me. Of course the foodie pressure cooker has to be on the kitchen counter because of the standing up air fryer lid while you’re pressure cooking. Plus it’s so heavy it’s earned it place on counter and I use it for all kinds of cooking. I love how perfect my biscuits came out from frozen to golden brown perfection in 15 minutes and I never had to turn on the oven or heat up the whole kitchen. ❤️❤️❤️My ninja foodie pressure cooker and my foodie grill are my absolute favorite kitchen toys along with my Kitchenaid stand mixer and my silicone spurtles.
I LOVE how you did the measurements! Your explanations are so easy to understand. From one “not-a-preset gal” to another, thank you for this very informative, demonstrative comparison. I just ordered the Smart XL! Will be here in a week. 💕
What determined my decision was the depth and grate size. The XL was only 9" by 12" give or take and the orginal is 10" by 10". So losing an inch one way or gaining 2 another way. I went with the original.
Omg thank you sooo much!!! Just got my Ninja grill and was in tears as I couldn’t figure out the settings when I found your video! Made the perfect grilled Salmon 😀😀
I SO MUCH LOVE THIS CHANNEL BECAUSE YOU CONVINCED ME TO BUY THIS NEW NINJA XL GRILL & NINJA PRESSURE COOKER YOUR THE ONLY ONE THAT DOES REAL VIDEOS ON THE NINJA THANK YOU🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
LOVED this video. That's because your enthusiasm is infectious! You love what you do and it shows. Such a fun video and well-edited. Thanks for the comparison!
Purchased a 6l ninja foodi due to your brilliant review. Now I'm planning on getting a grill. You've helped me make my mind up. Thanks again for the very informative review.
I’m late in joining the Ninja Foodie grill. I am so glad I found your channel. It is only my husband and I so I’m going with the smaller one. Thank you!!!😊
Thank you, great review. I have had to go with the latest version because the original is discontinued. Im looking forward to trying it out 👍👍👍. Cheers from Tasmania
I am glad i saw this review...... I just bought the Ninja Foodi Grill and I wasnt sure i purchased the correct one... because I looked at the "XL" but thought it might be too big... and I was right I picked the smaller and am so glad I did!! Thank you for your reviews and all the cooking you show us!!!
Hi. I just wanted to say I went with the original and mine does have the probe. The reason I didn't go with the new XL was because of the depth. I like to do my roasts in there with the probe and the XL wasn't deep enough. Love this grill I use it almost every day.
I’m going to get the XL. I cook everyday. I love kitchen appliances. I have a few Ninja appliances and processor , blenders, oven. Now I want this. I’m glad you showed us the XL. I want to see you demonstrate the flat cooking grill part on the sear grill . I have the foodie duo also. But never have used the air crisper in that lid.
I bought the XL after watching your video. I live in a condo and am unable to have an outdoor grill. The XL works great and the probe is spot on! Haven’t tried it with chicken yet. Thanks for all of your step by step recipes and your honest reviews of the Ninja products and your own recipes.
I have the original, and no space for the larger one. My original is perfect for me. I have all the attachments that came with the pro model. I toast my bread that in the rectangle pan on the bake function on lower heat. I heat my soup faster on air crisp than in a pan on the stove. I do frozen wings on air crisp and they come out awesome. Thank you for this video.
Great~~I made the best choice for my kitchen👍🏼I bought the smaller Ninja Ag302 ,because I plan on using all the functions & Ill use the deeper roasting pan a lot🥰Great informational video!! Thank You & God Bless 🙏🏼
Just ordered the xl using your link. Thank you so much for all your help, Louise. I'm going to check out the spanish rice recipe in the Ninja Foodi this evening.
I have been waiting for this XL to land in Sydney and they are here! they wait is over and the choice made. Will get one this weekend. Your video just convinced me :) Great video. New subscriber here...
I agree with DeAngelo Dee! You not only helped me make my decision between the two but one of the first things I'm cooking is a couple of Keilbassas!! New Sub as well.
I know many people who feel that way and I totally understand. I use my Foodi PC & AC for anything that requires depth, so I like the new grill better.
I just ordered the Ninja eg201 yesterday which I guess is the updated version of the original as Ninja doesn't have the ag301 on their website. I read a lot of reviews and watched a lot of videos before making my decision. The XL was attractive because of the temperature probe, but it would take up more real estate on my countertop and I'm only cooking for me. The decision was made when I watched a video comparing the two and she made spatchcock chicken. The chicken would not fit in that shallow pan of the XL without smashing it down and then it still was touching the upper screen and the temperature probe did not even measure the correct temp. When it said it was done, the chicken was still bleeding. She indicated that she probably could fit a whole rack of ribs in the XL tho and probably couldn't in the regular Ninja. But if I want to make ribs, I can cut the rack in half. So it was really a no brainer for me to buy and smaller (but deeper) unit ... which, BTW fit only one less pork chop than the XL. Also, you can get a 3-tier rack for dehydrating for the deeper unit so I can get rid of the dehydrator I have. If you buy the XL, don't trust that temperature probe!
