Tired of a cluttered kitchen counter with a separate blender and food processor taking up valuable space? Imagine having one powerful appliance that can whip up silky smoothies, chop veggies for dinner, knead dough for fresh bread, and even make delicious homemade nut butters – all with interchangeable attachments on a single base. That’s the magic of a food processor blender combo! These versatile kitchen workhorses are designed to streamline your meal prep, save space, and give you professional results without needing multiple machines.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, investing in a multi-functional kitchen system can truly transform your cooking experience. No more switching between bulky gadgets; a good food processor blender combo handles a wide array of tasks, making everyday cooking and entertaining a breeze. We’ve scoured the market to bring you our top 7 picks, each offering unique features to suit different needs and budgets. Let’s dive in and find your perfect kitchen companion!
1. Ninja Mega Kitchen System, 1500W
This Ninja Mega Kitchen System is a true powerhouse, built for those who demand professional performance for their blending and food processing needs. With a formidable 1500-watt motor, it effortlessly tackles everything from crushing ice to snow in seconds to perfectly pureeing ingredients. Its robust design and versatile attachments make it an ideal choice for large families or anyone who loves to entertain. You’ll appreciate the dedicated functions for blending, mixing, crushing, and even single-serving options for your on-the-go lifestyle.
Key Features:
– POWERFUL 1500-WATT MOTOR for professional results.
– TOTAL CRUSHING TECHNOLOGY in a 72-oz. pitcher (64-oz. max liquid capacity).
– Includes two 16-oz. Nutri Ninja Cups with To-Go Lids for on-the-go convenience.
– 8-CUP FOOD PROCESSING bowl with chopping and dough blades (mixes 2 lbs of dough in 30 seconds).
– VERSATILE FUNCTIONS: Blend, Mix, Crush, and Single-Serve.
– 4 Unique Ninja Blades System optimized for every task.
– BPA-Free and dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleaning.
Pros:
– Exceptional power handles tough ingredients with ease.
– Large capacity ideal for families and batch cooking.
– Excellent for crushing ice and making frozen drinks.
– Dough blade is a time-saver for bakers.
– Convenient single-serve cups for smoothies on the go.
Cons:
– Can be quite noisy at higher settings.
– Takes up a fair amount of counter space due to its size.
– Multiple attachments might feel overwhelming for some users.
User Impressions: Customers consistently praise its sheer power and ability to crush ice and blend tough ingredients smoothly. Many highlight the convenience of having both a large blender and a capable food processor in one unit, making meal prep much faster. The dough-making feature is a frequent favorite.
2. Ninja BN801 Professional Plus Kitchen System, 1400 WP
The Ninja BN801 Professional Plus takes Ninja’s trusted kitchen system a step further with a sleek modern design and advanced functionality. Boasting 1400 peak watts of power and Ninja’s innovative Auto-iQ Technology, this system removes the guesswork from food preparation. It features 5 preset programs that automatically adjust speed and pulsing patterns for perfect smoothies, frozen drinks, nutrient extractions, chopped mixtures, and dough every single time. It’s truly a smart food processor blender combo for effortless results.
Key Features:
– 1400 Peak Watts of professional crushing power.
– Ninja Total Crushing Blades for perfectly crushed ice.
– 8-cup Precision Processor Bowl for even chopping and smooth purees.
– 5 VERSATILE AUTO-IQ PROGRAMS for smoothies, frozen drinks, nutrient extractions, chopped mixtures, and dough.
– XL 72 oz. Total Crushing Pitcher (64 oz. max liquid capacity).
– Two 24-oz. single-serve cups with spout lids.
– Powerful dough mixer handles up to 2 lbs. of dough in 30 seconds.
– Includes Stacked Blade Assembly, Chopping Blade, Dough Blade, and Pro Extractor Blades.
Pros:
– Auto-iQ programs simplify complex tasks.
– Excellent for nutrient extraction from fruits and vegetables.
– High power ensures smooth results with tough ingredients.
– Larger single-serve cups than some competitors.
