EG200/EG350 Series Ninja® Foodi® Grill FAQs

This article contains the FAQs for the EG200/EG350 Series Ninja® Foodi® Grill. This supports the following SKUs EG201 and EG351A.

How to Operate

Can I use parchment paper in the Ninja Foodi Grill?

No, we do not recommend using parchment paper in the Foodi Grill. 

Can I use aluminum foil in the Ninja Foodi grill?

Yes, you can use aluminum foil in the Foodi Grill just as you would in an outside grill.

What are the timer increments?

The timer increments vary depending on the function: 

  • Air Crisp: 1-minute increments up to 1 hour. **When the cooking temperature is 425F or 450F you can adjust the time in 1-minute increments up to 30-minutes.
  • Roast: 1-minute increments for the first hour, followed by 5-minute increments for the next 3 hours. **When the cooking temperature is 450F and 500F you can adjust the time in 1-minute increments up to 30-minutes.
  • Dehydrate (not included in all models): 15-minute increments up to 12 hours.
  • Bake: 1-minute increments for the first hour, followed by 5-minute increments for the next hour.
  • Grill: 1-minute increments up to 30 minutes.
What is the exterior of the unit made of?

The base of the unit is made out of a stainless steal metal wrap and the lid is high temperature resistant plastic.

How do I set the timer?

Use the up and down TIME arrows to adjust the cook time in any function. If you want to adjust the time during cooking, press the up and down TIME arrows at any time. The unit will then resume at those settings.

How do I set the timer?

Use the up and down TIME arrows to adjust the cook time in any function. If you want to adjust the time during cooking, press the up and down TIME arrows at any time. The unit will then resume at those settings.

Where is the power button located?

The power button is located in the middle of the control panel to the right of the START/STOP button.

Can I adjust the cooking time and/or temperature once the unit is running?

Yes, you can adjust the cook time or temperature at any point throughout the cooking process by using the up and down TIME and/or TEMP arrows.

What is Cyclonic Grilling Technology?

Grill Control Technology allows you to control the temperature of the grill grate for precise cooking and keep smoke out of the kitchen while grilling indoors with our smoke-reduction technology.

What types of food should you cook using the different grill cooking temperatures?

Low 400F - Bacon, sausages, stuffed peppers and calzones 

Medium 450F - Batch cooked chicken in a marinade or sauce 

High 500F - Steaks, chicken, seafood, fish, burgers, hot dogs 

Max 510F - Veggies, fruit, pizzas

Why is my fan still running after cooking is complete?

The fan will continue to run even though the cooking function is complete. This helps to cool the interior components of the unit to ensure that they are not overheating and being exposed to more wear and tear than necessary.

Can I air crisp fresh battered ingredients?

Yes, but use the proper breading technique. It is important to coat foods first with flour, then with egg, and then with bread crumbs. Be sure to press the bread crumbs onto the food so they stick in place. Loose breading may be blown off by the unit's powerful fan.

Do I need to remove the sticker inside of the main?

No, The white warning sticker on the inside of the unit is not meant to be taken out of the unit. It should remain affixed permanently.

Can I cancel or override preheating?

Preheating is highly recommended for best results, but you can skip it by selecting the PREHEAT button after you press the START/STOP button.

How do I pause the grill so I can check my food?

When you open the hood during Roast, Bake, Air Crisp or Dehydrate, Grill cooking functions the grill will automatically pause.

How do I pause the grill so I can check my food?

When you open the hood during Roast, Bake, Air Crisp or Dehydrate, Grill and Broil cooking functions the grill will automatically pause.

Why does the unit have a 1–9 scale for the Beef Preset?

The 1–9 scale provides a wide range of options for each doneness level so you can customize doneness to your liking. 

1–2 = Rare Doneness

3–4 = Medium Rare Doneness

5–6 = Medium Doneness

7–8 = Medium Well Doneness 

9 = Well Done

Is it normal to have a small space in my unit at lid closure while cooking with the Smart Thermometer?

Yes, your food will still have the same output. Please ensure that the rubber handle of the Smart Thermometer is placed properly inside the unit while cooking. The lid should close on the Smart Thermometer wire. You can place the Smart Thermometer on the front or the side of the unit while cooking.

Why is the unit not turning on?

Press the Power button located on the far left of the front face of the unit. If the unit is still not powering on, make sure the unit is plugged in, or try a different outlet in a different room. If the unit is still not powering on, please contact Customer Service.

How do I install the grill grate?

Place the cooking pot in the unit with the indent on the pot aligned with the bump on the main unit. Then place the grill grate in the pot with the handles facing up. Ensure the splatter shield is in place, then close the hood.

Is it safe to use all accessories with any function?

It is suggested to use each function with its recommended accessory to prevent smoke.

  • Grill function - use the Grill Grate and Cooking Pot
  • Air Crisp function- use the Crisper Basket and the Cooking Pot
  • Bake function - use the Cooking Pot
  • Roast function  - use the Cooking Pot
  • Dehydrate  function (not available on all models) - use the Crisper Basket and the Cooking Pot
  • Broil function (not available on all models) - use the Cooking Pot
     
How do I know when preheating is complete?

