To open the lid, move the SmartLid™ Slider to either SteamCrisp (position 2) or Air Fry/Stovetop (position 3) and use the front handle above the SmartLid
Slider to lift the lid. The lid will be locked and not able to be opened when the SmartLid Slider is in the Pressure position (position 1).
One Lid allows you to seamlessly transition between all your favorite cooking methods without having to switch lids. With the SmartLid™ Slider, you can switch between Pressure, SteamCrisp, and Air Fry/Stovetop, allowing you to pressure cook then add a crispy finish, all under one lid. When on Pressure mode (SmartSlider position 1), the following function is available:
•Pressure When on SteamCrisp mode (SmartSlider position 2), the following functions are available:
•Steam & Crisp
•Steam & Bake When on Air Fry/Stovetop mode (SmartSlider position 3), the following functions are available:
• Air Fry
•Bake/Roast
•Broil
•Dehydrate
•Proof*
•Sear/Saute
•Steam
•Slow Cook
•Yogurt
•Sous Vide
*The Proof function is not included on models ending in zero (for example, OL500).
•Pressure: Cook food quickly while maintaining tenderness.
•Steam & Crisp: Make 1-touch meals; allows you to steam and crisp at the same time.
•Steam & Bake: Use the unit like an over in order to bake cakes or bread with a moist interior and crispy entetior.
•Steam: Gently cook delicate foods at a high temperature.
•Slow Cook: Cook food at a lower temperature for a longer period of time.
•Yogurt: Produce creamy homemade yogurt.
•Sear/Sauté: Use the unit as a stovetop for browning meats, sautéing veggies, simmering sauces, and more.
•Air Crisp: Give foods crispiness and crunch with little to no oil.
•Bake/Roast: Use the unit like an oven for tender meats, baked treats, and more.
•Broil: Caramelize and brown your food.
•Dehydrate: Dehydrate meats, fruits, and vegetables for healthy snacks.
•Sous Vide: Slow cook food sealed in plastic bags in an accurately regulated water bath.
•Proof: Creates an environment for dough to rest and rise.
*The Proof function is not included on models ending in zero (for example, OL500).
To select a cooking function, you must move the SmartLid™ Slider to the desired mode and use the dial or knob to select the desired function.
Press the up or down arrows on the right of the display to adjust the cook temperature and/or pressure level. Press the up or down arrow on the left of the display to adjust the cook time.
Press the START/STOP button in the bottom right hand corner to begin cooking.
"PrE" on the screen indicates that the unit is heating up and pressurizing. This message will remain on the screen until the unit is fully preheated or pressurized, at which point the timer will begin counting down.
When batch cooking on any function, allow the unit to cool down before restarting. We recommend waiting 2 minutes with the unit off and lid open before beginning the next cook cycle. This ensures that each batch cooks consistently.
Once the cook cycle has finished, open the pressure release valve, and wait a few minutes for the unit to depressurize and cool down. Note: You will not be able to move the SmartLid™ Slider if the unit has not fully depressurized. Please allow for any and all pressure to be released, at which time the display will show "OPN LID" or "OPN," indicating you can now move the SmartLid Slider to SteamCrisp (position 2) or Air Fry/Stovetop (position 3) to unlock the lid.
Quick Pressure Release:
Use ONLY if your recipe calls for it. When pressure cooking is complete and the KEEP WARM light comes on, turn the pressure release valve to the VENT position to release the steam. Be careful and do not place your hand over the vent as it releases steam. Steam release will be accompanied by an audible hiss. When the steam has been released and the pressure release process is complete, the unit will display "OPN Lid" . This is an indication that you can move the SmartLid™ Slider to either SteamCrisp or Air Fry/Stovetop to unlock the lid. Please note that some steam will remain in the unit after pressure release and will escape when the lid is opened.
Natural Pressure Release:
When pressure cooking is complete, pressure will naturally release from the unit as it cools down. This can take up to 20 minutes or more, depending on the amount of liquid and food in the pot. During this time, the unit will switch to Keep Warm mode. Press the KEEP WARM button if you would like to turn Keep Warm mode off. When natural pressure release is complete, the display will show "OPN Lid".
"PrE" on the screen indicates the unit is preheating.
The unit will display "PrE" and progress bars when it is building steam. The time to build steam will take roughly 20 minutes, depending on the amount of ingredients in the pot and the staring temperature of those ingredients.
