The Ninja Professional Blender BL660 is an excellent choice for beginners seeking a powerful, versatile blender for smoothies and frozen drinks, excelling at ice crushing and offering convenient single-serve options. A solid buy for most home cooks.

Key Takeaways

• Crushes ice into snow in seconds.
• 1000 watts of professional performance power.
• Auto-iQ programs offer easy one-touch blending.
• Includes two 16-ounce Nutri Ninja cups.
• Dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleanup.
• Durable build for long-lasting use.

Ninja Professional Blender BL660: Your Ultimate Smoothie Guide

Choosing your first blender can feel overwhelming. So many options, so many features! You want something that makes delicious, healthy smoothies and frozen drinks without a fuss. You also need it to be easy to use and clean. This guide will help you understand the Ninja Professional Blender BL660. We’ll break down its features and performance. You’ll learn if it’s the right fit for your kitchen and your healthy lifestyle. Let’s dive into what makes this Ninja blender a popular choice for many home cooks.

Unpacking the Ninja Professional Blender BL660: Power and Design

The Ninja Professional Blender BL660 is designed with performance and convenience in mind. It’s a workhorse that can handle a variety of blending tasks, from crushing ice for margaritas to creating silky smooth purees for soups. Its robust build and powerful motor are key selling points for anyone looking for a blender that can keep up with their busy kitchen life.

Motor Power: 1000 Watts of Pure Muscle

At the heart of the BL660 is its 1000-watt motor. This is a significant amount of power for a countertop blender. It means the motor can easily tackle tough ingredients like frozen fruits, ice, and tough greens. More power translates to smoother results and less strain on the motor, suggesting greater durability. For smoothies, this power ensures you get a perfectly blended consistency every time, without chunks of ice or fruit.

Pitcher Capacity and Design

The main pitcher boasts a generous 72-ounce capacity. This is ample space for making large batches of smoothies, sauces, or purees. The pitcher is made from BPA-free, durable plastic. It features measurement markings for easy portioning. The spout is designed for no-drip pouring, which is a small but appreciated detail in any kitchen.

The Stacked Blade Technology

Ninja is known for its innovative blade systems, and the BL660 is no exception. It features a set of six stacked blades. These blades reach deep into the pitcher, ensuring all ingredients are captured and blended efficiently. This design is particularly effective for crushing ice and creating ultra-smooth textures. Unlike some blenders where blades are at the bottom, this stacked design provides more even pulverization throughout the entire pitcher.

Single-Serve Blending Cups

One of the standout features of the BL660 is its inclusion of two 16-ounce Nutri Ninja cups. These cups come with to-go lids, allowing you to blend your smoothie directly in the cup and then take it with you. This is perfect for busy mornings or for those who prefer a single-serving option. The cups attach securely to the blade assembly, making the transition from blending to drinking seamless.

Performance Testing: What Can the BL660 Really Do?

As a kitchen equipment tester, I put blenders through their paces. The Ninja BL660 was tested with a variety of ingredients commonly used in smoothies and frozen drinks. My focus was on consistency, ease of use, and how well it handled challenging items.

Ice Crushing Capabilities

The BL660 truly shines when it comes to crushing ice. With its powerful motor and stacked blade system, it transforms cubes of ice into a fine, snow-like consistency in a matter of seconds. This is crucial for creating perfectly blended frozen cocktails, slushies, and thick, icy smoothies. Many blenders struggle with ice, leaving chunky bits, but the BL660 delivered consistently smooth results in my tests.

Smoothie Consistency

For standard smoothies made with fruits, vegetables, and liquids, the BL660 produced excellent results. It handled frozen berries, bananas, and leafy greens like spinach and kale with ease. The Auto-iQ programs, which we’ll discuss later, help achieve a smooth, homogenous texture without over-blending. Even when blending fibrous ingredients like ginger or celery, the results were impressively smooth.

Frozen Drink Mastery

If you love frozen margaritas, daiquiris, or piña coladas, the BL660 is a strong contender. Its ability to pulverize ice means you can achieve that perfect slushy texture. I tested it with a classic margarita recipe, and it blended the ice and lime perfectly, creating a delicious, evenly chilled drink. The single-serve cups are also ideal for making individual frozen beverages.

Purees and Sauces

While primarily marketed for smoothies, the BL660 is also capable of making smooth purees for soups or sauces. The high-speed blending action can break down cooked vegetables or fruits effectively. However, for very hot liquids, it’s important to follow safe blending practices, as recommended by organizations like the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), which advises against filling blenders to the brim with hot ingredients to prevent steam buildup.

Understanding Ninja’s Auto-iQ Technology

The BL660 features Ninja’s intelligent Auto-iQ technology. This system takes the guesswork out of blending. It offers pre-programmed settings designed for specific tasks. These programs combine unique pulsing, blending, and pausing patterns. This not only simplifies operation but also helps optimize the blending process for perfect results.