Great video, im from UK, have just purchased my first ninja foodi, oven now redundant, can't believe how well they cook,now looking at the grill, now decided many thanks 👍🏻👍🏻
I have the XL. Last night I cooked precooked sausages, from frozen. Also in a small aluminum pan I put sauerkraut, covered it with foil and all was done perfectly! I started out with high until the sausages were thawed then maxed that baby out.
Have you cooked bacon in your foodie? I really appreciate your videos, as you are prepared, transparent, and you instill confidence in me to try new recipes.
I LOVE mine---LOVE it. I have the regular foodie grill. I use it almost every single day, and I cook for 4 adults. On many occasions, I cook 50% to all of the meal in it- without cleaning in between. Example- We eat a half of a baked potato each, I scrub 2 very well, cut them in half, LIGHTLY coat them with evoo, and hit the roast button. In eh- 25 minutes? Sometime less, I take those golden delicious babies out, pop in the grill and then toss in the meat for the night. Once in a while, I may grill another vegetable along with the taters. But, I always lightly coat and I mean nearly not at all coat everything with evoo! Never had a smoking problem. If you are not using this to make most of your meals, you are missing out. I have even cleaned her up after cooking and popped in a cake :) Oh and have you tired CORN BREAD? LOL Whoa now! That is some good stuff!
Imo, presets are not something that “from scratch” and “been cooking since childhood” people find intuitive. Thanks for the video! I may be the last person who does not own an air fryer, but I’m looking to join the club! 😂
Thank you for this video, very interesting and just what I’d been searching for. I notice the one on the right has a splash guard in the lid but the one on the left doesn’t, does that cause any issues when it comes to cleaning?
Whenever you do a wet marinade you should blot the meat dry before grilling for the best sear. Otherwise the wet marinade steams and prevents the nice crust from forming. Glazes should be applied toward the end of cooking and I only glaze the top to avoid burning.
Which unit would be better for air frying chicken, etc. it appears the original has a higher dome, so the heating element would be not right on top of foods that you wanted to air fry. What about the newer technology one? Thank you! I love your videos.!
Actually they don't really cook the same. The original model has a larger heating element and the grill plate is thicker having more thermal capacity per inch. They cook about the same with small amounts of food but load them up and the smart xl just doesn't cook as well. Your original Ninja Grill smoked so much because it was HOTTER.
I haven't found that to be the case at all, but thanks for info! Just an FYI: some models of the smaller grill have the same lighter grill grate. They are always switching things up it seems! The smoking was because I didn't clean the filter and it was coming from the XL grill. I've been working on some various methods of cleaning them and have let the grease build up, not the best decision before doing this video. LOL
I bought the Foodi XL grill because I was wanting it for grilling indoors. Ive only had for two weeks but am very very pleased with it. I also like grill temp max is 550 F and the air fryer max temp is 450.
I thought I would prefer the depth over the shallower one too, but after getting the new one I am in love with it. It's great that we can have so many choices and pick the style of an appliance that works best for different cooking styles.
@@TheSaltedPepper I am disappointed in the grilling setting, yes grill marks on one side, so I turn meat over no marks, been tempted to start over with preheat for 1 mn. Suggestion?
@@TheSaltedPepper We compare the cooking element at the top of both the original and the XL. The original definitely has a larger cooking element at the top. That’s probably why it heats better. We sometimes dump 2 pounds of chicken wings in the original Foodi Grill, with the wings overlapping each other. We then give them a stir and flip a few times during cooking. The wings always turn out nice and brown and well cooked. 👍
@@bb.cute.channel I have to wonder if there are different versions of the heating elements because my original grill element is maybe 1/4” bigger, if that, but I get more even heat distribution and better results with the XL. I know Ninja is always changing things so maybe your version of the original grill is different. I’ve also found that the same version of some appliances cook slightly differently. Not enough to worry about, but it’s always a mystery as to why. Thanks for all your information, I like to hear about other people’s experiences, it really helps when I create recipes.
Wow they do look like they came out amazing!! Great comparison video!! Unfortunately I cannot justify one of these to my wife but I have been looking at the ninja foodi 10 and 1 XL Pro air fryer oven
Do you find the air fryers in these are as good or close to the texture you’d get for your air fried calamari? I like these units because I like to grill / sear fish fillets.
The presets take into account the additional warming (carry over cooking) done during rest period. In general it shuts the grill 5 degrees below the target, and monitors the remaining assent outside the grill.
@@TheSaltedPepper honestly, if you know what the target temperature should be, the presets have little value. In fact based on your video, I was thinking of bypassing the presets on my next meal.
I find the grates on both difficult to clean, but other people don't seem to have that problem. As far as the inner liner and lid goes, the XL is much easier to clean than the original grill.
