You’re staring at a frozen chicken breast, and it’s 6 PM. You want a healthy dinner, but you don’t want to wait an hour for the oven to preheat, then another 45 minutes to cook. Sound familiar? The Nuwave Pro Plus 2 Infra-Red Oven promises to solve this exact problem, cooking from frozen up to 50% faster than a conventional oven. This review dives deep into the Pro Plus 2, a countertop convection oven that uses infrared, conduction, and convection to deliver crispy, juicy results. We’ll explore its features, compare top models, and help you decide if it’s the right addition to your kitchen. If you’re exploring countertop cooking, you might also want to check our air fryer guides for more options.
Pros
- Effectively renders fat for healthier meals, as supported by clinical data.
- Cooks from frozen perfectly, saving time on meal prep.
- Replaces both a microwave and an air fryer, freeing up counter space.
- Easy to clean and the transparent dome allows monitoring without opening.
- Lightweight and easy to store when not in use.
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space (14.5 x 15.5 x 12.88 inches).
- Exterior can get hot during use, requiring caution for placement.
- Limited temperature range (50-350°F) may not suit all baking or roasting needs.
The Nuwave Oven Pro Plus 2 is a countertop convection oven and air fryer that combines advanced infrared technology with a transparent dome design. It is aimed at health-conscious cooks and families who want to cut down on fat without sacrificing flavor or convenience. This appliance can replace a microwave, air fryer, and traditional oven for many everyday tasks.
Standout features include the triple combo cooking system that cooks food from the inside and outside simultaneously. This not only locks in moisture but also renders out unhealthy fats up to 250% more effectively than a conventional oven. The transparent Power Dome lets you watch your food cook without opening the door, so you never lose heat or moisture. Real-world performance is excellent, with users reporting perfectly cooked frozen foods, crispy fries, and juicy meats.
Build quality is solid: the unit is lightweight at 9.4 pounds and features a dropdown door, button controls, and a 1500-watt heating element. The PFAS-free and BPA-free materials add peace of mind. The capacity is generous for a countertop device, handling up to a 10-pound turkey, and the reversible rack offers two cooking levels. Many owners have owned previous Nuwave models for decades, attesting to its durability.
Potential drawbacks include the unit's footprint, which may be large for small kitchens, and the exterior can get hot during operation. The temperature range tops out at 350°F, which might not be ideal for high-heat broiling or certain baking recipes. Also, the learning curve for button controls is short, but some users may prefer digital displays.
Overall, the Nuwave Oven Pro Plus 2 is a versatile, health-focused appliance that delivers on its promises. It earns high marks for fat reduction, consistent cooking, and the convenience of one-oven meals. If you want to free up counter space by replacing multiple gadgets and prioritize healthier cooking, this is a strong choice.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Nuwave Pro Plus 2
Choosing the right Nuwave Pro Plus 2 model can be tricky with several variations available. Here are the key factors we evaluated to help you pick the perfect one for your kitchen.
Cooking Technology: Triple Combo Power
The heart of the Pro Plus 2 is its triple combo cooking power: infrared, convection, and conduction. This combination cooks food from the inside and outside simultaneously, which is why it can handle frozen items without defrosting. Look for models that emphasize this technology, as it directly impacts cooking speed and moisture retention.
All the models we reviewed feature this core system, but some list it more prominently. For a deeper dive into how different ovens compare, see our best air fryer toaster oven easy to clean guide, which includes similar appliances.
Capacity and Family Size
Consider how many people you typically cook for. The Pro Plus 2 boasts a family-sized capacity, fitting up to a 10-pound turkey or multiple dishes at once. If you often cook for one or two, a smaller model might suffice, but for families or entertaining, the larger capacity is a game-changer.
Check the product descriptions for specifics on interior dimensions and accessory rings. The standard Pro Plus 2 models all offer similar capacity, so your choice may come down to color or price. For more on versatile cooking, our best digital air fryer toaster oven post covers other multi-functional units.
Health and Safety Features
Many models are marketed as PFAS-free and BPA-free, which is a significant plus for health-conscious cooks. The design also promotes fat reduction by draining drippings away, which can help lower cholesterol. If these factors are important to you, prioritize models that explicitly state these certifications.
All the Nuwave Pro Plus 2 ovens we reviewed are PFAS-free, making them a safe choice. The transparent Power Dome also allows you to monitor cooking without opening the oven, preserving heat and ensuring consistent results.
Final Thoughts
After evaluating the Nuwave Pro Plus 2 Infra-Red Oven lineup, we’re impressed by its speed, versatility, and health benefits. For most households, the Nuwave Pro Plus 2 Infra-Red Oven, Countertop is the standout choice, offering a perfect balance of performance and value. If you prefer a specific color option, the Nuwave Oven Pro Plus Air Fryer in Cozy Blue is equally capable and adds a touch of style to your countertop. Whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy faster, healthier meals with minimal fuss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Nuwave Pro Plus 2 really cook from frozen?
Yes, the Pro Plus 2’s triple combo cooking power is designed to cook frozen foods directly without defrosting or preheating. This can save significant time and is one of its most praised features. In our experience, it handles frozen chicken breasts and fish perfectly.
Is the Nuwave Pro Plus 2 easy to clean?
Absolutely. The liner pan, rack, and dome are all dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. The enclosed design also helps contain splatters, keeping your countertop tidy. For more tips on maintaining kitchen appliances, visit our blog.
What can I cook in the Nuwave Pro Plus 2?
The Pro Plus 2 is incredibly versatile, with 10-in-1 functionality including air frying, roasting, baking, dehydrating, grilling, broiling, reheating, rotisserie, and more. It can handle everything from crispy fries to a whole turkey, making it a true all-in-one appliance.
Does the Nuwave Pro Plus 2 use a lot of electricity?
No, it uses up to 85% less energy than a conventional oven, which can save you money on your utility bills. The efficient design and faster cooking times contribute to its energy savings, making it an eco-friendly choice.
