Nesco Roaster Oven Review Exploring the Best 18 Quart Programmable Roasters

Description

Strengths of the Nesco MWR18-14 Roaster Oven

Using the Nesco MWR18-14 Roaster Oven has been quite an experience. The 18-quart capacity easily handles a whole turkey, which came in handy during a family dinner when I wanted to avoid firing up the big oven. Its removable enamel cook well is a game-changer; cleaning up is a breeze, and the fact that it fits in my fridge means leftovers can chill without transferring to another container. The adjustable thermostat spanning from 200 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit offers excellent control for various cooking methods—roasting, baking, steaming, or even poaching. The cool touch handles make moving it safer, especially when juggling multiple dishes in a busy kitchen.

• Large capacity comfortably fits big meals
• Removable cook well simplifies cleaning and storage
• Wide temperature range allows versatile cooking
• Safety-enhanced cool touch handles

Limitations to Consider

Despite the positives, some aspects of this roaster oven could use improvement. The side swing door design, while convenient, sometimes feels a bit fiddly, especially when the oven is full and hot. I found that the cooking times can be a bit inconsistent, particularly if you’re trying recipes that require precision; I had to keep an eye on things more than I expected. Also, the unit is fairly bulky, measuring 23.75″ deep by 16″ wide and 13.11″ high, so countertop space could be an issue in smaller kitchens. Additionally, the porcelain enamel door is elegant but requires delicate handling to avoid chipping or scratching.

• Side swing door can be awkward when fully loaded
• Cooking times may vary, requiring attention
• Bulkiness demands ample countertop space
• Porcelain enamel door needs careful handling

Cooking Versatility at Its Best

This roaster oven shines in its ability to do more than just roast. I’ve baked pies and cookies with surprisingly even heat distribution, thanks to the “Circle of Heat” element that surrounds the food. It also steams vegetables perfectly and poaches fish gently, which made weeknight dinners both healthy and quick. The programmable touch controls simplify temperature adjustments, though I found them a touch sensitive, requiring precise taps. The removable rack with lift-out handles is sturdy and easy to maneuver, making it simple to check on dishes without awkward balancing acts.

User Experience and Family Feedback

My kids have been quite enthusiastic whenever meals come from this roaster oven. The even roasting means the turkey breast stays juicy without drying out, which my picky eaters appreciate. Relatives visiting for holidays admired the oven’s ability to cook a large meal without monopolizing the kitchen, proving it a practical addition for gatherings. However, the weight of the unit (around 17.56 pounds) makes it less friendly to move frequently, so it tends to stay put on a spacious counter. My coworker, who borrowed it once, mentioned that the auto-temperature control was intuitive but wished the unit had a timer feature.

Comparing to Other Popular Roasters

There’s no shortage of roaster ovens on the market, but this one stands out for its combination of capacity and versatility. Compared to similar brands that top out around 16 quarts, the 18-quart size here is notable. Its energy-efficient heating element uses less power than some bulky electric ovens, which I appreciate during heavier cooking days. On the downside, some competitors offer digital timers and more compact designs, which this model lacks. Still, the removable enamel cook well and cool touch handles give it a practical edge for safety and cleanup.

Value for Money

For the features packed into this roaster oven, the price point seems reasonable. Considering it can replace several kitchen appliances by roasting, baking, steaming, and more, it offers smart spending potential. The durable build and easy maintenance add to its overall cost-effectiveness, especially for those who frequently cook large meals or entertain guests. While it may not be the cheapest option available, the programmable thermostat and versatile temperature range justify the investment in my book.

Design and Build Quality

The white finish gives the oven a clean, classic look that fits well in most kitchen decors. The stainless steel rack and removable enamel cook well feel sturdy and well-made, holding up nicely under regular use. The overall design balances functionality with aesthetics, although the size and weight do demand careful placement. I found the touch control panel responsive but sometimes overly sensitive, which can be a small annoyance when adjusting settings quickly. The UL approval adds a layer of safety assurance, which is always comforting.

Practical Considerations

Using this roaster oven daily, I noticed that the full range auto-temperature control helps maintain a consistent cooking environment, but it’s not foolproof; I ended up adjusting temperatures manually a few times. The ability to store the cook well in the refrigerator is a subtle but useful feature that helps reduce dishes and cleanup time. Also, the side swing door opens wide enough for easy access, though it requires a bit of space beside the unit. Overall, it’s a handy appliance for anyone who wants to cook efficiently without turning on a full-sized oven.

In summary, this electric roaster manages to combine large capacity, versatile cooking modes, and safety features in a fairly compact package. Its strengths lie in its cooking flexibility and ease of cleaning, while the bulk and some control quirks are worth keeping in mind before purchase. For those who entertain often or want an alternative cooking method, it’s a solid contender with a few trade-offs.

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