I don’t have a problem, my hubs washes it. Lol. Seriously, He says right now stuff slides right off and the little brush may have issues. If that happens, I would soak it in hot soapy water. It will come off
It looks like the AG551 has a higher clearance in the lid, so you could do roasts, but you couldn't layer as deep in the dish, unless there was another deeper dish you could insert
Surprised today and happy to see you with the indoor grill. I've had the XL for a while and love it. You also showed me that I can make my own pre-set internal temperature. I didn't figure that out :)) thank you so much. Your reviews always are so great. You also said there is a little greasy area in back that needs to be wiped out. I will have to check that out. I thought I had cleaning down good. So Looking forward to your cooking videos on the NFGrill! I Have mine sitting next to my NFTcrisp. I just like doing a whole chicken and unless my chicken is small, smashed spatchcockedand small, it won't fit the way I like. That's the only thing I prefer about the smaller NFgrill is the deeper pot. I think NF did that on purpose :)). Maybe next XLgrill model will have the deeper pot.
Just curious, do yo have both appliances plugged into the same electrical Circuit? Since beginning to watch your videos, I have acquired a 6qt, and 8qt Ninja Foodie and a Ninja Smart Grill XL. I have been afraid to plug in more than 1 at a time in the kitchen
@@TheSaltedPepper It may be beneficial to mention this, others may not realize the power consumption. I now have my daughter, granddaughter, and son-in-law hooked on your program. Thanks for all the wonderful recipes.
I just purchased the new xl model and I am in love. For the first time in my life I can cook good tasting meat. The probe is the key, it does all the thinking for me. It’s a breeze to clean up.
The cooking element is bigger on the original grill. I think that will allow it to cook faster and brown better. I don't have either one but I recently ordered the XL grill. I can use the Ninja PC for everything BUT grilling steaks so hopefully the XL grill will give me better results.
Several people have said that to me, but I measured them and if it’s bigger, it’s by a very small amount (maybe 1/4”). I prefer the XL grill for surface area mostly.
Hello. I am looking for your review on the Ninja IG651 Pro lx grill/ griddle. Did you do one? I'm really would like to see your review of it before purchase. Thank you!.
Thank you so much for your video! I've been needing EXACTLY this...so much so that I'm making my first ever TH-cam comment. 😆 I have the Foodi Tendercrisp and LOVE it! I've had my eye on the Foodi grill to replace my old George Foreman. When I saw the XL, I got really excited because I have 3 growing boys and need the capacity. So your video was incredibly insightful for me! Question...can I do a standing rib roast in the XL grill? Is it deep enough? I've only ever made that in the oven, but it always falls over and I have to keep fixing it, which is hard in the oven. Would be much easier in a Foodi, especially with the smart thermometer! Thanks for your insight!
I'm not sure if it would fit, it really depends on the height of it. I've made prime rib in the Ninja Foodi PC & AC and it worked great. I have a recipe for that here: thesaltedpepper.com/prime-rib-in-the-ninja-foodi/
Oh Louise! I’m so with you on the chicken temperature. Anyone using standard practices for cooking meat is going to let it rest 15 minutes after cooking which raises the internal temperature. But 170 is going to take it way too high. On the other hand, I’ve heard of BBQ experts slow cooking up to 195 internal. But I think they were just talking about briskets. In other news, it was just announced on the news that McDonald’s is releasing the McRib again. First time since 2012. This must be a Halloween event. It’s frightening. Imagine sitting down with a date on Halloween, watching Night of The Living Dead and serving up McRibs. Did it move? THE MCRIB JUST MOVED! KILL IT AGAIN!
LOL LOL! You always brighten my day with your humor, thank you! I'm not sure why they set the preset temp so high, but I'm guessing lawyers and not chefs were involved in that one.
Hi...I already have the Ninja Foodi that has pressure cooking...broil...air crisp functions. I cook steaks using the broil/air crisp. Is it worth it to get the Ninja Foodi grill? Would it be much better for cooking steaks? Please let me know what you think.
I really think it depends on how many people you cook for. If it's 1-2, the Foodi does a great job. I like the XL grill for grilling better than the Foodi, but I don't think it is a must have appliance unless you do a lot of grilling and need the extra room.
@@TheSaltedPepper Thank you so much! I always depend on you for great recipes. I only cook for 1-2. If the quality for cooking steaks is almost the same then I will stay with the Foodi.
Very helpful video. Thank you Louise!🌷 I have the Ninja Foodi XL Grill and have learned some important tips from this video. Especially about the chicken preset.
I think it does a great job. The depth is the only consideration. The liner of the xl grill is like a rectangular casserole dish that is 3" deep and the liner of the original grill is square and about 5-6" deep.
@@TheSaltedPepper I found a great deal on the 5 in 1 that also has a probe (Smart) with it..sooo, think that will be my best option as far as being most useful to me for AF and being able to bake ...PLUS, the price is amazing!
Hi Louise! I have the original foodi grill and I think I'm going to stick with it. I'm worried about the depth of the new grill. Question.. what probe thermometer can I use in the foodi grill? The probe that came with my machine broke. Which thermometer can I use safely inside the grill as a replacement?
@@TheSaltedPepper thanks so much. My husband wants an air fryer for Christmas. I am glad I came across your video. We ended up getting the smaller version. Got a great deal on it. Love your yellow lab. We have one too. They are the best dogs ever.