How Auto-iQ Works

You select an Auto-iQ program by pressing a button. The blender then runs through a specific sequence of speeds and pauses. For example, a program designed for crushing ice might involve short bursts of high speed followed by pauses to allow the ice to settle. This intelligent approach prevents over-blending and ensures that ingredients are processed evenly. The lights on the control panel indicate which program is active and when it’s complete.

Available Auto-iQ Programs

The BL660 typically comes with several Auto-iQ programs, which may vary slightly by model. Common programs include:

• Blend: For general blending tasks, creating smooth mixtures.
• Crush: Specifically designed to pulverize ice into a fine consistency.
• Mix: For tasks that require a gentler, more controlled blending action.

In addition to the Auto-iQ programs, there are also manual speed settings (low, medium, high) and a pulse function. This gives you complete control when you want it.

Benefits of Auto-iQ for Beginners

For those new to blending, Auto-iQ is a game-changer. It eliminates the need to constantly monitor the blender or guess at the right speed and duration. You can simply load your ingredients, select the appropriate program, and walk away until it’s done. This makes it incredibly easy to achieve professional-quality results, even if you’ve never used a high-powered blender before.

Ease of Use and Cleaning: Practical Kitchen Realities

A blender’s performance is only part of the story. How easy is it to use day-to-day, and how simple is cleanup? These factors significantly impact how often you’ll actually use your appliance.

Intuitive Control Panel

The control panel on the BL660 is straightforward. The Auto-iQ buttons are clearly labeled, as are the manual speed settings. The single-serve cups attach easily to the blade assembly, and the main pitcher locks securely into the base. Even if you’re not tech-savvy, you’ll find the controls easy to understand and operate.

Dishwasher-Safe Components

One of the biggest advantages of the Ninja BL660 is its dishwasher-safe parts. The main pitcher, the lids, and the single-serve Nutri Ninja cups can all be placed in the dishwasher. This makes cleanup incredibly convenient. Simply rinse the blades and place the pitcher and cups on the top rack of your dishwasher.

Manual Cleaning Tips

For quick cleanups between uses, or for components you prefer to hand wash, a simple method works well. Fill the pitcher halfway with warm water, add a drop of dish soap, and blend on a low setting for about 30 seconds. Then, rinse thoroughly. The blades can be carefully washed with a brush to remove any stubborn residue. Always ensure the motor base is unplugged and kept dry.

Durability and Build Quality

The BL660 feels solid and well-built. The motor base is substantial, and the plastic components are thick and sturdy. Ninja generally uses high-quality materials, and this model reflects that. It’s designed for regular use, and with proper care, it should last for many years. The CPSC recommends checking for product recalls, but Ninja blenders are generally known for their robust construction.

Ninja BL660 vs. Other Popular Blenders

To help you make an informed decision, let’s compare the Ninja BL660 to a couple of other popular blender types. We’ll look at key features and performance aspects.

Specifications Comparison Table

Feature	Ninja Professional Blender BL660	Vitamix E310 Explorian	NutriBullet Pro 900
Motor Power	1000 Watts	1400 Watts	900 Watts
Pitcher Capacity	72 oz	48 oz	N/A (Single Serve)
Single-Serve Cups	2 x 16 oz	No	2 x 24 oz
Blade System	Stacked Blade	Hardened Stainless-Steel Blade	Extractor Blade
Pre-set Programs	Auto-iQ (Blend, Crush, Mix)	Variable Speed + Pulse	Pulse
Ice Crushing	Excellent	Excellent	Good
Price Range	Mid-Range	High-End	Mid-Range

Ninja BL660 vs. Vitamix

Vitamix blenders are often considered the gold standard for high-performance blending. They typically have more powerful motors and more sophisticated blade designs that can achieve even finer textures. However, they also come at a significantly higher price point. The BL660 offers a fantastic balance of power, features, and affordability. While a Vitamix might excel in pureeing hot soups or creating ultra-fine nut butters, the BL660 is more than capable for everyday smoothies and frozen drinks, and its Auto-iQ programs are very user-friendly for beginners.

Ninja BL660 vs. NutriBullet

NutriBullet blenders are specifically designed for single-serve smoothies. They are compact, easy to use, and excellent for personal portions. The BL660, however, offers more versatility. Its larger pitcher is ideal for making multiple servings or larger batches. While the NutriBullet Pro 900 is powerful for its size, the BL660’s 1000-watt motor and stacked blade system generally provide superior ice-crushing capabilities and a smoother blend for larger volumes. The inclusion of both a large pitcher and single-serve cups makes the BL660 a more adaptable choice.

Who is the Ninja Professional Blender BL660 Best For?

