Ninja OL501 Review Foodi 6.5 Qt. 14-in-1 Pressure Cooker & Steam Fryer

The Ninja OL501 Pressure Cooker Steam Fryer is a multifaceted kitchen appliance that coalesces the functions of a pressure cooker, air fryer, and steam crisp technology to provide a fortunate and competent cooking experience. With its resourceful attributes and refined technology, the Ninja OL501 has a dandy design to help you craft mouthwatering and healthy meals with ease. With 14 smartly and fabulously installed presets it knocks a wide range of cooking opportunities on your door to exalt the culinary happening. Whether you’re looking to cook a quick meal or experiment with complex recipes, this is the ideal tool to handle every cooking task and has got you covered.

Benefits of the best multicooker, Ninja OL501:

One of the key benefits of the Ninja OL501 is its pressure cooking function. With the touch of a button, you can cook meals up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods. This is made possible by the appliance’s powerful pressure cooking technology, which uses steam to lock in flavours and nutrients. Whether you’re preparing tender meats, flavorful stews, or perfectly cooked rice, the pressure cooker function ensures consistent and delicious results every time. In addition to pressure cooking, the Ninja OL501 also functions as an air fryer. This feature allows you to indulge in your favourite fried foods with significantly less oil. By circulating hot air around the food, the air fryer crisps up dishes, such as French fries or chicken wings, to perfection. The result is crispy and golden brown textures, all achieved with minimal oil usage. With the OL501, you can enjoy guilt free indulgence without sacrificing taste. Furthermore, the Ninja OL501 combines steam crisp technology, taking your cookery experience to a mind blowing height. This ingenious feature merges the benefits of steam cooking and crisping, facilitating you to create dishes that are both moist and crispy. Whether you’re preparing vegetables, seafood, or baked goods, the steam crisp function ensures that your food retains its natural moisture while achieving a delightful crispness on the outside.

The Ninja OL501 is equipped with a user friendly control panel that makes operating the appliance a breeze. It is a digital display and intuitive buttons allow you to select cooking functions, adjust temperature settings, and set timers with ease. Additionally, the appliance’s large cooking capacity enables you to prepare meals for the entire family, making it a time saving and efficient kitchen companion. Safety is a top priority when it comes to kitchen appliances, and the Ninja OL501 doesn’t disappoint. It features built in safety mechanisms, including pressure release valves and lid locking systems, to ensure worry free cooking experiences. The appliance also comes with a range of accessories, such as a crisping lid, a reversible rack, and a cooking pot, providing you with all the tools you need to explore different cooking techniques.

With its multifunctional capabilities, it offers convenience, versatility, and prime cooking results. Whether you’re a busy individual looking for quick meal options or an aspiring chef eager to experiment with different recipes, the OL501 is the perfect kitchen companion to help you unleash your culinary creativity. The in detail traits associated with it that contribute to making it this worthy are:

Ninja OL501 Review Foodi 6.5 Qt 14-in-1 Pressure Cooker Steam Fryer:

Ninja OL501 Review

Being a kitchen appliances blogger finding a gem in tons of cooking gadgets feels lucky and I got a phenomenal moment to test out Ninja OL501 which is the best large capacity Foodi edition to make meals for a full home. I decided to test it out from each aspect and without lying it proved to be a total winner. At first, I cooked a chuck roast, by adding the raw tough meat with some water and spices to the pot. I turned on the SteamCrisp mode and within 60 minutes the juicy and perfect roast was right in front of me that left an unpredictable flavour to my taste goblets. The temperature at which it operated was 325° F which in my opinion played the role in bringing the ultimate feast.

Steam Crips Mode Ninja OL501 Foodi

Next, the dish I conquered was French onion soup which was my favourite meal to appeal to myself. It felt so easy to prepare for this amazing creation my Ninja. I caramelized the onions by turning on the broil mode, before making the soup I made the beef broth which I later used instead of water. I picked up the ingredients and added them at one time and then waited for 20 minutes to be honest it was the best soup I have ever made and all thanks to Ninja OL501 for such a wonderful soup.

