Ninja FD401 LP3 Foodi 12-in-1 Deluxe XL 8 qt. Review
When it comes to kitchen appliances especially in the modern world where everyone seems to have no time for anything, a multi-purpose kitchen gadget can be a great asset. The Ninja FD401 LP3 Foodi 12-in-1 Deluxe XL 8 qt. is a kitchen gadget that boasts of being able to provide the user with a better cooking experience through the use of multiple cooking methods.
This appliance is meant to combine the functions of several kitchen gadgets, and it provides the user with numerous cooking methods. Therefore, in this detailed review, I will discuss its features, performance, and if it is suitable for your kitchen needs.
Don’t have time to read? 🎧 Listen to our podcast instead! Click play below to enjoy the full episode on the go, and catch all the tips and insights in just a few minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Versatility: It can replace several kitchen appliances as it has 12-in-1 functionality.
- Capacity: It has an 8-quart capacity and is therefore suitable for large families or for meal preparation.
- Performance: Delivers fast cooking times with pressure cook, air fry, and slow cook functions.
- Ease of Use: Features simple to use controls and a washable design.
- Value: This is rather affordable given the fact that it offers multi-purpose usage and is built to last.
What is the Ninja FD401 LP3 Foodi 12-in-1 Deluxe XL 8 qt.?
The Ninja FD401 LP3 Foodi 12-in-1 Deluxe XL 8 qt. is an all-in-one kitchen machine that has the functionality of a pressure cooker, an air fryer, slow cooker, steamer and many more in a single gadget. With a large 8-quart capacity, it is built to accommodate meals for many people or for a large group, which makes it a perfect appliance for people who prepare large meals or plan to cook for the whole week.
Features of the Ninja FD401 LP3 Foodi 12-in-1 Deluxe XL
1. 12-in-1 Functionality
- NINJA FOODI XL PRESSURE COOKER STEAM FRYER: Extra large, family sized capacity with the ability to pressure cook, air fry, and SteamCrisp all under one SmartLid.
- SMARTLID SLIDER: Slide to unlock 3 cooking modes and 14 cooking functions all under one lid.
- STEAMCRISP TECHNOLOGY: Steam and crisp at the same time for faster, juicier, crispier results without drying out. (Vs. Ninja Foodi OL601 in dry mode only).
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Versatile Cooking Functions: With 14 cooking functions, including air frying, steaming, baking, and more. Fast Cooking Time: Cooks meals up to 70% faster than traditional methods, making it ideal for busy families. Healthier Cooking: Offers healthier meal options with up to 75% less fat compared to conventional frying methods. | Large Footprint: The 8-quart size may take up considerable counter space, which could be an issue for smaller kitchens. Learning Curve: With multiple functions and settings, there may be a learning curve for users unfamiliar with pressure cookers or multi-cookers. Price Point: It may be on the higher end of the price spectrum compared to basic pressure cookers or air fryers. |
The Ninja FD401 Foodi offers 12 different cooking functions, including:
- Pressure Cooking
- Air Frying
- Slow Cooking
- Steaming
- Searing/Sautéing
- Baking/Roasting
- Broiling
- Dehydrating
- Yogurt Making
- Sous Vide
- Keep Warm
- Reheat
This wide range of cooking options makes it highly versatile and capable of replacing several standalone kitchen appliances.
2. Deluxe Reversible Rack
- 6-in-1 Cooking Versatility: The Ninja Foodi 8.5qt Multi-Cooker features six cooking functions, including Slow Cook, Sear/Saute, Bake, Braise, Keep Warm, and Steam, making it ideal for a variety of meal preparations.
- Triple Fusion Heat Technology: Cooks up to 30% faster than conventional ovens by combining bottom, side, and steam heat, allowing for even heat distribution and enhanced cooking results, tested on 6-lb chickens.
- Large 8.5qt Capacity: Perfect for family meals or entertaining, this multi-cooker can prepare up to 9 lbs of spaghetti and meatballs or enough pulled pork for 30 sliders, making it great for large gatherings.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Versatile Cooking Functions: With six cooking methods, this multi-cooker can handle a wide range of meal preparations, from slow cooking to baking. Fast Cooking with Even Heat Distribution: The Triple Fusion Heat Technology ensures faster cooking times and consistent results. Large Capacity: The spacious 8.5qt pot is ideal for preparing meals for large families or gatherings. | Size and Weight: Its large size may take up considerable counter space, making it less suitable for small kitchens. Learning Curve: Some users may find the multiple cooking functions complex and may require time to get accustomed to the settings. Price Point: It may be on the higher end of the budget for those looking for a simple cooker, although the features may justify the investment. |
This model comes with a deluxe reversible rack that can be used to cook multiple layers of food simultaneously. For example, you can pressure cook vegetables on the bottom while air frying chicken on the top, significantly reducing cooking times.
