Grilling indoors without the smoke, mess, or long cleanup? That’s the promise of the Ninja Foodi smokeless grill—perfect for apartment dwellers, busy families, or anyone craving seared, juicy meals year-round without firing up an outdoor barbecue. Traditional indoor grills often leave behind stubborn smoke, uneven cooking, and greasy surfaces, but the latest Ninja models tackle these pain points head-on with advanced smoke-reduction technology and precision cooking.
We analyzed over 60 user reviews, expert summaries, and performance metrics to spotlight the best Ninja Foodi smokeless grill for every need and kitchen size. Our picks weigh key factors like temperature range, smart thermometers, capacity, and ease of cleaning—ensuring you get powerful, consistent results without the guesswork. Keep reading to find your ideal match.
Best Options at a Glance
Ninja DG551 Foodi Smart XL Grill
Best Smart Thermometer
- 1760 watts
- 6-in-1
- 500″F
- Yes
- 75% less
Ninja Foodi AG300 4-in-1 Grill
Best Compact Design
- 4 Qt
- Grill/Air Crisp/Roast/Bake
- 500″F
- Cyclonic Grilling
- Dishwasher Safe
Ninja EG201 Foodi 6-in-1 Grill
Best Value
- 6-in-1
- 500″F
- 75% less
- under 25 min
- Grill Grate, Crisper Basket, Cooking Pot
Ninja Foodi Pro Smart Probe Grill
Best for Precision Cooking
- 4-Quart
- Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Dehydrate
- Integrated”
- 105-500F
- 1760 W
Ninja FG551 Smart XL Grill
Best for Large Families
- Indoor Grill and Air Fryer
- XL (6 steaks or 24 hot dogs)
- 6-in-1
- 500°F
- Smart (4 presets, 9 doneness levels)
Ninja AG301 Foodi 5-in-1 Grill
Best Budget Friendly
- Grill, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Dehydrate
- Cyclonic Grilling
- 500°F
- Up to 75% less fat
- Grill Grate, Crisper Basket, Cooking Pot
Ninja Foodi Smokeless Grill Review
How to Choose the Right Ninja Foodi Smokeless Grill
Understanding Your Grilling Needs
Before diving into specific models, consider how you’ll use your grill. Are you a large family needing to cook multiple portions at once? Or a smaller household focused on quick, healthy meals? Your typical cooking volume will significantly impact the size and features you prioritize. If you frequently cook for a crowd, prioritize models with larger grilling surfaces, like the Ninja FG551 Smart XL Grill. Conversely, if space is limited or you’re cooking for one or two, a more compact option like the Ninja AG300 4-in-1 Grill may be ideal.
Key Feature: Temperature Control & Power
The ability to precisely control temperature is crucial for achieving perfectly cooked food. Models boasting a wide temperature range (250°F – 500°F is common) offer greater versatility, allowing you to gently roast or achieve a high-heat sear. The power of the grill, often measured in watts, directly impacts how quickly it heats up and maintains temperature. Higher wattage (1760W or more) generally means faster preheating and more consistent cooking. The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Pro Grill, with its 500°F independent grill grate, is a prime example of powerful, precise temperature control.
Key Feature: Smart Technology & Thermometers
Many Ninja Foodi grills now incorporate “smart” features, most notably integrated thermometers. These thermometers take the guesswork out of cooking, ensuring your food reaches the desired doneness. The Smart Cook System, found in models like the Ninja DG551 Foodi Smart XL Grill, allows you to select protein types and desired doneness levels, automatically adjusting cooking time and temperature. This is particularly helpful for beginners or those who want consistent results. The precision offered by these features can elevate your cooking experience.
Other Important Considerations
- Multi-Functionality: Most Ninja Foodi grills aren’t just grills. They often include air frying, roasting, baking, and dehydrating capabilities. Consider which of these functions are important to you.
- Smoke Control: A key selling point of these grills is their reduced smoke output. All models feature some form of smoke control, but the effectiveness can vary.
- Capacity: Grilling surface area and crisper basket size determine how much food you can cook at once.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for models with dishwasher-safe, non-stick components for quick and easy cleanup.
- Accessories: Some models include helpful accessories like recipe books or additional cooking pots/baskets.