Yes, but they have become so expensive since the video was released they are almost cost prohibitive now. th-cam.com/video/JmYe4LNNfFM/w-d-xo.htmlsi=Sy0tY2LWuq3BD8BK
Hello there! Have you had any problem with the touch button panel of the Ninja Smart XL Grill? Have read a couple of TH-camrs saying thats the reason why Ninja removed the touch buttons from their newer models.
You are the BEST Louise.. Thank you for the review.. Thinking about going to get one now.. Starting to get chilly outside and I don't feel like firing up outside grill.. Thank you..
I have one from Pampered Chef: www.pamperedchef.com/pws/thesaltedpepper/shop/Favorites/Favorites%3A+Weeknight+Dinners/Instant-Read+Food+Thermometer/100121 It works as a probe and an instant read.
Hi, could I cook chips for 4 people in these? If so, would I be better buying the smaller one with the deeper tray? I’ve really enjoyed your videos, they are so informative. I didn’t know where to start with buying a Ninja but your comparison videos have really helped!
@@TheSaltedPepper Could the lid of the original be easier to clean because the splatter shield/screen covers the whole lid (versus XL, where the splatter shield/screen only covers the center of the lid)? Or does that not make a big difference? I'm trying to decide between the two models and ease of cleaning is a big consideration. Thanks!
*comes in from walking the dog*
"Man, I wish The Salted Pepper had a new video for me to watch."
*Notification comes in.*
This woman never fails to deliver.!
Thanks so much!
Slowly wanting to replace all my appliance with Ninjas haha! Now I just need more counter space.
No matter how big the kitchen, we always need more counter space! LOL
Get a baker’s rack or kitchen utility cart. I have all my Ninja products on it and it saves me a lot of counter space. Now I want to upgrade all my models to the newer ones 😩
I bought a big stainless steel baker’s rack from Sam’s club and have my stuff on that and it’s working for me. Of course the foodie pressure cooker has to be on the kitchen counter because of the standing up air fryer lid while you’re pressure cooking. Plus it’s so heavy it’s earned it place on counter and I use it for all kinds of cooking. I love how perfect my biscuits came out from frozen to golden brown perfection in 15 minutes and I never had to turn on the oven or heat up the whole kitchen. ❤️❤️❤️My ninja foodie pressure cooker and my foodie grill are my absolute favorite kitchen toys along with my Kitchenaid stand mixer and my silicone spurtles.
I LOVE how you did the measurements! Your explanations are so easy to understand. From one “not-a-preset gal” to another, thank you for this very informative, demonstrative comparison. I just ordered the Smart XL! Will be here in a week. 💕
Glad it was helpful!
What determined my decision was the depth and grate size. The XL was only 9" by 12" give or take and the orginal is 10" by 10". So losing an inch one way or gaining 2 another way. I went with the original.
I hope you love it!
Omg thank you sooo much!!! Just got my Ninja grill and was in tears as I couldn’t figure out the settings when I found your video! Made the perfect grilled Salmon 😀😀
Just got one the other day. Always love your help and always love your channel.❤
I SO MUCH LOVE THIS CHANNEL BECAUSE YOU CONVINCED ME TO BUY THIS NEW NINJA XL GRILL & NINJA PRESSURE COOKER YOUR THE ONLY ONE THAT DOES REAL VIDEOS ON THE NINJA THANK YOU🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Congrats on the Ninja! I hope you love it!
LOVED this video. That's because your enthusiasm is infectious! You love what you do and it shows. Such a fun video and well-edited. Thanks for the comparison!
Thank you so much!!
@@TheSaltedPepper You’re welcome!
Purchased a 6l ninja foodi due to your brilliant review. Now I'm planning on getting a grill. You've helped me make my mind up. Thanks again for the very informative review.
Glad I could help
@@TheSaltedPepper honest truthfull reviews. 👍👍👍
GLAD I WATCHED THIS. IT REALLY HELPED WITH MY DECISION TO BUY ONE OF THESE.
Yes, this was helpful for me deciding which one to buy. For me the Ninja Foodi original would work great.
Glad I could help!
I’m late in joining the Ninja Foodie grill. I am so glad I found your channel. It is only my husband and I so I’m going with the smaller one. Thank you!!!😊
Thank you, great review. I have had to go with the latest version because the original is discontinued. Im looking forward to trying it out 👍👍👍. Cheers from Tasmania
I am glad i saw this review...... I just bought the Ninja Foodi Grill and I wasnt sure i purchased the correct one... because I looked at the "XL" but thought it might be too big... and I was right I picked the smaller and am so glad I did!! Thank you for your reviews and all the cooking you show us!!!
I hope you love your grill!
Hi. I just wanted to say I went with the original and mine does have the probe. The reason I didn't go with the new XL was because of the depth. I like to do my roasts in there with the probe and the XL wasn't deep enough. Love this grill I use it almost every day.
I'm so glad you love it!