– Modern design and intuitive controls.
Cons:
– Might be loud, a common trait for powerful blenders.
– Still requires significant counter space.
– Some users might prefer full manual control over presets.
User Impressions: Reviewers love the convenience of the Auto-iQ programs, noting how they take the guesswork out of achieving perfect consistency. The ability to make dough quickly and effortlessly is a major plus for many, as is the efficiency in making smoothies and frozen beverages.
3. Ninja QB1004 Blender/Food Processor with 450-Watt Base
For those seeking a more compact and modular solution, the Ninja QB1004 offers impressive versatility with a smaller footprint. Its unique interchangeable 450-watt power pod allows you to switch between a 48 oz. pitcher for blending, a 40 oz. processor bowl for meal prep, and a 16 oz. chopper bowl for quick, even chopping. This system is perfect for smaller kitchens or individuals who don’t need the super-high wattage of larger models but still want a reliable food processor blender combo for everyday tasks.
Key Features:
– Interchangeable 450-watt power pod.
– 48 oz. pitcher for frozen blending and smoothies.
– 40 oz. bowl for food processing and meal preparation.
– 16 oz. chopper bowl for even chopping.
– All jars include convenient storage lids.
– Dishwasher safe and BPA free parts.
– Compact design.
Pros:
– Space-saving modular design.
– Excellent for smaller batches and individual servings.
– Different bowl sizes cater to various chopping and processing needs.
– Easy to clean and store with included lids.
– More budget-friendly than larger Ninja systems.
Cons:
– Lower wattage compared to other Ninja models means less power for very tough ingredients.
– Requires manual pulsing for many tasks rather than preset programs.
– Might struggle with very large batches of thick mixtures.
User Impressions: Users appreciate the QB1004 for its simplicity, compactness, and effectiveness for daily tasks like making single-serve smoothies, chopping vegetables, and blending sauces. The interchangeability of bowls is a big hit, making it a go-to for quick meal prep without occupying too much space.
4. Hamilton Beach Blender and Food Processor Combo for Shakes
The Hamilton Beach Blender and Food Processor Combo is a fantastic value-driven option that doesn’t compromise on essential functionality. This 3-in-1 system includes a durable 40 oz. glass blending jar, a 20 oz. blend-in travel jar, and a 3-cup vegetable chopper attachment. With 700 watts of peak power and the patented Wave~Action® System, it ensures consistently smooth results every time, pulling mixtures down into the blades for thorough blending. It’s an excellent choice for everyday smoothies, shakes, and basic food processing.
Key Features:
– 3-IN-1 VERSATILITY: 40 oz. glass blending jar, 20 oz. travel jar, 3-cup vegetable chopper.
– 700 watts of peak blending performance.
– Patented Wave~Action® System for consistently smooth results.
– Durable 40 oz. glass jar designed to withstand extreme temperatures (hot and cold).
– Drip-free pouring with a no-mess pour spout on the glass jar.
Pros:
– Affordable entry into the food processor blender combo market.
– Glass jar is durable and resistant to temperature changes and odors.
– Wave~Action System ensures smooth blending without chunks.
– Travel jar adds convenience for on-the-go drinks.
– Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons:
– Lower wattage than premium models, might not handle extremely tough ingredients as easily.
– Smaller food processor capacity (3 cups) suitable for light tasks.
– Fewer advanced features or preset programs.
User Impressions: Customers often highlight the Hamilton Beach combo as a great budget-friendly option that delivers reliable performance for smoothies, salsas, and basic chopping. The glass jar is a popular feature for its durability and ease of cleaning, and the Wave~Action system is frequently praised for preventing chunks.
5. Ninja | All-in-One Blender & Food Processor | Best for Heavy Duty Use
Prepare for an ultimate kitchen experience with the Ninja All-in-One Blender & Food Processor. This beast boasts an 1800 peak watt motor, making it the most powerful option on our list, ready to power through even the toughest ingredients. What truly sets it apart is Ninja’s BlendSense technology, which intelligently adjusts speed and time for perfect results. Coupled with a large 72-oz. pitcher, a 64-oz. power food processor bowl with slicing/shredding discs, and a convenient feed chute, this system is designed for serious home cooks and heavy-duty use.
