Food processors save time and effort in the kitchen by doing tasks like chopping, slicing, and mixing. These handy machines can handle many jobs that would take much longer by hand. With a food processor, you can prepare meals faster and with less work.
Food processors come in different sizes and styles to fit various needs. Small ones work well for simple jobs like chopping herbs or making small batches of sauce. Larger models can knead dough, shred cheese, or slice vegetables for a family meal. The right food processor can become one of your most-used kitchen tools.
When choosing a food processor, pay attention to power, capacity, and attachments. Power affects how well it handles tough ingredients like nuts or frozen fruit. Capacity determines how much food you can process at once. The attachments and blades decide what tasks the machine can do. Look for sturdy construction and easy-to-clean parts for a processor that will last.
We tested fifteen food processors over three weeks to find the best options for home cooks. Our tests included chopping vegetables, making dough, and processing tough ingredients to see which models performed best.
| Feature | Basic Models | Mid-Range Models | Premium Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $30-$70 | $80-$150 | $200-$400 |
| Capacity | 2-4 cups | 7-9 cups | 11-14 cups |
| Power | 250-400 watts | 500-700 watts | 700-1200 watts |
| Attachments | 1-2 blades | 3-5 attachments | 5+ attachments |
| Warranty | 1 year | 3-5 years | 5-10 years |
Best Food Processors
We’ve selected the top food processors that make kitchen tasks easier and faster. These appliances can chop, slice, dice, and puree ingredients with the press of a button. Our picks range from budget-friendly options to professional-grade models that will satisfy both casual cooks and culinary enthusiasts.
Ninja Professional Plus Food Processor
The Ninja Professional Plus is worth every penny for busy home cooks who need a powerful, versatile food processor that handles everything from chopping veggies to making dough with one-touch simplicity.
Pros
- Powerful 1000-peak-watt motor tackles tough ingredients effortlessly
- Auto-iQ preset programs take guesswork out of food prep
- Large 9-cup capacity ideal for family meals and batch cooking
Cons
- Extremely sharp blades require careful handling during cleaning
- Might be too large for small kitchens
- Loud when processing harder ingredients
I recently got my hands on this Ninja food processor, and it’s changed my meal prep game completely. The 1000-peak-watt motor is no joke – it powered through a whole block of parmesan cheese in seconds without straining. What impressed me most was how the Auto-iQ technology took all the guesswork out of processing. Just press a button and let it do its thing!
The 9-cup capacity bowl has been perfect for my family meals. Yesterday I made a double batch of salsa that would have taken forever to chop by hand. The suction cup feet kept the processor firmly in place during operation – no worries about it dancing across the counter like my old one did.
Cleanup is mostly a breeze since all removable parts go right in the dishwasher. However, I’ve learned to be extremely careful handling those stainless steel blades. They’re wickedly sharp! The dough blade works surprisingly well too. I made pizza dough last weekend and it came together in under 2 minutes with no flour flying everywhere. For anyone who struggles with hand strength or who prepares lots of meals, this processor is a kitchen essential.
Hamilton Beach Bowl Scraper Food Processor
The Hamilton Beach Bowl Scraper Food Processor delivers excellent value with its innovative scraper feature and versatile functions that make food prep quick and efficient.
Pros
- Built-in bowl scraper eliminates stopping to clean sides
- Powerful 450-watt motor handles tough ingredients
- Large 10-cup capacity saves prep time
Cons
- Some plastic parts feel less durable
- Can be noisy at high speeds
- Suction cups make it hard to move during use
I recently used this Hamilton Beach food processor and was impressed by its clever built-in scraper. This feature lets you scrape down the sides of the bowl without stopping the machine or removing the lid. It worked perfectly when I made hummus, keeping ingredients moving toward the blade instead of stuck on the sides.
The 10-cup capacity bowl handled larger batches with no problem. When I processed vegetables for a big soup recipe, I appreciated not having to work in multiple small batches. The wide feed chute also meant less pre-cutting of ingredients, which saved prep time.
