If you’re looking for a high-quality air fryer that can help make your favorite fried foods healthier, the Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer may be needed. This powerful appliance is designed to give you perfect results every time, and it comes with a variety of features that make it easy to use.
In this Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer review, we’ll look at all the things the Air Fryer can do. We’ll also compare it to some of the other top air fryers on the market to help you decide if it’s the right one for you.
So read on to learn more about this fantastic kitchen appliance!
[content-egg module=AmazonNoApi template=item]Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer Overview
The Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer is one of the best air fryer for large family. It can cook your favorite fried foods with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods. The Max Crisp Technology delivers 450 degrees of superheated air to cook food up to 30% faster for hotter, crispier results with little to no oil.
The 5.5 qt. Ceramic coated nonstick basket, and crisper plate fit 3 pounds of french fries or chicken wings, and the easy-to-use control panel includes seven versatile cooking programs: Max Crisp, Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil, Bake, Reheat & Dehydrate.
The Ninja AF161 is also easy to clean with the dishwasher-safe ceramic basket and chef-inspired 20 recipe book included.
Pros and Cons of Ninja AF161 5.5-Qt Basket Air Fryer
PROS:
- Cooks food up to 30% faster for hotter, crispier results with little to no oil.
- 5.5 qt. Ceramic coated nonstick basket, and crisper plate fit 3 pounds of french fries or chicken wings.
- Low-cost.
- Cooks faster with a wide temperature range, maximum 450℉.
- The easy-to-use control panel includes seven versatile cooking programs: Max Crisp, Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil, Bake, Reheat & Dehydrate.
- Programmable cooking functions.
- When you take the basket out, the cooking time is automatically paused.
- It has an advanced control panel with a One-touch control panel.
- Save space. Although it is tall, this air fryer has a small footprint, so it doesn’t dominate your kitchen counter.
- Quiet operate.
- Dishwasher-safe ceramic basket and chef-inspired 20 recipe book included.
- BPA-free.
- PTFE- and PFOA-free.
CONS:
- Many people prefer a square basket.
Overall, the Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer is an outstanding appliance to help you cook healthier versions of your favorite fried foods. It’s easy to use and comes with various features that make it a versatile addition to your kitchen. If you’re looking for an air fryer that can do it all, the Ninja AF161 is for you!
What Can You Cook With Ninja Air Fryer AF161 Max XL?
The Ninja Air Fryer AF161 Max XL is a versatile appliance that can cook a variety of different foods. Here are functions you can make in the Ninja AF161 air fryer:
- Max Crisp: Perfect for cooking French fries, chicken wings, and other fried foods. The Max Crisp function delivers 450 degrees of superheated air to cook food up to 30% faster for hotter, crispier results with little to no oil.
- Air Fry: Ideal for cooking smaller items like chicken nuggets or fish fingers. The Air Fry function uses up to 75% less oil than traditional frying methods for healthier results. Tips: You may use the broil rack for more capacity with even layering. It’s critical to shake everything halfway through if there’s any overlap.
- Air Roast: Perfect for roasting vegetables or baking pizzas. The Air Roast function circulates superheated air around food for even cooking and delicious results.
- Air Broil: Great for browning and crisping the top of casseroles or lasagnas. The Air Broil function circulates superheated air around food for even cooking and delicious results.
- Bake: Use the Bake function to cook desserts or make your bread. The Bake function circulates superheated air around food for even cooking and delicious results.
- Reheat: Perfect for reheating leftovers or cooked food. The Reheat function circulates superheated air around food for even cooking and delicious results.
- Dehydrate: Use the Dehydrate function to make your own dried fruits, vegetables, or meats. The Dehydrate function slowly circulates superheated air around food to remove moisture and preserve flavor.
Factors to Consider When Buying Ninja Max XL Air Fryer
When you’re shopping for an air fryer, there are a few factors you’ll want to keep in mind to make sure you choose the right one for your needs. Here are some things to consider when purchasing the Ninja Air Fryer AF161 Max XL:
Size
The Ninja Air Fryer AF161 Max XL is a 5.5 qt. Appliance, making it great for cooking large quantities of food. If you have a smaller kitchen or you’re only cooking for one or two people, you may want to opt for a smaller air fryer like the four qt. Ninja Air Fryer AF101.
Price
The Ninja Max XL Air Fryer is a more affordable option than some other air fryers. If you’re looking for a high-end air fryer with all the bells and whistles, you’ll want to look elsewhere. But if you’re looking for a quality air fryer that won’t break the bank, the Ninja AF161 is an excellent choice.
Easy to Use
The Ninja® Air Fryer Max XL is straightforward to use. Add your food to the basket, select your cooking function, and set the timer. The air fryer will do the rest, so you can sit back and relax while your food cooks.
It Comes With a Variety of Accessories
The Ninja Air Fryer AF161 Max XL comes with a ceramic-coated basket, ideal for cooking fried foods. It also comes with a chef-inspired 20 recipe book, so you can start cooking right away.
Read our full article on Ninja Foodi SP101 Digital Air Fry Oven Review and Ninja Foodi DZ201 2 Basket Air Fryer Review
How to Use the Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer 5.5-quart Grey
Now that you know what to look for when shopping for an air fryer let’s look at how to use the Ninja Air Fryer AF161 Max XL.