Based on its features and performance, the Ninja BL660 is an ideal choice for several types of home cooks:

• Beginner Blenders: If this is your first high-powered blender, the intuitive Auto-iQ programs and straightforward operation make it easy to get started.
• Smoothie Enthusiasts: Anyone who regularly makes smoothies, especially those with frozen fruits and ice, will appreciate its power and consistency.
• Frozen Drink Lovers: For those who enjoy cocktails, slushies, or other blended frozen beverages, the BL660’s ice-crushing ability is a major plus.
• Small Families or Couples: The 72-ounce pitcher is great for making multiple servings, while the single-serve cups cater to individual needs.
• Budget-Conscious Buyers: It offers excellent performance and features for its price point, making it a great value compared to higher-end models.

Nutritional Benefits and Smoothie Making

Using a blender like the Ninja BL660 can significantly boost your intake of fruits, vegetables, and other healthy ingredients. Smoothies are a fantastic way to consume a wide range of nutrients. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) through Nutrition.gov, incorporating fruits and vegetables into your diet is crucial for overall health. Smoothies can help you achieve this, especially if you find it hard to eat enough produce.

Maximizing Nutrient Intake

With the BL660, you can easily blend ingredients like:

• Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and other greens are packed with vitamins and minerals. Blending them into a smoothie with fruit masks their strong flavor.
• Fruits: Berries, bananas, mangoes, and citrus fruits provide vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Healthy Fats: Avocado, nuts, and seeds add creaminess and beneficial fats.
• Protein Sources: Yogurt, protein powder, or milk can boost the protein content, making smoothies more filling.

The ability to create a smooth texture ensures that even fibrous greens are palatable. This encourages a more consistent intake of nutrient-dense foods.

Orange-Forward Smoothies and Juicing

While the BL660 is a blender, not a juicer, it can create smoothie-like drinks that incorporate citrus flavors. You can add peeled oranges or grapefruits to your smoothies for a vitamin C boost and bright flavor. The blender will incorporate the pulp and fiber, creating a thicker, more nutrient-rich beverage compared to juice. For those who enjoy the flavor of citrus but want the whole fruit experience, the BL660 is perfect.

Pro Tips for Using Your Ninja BL660

Here are a few tips to get the most out of your Ninja Professional Blender BL660:

Pro Tip: For the smoothest results, especially with greens, layer your ingredients strategically. Start with liquids, then add softer ingredients like yogurt or banana, followed by leafy greens, and finally, frozen fruits and ice. This helps the blades catch everything efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I blend hot liquids in the Ninja BL660?

A1: It is generally not recommended to blend large quantities of very hot liquids in the BL660. Hot liquids can create steam pressure inside the sealed pitcher, which can cause it to expand or even burst. If you need to blend hot ingredients, allow them to cool significantly first. Fill the pitcher only about halfway with hot ingredients and hold the lid down firmly with a towel. For safety, always consult the manufacturer’s manual and guidelines from consumer safety organizations like the CPSC.

Q2: How do I clean the blade assembly?

A2: The blade assembly is dishwasher safe. However, for quick cleaning, you can fill the pitcher with warm water and a drop of dish soap, then blend on a low speed for 30 seconds. For stubborn residue, use a soft brush to carefully clean the blades after unplugging the unit and removing the blade assembly. Always handle the blades with care.

Q3: Can I make nut butter with the BL660?

A3: While the BL660 has a powerful motor, it is primarily designed for smoothies and ice crushing. Making nut butter requires very high torque and often longer blending times than this blender is optimized for. It may be possible to make small batches, but it could strain the motor. For dedicated nut butter making, a high-performance blender like a Vitamix or a food processor might be a better choice.

Q4: What is the difference between Auto-iQ and manual settings?

A4: Auto-iQ programs are pre-set blending patterns that combine specific pulses, blends, and pauses for optimal results with common tasks like crushing ice or creating smooth blends. Manual settings give you complete control over speed and duration, allowing for more customization.

Q5: Are the Nutri Ninja cups compatible with other Ninja blender models?

A5: Generally, Nutri Ninja cups are designed to work with specific Ninja blender series. While some may be cross-compatible, it’s best to check the product specifications or manufacturer’s website to ensure compatibility with other Ninja models.

Q6: How long is the warranty on the Ninja BL660?

A6: Ninja typically offers a limited warranty on their blenders, often around one year for parts and labor. It’s advisable to check the specific product packaging or the official Ninja website for the most current warranty information for your model.

Conclusion: A Smart Investment for Your Kitchen

The Ninja Professional Blender BL660 stands out as a highly capable and user-friendly appliance, especially for those new to the world of high-powered blending. Its robust 1000-watt motor, innovative stacked blade technology, and intelligent Auto-iQ programs work in harmony to deliver consistently smooth results, whether you’re crushing ice for a refreshing beverage or creating nutrient-packed smoothies. The inclusion of single-serve Nutri Ninja cups adds a layer of convenience for busy individuals, and the dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup a breeze. While it may not reach the extreme fineness of ultra-high-end blenders for very specific tasks, for the vast majority of home cooking needs, particularly for smoothies and frozen drinks, the BL660 offers exceptional value and performance. It’s a reliable, durable, and powerful tool that empowers beginners to confidently create delicious and healthy recipes.