I’m going to get the XL. I cook everyday. I love kitchen appliances. I have a few Ninja appliances and processor , blenders, oven. Now I want this. I’m glad you showed us the XL. I want to see you demonstrate the flat cooking grill part on the sear grill . I have the foodie duo also. But never have used the air crisper in that lid.
I bought the XL after watching your video. I live in a condo and am unable to have an outdoor grill. The XL works great and the probe is spot on! Haven’t tried it with chicken yet. Thanks for all of your step by step recipes and your honest reviews of the Ninja products and your own recipes.
YAY! I'm so glad you love it!
I just bought one on HSN in eggplant color. I plan on using it outside with a cover and in an area that has an over hang for the summer
I hope you love it!
We have the XL, love it! We use it everyday. I also love the clever name of your channel.
Thank you for the demo. Since I'm single, the XL would be too much, so I will be keeping with my plan to purchase the smaller model.
I have both, but had to use the old one because I wanted to bake something. I love both for sure.
There are definitely pros and cons to each one, having both solves that! LOL LOL
I have the original, and no space for the larger one. My original is perfect for me. I have all the attachments that came with the pro model. I toast my bread that in the rectangle pan on the bake function on lower heat. I heat my soup faster on air crisp than in a pan on the stove. I do frozen wings on air crisp and they come out awesome. Thank you for this video.
That's awesome! I love the reheating soup idea!
How you cooked frozen wings? What settings you used Help! Lol
I cook frozen M&M wings on Air Crisp on the lowest temperature setting. Crispy skin, and juicy meat, cooked perfect to the bone.
I have the original Foodi grill
I love that you used the thermometer in your older model Foodi Grill to show how simple it is. Thanks!
Great~~I made the best choice for my kitchen👍🏼I bought the smaller Ninja Ag302 ,because I plan on using all the functions & Ill use the deeper roasting pan a lot🥰Great informational video!! Thank You & God Bless 🙏🏼
Thank you this review was the best, and yes the xl is better if you have a family of 4 or more!!! Worth every penny.
Glad you liked it!
Just ordered the xl using your link. Thank you so much for all your help, Louise. I'm going to check out the spanish rice recipe in the Ninja Foodi this evening.
Hope you like it!
@@TheSaltedPepper I'm hoping to make it this week. Got my grill today. So excited to start using it.
I have been waiting for this XL to land in Sydney and they are here! they wait is over and the choice made. Will get one this weekend. Your video just convinced me :) Great video. New subscriber here...
Thank you so much for your videos. This helped me decide to order the Ninja Grill XL. Awesome job!
Glad I could help!
I agree with DeAngelo Dee! You not only helped me make my decision between the two but one of the first things I'm cooking is a couple of Keilbassas!! New Sub as well.
Enjoy!
Thanks 4 the video, greetings from South America! 😊😊
Hello!
Bought mine yesterday. Thank you sooooo very much for the tutorial!!! Great demo 😊
I hope you love it!
Oh I absolutely do!!! & it's so teenager friendly 😉 my kids love it!
My hubby bought me the XL last week and I love it! Steaks turned out great! I was wondering when you would talk about the grills!
YAY!
I have the older kind of square one. I like that it's deeper because you can fit a small whole chicken in it.
I know many people who feel that way and I totally understand. I use my Foodi PC & AC for anything that requires depth, so I like the new grill better.
@@TheSaltedPepper That makes total sense!
I just ordered the Ninja eg201 yesterday which I guess is the updated version of the original as Ninja doesn't have the ag301 on their website. I read a lot of reviews and watched a lot of videos before making my decision. The XL was attractive because of the temperature probe, but it would take up more real estate on my countertop and I'm only cooking for me. The decision was made when I watched a video comparing the two and she made spatchcock chicken. The chicken would not fit in that shallow pan of the XL without smashing it down and then it still was touching the upper screen and the temperature probe did not even measure the correct temp. When it said it was done, the chicken was still bleeding. She indicated that she probably could fit a whole rack of ribs in the XL tho and probably couldn't in the regular Ninja. But if I want to make ribs, I can cut the rack in half. So it was really a no brainer for me to buy and smaller (but deeper) unit ... which, BTW fit only one less pork chop than the XL. Also, you can get a 3-tier rack for dehydrating for the deeper unit so I can get rid of the dehydrator I have. If you buy the XL, don't trust that temperature probe!
A woman after my own heart! You had me at charred❣️ thanks for a great info video. You helped me decide which one to buy
Thanks! I hope you enjoy your new grill!
Great video, im from UK, have just purchased my first ninja foodi, oven now redundant, can't believe how well they cook,now looking at the grill, now decided many thanks 👍🏻👍🏻
Just got one of the new ones. Very impressed.
I am beating myself up on deciding on a ninja grill or just a ninja 2 basket air fryer, can you help? love your videos
It really depends on your cooking style, but I would probably go with the XL grill over the dual basket air fryer.
I have the XL. Last night I cooked precooked sausages, from frozen. Also in a small aluminum pan I put sauerkraut, covered it with foil and all was done perfectly!
I started out with high until the sausages were thawed then maxed that baby out.
I love it!!!
Sounds great!