Broil Mode Ninja OL501 Foodi

Lastly, to tag it as an absolute genius, I tried its baking mode to see how efficient it is to bake items. I made the peanut butter cookie dough and set the temperature at 400° F and baked it for around 12 minutes believe me the fresh, warm and gooey cookies just hit the point. It was quite big to fit around 4 to 8 cookies without congesting the pot. I am overwhelmed by the amount of features it has and the ultimate performance it shows.

Baking Mode Ninja OL501 Foodi Baking Mode Ninja OL501 Foodi

Three Modes of Cooking:

It has three modes of cooking that can be activated by the huge slider located right above the touchscreen panel. These capabilities with satisfying performance serve to cover the whole cuisine. These modes are jotted down as:

Pressure Cook Mode:

The primary and utmost function is pressure cooking which by the combination of high temperature and pressure tenderises hard cuts of meat. This function is proven to be more quicker and efficient rather than boiling the food over the stovetop for several hours. It can decrease the hours to work to just 15 to 20 minutes. It can perfectly pressure cook chicken breast, beef stew, bone broth, curry, Mac and cheese, beef stroganoff, chicken thighs and many more.

Steam Crisp Mode:

Next comes the premium mode of steam and crisp at the same time. This feature lets you work with the air fryer and steamer function hand in hand to make cooking more convenient. It mimics a combi oven that is available at fast food restaurants to convert food to joy. It makes the dish super juicy and crispy at the same time.

Air Fry/ Stovetop Mode:

It is a mode full of massive and useful presets that are wide in range and intimidating for beginners. There are very fewer recipes that cannot be cooked in it. From temperature to time settings it does it all to help you achieve victory.

Temperature Mode Ninja OL501 Foodi

Sub Cooking Functions:

The consolidating air fryer mode is subdivided into 12 presets range that show mind blowing outcomes with scrumptious flavours and attractive texture. These fabulous functions are:

  • Air Fry:

Its air fry function uses hot air despite an unhealthy amount of oil that gives fewer nutrients and more calories. The heating elements placed at a suitable place generate hot air to cook crispy food.

  • Slow Cook:

Get the results of traditional slow cooking methods but in a fast and enjoyable way. It can cook stews, and soups with richer taste and increased nutritional profile.

  • Steam:

The Steam preset is exemplary for steaming a variety of ingredients, such as seafood, vegetables, and grains. It helps to enclose nutrients and flavours while earning the desired level of doneness.

  • Dehydrate:

With the Dehydrate preset, you can yank moisture from fruits, vegetables, and meats to make homemade dried snacks, jerky, and more. It is a great way to conserve food and improve flavours.

  • Proof:

The Proof preset constructs warm and controlled conditions to help in the proofing dough for bread, rolls, and other baked goods. It helps dough rise more actually.

  • Roast:

This preset offers the capability to roast a wide variety of dishes, such as casseroles, roasted chicken, and beef. It ensures even cooking and browning for excellent results. The roasted food has boosted savour and appealing impression.

  • Bake:

The baking feature is up to mark and helps to get bakery style cookies, cakes, buns and muffins at home without any expertise and time.

  • Broil:

The Broil preset is designed to spread intense, immediate heat for fast cooking and browning. It’s appropriate for finishing touches on dishes like melted cheese toppings, gratins, and browning the surface of meats.

  • Yogurt:

This preset provides a steady environment for fermenting milk into homemade yogurt with a matchless taste. You can customize the fermentation time to acquire your preferred consistency and tanginess.

  • Sear/Sauté:

The Sear/Sauté preset helps to quickly brown or sauté ingredients before pressure cooking or air frying. It’s excellent for adding taste and consistency to meats and veggies.

  • Sous Vide:

With this preset, you can earn restaurant quality outcomes by cooking your ingredients at a particular temperature for a specified amount of time, ensuring yummy and perfectly cooked meals.

