The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill is designed for cooks who want outdoor-style grilling results without stepping outside. By combining high-heat indoor grilling, air frying, and Ninja’s built-in smart cooking system, this appliance aims to deliver consistent results for everything from steaks to weeknight vegetables.
Below is an overview of how it performs, what stands out, and who it will benefit the most.
Design & First Impressions
Right out of the box, the Foodi Smart XL Grill makes a solid impression. The build feels sturdy, the black-and-silver design looks modern, and the control panel is easy to navigate. Despite offering multiple cooking functions, the layout stays intuitive — you select your cooking mode, adjust the temperature and time, and follow prompts from the smart thermometer when needed.
The included accessories cover most meal types:
-9" x 12" grill grate-4-quart crisper basket
-4-quart cooking pot
-Foodi Smart Thermometer
-Cleaning brush
-Recipe guide
The XL size gives it more flexibility than earlier Ninja grill models, yet it still fits comfortably on a countertop.
Grilling Performance
The highlight of this appliance is its 500°F cyclonic grilling technology. Instead of relying on a static heating plate, it uses superheated air that circulates around food, producing even browning and grill marks close to what you’d expect outdoors.
You get strong searing for:
-Steaks and chops-Burgers
-Chicken breasts and thighs
-Fish like salmon
-Grilled vegetables
The heat distribution is consistent across the grate, and there’s no need to flip excessively to get even results.
Smart Cook System
One of the most useful features is the dual-sensor smart thermometer. It uses protein presets and doneness levels to automatically stop cooking at the right moment.
This helps eliminate:
-Undercooked centers in thick cuts-Overcooked edges
-Guesswork with rare, medium, or well-done settings
If you cook a lot of meat or want more reliability during busy nights, this system makes a noticeable difference in the final texture.
Air Frying & Multi-Cooking Versatility
Beyond grilling, this model works as a full multi-cooker with 6 functions:
-Grill-Air Crisp
-Roast
-Bake
-Broil
-Dehydrate
The air-fry mode performs similarly to Ninja’s standalone air fryers — crisp exteriors, tender interiors, and reduced oil use. Roasting and baking offer strong results as well, making this appliance surprisingly versatile for both savory meals and occasional baked goods.
The dehydrate mode is a bonus for drying fruit, herbs, or making homemade jerky.
Capacity & Everyday Use
The “XL” in the name is accurate. The grill grate can handle:
-Up to 6 steaks-24 hot dogs
-Multiple chicken breasts
-Combined mains and sides at the same time
If you cook for families, meal-prep on weekends, or need a reliable indoor grill alternative for apartments or condos, the size makes it practical.
Smoke Control System
Indoor grilling often raises concerns about smoke, but the Foodi Smart XL Grill incorporates:
-A splatter shield-Cool-air zone
-Temperature-controlled grate
These work together to keep smoke minimal, even at high temperatures. It isn’t completely smoke-free, but it’s noticeably lower than typical stovetop searing.
Cleanup
All removable parts are dishwasher safe, and the included cleaning brush helps with the grate. The interior splatter shield can be removed, making it easier to maintain the unit long-term.
Who This Appliance Is Best For
This model is well-suited for those who:
-Want indoor grilling with consistent results-Prefer smart temperature guidance
-Need both grilling and air frying in one appliance
-Cook for families or meal prep regularly
-Live in apartments and need a low-smoke solution
-Appreciate appliances that deliver reliable sears, textures, and doneness levels
Final Thoughts
The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill offers strong performance across grilling, air frying, roasting, and baking, with the added benefit of a smart thermometer that simplifies cooking. The high heat, even airflow, and generous capacity make this a dependable countertop unit for anyone who wants outdoor-style results indoors. If you’re looking for a versatile appliance that delivers consistent sears and reduces guesswork, this model stands out in the indoor grill category.
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