Have you cooked bacon in your foodie? I really appreciate your videos, as you are prepared, transparent, and you instill confidence in me to try new recipes.
I’m still torn between the 2 😩
“They are beautiful”!!!!! 🤩 Great review
I find the bigger burner in the original cooks faster and browns better than the larger one. I also like chicken in the deeper pot
I've heard that before, but I haven't noticed that.
I love the Smart XL Grill! Thanks for the detailed description of the features.❤️❤️
No problem!
A little tid bit for you! Try making your sauce with ketchup and curry for a German style sausage! We eat them with German Spatzle (noodles) So good!
Now that sounds right up my alley!
I LOVE mine---LOVE it. I have the regular foodie grill. I use it almost every single day, and I cook for 4 adults. On many occasions, I cook 50% to all of the meal in it- without cleaning in between. Example- We eat a half of a baked potato each, I scrub 2 very well, cut them in half, LIGHTLY coat them with evoo, and hit the roast button. In eh- 25 minutes? Sometime less, I take those golden delicious babies out, pop in the grill and then toss in the meat for the night. Once in a while, I may grill another vegetable along with the taters. But, I always lightly coat and I mean nearly not at all coat everything with evoo! Never had a smoking problem. If you are not using this to make most of your meals, you are missing out. I have even cleaned her up after cooking and popped in a cake :) Oh and have you tired CORN BREAD? LOL Whoa now! That is some good stuff!
I bought the foodie grill but is so big ... I think I’ll keep my regular airfryer
Imo, presets are not something that “from scratch” and “been cooking since childhood” people find intuitive.
Thanks for the video! I may be the last person who does not own an air fryer, but I’m looking to join the club! 😂
Yes, presets can make things more complicated in my opinion. I'm sure you will love an air fryer!
This was such a well done review video. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you for this video, very interesting and just what I’d been searching for. I notice the one on the right has a splash guard in the lid but the one on the left doesn’t, does that cause any issues when it comes to cleaning?
Great video Louise!
How do marinaded meats work in these grill? Do you recommend that or have you experienced any burning?
Whenever you do a wet marinade you should blot the meat dry before grilling for the best sear. Otherwise the wet marinade steams and prevents the nice crust from forming. Glazes should be applied toward the end of cooking and I only glaze the top to avoid burning.
Great review......hope you come up with lots of recipes for the grills!
I'll be working on some for sure.
Which unit would be better for air frying chicken, etc. it appears the original has a higher dome, so the heating element would be not right on top of foods that you wanted to air fry. What about the newer technology one? Thank you! I love your videos.!
Actually they don't really cook the same. The original model has a larger heating element and the grill plate is thicker having more thermal capacity per inch. They cook about the same with small amounts of food but load them up and the smart xl just doesn't cook as well. Your original Ninja Grill smoked so much because it was HOTTER.
I haven't found that to be the case at all, but thanks for info! Just an FYI: some models of the smaller grill have the same lighter grill grate. They are always switching things up it seems! The smoking was because I didn't clean the filter and it was coming from the XL grill. I've been working on some various methods of cleaning them and have let the grease build up, not the best decision before doing this video. LOL
I believe that's not true because the xl has heating from the bottom too. If you remove the heating plate then you will see the electricity connection
I bought the Foodi XL grill because I was wanting it for grilling indoors. Ive only had for two weeks but am very very pleased with it. I also like grill temp max is 550 F and the air fryer max temp is 450.
Where did you see the temp max is 550? I was looking for the temperatures and didn't see them.
@@TheSaltedPepper ....I stand corrected max is 510.
I use my ninja grill all the time. I like the depth!
I thought I would prefer the depth over the shallower one too, but after getting the new one I am in love with it. It's great that we can have so many choices and pick the style of an appliance that works best for different cooking styles.
@@TheSaltedPepper I am disappointed in the grilling setting, yes grill marks on one side, so I turn meat over no marks, been tempted to start over with preheat for 1 mn. Suggestion?
We have both the original and the XL. The *ORIGINAL* seems to cook better and has better coverage of heat distribution. 👍👍👍👍
Isn’t that interesting, I find the opposite to be true with the two I have.
@@TheSaltedPepper We compare the cooking element at the top of both the original and the XL. The original definitely has a larger cooking element at the top. That’s probably why it heats better. We sometimes dump 2 pounds of chicken wings in the original Foodi Grill, with the wings overlapping each other. We then give them a stir and flip a few times during cooking. The wings always turn out nice and brown and well cooked. 👍
@@bb.cute.channel I have to wonder if there are different versions of the heating elements because my original grill element is maybe 1/4” bigger, if that, but I get more even heat distribution and better results with the XL. I know Ninja is always changing things so maybe your version of the original grill is different. I’ve also found that the same version of some appliances cook slightly differently. Not enough to worry about, but it’s always a mystery as to why. Thanks for all your information, I like to hear about other people’s experiences, it really helps when I create recipes.
Wow they do look like they came out amazing!! Great comparison video!! Unfortunately I cannot justify one of these to my wife but I have been looking at the ninja foodi 10 and 1 XL Pro air fryer oven
I have the new XL oven and love it! I'll be doing some things in there for sure!
