NINJA DZ550 Series Foodi Smart XL 2 Basket Air Fryer Owner’s Manual

NINJA DZ550 Series Foodi Smart XL 2 Basket Air Fryer

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY

When using electrical appliance, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including the following:

WARNINGS

1. This appliance can be used by persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge if they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance in a safe way and understand the hazards involved.
2. Keep the appliance and its cord out of reach of children. DO NOT allow the appliance to be used by children. Close supervision is necessary when used near children.
3. Children should not play with the appliance.
4. NEVER use electrical socket below counter.
5. To prevent fire, DO NOT place appliance on or near a gas or electric stovetop, or in a heated oven.
6. NEVER connect this appliance to an  external timer switch or separate remote-control system. When using this appliance, provide at least 6 inches (15.25 cm) of space above and on all sides for air circulation.
7. DO NOT cover the air intake vent or air  outlet while unit is operating.
8. Doing so will prevent even cooking and may damage the unit or cause it to overheat.
9. To protect against electrical shock.
10. DO NOT   immerse cord, plugs, or main unit housing in water or other liquid.
11. Cook only in the basket provided.
12.  Regularly inspect the appliance and power cord.
13. DO NOT use the appliance if there is damage to the power cord or plug.
14. If the appliance malfunctions or has been damaged in any way, immediately stop use and call Customer Service.
15.  DO NOT use an extension cord.
16. A short power-supply cord is used to reduce the risk of children grabbing the cord or becoming entangled and to reduce the risk of people tripping over a longer cord.
17. ALWAYS ensure the appliance is properly  assembled before use.
18. Before placing removable basket into the  main unit, ensure basket and unit are clean and dry by wiping with a soft cloth.
19. This appliance is for household use only.
20. DO NOT use this appliance for anything other than its intended use.
21. DO NOT use in moving vehicles or boats.
22. DO NOT use outdoors.
23. Misuse may cause injury.
24. Intended for worktop use only.
25. Ensure the surface is level, clean and dry. DO NOT move the appliance when in use.
26. DO NOT place the appliance near the edge  of a worktop during operation.
27. DO NOT use accessory attachments not recommended or sold by SharkNinja.
28. Do not place accessories in a microwave, toaster oven, convection oven, or conventional oven or on a ceramic cooktop, electric coil, gas burner range or outdoor grill.
29. The use of accessory attachments not recommended by SharkNinja may cause fire, electric shock or injuries.
30. ALWAYS ensure basket is properly closed  before operating.
31. DO NOT use the appliance without the removable basket installed.
32. DO NOT use this appliance for deep-frying.
33. Prevent food contact with heating elements.
34. DO NOT overfill when cooking.
35. Overfilling may cause personal injury or property damage or affect the safe use of the appliance.
36. DO NOT place items on top of unit  at any time. Socket voltages can vary, affecting the  performance of your product.
37. To prevent possible illness, use a thermometer to check that your food is cooked to the temperatures recommended.
38. Should the unit emit black smoke, unplug  immediately.
39. Wait for smoking to stop before removing any cooking accessories.
40. DO NOT touch hot surfaces. Appliance surfaces are hot during and after operation.
41. To prevent burns or personal injury, ALWAYS use protective hot pads or insulated oven mitts and use available handles.
42. Extreme caution must be used when the  appliance contains hot food.
43. Improper use may result in personal injury.
44. This appliance has a polarized plug one  blade is wider than the other.
45. To reduce the risk of electric shock, this plug is intended to fit into a polarized outlet only one way.
46. If the plug does not fit fully into the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician.
47. DO NOT attempt to modify the plug in any way.
48. Spilled food can cause serious burns.
49. Keep appliance and cord away from children.
50. DO NOT let cord hang over edges of tables or counters or touch hot surfaces.
51. The basket and crisper plate become  extremely hot during the cooking process.
52. Avoid physical contact while removing the basket or plate from the appliance.
53. ALWAYS place basket or plate on a heat-resistant surface after removing.
54. DO NOT touch accessories during or immediately after cooking.
55.  Cleaning and user maintenance should not  be carried out by children.
56. To disconnect, press the power button to  turn off the unit, then unplug from socket when not in use and before cleaning.
57. Allow to cool before cleaning, disassembly, putting in or taking off parts and storage.
58.  DO NOT clean with metal scouring pads.
59. Pieces can break off the pad and touch electrical parts, creating the risk of electric shock.
60. DO NOT place hands near food Smart Thermometer cord when in use to prevent burning or scalding.
61. The Foodi Smart Thermometer does NOT replace an external food thermometer.
62. To prevent possible illness.
63. ALWAYS use an external food thermometer to check that your food is cooked to the recommended temperatures.
64. Allow to cool before cleaning, disassembly, putting in or taking off parts and storage.