The unit will display "PrE" and progress bars when it is building steam. The time to build steam will take roughly 20 minutes, depending on the amount of ingredients in the pot and the staring temperature of those ingredients.
• Close the lid, slide the SmartLid™ Slider above the display to switch between modes and use the dial to select the desired function.
• When the lid is open and the SmartLid™ Slider is on SteamCrisp (position 2) or Air Fry/Stovetop (position you can select Yogurt, Sear/Saute, Slow Cook,
• or Sous Vide.
The pressure release valve can be in any position when using the SteamCrisp or Air Fry/Stovetop functions.
The Ninja® Foodi® SmartLid™ requires the silicone ring included with the unit. Do not use other silicone rings from other units. If you need to order a replacement, please visit ninjaaccessories.com.
No, only use the cooking pot included with the unit or a Ninja® replacement cooking pot. Cooking pots from other brands are not guaranteed to be compatible with the Ninja® Foodi® SmartLid™.
Preheating is recommended for best results. To preheat, simply add 5 minutes to the cook time and allow the unit to come up to temperature before adding ingredients.
To install the condensation collector, slide it into the slot on the cooker base on the back right-hand side of the unit. Then slide it out and hand-wash after each use.
When using the Slow Cook or Sous Vide function for recipes that take 4+ hours to cook, you may need to empty the condensation collector during cooking.
Yes, this is normal due to the condensation building within the lid. Condensation will flow from the lid into the moat and then into the condensation collector. Empty the collector often for best results.
No, once pressure cooking has started, we do not recommend moving the unit. Once the unit has completed pressure cooking, allow the unit to cool completely before handling or storing.
Press the START/STOP button or Power button at any time during cooking to cancel a cooking function.
No, the unit will lock when the SmartLid™ Slider is in Pressure as a safety measure. You will not be able to move the SmartLid (TM) Slider until all pressure is released. The display will show "OPN Lid" indicating it is safe to do so. You then will be able to move the SmartLid (TM) Slider to SteamCrisp or Air Fry/Stovetop to unlock the lid.
The cooking pot is made of aluminum with a nonstick ceramic coating that is FDA approved and food safe. This coating is also PTFE free.
Accessories designed especially for use in the Foodi® are available for purchase at ninjaaccessories.com. Any accessory that you currently use in your oven is also safe to use in your Foodi.
Follow these steps to clean the unit thoroughly after every use:
1. Unplug the unit from the wall outlet before cleaning.
2. To clean the cooker base and control panel, wipe them with a damp cloth. NEVER put the cooker base in the dishwasher or immerse it in water or any other liquid.
3. ALWAYS allow the lid to completely cool down before cleaning. Wipe it down with a wet cloth or paper towel. If using mild cleaners, ALWAYS wipe down after with wet cloth or paper towel. NEVER immerse the lid in water or any other liquid.
4. The cooking pot, silicone ring, Deluxe Reversible Rack, Cook & Crisp™ Basket, and detachable diffuser can be washed in the dishwasher. DO NOT place the main unit or thermometer in the dishwasher or immerse in liquid.
5. If food residue is stuck on the cooking pot, reversible rack, or Cook and Crisp™ Basket, fill the sink with warm, soapy water and allow to soak before cleaning. DO NOT use scouring pads. If scrubbing is necessary, use a non-abrasive cleanser or liquid dish soap with a nylon pad or brush.
6. Thoroughly air-dry all parts after washing. To clean the heating element and the inside of the lid, refer to the 'Steam Clean' instructions provided in the Instruction Booklet comes with the unit.
We recommend inspecting the interior of the lid prior to cooking with “wet cooking functions,” which include Slow Cook, Steam, Sous Vide, Sear/Sauté, Pressure, and all SteamCrisp functions. If you see any food residue or oil buildup on the heating element or fan, we recommend steam cleaning the unit (see instructions below), then wiping down the interior of the lid. STEAM CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Fill pot with 3 cups of water.
2. Move SmartLid™ Slider to AIR FRY/STOVETOP.
3. Select STEAM and set time to 30 minutes. Press START/STOP.
4. When time reaches 0 and the unit has cooled down, use a wet cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior of the lid. CAUTION: When cleaning the interior of the lid, do not touch the fan.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 as needed, and spot clean as necessary.
NOTE: If you do not open the lid after the cycle is over, the unit will default to Keep Warm and the heating element will continue running.
