Nesco MWR18-14 Roaster Oven 18 Quart Review Perfect for Home Cooking

Description

Introduction to the NESCO MWR18-14 Roaster Oven

I recently had the chance to test out the NESCO MWR18-14 Roaster Oven, and as someone who spends a lot of time experimenting in the kitchen, I was genuinely curious about how this appliance would perform. With an 18-quart capacity, it promises to roast, bake, steam, and even poach, which sounds like a dream for anyone who enjoys cooking for large gatherings or meal prepping.

What caught my attention right away was its programmable thermostat, which allows for precise temperature control ranging from 200 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. My family loves hearty meals, so I was eager to see if it could handle everything from a whole turkey to a batch of cookies, as advertised.

Design and Build Quality

The sleek white design of this roaster oven makes it a subtle yet stylish addition to any kitchen. At first glance, it doesn’t look overly complicated, which is a win for those who prefer simplicity. The cool-touch handles stood out to me as a thoughtful safety feature, especially since I tend to multitask while cooking.

The removable enamel cook well is a lifesaver for cleanup. After roasting a generous cut of beef, I was able to easily lift out the cook well, give it a quick rinse, and toss it in the dishwasher. The stainless steel rack with lift-out handles is another practical addition, as it made maneuvering larger dishes like poultry much simpler.

However, at 17.56 pounds, it’s not the most portable kitchen appliance. Moving it around between counters took a bit of effort, though this weight does contribute to its sturdy and durable feel.

Cooking Performance and Features

The highlight of this roaster oven is its Circle of Heat technology, which ensures even cooking by heating food from the sides rather than the bottom. I roasted a 15-pound turkey using this appliance, and the results were impressive. The meat was moist and evenly cooked, with a golden-brown skin that had my family asking for seconds.

The temperature control is intuitive, and the wide range is perfect for different types of recipes. I experimented with baking cookies at the lower end of the scale and roasting vegetables at a higher temperature, and both turned out beautifully.

Steaming vegetables was another pleasant surprise. The roaster oven managed to lock in the vibrant colors and flavors, which is not something I typically expect from a multi-purpose appliance. That said, the programmable touch controls could be slightly more responsive, as there was a minor delay when adjusting the settings.

Key Benefits

This product offers several standout features that make it a worthwhile addition to your kitchen:

• Versatility: From roasting a turkey to baking a pie, this oven handled every task I threw at it.
• Ease of Cleaning: The removable cook well and dishwasher-safe components simplify post-meal cleanup.
• Even Cooking: The Circle of Heat technology ensures consistent results, eliminating the risk of overcooked or undercooked sections.
• Large Capacity: Its 18-quart size is ideal for preparing meals for families or gatherings.

Shortcomings

While the NESCO roaster oven excels in many areas, there are a few less favorable aspects to consider:

• Size and Weight: At nearly 18 pounds, it’s not the easiest appliance to move or store, especially in smaller kitchens.
• Touch Controls: The programmable feature, while handy, could be more responsive for smoother adjustments.
• Limited Accessories: It comes with a rack and cook well, but additional accessories like a divider insert would have been a welcome addition.

Competing Products

When comparing this roaster oven to similar products like the Hamilton Beach 22-Quart Roaster Oven, a few differences become apparent. The Hamilton Beach model offers a slightly larger capacity, which might appeal to those frequently cooking for large groups. However, I found that the Circle of Heat technology in the NESCO oven provided more even cooking results compared to the bottom-heating element of its competitor.

On the other hand, the Proctor Silex Roaster Oven is another option, known for its affordability. While it’s a budget-friendly choice, it lacks the programmable thermostat and durable enamel cook well found in the NESCO model. For me, the NESCO oven strikes a better balance between features and performance, making it a more versatile choice.

Value for Money

Considering the features and performance of this roaster oven, it delivers great value for its price range. The combination of versatility, ease of use, and consistent cooking results makes it a sound investment, especially for those who cook frequently or host family gatherings.

Compared to some higher-end models, this oven provides a similar level of functionality without the hefty price tag. Given its durability and multi-functionality, it’s a purchase that feels justified for anyone looking to simplify their kitchen routine without compromising on quality.

The NESCO MWR18-14 Roaster Oven has proven itself to be a reliable and practical addition to my kitchen. From its user-friendly design to its ability to handle a variety of cooking tasks, it’s clear that this appliance was built with home cooks in mind. While it’s not without its imperfections, the positives far outweigh the negatives, making it a product I’d happily recommend to others.

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