  • Keep Warm:

It is the most useful and helpful feature of all, as it keeps the food warm till it is consumed to make sure that the taste, texture and temperature of food are not disturbed.

Smart Lid:

The smart lid of the Ninja OL501 Foodi Pressure Cooker and Air Fryer is a revolutionary part that combines convenience, functionality, and advanced technology to enhance your cooking experience and makes this series the best selling one. With its innovative design and capabilities, it transforms your traditional cooking appliance into a versatile kitchen companion. The smart lid covers a broad range of cooking functions, including pressure cooking, air frying, steaming, slow cooking, searing, baking, and more. This versatility permits you to craft a variety of delicious meals with comfort under one lid without switching it again and again. It utilizes advanced and more precise technology to provide authentic cuisine results. With the smart lid, you can conveniently execute numerous cooking processes in one pot. Whether you want to pressure cook a tender roast, crisp up some French fries with the air fryer function, or steam vegetables for a healthy side dish, you can do it all without the need for multiple appliances or extra pots and pans. It is a game changer in the kitchen without any flaws not only makes it relaxing to cook but also saves up time. Whether you’re a busy professional, a cooking enthusiast, or someone looking to simplify their culinary routine, the smart lid fetches efficiency and versatility to your kitchen.

Smart lid Mode Ninja OL501 Foodi

LED Display:

The Ninja OL501 Pressure Cooker and Air Fryer is a protean kitchen appliance developed to make cooking premium and more straightforward. One of its standout features is the LED screen with a turn dial, which enhances the user experience and provides quick access to its 14 presets. The LED screen is a clear and vibrant display that allows users to navigate through the various functions and presets effortlessly. With its intuitive design, the LED screen confirms that even novices can operate the appliance without any hindrance or difficulty. The turn dial adds an extra layer of convenience, permitting users to modify settings or select presets by simply rotating the dial.

With 14 presets available, the Ninja OL501 provides a wide range of cooking options to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. These presets cover a diverse range of cooking methods, including pressure cooking, air frying, steaming, baking, and more. Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick weeknight meal or experiment with new recipes, the presets offer a convenient starting point. The LED screen displays the preset options clearly, making it more simple to choose the desired cooking function. Once a preset is chosen, the turn dial can be used to fine tune the cooking time or temperature, ensuring precise results. For example, if you’re using the air fryer function, you can adjust the temperature and cooking time to achieve your preferred level of crispiness. The combination of the LED screen has boosted its elegance and modernity, and the turn dial enables users to monitor the cooking progress at a glance. The screen displays real time information such as cooking time, temperature, and pressure levels, allowing users to stay informed throughout the cooking process. This feature is particularly useful when using the pressure cooking function, as it ensures that the cooker is operating safely and efficiently. The digital screen is lit and with its bright numbering anyone can see what is going on without walking close to the machine. The bright display and smooth dial create a visually appealing interface that seamlessly integrates with any kitchen decor. The user friendly interface accomplished with the impressive design makes the profile of this appliance a standout addition to any countertop.

 

Smart led Mode Ninja OL501 Foodi
Smart led Mode Ninja OL501 Foodi

 

Material and Design:

The Ninja OL501 Pressure Cooker and Air Fryer not only offers impressive functionality but also boasts a stylish design that combines stainless steel construction with a sleek black and silver colour scheme. This combination of durable materials and an appealing design enhances the overall aesthetic charm and functionality of the appliance. Stainless steel is a popular choice for kitchen appliances due to its numerous advantages. One of the key advantages of stainless steel is its durability. It is resistant to rust, corrosion, and staining, assuring that the Ninja OL501 remains in excellent shape even with everyday use. The sturdy construction of stainless steel also provides the appliance with a robust framework, permitting it to withstand the demands of pressure cooking and air frying. Moreover, stainless steel is known for its hygienic properties. The smooth surface of the material makes it easy to clean and maintain, controlling the buildup of bacteria or food particles. This ensures that the Ninja OL501 remains in a pristine condition, both visually and from a hygienic viewpoint. Additionally, stainless steel is also resistant to odours, securing that the appliance does not retain any lingering smells from previous cooking sessions.