PARTS

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR NINJA FOODI SMART XL 2 BASKET AIR FRYER

FUNCTIONS

AIR FRY
Use this function to give your food crispiness and crunch with little to no oil.

BAKE
Create decadent baked treats and desserts.

ROAST
Roast meats to tenderize and more.

AIR BROIL
Add the crispy finishing touch to meals, or melt toppings to create the perfect finish.

REHEAT
Warm your leftovers, with a crispy result.

DEHYDRATE
Dehydrate meats, fruits, and vegetables for healthy snacks.

OPERATING BUTTONS

• Zone 1 controls the output for the basket on the left.
• Zone 2 controls the output for the basket on the right.

LEFT arrows

Use the arrows on the left-hand side of the display to select the desired cook temperature or protein type.

TIME arrows

Use the arrows on the right-hand side of the display to select cook time or doneness.

SMART FINISH button

Automatically syncs the cook times to ensure both zones finish at the same time, even if there are different cook times.

MATCH COOK button

Automatically matches Zone 2 settings to those of Zone 1 to cook a larger amount of the same food, or cook different foods using the same function, temperature, and time.

PROBE button

Use to select Small Preset, Large Preset, or Manual when using the Foodi Smart Thermometer.

POWER button

The on and off and stops all cooking functions.

Standby Mode

After 10 minutes of no interaction with the control panel, the unit will enter standby mode. The Power button will be dimly lit.

Hold Mode

Hold will appear on the unit while in SMART FINISH mode. One zone will be cooking, while the other zone will be holding until the times sync together.

BEFORE FIRST USE

•  Remove and discard any packaging material, promotional labels, and tape from the unit.
• Remove all accessories from the package and read this manual carefully.
• Please pay particular attention to operational instructions, warnings, and important safeguards to avoid any injury or property damage.
• Wash the baskets and crisper plates in hot, soapy water, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
• The crisper plates and baskets are the ONLY dishwasher-safe parts. NEVER clean the main unit and Foodi Smart Thermometer in the dishwasher.

USING THE NINJA FOODI SMART THERMOMETER

Before plugging thermometer into the unit, make sure the jack is free of any residue, knots or kinks and the cord is free of knots.

NOTE
The Foodi Smart Thermometer is only available for use in Zone 1.

1. Remove the thermometer storage compartment located on the left-hand side of the unit. Then unwind the cord from the compartment to remove the thermometer. Remove Zone 1 (basket before plugging in the thermometer).

2. Insert the thermometer in protein using the guide on the following page to ensure the thermometer is placed correctly.

3. Plug the thermometer into jack located on the left-hand side of the control panel.  Push firmly on the plug until it cannot go into the jack any further, and then insert the basket.  You should hear and feel a click when the thermometer is inserted fully.  Place the storage compartment back onto the side of the unit.
   NOTE
   The excess probe wire can be left in the basket.

4. Once the thermometer is plugged into the jack, select Zone 1 and then desired cooking function. If desired, use the left-hand arrows to adjust cooking temperature.

5. Use the PROBE button to select either Small or Large preset, depending on size of protein. Use the arrows on the left of the display to select your protein and the arrows on the right of the display to set the internal doneness of the protein.  If using the Manual button, use the recommended internal cook temperatures below
   NOTE
   Set doneness for BEEF are lower than normal recommendations, as unit will carry over cook 10–15°F.

