Ninja Foodi 4qt 5-in-1 Indoor Grill and Air Fryer (AG301) Review
Ninja Foodi 4qt 5-in-1 Indoor Grill and Air Fryer (AG301) Review
Versatile 5-in-1 Functionality
One of the main reasons I was drawn to this air fryer with grill was its multifunctionality. The Ninja Foodi AG301 is more than just an indoor grill; it also air fries, bakes, roasts, and dehydrates. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to maximize their kitchen space without investing in multiple appliances. Whether I want to grill a juicy steak, air fry crispy fries, or roast vegetables, this unit handles it all effortlessly.
Grilling Performance
The Ninja Foodi AG301 stands out with its Cyclonic Grilling Technology, which uses 500°F cyclonic air to cook food evenly while creating beautiful grill marks. I was particularly impressed with how well it mimics an outdoor grilling experience. The high heat sears meats perfectly, locking in juices and delivering restaurant-quality results. It also eliminates the need for defrosting, as frozen foods can be grilled to perfection in under 25 minutes. This feature has saved me significant time in meal preparation.
Air Frying for Healthier Cooking
As someone who enjoys crispy foods but prefers to cook with less oil, the air frying capability of this unit is a major advantage. The Ninja Foodi AG301 reduces fat content by up to 75% compared to deep frying while still achieving a crispy texture. I’ve used it to make golden-brown French fries, chicken wings, and even mozzarella sticks with fantastic results. The included 4-quart crisper basket allows for even cooking, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.
Compact and Countertop-Friendly
Despite its versatility, this grill and air fryer doesn’t take up too much counter space. With dimensions of 14.9"D x 14.9"W x 11.02"H, it fits well in my kitchen without overwhelming the space. The sleek black and silver design also adds a modern touch to my countertop.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning kitchen appliances can be a hassle, but the Ninja Foodi AG301 makes it simple. The nonstick ceramic-coated grill grate, crisper basket, and cooking pot are all dishwasher safe, which makes post-cooking cleanup a breeze. The unit also comes with a cleaning brush, making it easy to remove any stubborn residue.
Included Accessories
The Ninja Foodi AG301 comes with several useful accessories, including a 10” x 10” grill grate, a 4-quart crisper basket, a 6-quart cooking pot, and a chef-created 15-recipe book. These additions enhance the cooking experience by offering flexibility and inspiration for different meals.
Why I Recommend This Indoor Grill
Buying Guide: What to Consider Before Purchasing
If you’re considering purchasing the Ninja Foodi 4qt 5-in-1 Indoor Grill and Air Fryer (AG301), here are a few key factors to keep in mind:
Size & Capacity: The 4-quart crisper basket and 6-quart cooking pot are suitable for small to medium-sized meals. If you cook for a larger family, you might want to consider a bigger model.
Cooking Functions: This unit’s 5-in-1 capability makes it an excellent choice for those who want multiple cooking options in one appliance.
Ease of Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe components simplify cleanup, saving time and effort.
Budget: While priced around $169.99, it offers great value for its versatility and performance.
Final Thoughts
The Ninja Foodi AG301 is an excellent indoor grill and air fryer that delivers on its promises. It provides outdoor grill flavors indoors, works quickly, and offers a healthier way to enjoy crispy foods. I have personally enjoyed using this product and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable, high-performance indoor grill with air frying capabilities. Whether you want to sear steaks, grill veggies, or make crispy fries, this appliance does it all with ease.
Top reviews from the United States
- EyeconicReviewed in the United States on March 18, 2021
Great Cooker/Grill But Be Aware of Maintenance
This unit combines a grill with a convection oven.
Be realistic. There is no substitute for charcoal but I am precluded by local law and my condo association from barbecuing on my terrace. The Foodi offers a good sear and SOME of the flavor you would get from a charcoal grill.
I have had excellent results with this thing. If you do not have a dishwasher, you might want to think twice. There are a lot of parts to be cleaned.