At the start of preheating, the pre-heating flames will begin illuminating. Once preheating is complete, the flames will stop illuminating and the unit will display “ADD FOOD”. Preheat time varies depending on function and temperature.

Do I need to use the splatter shield for all cooking functions?

Yes, the splatter shield should always be used when cooking with the unit. The splatter shield will keep the top heating elements clean and help prevent smoke.

How do I pause the countdown timer?

The countdown timer will pause automatically when you open the hood of the unit. Please note that pressing the START/STOP button during cooking will cancel the current cooking function.

Why is the unit jumping from my present doneness level to “RARE”?

This is a function on the grill. Once a preset is chosen and cooking begins, the unit will jump back to “RARE”. This indicates the unit has begun cooking.

As the the thermometer reads the internal temperature of the meat, the unit will move to the next cooking level from rare until the level you selected is reached.

The current temperature of the thermometer is visible on the right side of the digital display. The temperature on the left side of the screen is the upper limit of the current cooking level.

Why is the unit taking so long to preheat?

Preheat times may vary depending on the voltage provided by your outlet. Another reason the unit may still be preheating is if you add food to the grill before preheating is complete. Make sure to add food only when preheating is complete, and the unit displays “ADD FOOD”. Preheating is approximately 10 minutes.

How long does the unit take to preheat?

Preheat times may vary depending on the voltage provided by your outlet. Another reason the unit may still be preheating is if you add food to the grill  before preheating is complete. Make sure to add food only when preheating is complete, and the unit displays “ADD FOOD”. This is approximately 10 minutes and it will vary based on the function used

How long does the unit take to cool down?

The grill is designed to retain heat for even and thorough cooking and may take a while to cool down. Cool down times will vary depending on cook function, temperature, and duration used. The grill will take longer to cool after using the Grill Max function than when using the dehydrate function. You can leave the hood open to cool the unit down more quickly after cooking.


 

Product-Related Questions

Will the thermometer grip melt if it touches the hot grill grate?

No, the grip is made of a high-temperature silicone that can handle the grill’s high temperatures.

Why did a circuit breaker trip while using the grill?

The unit uses 1760 watts of power, so it must be plugged into an outlet on a 15-amp circuit breaker. Using an outlet on a 10-amp breaker will cause the breaker to trip. It is also important that the unit be the only appliance plugged into an outlet when in use. To avoid tripping a breaker, make sure the unit is the only appliance plugged into an outlet on a 15-amp breaker.

What is the capacity of the unit?

The unit can hold up to 4 quarts of food at once.
The unit can hold 2lbs French fries, 4x 12-14oz strip steaks, 6x 6oz pork chops, 10 Italian sausages at once.

Why is my splatter shield not staying in place?

Please ensure to push down the metal clip in the holder to place the shield back in. Sometimes when taking out the splatter shield, the clip over time will shift. Continue to utilize the metal clip.

What are the dimensions of the accessories?

Basket 10 x 8.5 x 3

Grill Grate 10 x 10 x 0.5

Cooking Pot 11 x 11 x 4

Are the coated accessories nonstick?

Yes, the cooking pot, grill grate, and crisper basket are all nonstick and have a ceramic coating that is dishwasher safe.

Is it safe to place the crisper basket or pot on my countertop?

Place the crisper basket and pot on heat-safe surfaces only and use caution when handling, as both will become hot during cooking.

Can I remove the crisper basket from the unit to check on food while the unit is running?

Yes, we recommend checking on food regularly during cooking. When you open the hood, the unit will pause. Use silicone-tipped tongs to toss ingredients or oven mitts to shake the basket. When done, replace the basket and close the hood. Cooking will automatically resume after the hood is closed.

Will the outside of the unit get hot?

Although the outside of the unit will heat up during cooking, the control panel and hood handle will remain safe to touch at any time during cooking.

Why is my grill so noisy?

The unit utilizes a high powered fan motor to circulate hot air during preheat and cooking. You may notice this as ambient noise while the unit is operating.

Why is grease dripping from the lid during cooking?

We recommend to clean your grill lid regularly to mitigate any grease buildup while cooking. The Inner Hood should be wiped down with a damp towel or cloth after each use to deodorize the unit and remove any grease.

Where do I find my smart thermometer?

The smart thermometer is located on the bottom right side of the grill.

How should I store the accessories?

To best store the accessories we recommend placing the Cooking Pot and the Grill grate in the unit and storing the Crisper Basket/Plate separately. STORAGE TIP: When stacking the coated accessories to store place a cloth or paper towel between each piece to protect the coated surfaces.


 

Display Messages

“Add Food” appears on the control panel display.

The grill has completed preheating and it is now time to add your ingredients.

“Shut Lid” appears on the control panel display.

The hood is open and needs to be closed for the selected function to start/run.

“Plug In” appears on the control panel display.