Material and Design Ninja OL501 Foodi

In terms of design, the Ninja OL501 combines the elegance of stainless steel with a stylish colour scheme of black and silver. The dapper black finish on the body of the appliance gives it a modern and sophisticated look, while the silver accents add a touch of elegance. This colour combination seamlessly integrates the Ninja OL501 into any kitchen to enhance the counter look, whether it is contemporary or traditional. The invention of the Ninja OL501 is also focused on user convenience. It features an intuitive control panel that allows users to easily navigate through the different functions and settings. The well placed buttons and clear display make it uncomplicated to employ the appliance, even for those who are not tech savvy.

Furthermore, the Ninja OL501 is designed with a compact footprint, making it convenient for kitchens with narrow counter space. Despite its 6.5 quarts size, the device still offers generous cooking power, allowing users to prepare meals for the entire family. The Ninja blends the durability of stainless steel construction with a stylish design featuring a black and silver colour scheme. The use of stainless steel ensures the longevity of the appliance, while its hygienic properties make it easy to clean and maintain. The black and silver colour combination adds a touch of elegance and blends well with any kitchen decor. With its competent design and easy characteristics, the Ninja OL501 is not only an operational kitchen appliance but also a contemporary addition to any culinary space.

Cleaning and Maintenance:

Ninja OL501 Foodi is a true bliss with easy cleanup available in two ways. It can be cleaned with soapy water or can be washed in the dishwasher. Before starting the cleaning process, make sure to unplug the appliance to avoid any encounter with electricity. For safety, after using it, first, let the heating elements cool down completely. With the help of oven mitts remove the accessories like racks, baskets and pots. Luckily, the crisp basket, racks, diffuser and cooking pot are good to clean in a dishwasher without getting any scratches or damage. It depends on the type of recipe and the dripping or grease content that decides how much soaking and scrubbing is needed. But no matter what the dish is cleaning and maintaining it is still peaceful. The parts safe to clean in the dishwasher are placed in it and the other elements are cleaned by hand. For the exterior, you should clean it once a week to avoid permanent stains and to make the tool work with the shine for a long time. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe the exterior shells of the machine. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can harm the finish. For persistent stains, you can use a gentle kitchen cleaner or a combination of baking soda and water.  The lid of the Ninja OL501 may have meal residue or grease buildup that should be removed right away. Wipe the lid with a damp cloth or sponge, paying attention to the sealing ring and any crevices. The sealing ring is made of silicone which can be removed and washed separately in a dishwasher but it is more suitable to handwash it to clean it thoroughly and get rid of the nasty oil. The heating element may accumulate grease or remains over time. To clean it, use a moist cloth or sponge to clean the area around the heating element. Avoid getting water on the heating element itself, as it can cause damage and affect its working.

Once all the parts are clean and dry, reassemble the machine and store it in a tidied and dry location. Make sure all the parts are properly aligned and in place to prevent any disturbance while working. It is more suited to regularly clean this tool as it will have a great impact on the performance and a tidy tool can bring delicious and healthy meals. By following simple instructions daily, you can keep it in the best condition for years to come.

Accessories:

Ninja Foodi is a great tool that comes with a lot of extras to help a lot while preparing meals and due to its upgraded version, it has fulfilled the need for all accessories and there is no to spend your hard earned penny on some other tools. The accessories it comes along with are:

  • Dehydrator Stand:

It is one of the most significant tools you can hardly find with other appliances and it reduces the amount of time to the next level. It has made it possible to process several items to be cooked in one cycle. With the help of this dehydrator stand a person can cook 250% more in contrast to a reversible rack which is mindblowing.