6. There is no preheat needed. Once you have made your selections, press the start/pause button to begin cooking. The screen will display the current thermometer temperature as well as the target temperature.

7. The unit will automatically stop when desired doneness is achieved.

8. Transfer the protein to a plate to rest. Thermometer does not need to still be inserted. The protein will continue to carry-over cook to your set doneness, which will take about 3–5 minutes. This is an important step, as not resting could lead to results looking less cooked. Carry-over cook times can vary based on size of protein, cut of protein, and type of protein.

NOTE
The thermometer will be HOT. Use either oven mitts or tongs to take the thermometer out of the protein.

Using Smart Finish with the Foodi Smart Thermometer:

1. Press Zone 1 and select desired cooking function. Use the PROBE button to select either the Small or Large preset, depending on size of protein Use the arrows on the left-hand side to select the protein and the arrows on the right-hand side to select desired doneness.
2. Press Zone 2 and select desired cooking function. Set time and temperature and select Smart Finish. Press the START/PAUSE button to begin cooking.

NOTE
During the initial cooking phase, the zone with the shorter cook time will display HOLD. The display will then transition to showing the probe’s current and target temperature in Zone 1 and progress bars in Zone 2.

Using Match Cook with the Foodi Smart Thermometer

1. Press Zone 1 and select desired cooking function. Use the left-hand arrows to select desired cook temperature. Use the PROBE button to select Small Preset or Large Preset, depending on the size of the protein. If using the Manual button, use the recommended internal cook temperatures.
   • Use the arrows on the left of the display to select your desired protein and the arrows on the right of the display to set the internal doneness.
2. Select MATCH COOK, then press the START/PAUSE button to begin cooking.

HOW TO CORRECTLY INSERT THE THERMOMETER

Steaks Pork chops

Chicken breasts Burgers Tenderloins Fish fillets

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• Insert thermometer horizontally into the center of the thickest part of the meat.
• Make sure the thermometer is close to (but not touching) the bone and away from any fat or gristle.

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• Make sure the tip of the thermometer is inserted straight into the center of the meat, not angled toward the bottom or top of it.

NOTE: The thickest part of the fillet may not be the center. It is important that the end of the thermometer hits this area so that desired results are achieved.
NOTE: Cuts of meat should be at least 1″ thick to achieve reliable cooking results using the probe.
Using meats thinner than 1″ may lead to an incorrect doneness level.
Whole chicken|

• Insert thermometer horizontally into the thickest part of the breast, parallel to, but not touching, the bone.
• Make sure the tip reaches the center of the thickest part of the breast and doesn’t go all the way through the breast into the cavity.

| |

NOTE
DO NOT use the thermometer with frozen protein or for cuts of meat thinner than 1 inch.

COOKING IN YOUR 2-BASKET AIR FRYER  FOR RECIPES AND COOKING CHARTS

COOKING WITH DUALZONE TECHNOLOGY

DualZone Technology utilizes two cooking zones to increase versatility. The Smart Finish feature ensures that, regardless of different cook settings, both zones will finish ready to serve at the same time.

SMART FINISH without Foodi Smart Thermometer

To finish cooking at the same time when foods have different cook times, temps, or even functions: Place ingredients in the baskets, insert the baskets in the unit and the press the power button. Z one 1 will remain illuminated. Select the desired cook function. Use the left arrows to set the temperature, and use the right arrows to set the time. Select Zone 2, then select the desired cook function Air Broil can be used in only one zone when using Smart Finish. Use the left arrows to set the temperature, and use the right arrows to set the time.

Press SMART FINISH, then press the START/ PAUSE button to begin cooking in the zone with the longest time. The other zone will display Hold. The unit will beep and activate the second zone when both zones have the same time remaining

NOTE
Air Broil can only be used in one zone at a time. When using Air Broil, you can select a different function for Zone 2.

NOTE
It is recommended to shake your food during cooking. To keep the time at a synchronized finish, press the START/PAUSE button to pause both zones. To pause a single zone during dual zone cooking.
When cooking is complete, the unit will beep and End will appear on the display. Remove ingredients by dumping them out or  using silicone tipped tongs/utensils. DO NOT place drawer on top of unit.

