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Ninja Foodi Smart XL Pro Grill & Griddle
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Pro Grill & Griddle
Kitchen
4.6(17505 customer ratings)

Ninja IG651 Foodi Smart XL Pro 7-in-1 Indoor Grill/Griddle Combo

By Emma CollinsMar 14, 20246 min read

The indoor 'Outdoor' grill: Achieve authentic 500°F charcoal-style searing and diner-grade griddling without leaving your kitchen.

The Bottom Line

Current MSRP

$318.99

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Introduction

If you’re a BBQ enthusiast living through a North American winter, the Ninja IG651 Pro is your new best friend. This isn't just a glorified air fryer with a grill plate; it’s a heavy-duty searing machine. By introducing an independently powered heating element directly into the grate, Ninja has finally achieved the holy grail of indoor cooking: genuine char-grilled flavor and 'hood-up' griddling that rivals your favorite backyard BBQ.

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The Positives (Pros)

  • Independent 500°F powered grill grate delivers edge-to-edge searing that standard air-based grills can't touch
  • Hood-up cooking capability transforms the unit into a professional-grade flat-top griddle for smash burgers and fajitas
  • Interchangeable 12-inch BBQ griddle plate is a game-changer for large weekend breakfasts and pancakes
  • Integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer monitors internal temps in real-time for foolproof 'Rare to Well-Done' results
  • Extra-large XL capacity comfortably handles 6 steaks or 24 hot dogs, making it perfect for hosting game-day parties

Room for Improvement (Cons)

  • Significant 'Countertop Real Estate' required: This is a heavy-duty unit (27.5 lbs) that isn't easy to move daily
  • Storage logistics: Managing the multiple large plates (grill, griddle, basket) requires dedicated cabinet space
  • The premium price point is an investment, though it effectively replaces a standalone air fryer and indoor griddle

Technical Specifications

Max Temp
500°F (Direct Heat Searing)
Cooking Surface
12" XL Grill & Griddle
Functions
7-in-1 (Grill, Griddle, Air Fry, etc.)
Weight
27.5 lbs (Heavy-Duty Build)
Safety
Virtually Smoke-Free Technology

The 500°F Difference

Most indoor grills rely on hot air to cook, often resulting in gray, steamed-looking meat. The IG651 Pro changes the game with its independently powered grill grate. This direct-contact heat reaches a scorching 500°F, creating the perfect Maillard reaction for those deep, charred grill marks you usually only get from a Weber. It’s the difference between 'good for indoor' and 'actually delicious.'

Diner-Style Griddling at Home

The ability to cook with the 'Hood-Up' is what truly separates this Pro model from the rest. When you swap in the 12-inch flat-top griddle, you effectively have a professional diner-style setup. You can sear smash burgers, sauté onions, or whip up a batch of pancakes while having full access to flip and move food around. It brings the 'social' aspect of outdoor grilling right onto your countertop.

Scientific Precision with the Smart Probe

Even the most experienced pitmasters have off days, but the Foodi Smart Thermometer ensures you never overcook a $40 steak again. The system features 9 customizable doneness levels. Simply insert the probe, select your protein, and the grill shuts off automatically at the exact internal temperature. During our testing, it delivered a perfect medium-rare across six different-sized fillets every single time.

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