  • Deluxe Bake Kit:

It is an accessory that completes the appliance and it can not only be used in Foodi but is also designed and built safe to work in an oven. By using the baking kit, you can make cookies, cakes and other desserts with more comfort and leisure. It will reduce the use of butter papers or minimise the cleaning load as no other dish is used for baking desserts. Not just for sweet but it is also perfect to bake pizza and buns.

  • Cooking Pot and Cook and Crisp Plate:

The cooking pot is the largest accessory of this device that has a diameter of 6.5 quarts and is compatible to perform pressure cooking, slow cooking, broiling and so on. Cook and Crisp’s plate is the part usually used for air frying items and it has a capacity of 4.6 quarts which can fit plenty of savour food at once and becomes an energy efficient device too.

  • Recipe Book:

Its recipe book is the ultimate guide for newbies as it contains 45+ recipes that demand less experience and make you feel like a professional.

Accessories Ninja OL501 Foodi

Safety Measures:

The Ninja OL501 Pressure Cooker and Air Fryer have prioritized safety by installing the best safety features found nowhere. Along with its multifunctionality, the Ninja OL501 is equipped with various safety qualities to ensure the user’s peace of mind during cooking. These safety features make it an excellent choice for those who prioritize safety in their kitchen.

One of the key safety features of the Ninja OL501 is its lid safety locking system. The pressure cooker function of this appliance requires a secure and airtight seal to build up pressure for cooking. The OL501 is designed with a locking lid that ensures it cannot be opened until the pressure inside has been released completely. This feature prevents any accidental opening of the lid while the unit is still under pressure, reducing the risk of burns or other injuries. Another important safety feature is the automatic pressure release valve. This valve helps regulate the pressure inside the cooker and releases excess pressure if it exceeds a safe limit. This prevents the pressure from building up to dangerous levels, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring the overall safety of the user.

Additionally, the Ninja OL501 is equipped with a temperature control system that prevents overheating. It has a built in temperature sensor that constantly monitors the cooking temperature, ensuring it stays within safe limits. If the temperature starts to rise too high, the appliance will automatically adjust the heat or shut off to prevent any potential hazards such as fires or damage to the unit. The appliance also features a safety interlock system that prevents accidental activation. This means that the Ninja OL501 will not start cooking unless the lid is properly locked into place. This feature eliminates the risk of the unit starting unintentionally and reduces the likelihood of accidents occurring. Furthermore, the Ninja OL501 has a robust and durable construction. It is made from high quality materials that are resistant to heat and pressure. Regardless of what the pressure or temperature inside is, the device remains cool from the outside so there is no chance to get burned while handling it. The appliance is designed to withstand the demands of pressure cooking and air frying, ensuring its reliability and longevity.

Pros and Cons of Ninja OL501:

Pros

  • It has a modern and very innovative touchscreen that is elevated by a turn dial.
  • It has a compact profile and narrow footprint.
  • It works much faster than traditional methods.
  • It has a combination of 14 smart and customizable programs.
  • It has a smart lid that avoids lid swapping again and again.
  • It uses improved SteamCrisp technology for better food.
  • Its base is nonstick which provides easy cleanup.
  • It has a reversible rack that adds two more layers to stack more food.
  • Its material does not include harmful substances like PTFE and BPA.
  • It has a warranty of 1 year.
  • It comes with a recipe book containing 45+ chef style recipes.
  • It can turn on three cooking modes.
  • It has a large enough capacity of 6.5 quarts to feed up to 6 individuals.

Cons

  • It lacks any preinstalled thermometer.
  • It does not include any automatic pressure release function.
  • It is sometimes loud while working.
  • The lid is quite difficult to clean and needs extra care.