NOTE
If you decide the food in one of the zones is done cooking before the cook time is up, you can STOP A ZONE. Select that zone, then press the START/PAUSE button to pause the zone or set the time to zero.

MATCH COOK(without Foodi Smart Thermometer)

• To cook a larger amount of the same food, or cook different foods using the same function, temperature, and time. Place ingredients in the baskets, insert the baskets in the unit, and then press the power button.
• Z one 1 will remain illuminated. Select the desired cook function Air Broil is not available for use in either zone when using Match Cook. Use the left arrows to set the temperature, and use the right arrows to set the time.

Press the MATCH COOK button to copy the Zone 1 settings to Zone. Then press the START/PAUSE button to begin cooking in both zones.

NOTE
Air Broil cannot be used in Match Cook mode. It is recommended to shake your food during cooking. To keep the time at a synchronized finish, press the START/PAUSE button to pause both zones. To pause a single zone during dual zone cooking.

End will appear on both screens when cooking ends at the same time.

Remove ingredients by dumping them out or using silicone-tipped tongs/utensils.

COOKING WITH TWO ZONES

When Smart Finish or Match Cook are not selected, technology is integrated into the design to automatically optimize the distribution of power when using two zones with different cook times. This means the food in the zone with the longer cook time may finish cooking before the set time ends. Check food frequently to avoid overcooking.Select Zone 1, then select the desired cook function. Use the left arrows to set the temperature.

Use the right arrows to set the time.

Repeat steps 2 and 3 for Zone 2.

Press the START/PAUSE button to begin cooking in both zones. When cooking is complete in the zone with the shorter cook time, the power will then shift to help optimize cook time in the remaining zone. Continue to monitor food, as it may finish cooking before the set cook time ends. Remove ingredients by dumping them out or using silicone-tipped tongs/utensils.

COOKING IN A SINGLE ZONE

To turn on the unit, plug the power cord into a wall outlet, then press the power button.

Air Fry
Install crisper plate in the basket, then place ingredients in the basket, and insert basket in unit.

The unit will default to Zone 1 to use Zone 2 instead, select Zone 2. Select AIR FRY.

Use the left arrows to set the desired temperature.

Use the right arrows to set the time in 1-minute increments. Press the START/PAUSE button to begin cooking.

NOTE
During cooking, you can remove the basket and shake or toss ingredients for evening crisping. If you would like to pause during this time, press the zone number then press the START/PAUSE button. If using a single zone, simply press the START/PAUSE button.

When cooking is complete, the unit will beep and “End” will appear on the display. Remove ingredients by dumping them out or using silicone tipped tongs/utensils.

Bake

Install crisper plate in the basket, then  place ingredients in the basket, and insert basket in unit.

The unit will default to Zone 1 (to use Zone 2 instead, select Zone 2. Select BAKE.

NOTE
To convert recipes from a traditional oven, reduce the temperature by 25°F.

Use the left arrows to set the desired temperature.

Use the TIME arrows to set the time in 1-minute increments up to 1 hour and in 5-minute increments from 1 to 4 hours. Press the START/PAUSE button to begin cooking..

When cooking is complete, the unit will beep and End will appear on the display.

Remove ingredients by dumping them out or using silicone-tipped tongs/utensils.

Roast

Install crisper plate in the basket , then place ingredients in the basket, and insert basket in unit.

The unit will default to Zone 1 to use Zone 2 instead, select Zone 2 Select ROAST.

Use the left arrows to set the desired temperature.

Use the right arrows to set the time in 1-minute increments up to 1 hour and in 5-minute increments from 1 to 4 hours. Press the START/PAUSE button to begin cooking. When cooking is complete, the unit will beep and End will appear on the display.

Remove ingredients by dumping them out or using silicone-tipped tongs/utensils.

Air Broil

NOTE
AIR BROIL cannot be used in both zones at the same time.

Install crisper plate in the basket (optional), then place ingredients in the basket, and insert basket in unit.

