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Overview
The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill is a multi-function countertop cooking appliance designed to replicate outdoor grilling results indoors while offering additional cooking modes.
It belongs to the electric indoor grill and air fryer combo category, combining high-heat grilling with convection-based cooking functions such as air frying, roasting, baking, and dehydrating.
What sets the Ninja Foodi Smart XL apart is its Smart Cook System, which uses an integrated thermometer to monitor internal food temperature and automatically adjust cooking time.
This makes it particularly appealing to users who want consistent doneness without constant monitoring.
By 2025, the Smart XL model remains one of Ninja’s flagship indoor grills, known for its large cooking capacity, strong searing performance, and versatility for everyday meals.
Key Features & Specs
Smart Cook System with Integrated Thermometer
The built-in digital thermometer tracks internal food temperature in real time. Users can select their desired doneness level, and the grill automatically stops cooking when the target temperature is reached.
Extra-Large Cooking Capacity
The XL grill plate accommodates up to six steaks, multiple burgers, or family-sized portions of vegetables, making it suitable for households or meal prep.
High-Heat Grilling Technology
The unit reaches temperatures of up to approximately 500°F, allowing it to produce grill marks and searing similar to an outdoor grill without open flames.
Multi-Function Cooking Modes
In addition to grilling, the appliance supports air frying, roasting, baking, dehydrating, and broiling. This reduces the need for multiple countertop devices.
Smoke Control System
A combination of a splatter shield, cool-air zone, and high-powered fan helps minimize smoke, making it practical for indoor use.
Nonstick, Removable Grill Plate
The ceramic-coated grill plate promotes even cooking and easy food release. It is removable for convenient cleaning.
Dishwasher-Safe Components
The grill plate, crisper basket, splatter shield, and cooking pot are dishwasher safe, reducing cleanup time.
Digital Control Panel
Clear buttons and a digital display allow users to switch modes, set temperatures, and monitor cooking progress with minimal learning curve.
Performance & User Experience
In real-world cooking, the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill delivers strong grilling performance for an indoor appliance.
Steaks, burgers, chicken, and vegetables develop visible grill marks and retain moisture, especially when using the Smart Cook thermometer for precise doneness.
The air frying function performs well for foods like fries, wings, and reheated leftovers, producing crisp textures with less oil than traditional frying. Mode switching is intuitive, and the digital interface clearly displays temperature and cooking status.
Smoke reduction is effective when used as directed, though high-fat foods can still produce some smoke at maximum temperatures. The unit is moderately loud due to its internal fan, but noise levels are consistent with similar multi-function appliances.
Overall, the cooking experience emphasizes convenience, accuracy, and versatility, making it suitable for both quick meals and more controlled cooking tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Integrated thermometer ensures accurate doneness
- Large cooking surface for families
- High heat produces authentic grill marks
- Multiple cooking functions in one appliance
- Dishwasher-safe parts simplify cleanup
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- Fan noise during operation
- Some smoke with high-fat foods
- Higher price than basic indoor grills
- Preheating required for best results
Best Use Case / Ideal User
The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill is best suited for home cooks who want reliable indoor grilling with minimal guesswork. It is ideal for:
- Families cooking multiple portions at once
- Users who prefer precise doneness control
- Apartment or condo dwellers without outdoor grills
- Anyone seeking a multi-purpose countertop cooker
It may be less suitable for users with limited counter space or those who only need a simple, single-function grill.
Shopping
| Buy the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill from Amazon |
| Search for the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill on Ebay here |
Alternatives
Breville Smart Grill
Offers advanced temperature control and interchangeable plates. It appeals to users who prioritize premium build quality and manual control over automation.
Cuisinart Griddler Deluxe
A versatile grill and griddle combo with a more compact design. It is often chosen for smaller kitchens or simpler cooking needs.
George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Grill
Focuses on large-capacity grilling with basic controls. It suits users who want simplicity over precision cooking features.
Final Verdict
The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill remains a strong contender in 2025 for those seeking an all-in-one indoor grilling solution.
Its Smart Cook System, large capacity, and consistent performance make it a dependable choice for everyday cooking.
Rating: 8.8 / 10
Recommended for users who value convenience, versatility, and accurate cooking results in a single appliance.
FAQ
Is the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill truly smokeless?
It significantly reduces smoke compared to traditional indoor grills, but high-fat foods cooked at high temperatures may still produce some smoke.
Can it replace an outdoor grill?
While it delivers good searing and grill marks, it does not fully replicate the flavor of charcoal or gas grilling.
Does the thermometer work for all cooking modes?
The Smart Cook thermometer is primarily designed for grilling and roasting, not air frying or baking.
Is it difficult to clean?
No. Most removable parts are dishwasher safe, making cleanup relatively easy.
How long does it take to preheat?
Preheating typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes, depending on the selected temperature.