This is the older model of the ninja grill. I purchased this because I do not need the extra features of the XL smart grill, and I liked that this one has a larger splatter guard, which covers the entire top interior of the cover. So far, I have used it to make air-fried tater tots and grill hamburgers (using pre-formed hamburger patties from the store).
Just from the couple of uses of the unit, I have found that when grilling it is a good idea to set the time for a couple minutes more than what the guide calls for, and then as you get to the last 5 minutes, check them to see if they are cooked to your desired level of doneness. On the preformed patties, 9 minutes cooked them to a doneness level between medium rare and medium. It will, of course, depend on the thickness of the meat. My version does not have the thermometer that plugs into the side of the unit, but I already have a digital meat thermometer, so I did not feel the need to pay extra for that.
The big pro is that this is very easy to clean. You simply pull out the inner container which holds the grill plate and the crisper basket when the unit is in use, get rid of the grease, then soak the container and grill plate and/or put them in the dishwasher. All the removable parts (the container, the grill plate, the crisper basket, and the splatter guard) are dishwasher safe.
Overall, it is much easier to use than an outdoor grill, especially if you are in a state with cold winters, and unlike some other indoor grills, it does not emit a lot of smoke. The instructions are easy to follow, and the food seems to turn out very well. If I need to update my review in the future I will do so, but so far with limited use of it, I am very satisfied.
Just from the couple of uses of the unit, I have found that when grilling it is a good idea to set the time for a couple minutes more than what the guide calls for, and then as you get to the last 5 minutes, check them to see if they are cooked to your desired level of doneness. On the preformed patties, 9 minutes cooked them to a doneness level between medium rare and medium. It will, of course, depend on the thickness of the meat. My version does not have the thermometer that plugs into the side of the unit, but I already have a digital meat thermometer, so I did not feel the need to pay extra for that.
The big pro is that this is very easy to clean. You simply pull out the inner container which holds the grill plate and the crisper basket when the unit is in use, get rid of the grease, then soak the container and grill plate and/or put them in the dishwasher. All the removable parts (the container, the grill plate, the crisper basket, and the splatter guard) are dishwasher safe.
Overall, it is much easier to use than an outdoor grill, especially if you are in a state with cold winters, and unlike some other indoor grills, it does not emit a lot of smoke. The instructions are easy to follow, and the food seems to turn out very well. If I need to update my review in the future I will do so, but so far with limited use of it, I am very satisfied.