The unit will default to Zone 1 to use Zone 2 instead, select Zone 2. Select AIR BROIL.

Use the left arrows to set the desired temperature.

Use the right arrows to set the time in 1-minute increments up to 30 minutes. Press the START/PAUSE button to begin cooking.

When cooking is complete, the unit will beep and End will appear on the display.

Remove ingredients by dumping them out or using silicone-tipped tongs/utensils.

Reheat

Install crisper plate in the basket (optional), then place ingredients in the basket, and insert basket in unit.

The unit will default to Zone 1 (to use Zone 2 instead, select Zone 2). Select REHEAT.

Use the left arrows to set the desired temperature.

Use the right arrows to set the time in 1-minute increments up to 1 hour. Press the START/PAUSE button to begin reheating.

When reheating is complete, the unit will beep and End will appear on the display.

Remove ingredients by dumping them out or using silicone-tipped tongs/utensils.

Dehydrate

Place a single layer of ingredients in the basket. Then install the crisper plate in the basket on top of the ingredients and place another layer of ingredients on the crisper plate. The unit will default to Zone 1 to use Zone 2 instead, select Zone 2. Select DEHYDRATE. The default temperature will appear on the display. Use the left arrows to set the desired temperature.

Use the right arrows to set the time in 15-minute increments from 1 to 12 hours. Press the START/PAUSE button to begin dehydrating. When cooking is complete, the unit will beep and End will appear on the display.

Remove ingredients by dumping them out or using silicone tipped tongs/utensils.

PAUSING BOTH ZONES AT THE SAME TIME

To pause time in the SMART FINISH mode, or to pause both zones in dual zone cooking, press the START/PAUSE button.

To resume cooking, press the button again.

PAUSING A SINGLE ZONE DURING DUAL ZONE COOKING

To pause time in a single zone while both zones are running, select the zone you want to pause, then press the START/PAUSE button.To resume cooking, press the button again.

NOTE This is not available when using Smart Finish and the Foodi Smart Thermometer.

ENDING THE COOK TIME IN ONE ZONE (WHILE USING BOTH ZONES)

Select the zone you would like to stop. Then press the down TIME arrow to set the time to zero.

Once you have set the time to zero, press the START/PAUSE button. The time in that zone is then canceled, and End will appear on the display. Cooking will continue in the other zone.

NOTE This is not available when using Smart Finish and the Foodi Smart Thermometer.

CLEANING YOUR 2 BASKET AIR FRYER

The unit should be cleaned thoroughly after every use. Unplug the unit from the wall outlet before cleaning.

If food residue is stuck on the crisper plates or baskets, place them in a sink filled with warm, soapy water and allow to soak.

HELPFUL TIPS

For consistent browning, make sure ingredients are arranged in an even layer on the bottom of the basket with no overlapping.

• If ingredients are overlapping, make sure to shake them halfway through cooking.
• To convert recipes from a traditional oven, reduce the temperature by 25°F.
• Check food frequently to avoid overcooking
• Occasionally, the fan from the air fryer will blow lightweight foods around.
• To alleviate this, secure foods like the top slice of bread on a sandwich with wooden toothpicks.
• The crisper plates elevate ingredients in the baskets so air can circulate under and around ingredients for even, crisp results
• After selecting a cooking function, you can press the START/PAUSE button to begin cooking immediately.
• The unit will run at the default temperature and time.
• For best results with fresh vegetables and potatoes, use at least 1 tablespoon of oil.
• Add more oil as desired to achieve the preferred level of crispiness.
• For best results, check progress throughout cooking and remove food when desired level of brownness has been achieved.

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

How do I adjust the temperature or time while using a single zone?

When a single zone is running the time or temperature can be adjusted at any time by pressing the up/down arrows.

How do I adjust the temperature or time while using both zones?

Select the desired zone, then use the TEMP arrows to adjust the temperature or the TIME arrows to adjust the time.

Can I cook different foods in each zone and not worry about cross

contamination?

Yes, both zones are self-contained with separate heating elements and fans.