Ninja Foodi Smokeless Grill Comparison
| Product | Cooking Functions | Smart Thermometer | Smoke Control | Capacity | Air Frying (Fat Reduction) | Frozen Cooking | Grill Grate Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ninja Foodi Smart XL Pro Grill | 7 (Grill, BBQ Griddle, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate) | Yes (4 protein settings & 9 levels) | Yes | XL (6 steaks + sides) | Up to 75% less fat | No Mention | PTFE/PFOA-free, nonstick ceramic-coated |
| Ninja DG551 Foodi Smart XL Grill | 6 (Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate) | Yes (4 protein settings & 9 levels) | Yes | XL | Up to 75% less fat | Under 25 minutes | Ceramic-coated, removable |
| Ninja EG201 Foodi 6-in-1 Grill | 6 (Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate) | No | Yes | Standard | Up to 75% less fat | Under 25 minutes | PTFE/PFOA-free, nonstick ceramic-coated |
| Ninja AG301 Foodi 5-in-1 Grill | 5 (Grill, Air Crisp, Dehydrate, Roast, Bake) | Integrated Smart Probe | Yes | Standard | Up to 75% less fat | Under 25 minutes | PTFE/PFOA-free, nonstick, Ceramic-Coated |
| Ninja FG551 Smart XL Grill | 6 (Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate) | Yes (4 protein presets & 9 levels) | Yes | XL (6 steaks/24 hot dogs) | Up to 75% less fat | No Mention | PTFE/PFOA-free, nonstick, Ceramic-Coated |
| Ninja Foodi Pro Smart Probe Grill | 5 (Grill, Air Crisp, Dehydrate, Roast, Bake) | Integrated Smart Probe | Yes | Standard | Up to 75% less fat | Under 25 minutes | PTFE/PFOA-free, nonstick, Ceramic-Coated |
| Ninja Foodi AG300 4-in-1 Grill | 4 (Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake) | No | Yes | Standard | Up to 75% less fat | Under 25 minutes | No Mention |
Testing & Data Analysis: Ninja Foodi Smokeless Grill Evaluations
Our recommendations for the best Ninja Foodi smokeless grill are built upon a foundation of rigorous data analysis and research. We don’t rely solely on manufacturer specifications. Instead, we analyze data from multiple sources, including user reviews across major retailers (Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart), independent testing labs (where available), and dedicated culinary websites.
We focus on quantifiable metrics like preheat times, temperature accuracy (verified against independent thermometer readings in user reports), and smoke production levels as reported consistently by users. Comparative analyses are performed, mapping Ninja Foodi grill features – such as Smart Cook System accuracy and multi-functionality performance – against price points and user satisfaction ratings.
Given the nature of the product, physical testing is limited to evaluating user-submitted data regarding durability and ease of cleaning. We prioritize identifying trends in reported issues (e.g., non-stick coating longevity, component failures) to provide informed recommendations. The ‘Buying Guide’ considerations – temperature control, smart features, and capacity – are weighted based on the frequency with which users cite them as critical factors in their purchasing decisions and overall satisfaction with their smokeless grill.
FAQs
What makes a Ninja Foodi smokeless grill different from a traditional grill?
A Ninja Foodi smokeless grill utilizes innovative technology to significantly reduce smoke production indoors, making it ideal for year-round grilling regardless of weather. Traditional grills produce substantial smoke requiring outdoor use.
How important is the “Smart Cook System” in a Ninja Foodi grill?
The Smart Cook System, found in some models, automates the cooking process by adjusting time and temperature based on your selected protein and desired doneness. This ensures perfectly cooked food and is especially helpful for beginners or achieving consistent results with your Ninja Foodi smokeless grill.
Are Ninja Foodi grills easy to clean?
Most models feature dishwasher-safe, non-stick components, simplifying cleanup. However, it’s always recommended to check the specific model’s manual for detailed cleaning instructions to maintain the longevity of your Ninja Foodi grill.
What if I only want to grill occasionally? Is a more basic model sufficient?
If you don’t need advanced features like smart technology or multiple cooking functions, a more basic Ninja Foodi smokeless grill like the AG300 4-in-1 Grill can be a great option. It still offers the core benefits of smokeless indoor grilling.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Ninja Foodi smokeless grill depends on your individual needs and cooking style. From compact models perfect for smaller kitchens to XL versions equipped with smart technology, there’s an option to suit every lifestyle and budget.
Ultimately, the Ninja Foodi line offers a convenient and versatile way to enjoy grilled flavors year-round. By carefully considering factors like capacity, features, and user feedback, you can confidently select the perfect grill to elevate your culinary experience.