The outside of the unit and stainless steel surface on the lid will get hot during cooking, but the control panel, exterior handles, and handles on the lid will remain safe to touch at any time during cooking.
Move the slider to the position corresponding with the desired cooking function.
Insert the thermometer cap or the thermometer into the jack to start the cooking. The unit will not begin any cook function without either the thermometer or thermometer cap properly inserted.
This means the cooking pot is not installed in the cooker base. The cooking pot must be properly installed for all functions.
• OL500 Series: 1460 watts
• OL600 and OL700 Series: 1760 watts
After pressure cooking, steaming, or slow cooking, the unit will automatically switch to Keep Warm mode and start counting up. Keep Warm will stay on for 12 hours, or you may press KEEP WARM to turn it off.
Keep Warm mode is not intended to warm food from a cold state but to keep it warm at a food-safe temperature (120°F) after cooking is complete.
Keep Warm can be turned off during a pressure cooking cycle.
The pressure release valve’s loose fit is intentional; it enables a quick and easy transition between SEAL and VENT and helps regulate pressure by releasing small amounts of steam during cooking to ensure great results. Make sure it is turned as far as possible toward the SEAL position when pressure cooking and as far as possible toward the VENT position when quick releasing steam.
If the pressure release valve is not attached to the pressure lid, simply place the valve on the silver post in the middle of the circular indent on the lid and press down firmly. Note that while the valve will be loose-fitting, it will be securely attached to the unit.
• Use the Deluxe Reversible Rack in the lower position when using the Bake/Roast and Steam functions.
• Use the Deluxe Reversible Rack in the higher position when using the Broil function.
• Use the Deluxe Layer with the Deluxe Reversible Rack to increase cooking capacity or for dehydrating.
TIP: When air crisping 2 layers, allow 5–15 minutes for the lower layer to crisp before adding the Deluxe Layer.
• Use the Reversible Rack in the lower position when using the Bake/Roast and Steam functions.
• Use the Reversible Rack in the higher position when using the Broil function.
• First make sure the unit displays YGRT on the screen before beginning.
• Be sure your starter contains live cultures and use full-fat milk for best results. Do not use flavored yogurt or yogurt with additional additives as your • starting culture.
• Incubate for longer periods for a thicker yogurt consistency. Greek yogurt typically takes about 12 hours to ferment.
• After making yogurt, add desired flavor and refrigerate to cool.
Unplug the unit, then use a large towel to absorb as much water as possible. Once the cooking base is completely dry, you may use it to cook again. If you experience difficulties, contact Customer Service at 1-877-646-5288. So, we may better assist you, please register your product online at registeryourninja.com and have the product on hand when you call.
You may have set hours rather than minutes. When setting time, the display will show HH:MM and the time will increase/decrease in minute increments.
As a safety feature, the pressure lid will not unlock until the unit is completely depressurized. Turn the pressure release valve to the VENT position to quick release the pressurized steam. A quick burst of steam will spurt out of the pressure release valve. When the steam is completely released, the float valve will drop, and unit will be ready to open when the words "OPN Lid “display. You then will be able to move the SmartLid™ Slider to SteamCrisp or Air Fry/Stovetop position to unlock the lid.
Make sure the pressure release valve is turned to the SEAL position. If you’ve done this and still hear a loud hissing noise, it may indicate the silicone seal is not fully in place. Press START/STOP to stop cooking, VENT as necessary, and remove the pressure lid. Press down on the silicone ring, ensuring it is fully inserted and seated on the metal ring. Once fully installed, you should be able to freely rotate it around the metal ring.
The cooking cycle is complete, and the unit is in Keep Warm mode.
Depending on the food load, quick pressure release can take 2 or more minutes. Natural pressure release can take up to 20 minutes or more, depending on the type of food and/or the amount of liquid and food in the pot.
Move the SmartLid™ Slider to position 3 (far right) and open the lid. Using a damp cloth, carefully clean all reachable areas. You may also run a Steam cycle to help loosen stuck-on food. Allow the unit to cool down before attempting to clean after running a Steam cycle. Consult the Owner's Guide for more details on recommended cleaning practices.
"SHUT LID" - The lid is open and needs to be closed for the selected function to start.
“ADD WATER” error message appears on display screen when using the Steam or Pressure function. The water level is too low. Add more water to the unit for the function to continue. The unit needs a minimum of 1 cup of liquid for the unit to pressurize.
“SLIDE” error message appears on display screen.
