Review: Ninja Sizzle

At senses.se, we regularly evaluate kitchen appliances. Our previous reviews include the Ninja Double Stack XL Airfryer, Ninja Kitchen Pro Thermometer, and Ninja CREAMi Deluxe 10-in-1 Ice Cream Maker. We found each of these appliances to be well-designed and functional. Now, we’re adding another appliance to the test bench: the Ninja Sizzle, a compact and straightforward griddle. While it can also function as a grill with an interchangeable plate, for clarity, we’ll primarily refer to it as a griddle in this review.

We’ve been using the Ninja Sizzle for several weeks, preparing a variety of meals to assess its performance. The Sizzle has consistently delivered satisfactory results. In this review, we’ll share our experiences, highlighting key features and identifying areas for potential improvement. This review will focus on the appliance’s functionality and performance in the kitchen.

An introduction to Ninja Sizzle

The Ninja Sizzle’s design is relatively simple. It comprises a base unit and two interchangeable cooking surfaces: a griddle and a grill plate. These plates are placed on the base unit, which heats them to the selected temperature. The griddle requires a preheating time of approximately seven minutes, while the grill plate needs ten minutes. A temperature guide affixed to the unit provides recommended settings for various foods. These suggestions offer a useful starting point for temperature selection, which is controlled via a single rotary knob on the front of the device. To assess temperature accuracy, we set the Sizzle to 200 degrees Celsius and measured the surface temperature using a laser thermometer. The reading of 196 degrees Celsius indicates acceptable accuracy.

The experience Ninja Sizzle

The Ninja Sizzle offers several practical advantages in the kitchen. One key benefit is its temperature regulation. Unlike a conventional frying pan, the Sizzle maintains a consistent temperature, preventing overheating and burning. This frees up stovetop space for other tasks. The even heat distribution across the entire cooking surface ensures consistent results, regardless of food placement.

As the name Sizzle implies, the appliance excels at searing burgers, sausages, and vegetables, achieving a desirable surface texture with a reduced risk of burning due to the consistent temperature. Caramelizing red onions with soy sauce, sugar, and balsamic vinegar yields excellent results, albeit requiring a slightly longer cooking time. The Sizzle’s consistent heat allows for this extended cooking without scorching.

A great breadth and good finish

Ninja Kitchen provides helpful guidance on oil selection to minimize smoke production, which is crucial, especially at higher temperatures.

Our initial test involved cooking American pancakes, where the glossy surface facilitated even cooking and easy flipping. This was followed by a classic egg and bacon breakfast, where the bacon achieved a particularly appealing texture. We proceeded with smash burgers (the removable, dishwasher-safe lid helped melt cheese effectively), fried onions, brioche, shrimp, cheese slices, and a shaped omelet. The omelet preparation highlighted a limitation: achieving a creamy texture proved more challenging compared to using a traditional frying pan.

Switching to the grill plate, we cooked vegetables, chicken, and sausage. The sausage and chicken benefited particularly from the consistent heat, ensuring that all components were cooked simultaneously. This made the cooking process efficient and convenient.

Over time, residue accumulates on the Sizzle’s surface. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent excessive smoke during subsequent use. While the convenience of leaving the unit on to cook additional items is tempting, allowing fat and food particles to dry on the surface can make cleaning more difficult. Thorough scrubbing is typically required to restore the surface to its original condition.

How can the Ninja Sizzle be improved?

Areas for improvement are relatively minor. The mechanical rotary knob offers somewhat imprecise temperature control. While a precise temperature setting may not always be critical, digital controls would enhance accuracy. Furthermore, an indicator signaling that the desired temperature has been reached and is being maintained would be beneficial. We observed instances where the Sizzle reached the set temperature but then appeared to lose some heat. A simple solution would be to have the power indicator light change color (e.g., from orange during heating to red when the target temperature is reached and maintained).

Conclusion Ninja Sizzle

The Ninja Sizzle is a compelling option for larger families who frequently cook items like American pancakes, eggs and bacon, or burgers simultaneously. While a conventional stovetop can accomplish these tasks, the Sizzle offers a more convenient solution by providing a dedicated cooking surface that is ready at the desired temperature while other preparations are underway.

While the Ninja Sizzle is not an essential appliance, its absence is noticeable once you’ve experienced its convenience. It simplifies cooking, adds an element of enjoyment, and is undeniably practical. Do we recommend it? Absolutely. For cooking enthusiasts, it’s a worthwhile addition to a well-equipped kitchen.

Ninja provided test samples for this review. The provision of materials does not influence our editorial objectivity.