3. TenderCrisp Technology
- 2 INDEPENDENT BASKETS: The XL version of the original Air Fryer with 2 independent baskets, the XL air fryer lets you cook 2 foods, 2 ways, at the same time, eliminating back-to-back cooking like a traditional single-basket air fryer. Now in larger 5-quart baskets.
- SMART FINISH & MATCH COOK: DualZone Technology allows you to choose between the Smart Finish feature, which unlocks cooking 2 foods 2 ways that finish at the same time, and the Match Cook feature, which easily copies settings across zones for full 10-qt. capacity meals.
- IQ BOOST: optimally distributes power across each basket to cook a 6-lb. whole chicken and side as quickly as possible when Match Cook or Smart Finish is not selected.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Dual Independent Baskets: Cook two different dishes at once, saving time and effort in meal preparation. Versatile Cooking Functions: Six cooking programs (Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate) allow for a variety of meal options. Large Capacity: The 10-quart capacity can accommodate large meals, perfect for families or gatherings. | Bulky Design: The XL size may take up significant counter space, which can be an issue in smaller kitchens. Learning Curve: New users may need some time to familiarize themselves with the dual basket features and cooking settings. Price Point: The Ninja DZ401 may be more expensive than basic single-basket air fryers, which might deter budget-conscious buyers. |
The TenderCrisp Technology is one of the standout features of the Ninja Foodi. It allows you to quickly cook ingredients under pressure to lock in juices and then finish with a crisping method like air frying or broiling. This is perfect for getting tender and juicy meat with a crispy skin.
4. 8-Quart Capacity
The large 8-quart capacity is ideal for cooking large batches or family-sized meals. It can accommodate a whole chicken or a 7-pound roast, making it perfect for holiday meals or large gatherings.
5. User-Friendly Interface
The appliance features a digital display with a clear interface that shows cooking time, temperature, and the selected cooking function. It also has a dial that makes selecting the cooking function quick and easy.
Performance and Cooking Experience
The Ninja FD401 LP3 Foodi delivers excellent performance across its various cooking functions. Here’s how it fares in some key areas:
1. Pressure Cooking
The pressure cooking feature reduces cooking time significantly. It’s perfect for tough cuts of meat that usually require long braising or stewing. The pressure cooker can turn a pork shoulder into tender pulled pork in under an hour.
2. Air Frying
The air frying capability is impressive, producing crispy, golden-brown results with little to no added oil. It’s great for making healthier versions of fried foods, like chicken wings or fries, without sacrificing taste or texture.
3. Slow Cooking
As a slow cooker, the Ninja Foodi does an excellent job of simmering stews, soups, and sauces over several hours. This function is ideal for hands-off cooking and yields tender, flavorful results.
4. Baking and Roasting
The bake/roast function works similarly to a conventional oven, allowing you to prepare a variety of baked goods or roast meats and vegetables.
5. Dehydrating
This function is perfect for making snacks like dried fruits, vegetable chips, or jerky. It takes longer than other cooking methods but is a nice bonus feature for those who like to make their own dehydrated snacks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Versatility: Replaces multiple appliances, saving space and money.
- Large Capacity: Perfect for family meals and batch cooking.
- Ease of Use: Intuitive controls and easy-to-clean design.
- Fast Cooking: Pressure cooking and air frying reduce cooking times significantly.
- Quality Results: Produces tender, flavorful meals with crispy finishes.
Cons:
- Size: Its large size may not be ideal for those with limited kitchen space.
- Learning Curve: With so many functions, there can be a learning curve for new users.
- Price: It’s an investment, although it replaces several kitchen appliances.
Who Should Buy the Ninja FD401 LP3 Foodi 12-in-1 Deluxe XL?
The Ninja FD401 LP3 Foodi is a versatile and powerful appliance designed to cater to a variety of lifestyles and cooking needs:
- Busy Individuals: Perfect for those with a packed schedule who still want to enjoy home-cooked meals. Its pressure cooking and air frying functions significantly reduce cooking time, helping you whip up delicious dishes in a fraction of the time traditional methods take.
- Family-friendly: The 8-quart capacity makes it ideal for families, especially those who often cook for multiple people or host gatherings. From large casseroles to a whole roasted chicken, this appliance can handle it all, saving you from juggling multiple pots and pans.