Do you find the air fryers in these are as good or close to the texture you’d get for your air fried calamari? I like these units because I like to grill / sear fish fillets.
The presets take into account the additional warming (carry over cooking) done during rest period. In general it shuts the grill 5 degrees below the target, and monitors the remaining assent outside the grill.
I don't know about that, I'll have to look into it. I've done testing with two different thermometers and didn't notice that at all.
@@TheSaltedPepper honestly, if you know what the target temperature should be, the presets have little value. In fact based on your video, I was thinking of bypassing the presets on my next meal.
That's how I like my sausage too! yum!
So good!
I’ve been waiting for you to do this video! Thanks so much😀 I would like to know if the XL is easy to clean?
I find the grates on both difficult to clean, but other people don't seem to have that problem. As far as the inner liner and lid goes, the XL is much easier to clean than the original grill.
I don’t have a problem, my hubs washes it. Lol. Seriously, He says right now stuff slides right off and the little brush may have issues. If that happens, I would soak it in hot soapy water. It will come off
Dont know about cleaning, but massaging XL is GREAT!
Thanks so much for this video! I am looking to get the ninja grill and your video helped me a lot :)
Glad I could help!
It looks like the AG551 has a higher clearance in the lid, so you could do roasts, but you couldn't layer as deep in the dish, unless there was another deeper dish you could insert
Surprised today and happy to see you with the indoor grill. I've had the XL for a while and love it. You also showed me that I can make my own pre-set internal temperature. I didn't figure that out :)) thank you so much.
Your reviews always are so great.
You also said there is a little greasy area in back that needs to be wiped out. I will have to check that out. I thought I had cleaning down good.
So Looking forward to your cooking videos on the NFGrill!
I Have mine sitting next to my NFTcrisp. I just like doing a whole chicken and unless my chicken is small, smashed spatchcockedand small, it won't fit the way I like. That's the only thing I prefer about the smaller NFgrill is the deeper pot. I think NF did that on purpose :)). Maybe next XLgrill model will have the deeper pot.
Thank you so much!
This was so helpful! You are awesome!!
Thanks for the awesome video. You mentioned taking your grill with you on a trip. Do you just carry it or is there a case available for the XL?
Just curious, do yo have both appliances plugged into the same electrical Circuit? Since beginning to watch your videos, I have acquired a 6qt, and 8qt Ninja Foodie and a Ninja Smart Grill XL. I have been afraid to plug in more than 1 at a time in the kitchen
No, I have two outlets that are on separate circuits.
@@TheSaltedPepper It may be beneficial to mention this, others may not realize the power consumption. I now have my daughter, granddaughter, and son-in-law hooked on your program. Thanks for all the wonderful recipes.
Great video, thank you!
Glad you liked it!
I just purchased the new xl model and I am in love. For the first time in my life I can cook good tasting meat. The probe is the key, it does all the thinking for me. It’s a breeze to clean up.
Great to hear!
Tip if you have sausage at room temp before grilling they will no split
Thanks! I usually let all meat sit out before cooking, but I don’t know if I do it with sausage. I will from now on!
The cooking element is bigger on the original grill. I think that will allow it to cook faster and brown better. I don't have either one but I recently ordered the XL grill. I can use the Ninja PC for everything BUT grilling steaks so hopefully the XL grill will give me better results.
Several people have said that to me, but I measured them and if it’s bigger, it’s by a very small amount (maybe 1/4”). I prefer the XL grill for surface area mostly.
Hello. I am looking for your review on the Ninja IG651 Pro lx grill/ griddle. Did you do one? I'm really would like to see your review of it before purchase. Thank you!.
Thank you so much for your video! I've been needing EXACTLY this...so much so that I'm making my first ever TH-cam comment. 😆
I have the Foodi Tendercrisp and LOVE it! I've had my eye on the Foodi grill to replace my old George Foreman. When I saw the XL, I got really excited because I have 3 growing boys and need the capacity. So your video was incredibly insightful for me!
Question...can I do a standing rib roast in the XL grill? Is it deep enough? I've only ever made that in the oven, but it always falls over and I have to keep fixing it, which is hard in the oven. Would be much easier in a Foodi, especially with the smart thermometer!
Thanks for your insight!
I'm not sure if it would fit, it really depends on the height of it. I've made prime rib in the Ninja Foodi PC & AC and it worked great. I have a recipe for that here: thesaltedpepper.com/prime-rib-in-the-ninja-foodi/
I have the Smart XL and I have lots of smoking issues, not sure why 🤷🏽♂️
Thank You For The Video, BUT IThought The Other One Baked And Grilled????
Ohhhhh goodness, you managed to make my mouth water...even though I have a strong dislike for smoked sausage 🤢
LOL!
Oh Louise! I’m so with you on the chicken temperature. Anyone using standard practices for cooking meat is going to let it rest 15 minutes after cooking which raises the internal temperature. But 170 is going to take it way too high. On the other hand, I’ve heard of BBQ experts slow cooking up to 195 internal. But I think they were just talking about briskets.