•Move the SmartLid™ Slider to the position corresponding with the desired cooking function.
"LOCK LID” error message appears on display screen.
•Move the SmartLid™ Slider to the PRESSURE position to lock the lid.
“NO PRESSURE” error message appears on display screen when using the Pressure function
• Add more liquid to the cooking pot before restarting the pressure cook cycle.
• Make sure the pressure release valve is in the SEAL position.
• Make sure the silicone seal has been cleaned and installed correctly.
• Use a wet cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior of the lid.
It’s normal for steam to release during the pressure-cooking cycle through the top of the unit and the pressure release valve.
When the unit is done releasing steam through the pressure release valve and your display shows "OPN LID", you can move the SmartLid™ Slider to the SteamCrisp or Air Fry/Stovetop position to unlock the lid.
The unit's lid may not be fully closed. To resume the cooking cycle, ensure the lid it fully closed by either gently pressing down or fully opening and reclosing the lid. If the lid is not able to fully close, check that the silicone seal is properly installed and try again. If the issue persists, please contact Ninja Customer Service.
Press PRESET and use the arrows to the right of the display to select your desired food type and arrows to the left of the display to set the internal doneness of your food. If using MANUAL feature, press MANUAL and use the recommended internal cook temperatures below for functions besides Pressure Cook.
For probe under pressure the options are WELL and SHRED. You have the option to choose another doneness when using other functions. Please refer to the quick start guide and instruction manual for more details.
You can use the thermometer with any function except Steam & Bake, Dehydrate, Proof, Steam, Slow Cook, Sous Vide, and Yogurt.
Remove the cap from the jack inside the lid on the bottom right, then plug the thermometer into the jack. Push firmly on the thermometer until clicks into place and cannot go into the jack any further. Do not lose the thermometer cap; the unit will not function without either the thermometer or cap inserted in the lid.
Place the cap in the storage compartment and place the storage compartment back onto the side of the unit. DO NOT lose the thermometer cap, as the unit will not function without either it or the thermometer inserted.
The thermometer is located on the right side of the unit.
The unit has reached the maximum time of the function selected before the thermometer detects the set temperature. To continue cooking, turn the unit off and back on and begin another cook cycle.
The Smart Thermometer is included only with the OL701 model. Your unit's model number is located on the black-and-white sticker on the back of the unit wrapped inside the magnetic storage compartment. If you have an OL701, your thermometer will be located on the right-hand side of the unit.
The unit will default to NATURAL RELEASE. Use the dial to select NATURAL RELEASE, QUICK RELEASE, or DELAYED RELEASE. Quick Pressure Release: Use ONLY if your recipe calls for it. When pressure cooking is complete and you've selected QUICK RELEASE, the unit will automatically release steam. Be careful and do not place your hand over the vent as it releases steam. Steam release will be accompanied by an audible hiss. The unit will display "OPN Lid" when all steam has been released. This is an indication that you can move the SmartLid™ Slider to either SteamCrisp or Air Fry/Stovetop to unlock the lid. Please note that some steam will remain in the unit after pressure release and will escape when the lid is opened.
Delayed Release: Delayed release defaults to 10 minutes. If you are using Delayed Release and want to adjust the time, press the RELEASE PRESSURE button to set the desired time.
Natural Pressure Release: When pressure cooking is complete, pressure will naturally release from the unit as it cools down. This can take up to 20 minutes or more, depending on the amount of liquid and food in the pot. During this time, the unit will switch to Keep Warm mode. Press the KEEP WARM button if you would like to turn Keep Warm mode off. When natural pressure release is complete, the display will show "OPN Lid"
To remove the silicone ring gently, pull it outward, section by section, from the metal ring rack. The ring can be installed with either side facing up. To reinstall, gently work the silicone ring into the rack section by section, ensuring the metal ring rack is visible. Reinstall the silicone ring such that it is correctly seated around the silicone ring rack. Ensure there are no folded edges or sections that are not fully seated around the silicone ring rack. We recommend trying pressure cooking. If the silicone ring is not installed properly, the unit will not pressurize. After use, remove any food debris from the silicone ring and anti-clog cap.