Remove the removable cooking basket from the air fryer and preheat it by selecting the Air Fry function and setting the temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, add your food to the basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. If you’re cooking frozen food, there’s no need to thaw it first-add it to the basket and cook according to the directions in your recipe.
Once your food is in the basket, replace it in the air fryer and select the desired cooking function. The Air Fry function is ideal for fried foods, while the Roast and Bake functions are great for cooking meats and vegetables. If you’re unsure which function to use, consult the air fryer’s manual or your recipe.
Set the timer according to your recipe once you’ve selected the desired cooking function. The Ninja Air Fryer AF161 Max XL will automatically shut off when the timer expires.
When your food is cooked, carefully remove the basket from the air fryer and enjoy!
How to Clean Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer 3 lbs
Cleaning the Ninja Air Fryer AF161 Max XL is simple and easy. One significant advantage of Ninja air fryers is that the removable parts are dishwasher safe.
Remove the removable cooking basket and dump out any remaining food. Then, place the basket in the dishwasher and run it on the regular cycle.
While the basket is in the dishwasher, wipe down the inside of the air fryer with a damp cloth to remove any stuck-on food. Be sure to unplug the air fryer before cleaning it.
Once the cooking basket is clean, replace it in the air fryer, and you’re ready to cook again.
Even if you don’t have a dishwasher to clean the cooking basket, it’s still easy to clean by hand. Fill a sink with hot, soapy water and let the basket soak for a few minutes. Then, scrub it with a brush or sponge to remove any stuck-on food. Rinse the basket well and dry it before using it again.
Tips for Using the Ninja Air Fryer Max XL
Now that you know how to use the Ninja Air Fryer AF161 Max XL, here are a few tips to help you get the most out of it:
- There’s no need to thaw it first if you’re cooking frozen food. Add it to the basket and cook according to the recipe.
- To ensure even cooking, make sure not to overcrowd the basket. If necessary, cook your food in batches.
- Spray the fryer basket with oil before you add the food. This will help to prevent sticking and ensure that your food cooks evenly. Because of its low smoke point, avoid using ordinary olive oil, and don’t use salted butter because foods will stick.
- If you’re cooking meat, be sure to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- When cooking multiple items at once, cook items that require the same cooking time. For example, cook chicken and potatoes together, but cook broccoli separately.
- When cooking meat or vegetables, cut them into uniform pieces, so they cook evenly.
- If you’re unsure which cooking function to use, consult your recipe or the air fryer’s manual.
- Be sure to unplug the air fryer before cleaning it.
FAQs
Q. Can I Cook Frozen Food in the Ninja Air Fryer AF161 Max XL?
A. Yes, you can cook frozen food in the Ninja Air Fryer AF161 Max XL without thawing it first. Simply add the frozen food to the basket and cook according to your recipe.
Q. Is the Ninja XL Air Fryer Worth It?
A. The Ninja XL air fryer is an excellent choice for those looking for a quality air fryer that won’t break the bank. It’s easy to use and comes with various accessories, making it an excellent value for the price.
Q. Can I Put The Ninja Air Fryer in the Dishwasher?
A. Yes, the removable parts of the Ninja Air Fryer AF161 Max XL are dishwasher safe. Place the cooking basket in the dishwasher and run it on the regular cycle.
Q. Is It Possible to Roast a Chicken Weighing 5 Pounds in There?
A. No, You would not be able to cook a 5lb chicken in the Ninja AF161. This unit can only fit up to 3lbs.
Q. Is it Possible to Cook More than One Thing at a Time?
A. No, you can only cook one thing at a time in the Ninja AF161. If you try to cook more than one thing, it will not cook evenly and may be burnt.
Q. How Do I Pause the Cooking Time?
A. The unit will automatically stop the cooking time when you remove the basket from the unit.
Q. Is It Necessary to Preheat the Unit?
A. Yes, it is necessary to preheat the unit before cooking. Select the Air Fry function and set the temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to preheat. Then, add your food to the basket and cook according to your recipe.
Q. Why is My Air Fryer Emitting Smoke?
A. If your air fryer is emitting smoke, it is likely due to the oil or fat in your food. To reduce the amount of smoke, try cooking with less oil or fat. You can also use a splatter screen to keep the oil from spraying inside the air fryer.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 14 x 11 x 14.75 inches |
| Weight | 11 pounds |
| Material | Plastic |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Installation Type | Countertop |
| Color | Grey |
| Wattage | 1690 W |
| Warranty | One-year, 60-day money-back guarantee. |
| Included Components | Nonstick Basket & Chef-Inspired 20 Recipe Book. |
Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer Review: Final Thoughts
The Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer is a great choice for those looking for an easy-to-use air fryer that comes with a variety of features. It’s also an excellent value for the price, making it a good choice for budget-conscious shoppers. However, if you’re looking for an air fryer that can cook more than one thing at a time, you may want to consider another model.
You also like:
- How Long To Bake Salmon At 425 in Foil? - December 11, 2022
- How Long To Cook Chuck Roast In Oven At 350? - December 11, 2022
- How Many Chicken Wings Are In A Pound? - November 26, 2022