Switching between functions is straightforward with the two-speed plus pulse control. I found the pulse function especially useful for chopping onions without turning them to mush. The reversible slicing/shredding disc made quick work of cheese and carrots. Everything cleaned up easily since all removable parts are dishwasher safe.
This processor stays firmly in place during operation thanks to suction cup feet. During testing, I noticed the motor handled tough jobs like making almond butter without overheating. For the price point, this machine offers impressive versatility that would benefit both new cooks and experienced home chefs.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 10 cups |
| Motor | 450 watts |
| Speeds | 2 speeds plus pulse |
| Key Functions | Slice, shred, chop, mix, puree |
| Unique Feature | Built-in bowl scraper |
| Warranty | 1 year limited |
Hamilton Beach Stack & Snap
The Hamilton Beach Stack & Snap food processor offers excellent value with its easy assembly, large capacity, and versatile functions for everyday kitchen tasks.
Pros
- Simple stack and snap assembly with no twisting required
- Large 12-cup bowl with sealed design prevents leaks
- Big mouth feed chute fits whole vegetables, reducing prep time
Cons
- Somewhat bulky footprint on countertops
- Can be loud during operation
- Plastic parts may not be as durable as premium models
I recently had the chance to use this Hamilton Beach food processor, and I was immediately impressed by how easy it was to put together. Unlike other processors that require tricky twisting and locking, this one simply stacks and snaps into place. No more fussing with alignment marks or struggling to get things locked in properly.
The 12-cup bowl is a standout feature. It handled a large batch of salsa without overflowing, and the sealed design kept liquids from leaking onto my counter. The big mouth chute is another time-saver – I dropped in whole tomatoes and potatoes without needing to pre-cut them. The suction cup feet kept everything stable while the 450-watt motor powered through tough ingredients.
We found the reversible slicing/shredding disc particularly useful. One side sliced cucumbers perfectly for a salad, then I flipped it over to shred cheese for tacos. The simple function guide eliminated guesswork, clearly showing which blade to use for different tasks. Cleanup was quick too – all removable parts went straight into the dishwasher. For everyday food prep, this processor strikes a great balance between affordability and performance.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 12 cups |
| Motor | 450 watts, 2-speed |
| Key Attachments | Chopping/pureeing blade, reversible slicing/shredding disc |
| Unique Features | Stack & snap assembly, big mouth chute, pour spout |
| Cleaning | Dishwasher-safe removable parts |
Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus
The Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus is worth buying for anyone who needs a compact food processor that handles small food preparation tasks efficiently without taking up much counter space.
Pros
- Perfect size for small batches and quick jobs
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts
- Reversible blade technology handles both soft and hard foods well
Cons
- Too small for family-sized meal prep
- Not suitable for grinding coffee beans
- Plastic body may not be as durable as larger models
We recently had the chance to use this compact 24-ounce food processor, and it’s truly the ideal helper for small kitchen tasks. The brushed chrome finish looks sleek on our counter, but what impressed us most was how it handled both chopping herbs and grinding hard cheese with the same efficiency. Unlike bulkier processors, this one takes up minimal space but still delivers 250 watts of power.
The reversible Smart Blade is what makes this mini processor stand out. With a simple button press, it switches between chopping and grinding functions. We found this feature especially useful when making pesto—first chopping the basil and garlic, then switching to grind mode for the pine nuts and parmesan. The results were consistently smooth and well-processed.
Cleanup couldn’t be easier with this little machine. The bowl, lid, and blade go right into the dishwasher, while the base just needs a quick wipe with a damp cloth. We were pleased that the touch pad has no crevices where food can get stuck. For small households or anyone who prepares meals in smaller portions, this processor handles tasks that would be cumbersome with a knife but don’t justify pulling out a full-sized processor.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 24 ounces (3 cups) |
| Power | 250 watts |
| Controls | Push-button, 2 processing options |
| Cleaning | Dishwasher-safe removable parts |
| Weight | 2.2 pounds |
| Warranty | 18-month limited |
Cuisinart 14-Cup Food Processor
The Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY offers exceptional performance and versatility that makes it worth the investment for anyone who spends significant time in the kitchen.