I have a Cuisinart contact grill that became all but useless. The teflon coating has worn off top and bottom plates and everything sticks like crazy - usually to the top plate. Replacing the plates is about the same cost as replacing the machine. Even if there were not a sticking problem there is no comparison between the two appliances. The Foodi is far superior.
The Foodi has an enamel coating that is very slick and should be far more durable than teflon.
You ABSOLUTELY need a meat thermometer - the external kind with a cable or bluetooth connector to the probe. You will never have satisfactory result with a timer. Overall this cooks much quicker than an oven or a conventional grill because of the convection effect. Cooking times will vary depending upon fat content and size. The mean thermometer (around 2 bucks) takes the guesswork out of the process.
I made some fennel sausage last weekend. I grilled these without the thermometer. I managed to overcook the links. I use commercial grade hog casing (my poor mother kept kosher) and the casing split.
On the other hand I grilled some double rib lamb chops with the thermometer and they were done to perfection - a few degrees lower than desired and then allowed to rest for five minutes. Seared on the outside, medium rare on the inside.
On the grill you are limited to four temperature zones. If you roast you can set the temperature to any point like an ordinary oven.
I have not tried it but apparently you can air fry a breaded chicken cutlet. We will see. It would be a real plus.
I have a sensitive, hard-wired smoke alarm and it went off when I turned the chops. Frankly it wasn't necessary to turn. As advertised is sears all around. I will turn them the next time as well but open my terrace doors first.
You MIGHT want to obtain kevlar oven gloves. The reason I said that is that they enable you to remove the components while they are still hot and wipe the down with a paper towel before the D/W. No need to use the brush. Everything just slides off.
There are three parts to clean: The grill, the pot and the splatter shield. My definition of clean is however, er, ... stuff comes out of the dishwasher. There was something in the manual about soaking the splatter shield for 24 hours. Yeah, sure. I'll get right on that.
Overall - unless you are expecting robust charcoal barbecue taste - most people will be satisfied. As an indoor grill I would give it six stars if I could. - Lynn CartwrightReviewed in the United States on February 14, 2025
LOVE the convenience
This air fryer/grill is fantastic and the grill delivers great taste in the meats we have cooked--steaks/pork chops/fish. It is super easy to clean and its start-up time is fast. If this one ever dies, I will certainly buy another of this same model. - Elliot J CoffeyReviewed in the United States on January 18, 2022
Over a year in with no regrets!
I purchased this for Christmas of 2020. After a full year of service, I can recommend this device without reservations.
When I initially purchased the machine, I feared it would be banished to the cabinet of rarely used items or even the basement in deep storage. Our experience has been the complete opposite. It has been put into regular service in our meal prep. I'd say we probably use it 2-3 times a week. It has claimed a permanent spot on the countertop as a result.
Maintenance is very easy, all the components that require cleaning can be removed from the machine and cleaned thoroughly. Using the machine is extremely easy, a few button presses, a brief warm up period, and you are ready to cook.
Air frying, has been an absolute pleasure. Mozzarella sticks, onion rings, french fries, breaded mushrooms, etc. All come out fairly good on this machine. You may have to experiment with timing and temperature, but once you get it dialed in on the product, you can depend on this to deliver! All of the fun of cooking/eating these foods, with none of the headaches of a traditional fryer, plus they are slightly better for you cause of no grease. What's not to like?
We have used the grill plate a few times, unfortunately, it doesn't imbue the same sort of flavor you'd expect from a propane or charcoal grill, but it does the job. Hamburgers just don't quite taste right, but hotdogs and chicken come out fine.
We have also used this machine to prepare roasted cauliflower, roasted carrots, and it works great reheating pizza.
If you are on the fence or worried about a machine that will perform well. I'd say this machine might be a good choice. If you are planning on using this machine to cook big batches, you may want to consider a different machine. I'd say this machine can cook a batch of fries that comfortably serves 4. I think if you are cooking for 4ish people, this machine is the right size.
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