If you’re someone who wants the versatility of outdoor grilling without ever leaving your kitchen, the Ninja IG651 Foodi Smart XL Pro 7-in-1 Indoor Grill and Griddle may just be your new favorite appliance. This multitasker combines a full-size electric indoor grill with a flat-top griddle for true searing and ultimate finish control—all in the comfort of your countertop. Whether you’re craving seared ribeyes, fluffy pancakes, or smoky vegetables, this powerful device gives you that and more.
As a long-time expert food appliance reviewer here at RatedByMia, I’m always on the hunt for innovative kitchen tools that make home cooking more enjoyable and efficient. That’s why this product deserves a deep dive—it claims to replace multiple appliances and promises restaurant-quality results. Let’s see if it lives up to the hype.
Who Is It For?
The Ninja Indoor Grill and Griddle is tailored for home cooks who love variety and high performance in one device. It’s ideal for:
- Busy families looking to cook weeknight meals fast without sacrificing flavor.
- Apartment dwellers or those who can’t have an outdoor grill.
- Meal preppers and foodies who appreciate versatility in the kitchen.
That said, it might not be the best fit for those with limited counter space or those who only cook occasionally. If you’re looking for a compact, single-function device, this might feel like a bit of overkill. But for those who want maximum output with minimal effort, this is an excellent choice.
Product Overview
Features:
- 7 cooking functions: Grill, Griddle, Air Crisp, Bake, Broil, Roast, and Dehydrate
- 500°F powered grill and flat top griddle
- Smart Cook System with built-in thermometer
- Extra-large nonstick griddle pan
- Family-sized capacity
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Design & Build
The Ninja Indoor Grill and Griddle features a sleek, modern design that blends well with virtually any kitchen aesthetic. It’s hefty but not cumbersome, showcasing durability and quality build. The main unit is constructed from high-heat resistant plastic with stainless steel accents giving it a professional look without the industrial weight.
Its controls are front-and-center with a bright, easy-to-read display and tactile buttons that offer intuitive navigation through each cooking mode. The extra-large nonstick griddle pan sits inside the device snugly and can be removed just as easily, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, with the integrated smoke control system, you don’t have to worry about setting off the smoke alarm when grilling indoors.
Features & Functionality
One of the standout features of the Ninja Indoor Grill and Griddle is its 7-in-1 functionality. While labeling something a “do-it-all” device can sometimes be a red flag, this Ninja truly walks the walk. From chargrilling burgers to air-crisping French fries and even dehydrating apple slices, it delivers across all functions.
The high-heat electric indoor grill reaches 500°F and produces authentic grill marks and sear typically only seen on outdoor grills. On the flip side, the flat-top nonstick griddle pan is perfect for Sunday brunches—think pancakes, eggs, and crispy bacon—without needing any other appliances.
An integrated Smart Cook System with a built-in thermometer takes away the guesswork from cooking proteins. Preset doneness levels for various meats ensure you get the perfect result whether you’re team Medium Rare or Well Done.
Ease of Use
Setting up this multifunctional kitchen powerhouse is surprisingly straightforward. Unbox it, plug it in, rinse your accessories, and you’re basically ready to go. The control panel is user-friendly, featuring labeled buttons and a rotating dial to choose between cooking functions.
Switching modes is fast and intuitive, and the included instruction manual does an excellent job explaining how to achieve the best results. Even first-time users of an indoor grill will find themselves becoming confident cooks in no time.
Cleaning is equally painless—both the grill and the griddle plates are dishwasher-safe. The interior housing is easy to wipe down, and the nonstick surfaces go a long way in preventing stubborn food buildup.
Performance / Effectiveness
Performance-wise, the Ninja Indoor Grill and Griddle delivers excellent results in every area. The grill sears meat beautifully, locking in juices and creating that coveted crispy exterior. Whether it’s steak, salmon, or skewers, the results feel like they came from a backyard charcoal grill.
The electric indoor grill performance doesn’t fall short in terms of heat distribution and consistency either. With the hood closed, the internal temps rise fast and stay there, creating the perfect cooking chamber for all your grilling needs.
On the griddle side, you’ll love how evenly your breakfast or stir-fry favorites cook. There’s barely any cool zone on the surface, which means every inch is fair game. Add the Air Crisp mode and you’re practically getting a second air fryer—it’s excellent for crispy, golden fries or wings without drowning your food in oil.
Value for Money
Considering its cooking flexibility, generous capacity, and well-thought-out design, the Ninja Indoor Grill and Griddle offers excellent value for the money. It’s effectively replacing multiple single-use kitchen gadgets: your barbecue grill, air fryer, griddle, oven, and more. For anyone looking to simplify their kitchen setup while still expanding their meal options, this device checks all the boxes.
Plus, thanks to its heavy-duty build quality and proven performance, you can expect it to stand the test of time. For the latest pricing and seasonal promos, be sure to check the box below:
Pros & Cons
- Pros:
- True 500°F grilling power for authentic sears
- Versatile 7-in-1 cooking functions
- Smart Cook System ensures perfect meat doneness
- Easy to use with intuitive controls
- Dishwasher-safe, nonstick griddle pan and grill grate
- Cons:
- Bulky footprint—not ideal for small kitchens
- No transparent lid to monitor food without opening
- Short power cord might require placement near an outlet
Alternatives & Comparisons
If you’re looking for an alternative to the Ninja Indoor Grill and Griddle with a few less features and a slightly more compact form, the George Foreman Open Grate Indoor Grill comes to mind. It’s more of a budget-friendly option focusing solely on grilling and is ideal for single servings or small households.
However, where the Foreman falls a bit short on versatility, the Ninja shines with its multiple cooking functions, smart thermometer, and large cooking space. If you’re a cooking enthusiast looking to upgrade, the Ninja is well worth the investment. But if your primary goal is simplicity with occasional use, the George Foreman may suffice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ninja Indoor Grill and Griddle suitable for large families?
Yes! With an XL capacity and large flat cooking surfaces, it can handle multiple servings at once—great for meal prepping or family dinners.
Can it be used outdoors?
No, it’s designed strictly for indoor use. Its electric indoor grill technology is optimized for vent-free kitchen environments.
Is the griddle plate removable?
Absolutely. The griddle and grill plates are both removable and dishwasher-safe, which makes cleanup a breeze.
Does it produce smoke?
Very minimal. It includes a built-in smoke control system that reduces smoke dramatically—far better than stovetop grilling.
Can I cook frozen foods directly?
Yes, the unit has presets and enough power to cook frozen items quickly and evenly without defrosting first.
Conclusion
Few appliances deliver on as many promises as the Ninja Indoor Grill and Griddle. From impressive searing to hassle-free breakfasts and perfectly air-fried sides, this device earns its spot on your countertop. The combination of power, capacity, and versatility makes it a welcome tool in any modern kitchen.
Whether you’re aiming to reduce appliances or elevate your indoor cooking game, this model stands out as a clear front-runner. It transforms complicated meals into easy weeknight favorites, and its sturdy design means it’s here for the long haul.
Ready to make room for some serious culinary potential?