In-Depth Review of Nesco Roaster Oven MWR18-14 Best Small Appliance for Kitchen

Description

Positive Features That Stand Out

Testing the Nesco MWR18-14 Roaster Oven has been an eye-opener for anyone who enjoys versatile kitchen appliances. Its 18-quart capacity impressed me immediately, as it’s spacious enough to roast a whole turkey or batch-cook cookies without cramming. The removable enamel cook well is a massive convenience. I found it super easy to slide in and out, and it cleaned up seamlessly in the dishwasher—no scrubbing nightmares here. The cool touch handles added a safety level that’s much appreciated, especially when juggling multiple dishes or when my kids curiously hover near the counter.

This roaster’s adjustable thermostat ranging from 200 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit gives precise control, making it suitable for everything from slow roasting to high-heat baking. The programmable touch controls make setting the temperature hassle-free, and it heats up evenly thanks to the unique “Circle of Heat” element. I’ve used this feature to prepare soups, steam vegetables, and poach fish, which all turned out great.

• Large 18-quart capacity fits family-sized meals
• Removable, dishwasher-safe enamel cook well
• Adjustable thermostat for versatile cooking
• Cool touch handles ensure safe handling

Areas for Improvement

Even the best products come with their quirks, and this roaster is no exception. While the side swing door with porcelain enamel material looks robust, I noticed it takes a bit of effort to open smoothly, especially when the unit is hot. It’s not a deal-breaker but can be a minor annoyance. The unit’s weight, around 17.5 pounds, makes it less portable than I initially hoped, so moving it around the kitchen or storing it away isn’t as effortless as with lighter alternatives.

Another little snag is the power source—being fully electric, it requires a dedicated outlet and can consume more electricity than simpler countertop ovens. For those conscious about energy usage, this might be a consideration. Also, the white finish tends to show stains and fingerprints quickly, which means more frequent cleaning is necessary to keep that sleek look.

• Heavy at over 17 pounds, less portable
• Side swing door can be stiff when hot
• Electric power consumption higher than some alternatives
• White enamel finish prone to visible smudges

Design and Build Quality

The Nesco roaster oven’s design impressed me with its practical and user-friendly layout. The full range auto-temperature control is a thoughtful feature, adjusting heat consistently without needing constant monitoring. Its thick insulation keeps the exterior relatively cool, which helps prevent accidental burns. The stainless steel rack included lifts out easily and fits securely inside the enamel cook well, making it perfect for roasting meats or baking.

I appreciated the programmable touch panel, which feels modern and responsive. Its compact dimensions of roughly 24 by 16 inches make it a bit bulky for small kitchens, but the extra room inside compensates for that. The porcelain enamel door adds a sturdy, polished look, but it’s also a fingerprint magnet, as I mentioned earlier. Still, the build quality feels solid and durable enough for everyday use.

Cooking Performance and Versatility

This roaster oven shines in its multi-functionality. I’ve roasted turkeys that came out juicy with a beautiful golden crust, baked pies with even browning, and simmered hearty soups without worrying about boil-overs. The temperature range supports a variety of recipes, from slow cooking at 200°F to faster baking at 450°F. One evening, I even steamed vegetables by adding water beneath the rack, and the results were perfectly tender.

The “Circle of Heat” technology guarantees uniform cooking, which is a blessing when roasting larger poultry or multiple dishes simultaneously. My family enjoyed the diverse meals I prepared, and my kids especially loved the cookies baked in this oven. It’s not just for roasting meats; it handles baking, steaming, and poaching too. You can tell the designers really aimed to make this an all-in-one kitchen solution.

Price to Quality Ratio

Considering what this roaster offers, I think it presents a solid value proposition. The features like the programmable thermostat, removable enamel cook well, and large capacity are typically found in higher-end models. While it might not be the cheapest appliance on the market, the quality for price is impressive. It’s an investment for those who cook often and need an alternative to their conventional oven.

If budget is tight, this might feel a bit on the higher side, but the convenience and versatility justify the spend. For smaller households or casual users, a simpler model could suffice, but anyone who loves experimenting with roasting, baking, or steaming will find this one worth every penny. The energy consumption could add to monthly costs, but the time saved and delicious results balance that out nicely.

Comparison to Other Options

Compared to popular roaster ovens like the Hamilton Beach 22-Quart or the Cuisinart 18-Quart Roaster Oven, this model holds its ground with superior temperature control and build quality. The Hamilton Beach offers a larger capacity but lacks the refined temperature programmability and the removable enamel cook well, which makes cleanup more cumbersome.

The Cuisinart is closer in size and features but tends to run hotter than set temperatures, making precise cooking tricky. The Nesco model’s “Circle of Heat” element gives it an edge in even heat distribution. However, both competitors are generally lighter and sometimes more affordable, so it depends on whether you prioritize versatility and build or portability and price.

User Experience and Practical Use

I’ve noticed that friends and family who’ve tried this roaster oven appreciate its ease of use. The programmable touch controls are intuitive even for those who shy away from tech-heavy appliances. My partner, who isn’t much of a cook, managed to roast chicken effortlessly by setting the temperature and timer, which impressed me.

Cleaning routines became less of a chore thanks to the enamel cook well’s dishwasher compatibility. The cool touch handles also make it safer around kids, as I don’t worry about accidental burns when lifting the rack. The only gripe from my household is the size; it demands a decent countertop space and a sturdy place to rest. It’s definitely not a stealthy appliance hiding in a cabinet.

Drawbacks Worth Noting

Despite its many perks, this roaster oven has some limitations. The weight and bulkiness can be a dealbreaker for those with limited kitchen space. The side swing door isn’t as smooth as I expected, sometimes requiring two hands to open carefully. Its electric nature means it’s less energy-efficient than gas alternatives or smaller toaster ovens.

The white exterior also invites smudges and stains, meaning you’ll likely find yourself wiping it down more often than other colors or finishes. Lastly, while the temperature range is broad, the lack of a digital timer or alert system means you need to pay attention to cooking times manually.

• Bulky and heavy, requiring ample counter space
• Side door mechanism can be stubborn
• Higher electricity use compared to some competitors
• White finish needs frequent cleaning to maintain appearance

This roaster oven offers a blend of traditional roasting with modern controls, making it a practical addition for those who enjoy cooking a variety of dishes.

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