Key Features:
– 1800 PEAK WATT MOTOR BASE for powering through toughest ingredients.
– BLENDSENSE technology automatically adjusts speed and time for perfect results.
– 72-OZ. FULL-SIZE PITCHER for large batches.
– 64-OZ. POWER FOOD PROCESSOR BOWL with feed chute lid & pusher, capable of 2 lbs. of dough.
– Includes SLICING & SHREDDING DISC for versatile food prep.
– VARIABLE SPEED control (10 settings) for manual precision in the pitcher.
– 24 oz. SINGLE-SERVE CUP with spout lid.
– LIQUID DETECT feature alerts when liquid is needed (in single-serve cup).
– Dishwasher safe containers, lids, and blades.
Pros:
– Exceptional power for all tasks, including ice and frozen fruits.
– BlendSense technology offers smart, effortless blending.
– Comprehensive food processing with slicing and shredding discs.
– Variable speed control for precise manual operation.
– Large capacities for both blending and processing.
Cons:
– Highest price point among the reviewed models.
– Large size requires significant counter and storage space.
– Noise level can be considerable due to its powerful motor.
User Impressions: Users rave about the sheer power and smart features of this Ninja All-in-One. The BlendSense technology is particularly lauded for taking the guesswork out of blending. Home cooks appreciate the added slicing and shredding discs, which expand its food processing capabilities significantly, making it a true all-in-one kitchen solution.
6. nutribullet Triple Prep System NBKS50100, Black
The Nutribullet Triple Prep System brings the renowned Nutribullet blending expertise to a versatile, multi-functional kitchen appliance. This elegant system features vessel recognition, illuminating the exact commands you need for each attachment – whether it’s the full-size blending pitcher, single-serve cup, or 7-cup food processor work bowl. Its high-performance motor skillfully handles everything from silky smoothies and nut milks to precise chopping, shredding, slicing, and dicing, providing delicate precision for your culinary tasks.
Key Features:
– Blend full-size, single-serve, or food process on the same base.
– Vessel recognition for specific commands with each attachment.
– High-performance motor for silky smoothies, purees, nut milks, and precise food processing.
– Simple, precise programs for each vessel.
– 7-cup food processor attachment with dual-size food pusher and blades for slicing, shredding, chopping, and kneading dough.
– 64-oz blending pitcher with vented snap-on lid for hot foods and easy-pour spout.
– BPA-free and dishwasher-safe durable plastic pitchers, processor bowl, and cups.
Pros:
– Smart vessel recognition simplifies operation.
– Excellent for both cold and hot food blending (soups, purees).
– Comprehensive food processor functions including dough kneading.
– Nutribullet’s reputation for smooth blending.
– Compact blade storage within the work bowl.
Cons:
– Specific wattage isn’t explicitly listed, which some users might prefer to know.
– Might be less powerful than the highest-wattage Ninja systems for very dense ingredients.
– Only one single-serve cup included.
User Impressions: Users love the intuitive nature of the Nutribullet Triple Prep System, especially the vessel recognition feature which makes it incredibly user-friendly. The ability to blend hot liquids for soups and the comprehensive food processor capabilities receive high marks, confirming its status as a highly versatile kitchen tool.
7. Food Processor and Blender Combo, 88 oz Food Chopper
This all-in-one Food Processor and Blender Combo offers incredible capacity and robust functionality at a competitive price point. Featuring an impressive 88 oz food processor bowl and a 70 oz glass jar blender, it’s designed to handle large-scale food preparation with ease. Its 600W motor, combined with a ManualMaster Control System, provides precise blending and processing with Pulse mode, Chef Mode (Speed 1) for dough and chopping, and High Speed (Speed 2) for smooth purees. Plus, it includes a comprehensive set of blades for various tasks and prioritizes safety with its Double Lock Safety System.