The thermometer is not plugged into the jack on the right side of the control panel. Plug the thermometer in before proceeding. Press the thermometer in until it clicks into place.

Is this grill dishwasher safe?

The cooking pot, grill grate, crisper basket/plate, splatter shield, cleaning brush, and any other included accessories are dishwasher safe, except the thermometer. DO NOT place the thermometer in the dishwasher. (Accessories may vary)


 

Cleaning

How do I clean the splatter shield?

We recommend the following:

Clean the splatter shield after every use. Soaking the splatter shield overnight will help soften any baked-on grease. After soaking, clean the splatter shield with a non-abrasive sponge or brush to remove the grease from the stainless steel frame and front tabs.

Deep clean the splatter shield by putting it in a pot of water and boiling it for 10 minutes. Then, rinse with room-temperature water and allow to dry completely.

Over time the splatter shield may discolor as grease burns onto it. This will not effect the performance of the splatter shield.

How do I clean the thermometer?

The Foodi Smart Thermometer and holder are hand-wash only with a damp cloth. Never place unit or thermometer in dishwasher or submerse in liquid of any kind.

How should I clean my grill?

Unplug unit from wall outlet before cleaning. Keep the hood open after removing your food to allow the unit to cool quicker.

  • The Inner Hood should be wiped down with a damp towel or cloth after each use to deodorize the unit and remove any grease.
  • The  Grill Grate is dishwasher safe and also can be washed with soap, water, and a non-abrasive sponge. If there is stuck-on food reside, soak in warm, soapy water before cleaning.
  • The Crisper Basket is dishwasher safe, and it can also be washed with soap, water, and a non-abrasive sponge. If there is stuck-on food reside, soak in warm, soapy water before cleaning.
  • The Splatter Shield is dishwasher safe, and it can also be washed with soap, water, and a non-abrasive sponge. If there is stuck-on food reside, soak in warm, soapy water before cleaning. To deep clean, put in a pot of water and boil for 10 minues, then rinse with room-temperature water and allow to dry completely.
  • Smart Thermometer: The smart thermometer should be hand-washed with a damp cloth only. DO NOT place the thermometer in dishwasher or immerse in liquid of any kind.  

    DO NOT use abrasive tools or cleaners on the main unit or any accessories. DO NOT immerse the main unit in water or any other liquid. DO NOT place the main unit in dishwasher.


 

Cooking

Why is my food overcooked or undercooked even though I used the thermometer?

It is important to insert the thermometer lengthwise into the thickest part of the ingredient to get the most accurate reading. Make sure to allow food to rest for 3–5 minutes to complete cooking. For more information, refer to the Owner's Guide in the "Using the Foodi(R) Smart Thermometer” section or refer to the first page of the Quick Start Guide.

Why is the ground beef overcooked or undercooked even though I used the thermometer?

Ground beef cooks differently than steak because it is not solid. Use manual temperature settings to find the doneness of your liking. When using presets,  set the unit to one temperature setting above target doneness level to avoid undercooking. For a well done burger set unit to 170F.  Note: That food safe temperatures for ALL ground meat is 165F.

Should I add my ingredients before or after preheating?

For best results, let the grill preheat before adding ingredients.

Why is the unit emitting smoke?

When using the Grill function, always select the recommended temperature setting to minimize smoking.

  • LO – Bacon and sausages and when using thick BBQ sauces
  • MED – Frozen meats and marinated/sauced meats, burgers
  • HI – Steaks, chicken, hot dogs, and meat kebabs
  • MAX – Veggies, fruit, pizzas, fresh/frozen seafood and vegetable kebabs
  • Make sure the splatter shield is installed and that you are using the correct cooking oils. We recommend canola, avocado, vegetable, or grapeseed oil for a virtually smoke-free experience.
  • Note: Marinades containing herbs or sugars have a high potential for smoking.
My food is burned.

Do not add food until recommended preheat time is complete. For best results, check progress throughout cooking, and remove food when desired level of brownness has been achieved. Remove food immediately after the cook time is complete to avoid overcooking. During the Resting period the food should not be inside the grill.

Can I batch cook with this unit?

For batch cooking meats, for best results, we recommend in between batches to close the hood and run the programmed function for 2 to 3 minutes before adding more food.

Do I have to shake the crisper basket while cooking?

Yes. It is important to shake or rotate food for consistent browning and crispiness. For best results, follow the recipe or cooking chart to see how often you should shake or rotate ingredients while cooking.

Do I need to let my food rest?

After grilling meat, let it rest for 3 to 5 minutes before cutting it. As it rests, it will retain more moisture and stay juicy.

Do I need to defrost frozen foods before grilling them?

No, you can cook all your favorite ingredients on the Foodi Grill straight from the freezer. However, ingredients must be thawed when using the thermometer.

What type of oil should I use when grilling?

We recommend using the following types of oil when grilling : Canola, Refined coconut, Avocado, Vegetable Grapeseed oil. We do not recommend using Olive oil, butter or margarine when grilling.