Ninja OG705CO 7-in-1 Outdoor Electric Grill and Smoker review for versatile cooking

Description

A Truly Unique Outdoor Cooking Experience with the Ninja OG705CO

Testing the Ninja OG705CO 7-in-1 Outdoor Electric Grill & Smoker was nothing short of a culinary adventure. This versatile machine claims to combine the power of a master grill, BBQ smoker, and outdoor air fryer, and I was eager to see if it could live up to such lofty promises. Spoiler alert: it mostly did, though there are a few quirks worth mentioning.

Design That’s Both Functional and Stylish

One of the first things that caught my attention was the sleek black finish and compact design. Despite its relatively small footprint, the grill packs a punch with a 141-sq-in nonstick grill grate and a variety of included components, such as the crisper basket, grease tray, and removable woodfire smoke box. Setting it up was straightforward, and its weather-resistant build makes it a reliable outdoor companion, even during unpredictable weather.

I particularly appreciate how portable it is, despite its weight of 30.6 pounds. Moving it around my deck or patio wasn’t a chore, and it’s perfect for those who might need to store it out of sight when not in use. The apartment-friendly electric power feature is a significant bonus for those who don’t want the hassle of propane tanks or charcoal mess.

Key Benefits

• 7-in-1 functionality: Grill, BBQ smoke, air fry, roast, bake, dehydrate, and broil all in one.
• Weather-resistant build: Perfect for year-round outdoor use.
• Nonstick grill grate: Makes cleanup a breeze.
• Compact yet spacious: Grills 6 steaks or 30 hot dogs at once.

Performance That Lives Up to Expectations

Using this product felt like stepping into a world of woodfire-infused culinary delight. The 1760-watt electric power paired with the Ninja Woodfire Technology ensures consistent heat and a rich smoky flavor in every dish. I loved experimenting with the two blends of 100% real hardwood Ninja Woodfire Pellets, which added a subtle but distinct smoky aroma to my meals.

Grilling was a dream. The high-performance searing replicated the charred goodness of a propane grill without the hassle. Smoking, on the other hand, was surprisingly effortless. Just 1/2 cup of pellets was enough for that perfect BBQ bark on a brisket. The air fryer feature added another dimension; tossing wings into the crisper basket and letting the smoky magic do its thing made for some of the tastiest appetizers I’ve ever served.

Areas for Improvement

• Pellet compatibility: It only works with Ninja Woodfire Pellets, which could be limiting for some.
• Learning curve: Mastering the various settings takes some trial and error.
• Weight: While portable, its 30.6 pounds can be cumbersome for some users.

Competing Products

Compared to other outdoor electric grills, such as the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill, the Ninja OG705CO offers a more diverse range of cooking options. Where the George Foreman grill excels in simplicity and affordability, the Ninja product stands out with its 7-in-1 versatility and woodfire flavor technology.

That said, it doesn’t quite match the Traeger Pro Series for smoking, as the latter offers a larger cooking area and broader pellet compatibility. However, for someone seeking an apartment-friendly, all-in-one solution, this grill outshines traditional propane or charcoal models in both convenience and flavor.

Worth Every Penny

Considering its versatility, build quality, and the unique features it offers, this product provides excellent value for money. While it may not replace specialized smokers or high-end grills for professionals, it bridges the gap between casual and serious outdoor cooking. The addition of pellet-powered flavor without the need for propane or charcoal is a game-changer, especially for urban users.

Using it for family get-togethers or small parties is a joy. The capacity to grill 6 steaks, BBQ smoke a 9-lb brisket, or air fry 3 lbs of wings means you can cater to a crowd without breaking a sweat. Clean-up is just as easy, thanks to the non-stick surfaces and removable components.

Final Thoughts? No, Just a Recap

This grill is for anyone who wants a reliable and versatile outdoor cooking companion. Apartment dwellers, BBQ enthusiasts, or even someone just dipping their toes into grilling will find something to love here. While there are a few hurdles, like the limited pellet compatibility and slight learning curve, they’re minor compared to the wealth of features packed into this device.

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