How do I pause or stop one zone when using both zones?

Select the zone you want to pause or stop, then press the START/PAUSE button.

Are the baskets safe to put on my countertop?

The baskets will heat up during cooking. Use caution when handling, and place them on heat safe surfaces only. DO NOT place the baskets on the top of the unit.

When should I use the crisper plate?

Use the crisper plate when you want food to come out crispy. The plate elevates the food in the basket so that air can flow under and around it to cook ingredients evenly.

Why didn’t my food cook fully?

Make sure the basket is fully inserted during cooking. For consistent browning, make sure ingredients are arranged in an even layer on the bottom of the basket with no overlapping. Shake basket to toss ingredients for even crispiness. Cook temperature and time can be adjusted at any time during cooking. Simply use the TEMP arrows to adjust the temperature or the TIME arrows to adjust the time.

Why is my food burned?

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 ends to avoid overcooking.

Why do some ingredients blow around when air frying?

Occasionally, the fan from the air fryer will blow lightweight foods around. Use wooden toothpicks to secure loose lightweight food, like the top slice of bread on a sandwich.

Can I air fry wet, 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. Press breading firmly onto the battered ingredients, so crumbs won’t be blown off by the fan.

Why did the display screen go black?

The unit is in standby mode. Press the power button to turn it back on.

Why is the unit beeping?

Either the food is done cooking, or the other zone has started cooking.

Why is there an E message on the display screen?

The unit is not functioning properly. Please contact Customer Service at 1-877-646-5288.

Why did a circuit breaker trip while using the unit?

The unit uses 1690 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.

ONE (1) YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
The One (1) Year Limited Warranty applies to purchases made from authorized retailers of SharkNinja Operating LLC. Warranty coverage applies to the original owner and to the original product only and is not transferable. SharkNinja warrants that the unit shall be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of purchase when it is used under normal household conditions and maintained according to the requirements outlined in subject to the following conditions and exclusions.

What is covered by this warranty? The original unit and/or non-wearable parts deemed defective, in SharkNinja’s sole discretion, will be repaired or replaced up to one (1) year from the original purchase date. In the event a replacement unit is issued, the warranty coverage ends six (6) months following the receipt date of the replacement unit or the remainder of the existing warranty, whichever is later. SharkNinja reserves the right to replace the unit with one of equal or greater value.

What is not covered by this warranty?
Normal wear and tear of wearable parts (such as blending vessels, lids, cups, blades, blender bases, removable pots, racks, pans, etc.), which require regular maintenance and/or replacement to ensure the proper functioning of your unit, are not covered by this warranty. Replacement parts are available for purchase at ninjaaccessories.com Any unit that has been tampered with or used for commercial purposes. Damage caused by misuse, abuse, negligent handling, failure to  perform required maintenance e.g., failure to keep the well of the motor base clear of food spills and other debris or damage due to mishandling in transit. Consequential and incidental damages. Defects caused by repair persons not authorized by SharkNinja. These defects include damages caused in the process of shipping, altering, or repairing the SharkNinja product (or any of its parts) when the repair is performed by a repair person not authorized by SharkNinja. Products purchased, used, or operated outside North America.

How to get service
If your appliance fails to operate properly while in use under normal household conditions within the warranty period, visit ninjakitchen.com/support for product care and maintenance self help. Our Customer Service Specialists are also available at 1-877-646-5288 to assist with product support and warranty service options, including the possibility of upgrading to our VIP warranty service options for select product categories. So we may better assist you, please register your product online at registeryourninja.com and have the product hand when you call. SharkNinja will cover the cost for the customer to send in the unit to us for repair or replacement. A fee of $20.95 (subject to change) will be charged when SharkNinja ships the repaired or replacement unit.

How to initiate a warranty claim
You must call 1-877-646-5288 to initiate a warranty claim. You will need the receipt as proof of purchase. We also ask that you register your product online at
registeryourninja.com and have the product on hand when you call, so we may better assist you.

How state law applies
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you also may have other rights that vary from state to state. Some states do not permit the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above may not apply to you.

References

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