Advantages and Disadvantages:

The Advantages:

The endless advantages it can bring to one’s hand are flawless and help home chefs to achieve the true meaning of peace and joy while crafting tons of recipes without tiring up. These advantages that have made it a premium tool are described below:

  • The OL501 Foodi combines the functions of a pressure cooker and an air fryer, offering a wide range of cooking options in a single appliance. It can pressure cook, air fry, bake, roast, broil, and more.
  • The pressure cooking feature allows for faster cooking times compared to traditional methods, reducing meal preparation time. The air frying function provides crispy and delicious results without the need for excessive oil.
  • The appliance comes with multiple preset cooking modes for various recipes, making it easy to achieve consistent and flavorful results. It takes the guesswork out of cooking times and temperatures.
  • The OL501 Foodi features a user friendly control panel with clear instructions and intuitive buttons. It is designed to simplify the cooking process, even for those with limited culinary experience.
  • The appliance is equipped with safety features such as a pressure release valve and a locking mechanism to ensure safe cooking. The lid has sensors to monitor temperature and pressure levels, providing peace of mind during operation.

It has introduced a smart lid which is phenomenal and reduces the time which was consumed while changing lids in other appliances.

The Disadvantages:

Despite bringing a wave of peace to the countertop it has some disadvantages too that are not a hurdle in its working, but can make a user uncomfortable in the beginning. These drawbacks are:

  • It is a little noisy when it starts the cooking process which is quite unpleasant and disturbs the vibe.
  • The OL501 Foodi is a bulky appliance, occupying considerable counter space. Its size and weight can make it less portable and may require dedicated storage.
  • While the appliance is user friendly, mastering all of its features and cooking techniques may require some time and experimentation. It may take a few tries to find the optimal settings for specific recipes.
  • The capacity of the OL501 Foodi may be a drawback for larger families or those who frequently cook for a large number of people. It may require multiple batches to accommodate larger portions.

Overall, the Ninja OL501 Foodi Pressure Cooker and Air Fryer offer a wide range of cooking options and convenient features. While it has some limitations in terms of size and capacity, it is versatility and friendly design make it a popular choice for those seeking a versatile and efficient kitchen appliance.

Specifications:

Category Ninja OL501 Foodi 14 in 1, 6 qt
Dimensions DxWxH 14.21 x 15.39 x 13.07 Inches
Capacity 6.5 Quarts
Weight 24.03 Pounds
Color Black and Silver
Model Ninja OL501
Material Stainless Steel
Basket Shape Round
Warranty 12 Months or 1 year
Finish Type Chrome
Operation Mode Automatic
Dishwasher Safe Yes
Control Method Touch
Special Features Dishwasher Safe, Programmable
Voltage 120
Wattage 1460 watts

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ninja OL501 enough for large families?

The Ninja OL501 pressure cooker and air fryer combo in 6.5 quarts can be a suitable option for large families. Ninja OL501 is the best choice for your family depending on your specific needs and preferences. It’s worth considering factors such as the number of people you usually cook for, the types of meals you often prepare, and your kitchen space. It can handle the demand of any family with up to 6 individuals, the more reasons why it is best for large families are:

  • Capacity:

The 6.5 quarts size of the Ninja OL501 is ideal for large families. It offers ample space to cook larger portions of food, making it more comfortable to prep meals for multiple people without the need for numerous batches or cookware.

  • Versatility:

One of the standout parts of this appliance is its dual functionality as a pressure cooker, air fryer and SteamCrisp. This versatility allows you to perform a wide range of cooking chores, from pressure cooking stews and soups to air frying crispy snacks and roasted vegetables. This means you can prepare a variety of dishes to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences within your family.

  • Time and Energy Efficiency:

The pressure cooking function of the Ninja OL501 enables faster cooking times compared to traditional methods. This can be a huge time saver when preparing meals for larger families. Additionally, pressure cooking is known for its energy efficiency, as it requires less time and heat to cook food, which can result in energy savings over time.

  • Convenience:

The Ninja OL501 offers several convenient features that make it suitable for large families. It includes a range of preset cooking programs and customizable settings, making it easy to cook a wide variety of dishes with precision. The appliance also comes with a user friendly control panel and a digital display, allowing for intuitive operation.

In the end, it is an ideal choice for families as it can serve more batches and help prepare meals to satisfy the appetites of multiple individuals in the family.

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