Nesco MWR18-14 Roaster Oven 18 Quart review versatile kitchen appliance insights

Description

Compact and Versatile Design

The Nesco MWR18-14 Roaster Oven boasts a sleek yet practical design that perfectly suits any kitchen setup. With its 18-quart capacity, this roaster is a true workhorse, capable of handling everything from a whole turkey to smaller batches of cookies. I particularly appreciated the removable enamel cookwell, which made cleaning up after a hearty meal much less of a hassle. The inclusion of cool-touch handles is a thoughtful touch, ensuring safety when moving the unit around, especially when it’s packed with piping hot food. Its clean white finish blends seamlessly with most modern kitchen aesthetics, though I did wonder if it might stain or show wear over time with frequent use.

Performance and Temperature Control

Cooking with this roaster oven was a breeze, thanks to its adjustable thermostat ranging from 200 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. I found this feature incredibly useful for preparing a variety of dishes. Whether it’s a slow-cooked soup or a perfectly roasted chicken, the versatility blew me away. The Circle of Heat element ensures even cooking, distributing heat around the food instead of just from the bottom. It’s definitely an upgrade from traditional ovens, which can sometimes leave unevenly cooked spots. However, I noticed that achieving precise temperatures required a bit of practice, as the dial doesn’t have digital precision.

Ease of Use and Cleaning

One of the key benefits of this roaster is its user-friendly design. The stainless steel rack with lift-out handles is a fantastic addition, making it easy to remove larger items without causing a mess. I’ve used it to bake, roast, and even steam vegetables, and I was genuinely impressed by how straightforward the process was. The dishwasher-safe cookwell is a lifesaver for those of us who dread scrubbing pots and pans. However, the roaster’s size does make it a bit cumbersome to store if you have limited kitchen space.

Highlights

• Large 18-quart capacity for versatile cooking options.
• Circle of Heat element ensures even heat distribution.
• Removable cookwell for easy cleaning and convenience.
• Adjustable thermostat caters to a wide range of recipes.

Areas for Improvement

While the Nesco roaster oven is a phenomenal tool, there are a few flaws worth mentioning.

• The temperature dial lacks digital precision, which may not suit perfectionists.
• Its size can be challenging to store, especially in smaller kitchens.
• The white finish might require extra care to maintain its look over time.

Competing Products

In comparison to similar products on the market, such as the Hamilton Beach 22-Quart Roaster Oven or the Rival Roaster Oven, this Nesco model holds its own with unique features like the Circle of Heat element and programmable thermostat. The Hamilton Beach option offers a slightly larger capacity, which might be appealing for those hosting large gatherings frequently. However, I found Nesco’s removable enamel cookwell and ease of cleaning to be a significant advantage over its peers. Rival’s roaster is more affordable but lacks the same quality build and even heat distribution, which might matter for anyone serious about consistent cooking results.

Value for Money

From my experience, the Nesco roaster oven delivers bang for the buck. Its versatility, ease of use, and thoughtful safety features make it worth considering for anyone who loves to cook or entertain. While it’s not the cheapest option, the additional features like the removable cookwell and Circle of Heat technology justify the cost for those willing to invest in a reliable kitchen appliance. If you’re someone who values easy cleanup and consistent results, this roaster’s performance makes it feel worth every penny.

Additional information