The Ninja FlexFlame Grill promises a revolution in outdoor cooking, and this review dives deep to see if it lives up to the hype. We put this multi-functional powerhouse through its paces, testing its grilling, smoking, roasting, baking, and griddling capabilities. From assembly time to achieving perfectly smoked ribs and reverse-seared steaks, we explore every facet of this innovative appliance. Discover whether the FlexFlame’s versatility justifies its premium price tag and if it truly delivers on its claim of being five appliances in one.This in-depth review examines the FlexFlame's ease of use, its impressive heating capabilities and temperature control, and the quality of its smoking performance. We detail the results of various cooking experiments, from spatchcock chicken to bacon on the optional griddle, assessing the evenness of heat distribution and overall cooking performance. Ultimately, we determine whether the Ninja FlexFlame is a worthwhile investment for serious home cooks, weighing its strengths and limitations against its relatively high price point.
Pros And Cons
- Easy setup
- Even cooking
- High temperature (600° in 7 minutes)
- Good for smoking with real smoke rings
- Supports two-zone cooking
- Good for grilling, smoking, baking, roasting, and griddling
- Easy cleanup
- Versatile
- Expensive ($999)
- Loud fan when lid is closed
- Requires electricity
- Smoke box needs refilling during long smokes
- Lid discolors over time
Read more: 10 Best Commercial Charcoal Grills: A Buyer's Guide
Easy Setup and Versatile Accessory System
The Ninja FlexFlame boasts a surprisingly straightforward setup. Attaching the grill to the base, screwing in the control panel, and adding the doors and grease trap took mere minutes. It's one of the easiest grill assemblies I've ever encountered. While it comes with basic grates, the real star is Ninja's extensive accessory system, offering full and half griddles, roasting racks, smoke and roast racks, and even a weatherproof cover. This versatility is a significant selling point.
Powerful Performance and High-Heat Capabilities
Despite being propane-powered, the FlexFlame requires electricity for its control panel and internal fan. This fan is responsible for the grill's impressive heating capabilities, reaching 600°F in just 7 minutes. While the fan creates noticeable noise with the lid closed, it ensures even heating, even with frequent lid openings. This speed and temperature control are invaluable for various cooking methods.
Exceptional Smoking Capabilities
The FlexFlame's smoking capabilities were a pleasant surprise. Using the 2-lb smoke box and internal fan, it produces authentic smoke behavior—a bark, smoke rings, the whole deal. I smoked beef ribs, achieving fall-off-the-bone tenderness with a mouthwatering bark and visible smoke rings. While needing a smoke box refill mid-cook, the results justify the effort. Remember to stock up on pellets; the included sample bags won't suffice.
Versatile Cooking Modes and Two-Zone Functionality
Beyond grilling and smoking, the FlexFlame excels at roasting and baking. I roasted a spatchcock chicken using the woodfire setting and a wireless probe, achieving crispy skin and a juicy interior. The two-zone cooking feature allows for precise temperature control; I used it to reverse sear a steak to perfection. The even heat distribution is truly remarkable.
Griddle Cooking and Cleanup
The optional half griddle accessory provides a flat-top grilling option, ideal for items like bacon. Heat distribution is even, and cleanup is straightforward. Remember to season the griddles before first use. While the griddle plates are heavy and immovable when hot, this half-and-half setup provides versatility for various cooking needs, although a full griddle is ideal for large gatherings. The drip tray and grease trap simplify cleanup.
Value and Overall Assessment
At $999, the Ninja FlexFlame is a premium investment. While not competing directly with budget grills like the Weber Spirit, its versatility and performance justify the higher price for serious outdoor cooks. It's not just five appliances in one; it's five legitimately effective appliances. However, if you primarily grill and occasionally griddle, a less expensive option may suffice. The FlexFlame shines for those seeking a powerful, all-in-one grilling, smoking, roasting, baking and griddling solution.
