Ninja OG705CO 7-in-1 Outdoor Electric Grill and Smoker review for BBQ enthusiasts

Description

Mastering Outdoor Cooking with the Ninja OG705CO

Testing the Ninja OG705CO 7-in-1 Outdoor Electric Grill & Smoker felt like stepping into a whole new world of outdoor cooking. This product is packed with features that make grilling, smoking, air frying, and even dehydrating a breeze. As someone who loves experimenting with different cooking styles, this felt like a game-changer. Whether you’re craving the authentic woodfire flavor or looking for a hassle-free option for a backyard BBQ, this device delivers on its promises—but with a few caveats.

Design and Build: Sleek Yet Robust

The first thing that caught my attention was the black, weather-resistant exterior. It’s a sturdy unit, definitely built to withstand the elements, which is essential for year-round outdoor storage. It’s compact enough to fit on a small patio but still offers plenty of cooking space. The 141-square-inch nonstick grill grate came in handy for grilling multiple items simultaneously—whether it was six steaks for a family gathering or a batch of veggies for a quick snack.

The removable smoke box and grease tray are thoughtful additions. Cleanup was surprisingly easy, which is a huge plus for someone like me who dreads scrubbing after a delicious BBQ feast. However, at 30.6 pounds, it’s not the lightest option out there. While it’s portable, you might want to pick a spot to set it up and leave it there.

Performance: A Versatile Cooking Powerhouse

What really sets this unit apart is its 7-in-1 functionality. I tested every single feature, and each one brought its own unique charm. The Master Grill mode delivered some seriously impressive char and searing, rivaling my propane grill. The BBQ Smoker option was the highlight for me—it created that perfect bark on a brisket with just a half cup of pellets. Honestly, the woodfire flavor was richer than I expected from an electric unit.

The air fryer function was an unexpected but welcome addition. I air-fried wings with a smoky twist, and the results were crispy and flavorful. Plus, the ability to roast and dehydrate makes this grill more than just a seasonal gadget; it’s versatile enough for everyday cooking. However, the 1760-watt power consumption is something to keep in mind if you’re watching your energy usage.

Key Benefits

• 7-in-1 functionality: Grill, smoke, air fry, roast, dehydrate, and more.
• Authentic woodfire flavor: Achieved with minimal pellets, making it efficient.
• Weather-resistant design: Perfect for year-round outdoor use.
• Apartment-friendly electric power: No need for propane or charcoal.
• Spacious cooking capacity: Handles everything from steaks to briskets with ease.

Areas of Concern

• Weight: At over 30 pounds, it’s not the easiest to move around.
• Pellet dependency: Only compatible with Ninja Woodfire Pellets, which could be limiting.
• Power consumption: The 1760-watt requirement might not be ideal for everyone.

Cooking Experience: Impressively Simple

I wasn’t expecting the foolproof BBQ Smoker feature to live up to its name, but it genuinely made the process easier than I imagined. Even as someone who has dabbled in smoking meats before, this took the guesswork out of it. The pellet scoop and starter packs provided were convenient, though I found myself wishing for a larger variety of pellet flavors.

The nonstick grill grate worked wonders for preventing food from sticking, even with marinades and sauces. Despite the simplicity, it still felt like I had complete control over every aspect of the cooking process. Whether I was grilling hot dogs for the kids or slow-smoking ribs for friends, the results were consistently impressive.

Competing Products

In the realm of outdoor electric grills, there are a few other products that come to mind. Traeger’s electric grills are well-known for their rich woodfire flavors, but they tend to be bulkier and pricier. While Traeger offers more pellet options, the Ninja OG705CO’s compact design and 7-in-1 versatility give it an edge for those with limited space.

On the other hand, if you’re comparing this to a standard propane grill, the Ninja edges ahead with its smoking and air frying capabilities. However, propane grills like Weber’s Spirit series offer faster heating and a more traditional grilling experience, which might appeal to purists. For me, the Ninja’s multi-functionality and electric power made it a more practical choice for everyday use.

Affordable Quality

Considering the features packed into this device, it’s clear that the Ninja OG705CO offers great value for money. While it’s not the cheapest grill on the market, the added air fryer and smoker functions make it feel like you’re getting multiple appliances in one. The cost-efficiency improves further when you factor in the durability of its components and the weather-resistant design. It’s an investment, but one that feels justified for anyone serious about exploring different cooking techniques.

Final Thoughts on This Outdoor Cooking Marvel

This isn’t just a grill; it’s a versatile outdoor cooking station. The ability to grill, smoke, air fry, and more makes it stand out in a crowded market. While there are a few drawbacks, like its reliance on specific pellets and its weight, the positives far outweigh the negatives. Whether you’re a seasoned BBQ enthusiast or someone just stepping into the world of outdoor cooking, this product delivers an impressive mix of convenience, flavor, and functionality.

Additional information