- Health-Conscious Cooks: With features like air frying and steaming, you can prepare healthier meals without compromising on taste or texture. Enjoy crispy fries or steamed vegetables with minimal oil, making it easier to stick to your health goals.
- Home Cooks: For culinary enthusiasts looking to experiment with various cooking techniques, this multi-functional device eliminates the need for separate appliances like slow cookers, rice cookers, and ovens. It’s a one-stop solution to elevate your cooking game.
Tips for Using the Ninja FD401 LP3 Foodi
To get the most out of your Ninja Foodi, keep these tips in mind:
- Read the Manual: Since the Foodi combines multiple cooking methods into one appliance, take time to thoroughly review the user manual. It explains each feature in detail and helps you avoid common mistakes when switching between functions.
- Experiment with Recipes: Dive into the included recipe book and explore a wide range of dishes. From tender pulled pork to crispy fried chicken, experimenting will help you familiarize yourself with the appliance’s potential and expand your meal repertoire.
- Layer Foods Properly: If you’re using the reversible rack, ensure you arrange foods strategically. Place items with longer cooking times on the bottom and foods that cook faster on top. This maximizes efficiency and ensures everything is perfectly cooked.
- Clean Regularly: Keep your Foodi in excellent condition by cleaning it after every use. The inner pot, crisping basket, and accessories are dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. Regular maintenance will also prevent food residue from affecting future recipes.
- Monitor Cooking Times: Cooking times can vary based on the recipe, ingredients, and quantity. Check on your food periodically until you’re comfortable with the timing for different functions. Use a meat thermometer for precise results with proteins.
Conclusion
The Ninja FD401 LP3 Foodi 12-in-1 Deluxe XL is not only a kitchen gadget but also a revolution in the world of household cooking. Whether you work long hours, have a big family to feed, or are passionate about healthy eating, this cooker is a great solution for you.
It is a multi-cooker that has the capability of performing pressure cooking, air frying, baking, slow cooking and many other functions. Thanks to its large size, simple touch screen and numerous cooking functions, the Ninja Foodi will help you prepare meals faster, healthier and with much more ease. Farewell to messy countertops and welcome to the world of easy cooking with this all-in-one device.
If you need an appliance that will help you prepare different types of food with equal ease and in the shortest possible time, then the Ninja FD401 LP3 Foodi is a great choice. It is an ideal gadget for any person who wants to make meal preparation easier while still being able to prepare tasty home-cooked food.
FAQs
Is the Ninja FD401 Foodi difficult to clean?
Not at all! The Ninja FD401 Foodi is designed with convenience in mind, including easy cleanup. The inner pot, deluxe reversible rack, crisping basket, and other removable accessories are dishwasher safe, so you can simply place them in the dishwasher after use. For the exterior, a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all you need to keep it looking like new. Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and prevents the buildup of food residue or odors.
Can I use the Ninja Foodi as a traditional pressure cooker?
Yes, the Ninja Foodi features a dedicated pressure cooking function that operates just like a traditional pressure cooker. You can cook tender meats, hearty stews, and other pressure-cooked meals quickly and easily. However, what sets the Foodi apart is its additional features, such as air frying, steaming, and baking, making it a more versatile option than a standard pressure cooker.
How long does it take to cook food using the Ninja Foodi?
Cooking times vary based on the type of food and the function you’re using. For instance, the pressure cook function can prepare meals in minutes, while slow cooking takes several hours. Air frying and steaming also have different durations depending on the recipe. The included recipe book provides clear guidelines for cooking times, and with a little practice, you’ll get a good sense of how long your favorite dishes will take.
Does the Ninja Foodi come with a warranty?
Yes, the Ninja FD401 Foodi usually comes with a one-year limited warranty, offering peace of mind against manufacturing defects or issues. Some retailers may also provide extended warranty options at an additional cost. Be sure to review the specific warranty details when making your purchase and register your product to ensure coverage.
Can I cook frozen food in the Ninja Foodi?
Absolutely! One of the most convenient features of the Ninja Foodi is its ability to cook frozen food. Whether you’re using the pressure cook, air fry, or steam functions, the Foodi can handle frozen ingredients with ease. For example, you can pressure cook frozen chicken breasts to tender perfection or air fry frozen fries to crispy goodness. This makes it a lifesaver for busy days when you need to prepare a meal quickly without defrosting in advance.
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
*We may earn a commission for purchases made using our links. Please see our disclosure to learn more.