In other news, it was just announced on the news that McDonald’s is releasing the McRib again. First time since 2012. This must be a Halloween event. It’s frightening. Imagine sitting down with a date on Halloween, watching Night of The Living Dead and serving up McRibs. Did it move? THE MCRIB JUST MOVED! KILL IT AGAIN!
LOL LOL! You always brighten my day with your humor, thank you! I'm not sure why they set the preset temp so high, but I'm guessing lawyers and not chefs were involved in that one.
Great review! I enjoyed your decisiveness
Thanks!
This was super helpful!!!👌🎯 Just ordered my Ninja XL. Can't wait!!!!!! Thank you for such a great video.
Glad it was helpful!
Hi...I already have the Ninja Foodi that has pressure cooking...broil...air crisp functions. I cook steaks using the broil/air crisp. Is it worth it to get the Ninja Foodi grill? Would it be much better for cooking steaks? Please let me know what you think.
I really think it depends on how many people you cook for. If it's 1-2, the Foodi does a great job. I like the XL grill for grilling better than the Foodi, but I don't think it is a must have appliance unless you do a lot of grilling and need the extra room.
@@TheSaltedPepper Thank you so much! I always depend on you for great recipes. I only cook for 1-2. If the quality for cooking steaks is almost the same then I will stay with the Foodi.
Very helpful video. Thank you Louise!🌷 I have the Ninja Foodi XL Grill and have learned some important tips from this video. Especially about the chicken preset.
Glad it was helpful!
Considering the Ninja XL Grill but wondering how well it bakes food?
I think it does a great job. The depth is the only consideration. The liner of the xl grill is like a rectangular casserole dish that is 3" deep and the liner of the original grill is square and about 5-6" deep.
@@TheSaltedPepper I found a great deal on the 5 in 1 that also has a probe (Smart) with it..sooo, think that will be my best option as far as being most useful to me for AF and being able to bake ...PLUS, the price is amazing!
Hi Louise! I have the original foodi grill and I think I'm going to stick with it. I'm worried about the depth of the new grill. Question.. what probe thermometer can I use in the foodi grill? The probe that came with my machine broke. Which thermometer can I use safely inside the grill as a replacement?
Sorry, I wanted a thermometer with more than one probe
You can use any probe thermometer and it should work fine.
Thanks for the great video. Does this unit have the air fryer feature? Thanks
Thank you! Yes, both grills have an air fry function and they work quite well.
@@TheSaltedPepper thanks so much. My husband wants an air fryer for Christmas. I am glad I came across your video. We ended up getting the smaller version. Got a great deal on it. Love your yellow lab. We have one too. They are the best dogs ever.
I love your top, it's super cute.
Thank you!!
did you have another video, where you said that there is better replacement griddle?
Yes, but they have become so expensive since the video was released they are almost cost prohibitive now. th-cam.com/video/JmYe4LNNfFM/w-d-xo.htmlsi=Sy0tY2LWuq3BD8BK
Hello there! Have you had any problem with the touch button panel of the Ninja Smart XL Grill? Have read a couple of TH-camrs saying thats the reason why Ninja removed the touch buttons from their newer models.
If getting the new smart one could you cook a casserole in a tin pan that will fit inside. Thanks
Yes, as long as the pan fits in the inner liner.
You are the BEST Louise.. Thank you for the review.. Thinking about going to get one now.. Starting to get chilly outside and I don't feel like firing up outside grill.. Thank you..
Thank you! I hope you love the grill if you decide to get one.
Thanks for your response, than it is not for me succes and go on with your food channel it is fun 🤩 to watch 😀
So nice of you!
I like a small grill for small family.
Awesome video!!! Thanks.
Glad you liked it!
What probe did you purchase for the older model of Ninja? Thanks!
I have one from Pampered Chef: www.pamperedchef.com/pws/thesaltedpepper/shop/Favorites/Favorites%3A+Weeknight+Dinners/Instant-Read+Food+Thermometer/100121 It works as a probe and an instant read.
Hi, could I cook chips for 4 people in these? If so, would I be better buying the smaller one with the deeper tray?
I’ve really enjoyed your videos, they are so informative. I didn’t know where to start with buying a Ninja but your comparison videos have really helped!
Is one easier to clean inside than the other? Especially the lid area? Thanks
I think the XL is easier because it's more open.
@@TheSaltedPepper Could the lid of the original be easier to clean because the splatter shield/screen covers the whole lid (versus XL, where the splatter shield/screen only covers the center of the lid)? Or does that not make a big difference? I'm trying to decide between the two models and ease of cleaning is a big consideration. Thanks!
Is it possible to buy that deep basket for the newer grill…will it fit?
It won't fit.
Can you bake in the pots like bread and cakes
Yes, you can.
Great video. You answered the questions I had about these grills. BTW...spatched cock chicken would do well, I think, in the xl. Thank you. 😊
I'll be trying it after the holiday recipes are done.
Just wondering what happen to your ninja grills.