Ninja FD401 Foodi Deluxe XL 8 qt Pressure Cooker and Air Fryer review

  • The cooking versatility is remarkable, providing multiple functionalities like pressure cooking, air frying, and steaming, all in one device.
  • The extra-large 8-quart pot ensures you can cook for the entire family, making it perfect for gatherings or meal preps.
  • The air fryer function delivers consistently crispy and golden finishes, which enhances the overall food texture and flavor.
  • Cleaning is a breeze with the nonstick, dishwasher-safe components, saving time after meals.
  • The reversible rack adds convenience, allowing you to layer foods and cook larger portions effortlessly.
SKU: B07S85TPLG Category:

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Description

Sleek Design and Build Quality

The Ninja FD401 LP3 Foodi 12-in-1 Deluxe XL stands out immediately with its modern and robust silver finish. Its 8-quart ceramic-coated pot is not only massive but feels durable and well-constructed, giving the impression that it can handle rigorous daily usage. I really appreciate that the materials are PTFE and PFOA-free, which is a huge plus for anyone concerned about health and safety when cooking. The cook & crisp basket, which holds up to a 7-pound chicken, is another standout feature—perfect for family meals or when hosting small gatherings. The fact that the basket is nonstick and dishwasher-safe makes cleanup almost effortless, a blessing for someone like me who despises scrubbing pots and pans.

12-in-1 Versatility

This device is a multitasking marvel. With 12 programmable cooking functions, I found myself experimenting with nearly all of them—Pressure Cook, Air Fry, Steam, Sear/Sauté, and even Sous Vide. The air frying function is exceptional for getting that crispy texture without drowning your food in oil. I tried making fries, and they came out golden and crispy with minimal effort. The yogurt-making option is another surprising yet delightful addition, though I’ll admit, it’s something I’d use less frequently. Having the ability to bake, roast, broil, and dehydrate in one appliance feels like having a whole kitchen condensed into a single unit.

TenderCrisp Technology

One of the most exciting features is TenderCrisp Technology, which lets you pressure cook to lock in juices and then crisp up the exterior. For someone who loves their food to have a bit of crunch but hates how slow conventional methods can be, this function is a dream. I tested it with chicken thighs and loved how the meat stayed juicy and tender, while the skin had that perfect crispy finish. It’s honestly like having a pressure cooker and an air fryer in one compact machine, which saves both time and counter space.

Benefits

  • Extra-large capacity: Ideal for big families or meal prepping.
  • Nonstick ceramic coating: Makes cleanup easy and safe for health-conscious cooks.
  • Versatile cooking options: Includes everything from slow cooking to sous vide.
  • Reversible rack: Allows for layered cooking, maximizing efficiency.
  • 14 safety features: Gives peace of mind during operation.

Downsides to Keep in Mind

  • The device is definitely on the larger side, so if you have limited counter space, it might feel a bit bulky.
  • While the 45-recipe book is a nice touch, some recipes felt overly simplistic or geared toward beginners.
  • The learning curve for all the functions can be a bit steep if you’re jumping into multifunction appliances for the first time.

Cooking Performance

Cooking with this product feels like cheating. It’s almost too easy to whip up meals that would otherwise take hours. The pressure cooking mode is incredibly fast, and the results are consistently impressive. Whether I was making soups, stews, or even desserts, everything came out flavorful and perfectly cooked. The air frying capability deserves its own spotlight; it’s not just quick, but it delivers results that rival traditional frying methods. My kids couldn’t even tell the difference between these air-fried chicken nuggets and the ones from their favorite fast-food joint.

Competing Brands

When comparing the Ninja FD401 LP3 Foodi to other products like the Instant Pot Duo Crisp or the Cosori Air Fryer, the Ninja Foodi truly stands out in terms of versatility. While the Instant Pot offers similar pressure cooking features, its air frying capabilities don’t quite match the Ninja’s crisper basket design and even heat distribution. On the other hand, the Cosori Air Fryer is solely focused on air frying, so it lacks the multifunctionality that makes the Ninja such a game-changer. However, I will say the Cosori model is more compact and might appeal to those who don’t need all the extra bells and whistles.

Value for Money

For what it offers, this appliance provides great bang for the buck. The ability to replace several standalone appliances with one device not only saves counter space but also makes it a more economical choice in the long run. While the upfront cost might seem steep, the 12-in-1 functionality justifies the investment. It’s particularly worth it for families or anyone who loves experimenting with their cooking.

The Ninja FD401 LP3 Foodi 12-in-1 Deluxe XL is a powerhouse that strikes a balance between convenience, performance, and versatility. It’s not perfect, but its key features, like the TenderCrisp Technology and large capacity, make it a standout choice for both novice and seasoned cooks alike.

Contents