NOTE: The silicone ring is designed specifically for the Ninja® Foodi® SmartLid™, and the unit will only be able to build pressure safely when the original silicone ring is installed correctly. Please use the Ninja® Foodi® SmartLid™ silicone ring designed for this unit. Ensure the silicone ring is clean and free of damage and then carefully reinstall the silicone ring into the unit's lid using the instructions listed in the owner's manual. Once your silicone ring is properly installed, try pressure cooking again. If you need a new Ninja® Foodi® SmartLid™ silicone ring, you can purchase a new silicone ring here ninjaaccessories.com.
When using the Pressure function, ALWAYS refer to the pressure cooking charts in your Inspiration Guide to find the correct water ratios. With any recipe that calls for the Pressure function, use 1 Cup of water/liquid at a minimum.
Tip: When cooking starchy or heavy foods with recipes not included in the Inspiration Guide, add up to 1 cup of additional liquid. If 'No Pressure' or 'Add Water' displays when pressure cooking, add up to 1 cup of additional liquid.
A new seal will provide the best cooking performance and pressure tightness in Steam/Pressure functions when replacing your pot. Please ensure you are using a new seal when using the new pot.
The pressure release valve should only be sealed when using the Pressure function. To access the Pressure function, move the SmartLid™ Slider to the Pressure position (position 1).
Move the SmartLid™ Slider to the Pressure position (position 1) and set the desired time. Once the cooking cycle has completed, you can move the SmartLid™ Slider to the Air Fry/Stovetop position (position 2) and finish with the crisping method of your choice or simply use the Air Fry function.
All Ninja Accessories are compatible across the Foodi multicookers. However, only use the perspective cooking pot with the SmartLid. Accessories are available for purchase at ninjaaccesories.com.
The Proof function creates an environment for dough to rest and rise. It is normal for the unit to feel cold while using this function.
OL500: Base unit, 6.5 qt cook pot, reversible rack, crisper plate
OL501: Base unit, 6.5 qt cook pot, reversible rack, crisper plate
OL501A: Base unit, 6.5 qt cook pot, reversible rack, crisper plate, multi-purpose pan
OL601: Base unit, 8 qt cook pot, deluxe reversible rack, crisper basket
OL701: Base unit, 8 qt cook pot, deluxe reversible rack, crisper basket, smart thermometer
Due to the SmartLid's unique 2-in-1 design, the lid has been constructed with strong die-casted materials capable of withstanding both pressure cooking and air frying functions. With this unique design, the fan-related functions may take on a slightly different pitch. This is normal for the unit and is not an indication of any product malfunction.
Due to the SmartLid's unique 2-in-1 design, the lid has been constructed with strong die-casted materials capable of withstanding both pressure cooking and air frying fucntions. With this unique design, the fan-related functions may take on a slightly different pitch. This is normal for this unit and is not an indication of any product malfunction.
During and after cooking, water condensation collects on the inside of the lid. Before opening the lid completely, hold the lid partially open for 5 seconds to allow the condensation to drain into the condensation catch.
If you are currently in or have recently completed a pressure cycle, please reference the "I can't open the lid" troubleshooting section.
Otherwise, check the placement and installation of your silicone seal. If your seal is not installed properly, you may not be able to move the SmartLid™ Slider. When your seal is installed properly, it will be able to rotate freely under the retainment ring with minimal resistance. Ensure there are no edges folded for proper installation.
Keep Warm is not a standalone function that you can select to start a cook cycle. The unit can switch to Keep Warm only after running the Pressure, Slow Cook, or Steam functions.. You can check that the "Keep Warm" feature is active if the text to the left of the dial is illuminated when setting up your initial cook cycle. If the text is illuminated, the unit will automatically switch to Keep Warm after 1 of these 3 specific functions. Otherwise, the unit will end all heating once the cook cycle is complete.
In order to change the temperature for sous vide, you need to end the current cook cycle and begin a new cook cycle at the new desired temperature setpoint.
Due to the SmartLid's unique 2-in-1 design, the lid is constructed of a strong die-casted material, which results in its surface finish.
Keep Warm is an add-on feature for the Pressure, Slow Cook, and Steam functions only. It is not a standalone function. You must complete one of these 3 cook functions for the Keep Warm feature to be activated.
In order for the pot to have the best contact with the bottom heating element, the pot is slightly curved on the bottom. You may notice liquid pooling in the edges of the pot, but this is not a defect with the pot.
Your anti-clog cap is fully removable for cleaning and replacement purposes. The cap is designed for a secure fit to the unit. Pinch the cap between your thumb and bend index finger. Rotate the cap slightly while pulling. The cap will pop off.