Key Features:
– All-in-One Food Processor & Countertop Blender Combo with 2 versatile BPA-Free cups (88 oz food processor + 70 oz glass jar blender).
– ManualMaster Control System with 600W motor and up to 20,000 RPM.
– Pulse mode, Speed 1 (Chef Mode), and Speed 2 (High Speed) for precise control.
– Double Lock Safety System and ABS blade holder for enhanced safety.
– Durable & User-Friendly with commercial-grade stainless steel blades and ergonomic grip.
– WHAT’S INCLUDED: 600-Watt Motor Base, 70-oz. Glass Jar Blender, 12-cup Precision Processor Bowl, Chopping Blade, Dough Blade, Slicing Blade, Shredding Blade, French Fries Blade.
– 3-year warranty + 12/7 customer service.
Pros:
– Exceptional capacity for both blending and food processing.
– Comprehensive set of blades including French fries blade.
– Double Lock Safety System provides peace of mind.
– Durable glass blender jar.
– Excellent warranty and customer support.
– Affordable for the features and capacity offered.
Cons:
– Lower wattage compared to premium models (600W).
– Manual control system means no advanced Auto-iQ programs.
– May not be as efficient for extremely tough or dense ingredients as higher-wattage units.
User Impressions: Customers are highly impressed with the sheer capacity and the variety of blades included, particularly the French fries blade which is a unique addition. The safety features are often highlighted, and users find the manual control straightforward for achieving desired consistencies. The robust warranty also adds significant value and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Food Processor Blender Combos
Choosing the right kitchen appliance can be a big decision. Here are some common questions to help you understand food processor blender combo systems better:
Q1: What are the main benefits of a food processor blender combo?
A1: The primary benefits include saving counter space by combining two essential appliances into one, offering incredible versatility for various meal prep tasks, and often being more cost-effective than buying a high-quality blender and food processor separately. They simplify your cooking process and clean-up.
Q2: Can a food processor blender combo truly replace separate appliances?
A2: For most home cooks, absolutely! Modern combo systems are designed to perform both blending and food processing tasks with high efficiency. While professional chefs might opt for specialized, heavy-duty machines for extremely specific tasks, a combo unit more than suffices for daily use, offering excellent performance for smoothies, chopping, slicing, pureeing, and even kneading dough.
Q3: What should I look for in terms of wattage or power?
A3: Generally, higher wattage means more power, which translates to better performance with tough ingredients like ice, frozen fruits, and dense dough. For serious blending and processing, look for models with at least 1000 watts. For lighter tasks and smoothies, 450-700 watts can be sufficient.
Q4: Is it easy to switch between the blender and food processor functions?
A4: Yes, most combo systems are designed for easy interchangeability. You typically remove one attachment (like the blender pitcher) and place the food processor bowl onto the same motor base. Many even have smart recognition features or dedicated buttons for each function, making the transition seamless.
Q5: Are food processor blender combos difficult to clean?
A5: Most modern food processor blender combos are designed with ease of cleaning in mind. Their components, such as pitchers, bowls, and blades, are often dishwasher-safe and made from BPA-free materials. However, units with many attachments or complex blade systems might require a bit more attention during cleaning.
Q6: Can these combos handle hot liquids for soups?
A6: Many combo systems, especially those with vented lids or glass pitchers, are designed to handle hot liquids. Always check the product specifications. For example, the Nutribullet Triple Prep System explicitly mentions a vented lid for safely blending hot foods. Using a non-vented lid with hot liquids can build pressure and be dangerous.
Q7: What’s the difference between “peak watts” and continuous watts?
A7: “Peak watts” refer to the maximum power the motor can achieve for a brief moment, often during the initial surge or when tackling a particularly tough ingredient. Continuous watts (or running watts) is the power the motor can sustain over a longer period. While peak watts sound impressive, continuous wattage is often a better indicator of sustained performance. However, for most home appliances, peak watts are a common marketing spec.
We hope this guide helps you find the perfect food processor blender combo to elevate your kitchen game. Happy cooking!