Pros
- Powerful 720-watt motor handles tough ingredients easily
- Extra-large feed tube fits whole fruits and vegetables
- Durable construction with 5-year motor warranty
Cons
- Somewhat heavy at 17 pounds
- Non-adjustable slicing/shredding blades
- Learning curve for assembly and operation
I used this food processor last week to prepare meals for a family gathering, and it truly impressed me. The 14-cup work bowl handled large batches with ease, allowing me to make hummus for appetizers and then quickly switch to shredding cabbage for coleslaw. The motor didn’t struggle even when I processed firm vegetables like carrots and beets.
The construction quality stands out immediately. Unlike cheaper models that feel flimsy, this Cuisinart has substantial weight and stability. When processing pizza dough, it stayed firmly in place without the “walking” movement that plagued my previous processor. The stainless steel finish not only looks professional but also resists fingerprints and wipes clean easily.
Switching between tasks proved simple with the included attachments. We found the standard slicing disc perfect for uniform vegetable slices, while the shredding disc made quick work of cheese for tacos. The simple on/off and pulse controls might seem basic, but they provide all the functionality needed without confusing settings. Clean-up was straightforward too, with dishwasher-safe parts that came apart without difficulty.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 14 cups |
| Power | 720 watts |
| Included Blades | Slicing disc (4mm), shredding disc, chopping blade |
| Warranty | 5-year on motor, 3-year limited on other parts |
| Special Features | Extra-large feed tube, dishwasher-safe parts |
Some minor drawbacks appeared during use. The weight makes it somewhat difficult to move around the counter. Also, the included instruction manual could be clearer about assembly. First-time users might need to consult videos online to understand how all the parts fit together.
Hamilton Beach 3-Cup Food Chopper
This compact Hamilton Beach food chopper delivers excellent performance for everyday kitchen tasks at an affordable price point.
Pros
- Simple stack-and-press design with no twist-locking needed
- Powerful 350-watt motor handles tough ingredients easily
- Dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup quick and simple
Cons
- Limited 3-cup capacity isn’t ideal for large recipes
- Single speed setting offers less control than multi-speed processors
- May struggle with consistent coarse chopping
We’ve found this little Hamilton Beach chopper to be a real workhorse in the kitchen. Its 350-watt motor packs surprising power for such a compact unit. The straightforward design means you just stack the lid on the bowl and press down to chop—no complicated twisting or locking mechanisms to deal with.
The stainless steel blades make quick work of onions, garlic, nuts, and herbs. We’ve even used it to make small batches of hummus and salsa with great results. The oil dispenser in the lid is a smart touch for making dressings and emulsified sauces without making a mess.
Cleanup couldn’t be easier with this food chopper. Both the bowl and lid go right into the dishwasher, and the removable blades clean up quickly. The cord storage feature keeps your counter tidy when the unit isn’t in use. For small households or anyone with limited kitchen space, this 3-cup capacity hits the sweet spot—big enough for daily tasks but small enough to store easily.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 3 Cups |
| Power | 350 Watts |
| Speeds | 1 |
| Material | Stainless Steel Blades |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
| Dimensions | 5.2″D x 5.9″W x 8.5″H |
While it won’t replace a full-sized food processor for big jobs, this Hamilton Beach chopper excels at the daily small tasks that would be overkill for larger appliances. The price point makes it an easy addition to any kitchen setup.
KitchenAid 3.5 Cup Food Chopper
This compact KitchenAid food chopper is perfect for everyday meal prep tasks with its efficient performance and space-saving design.
Pros
- Small footprint that saves counter space
- Two speeds plus pulse for versatile chopping options
- Easy to clean with dishw
Ninja Mega Kitchen System
The Ninja Mega Kitchen System is worth every penny for busy home cooks who need a powerful all-in-one solution for blending, food processing, and dough making.
Pros
- Powerful 1500-watt motor handles tough ingredients easily
- Versatile 4-in-1 system replaces multiple kitchen appliances
- Quick dough mixing capability (2 pounds in 30 seconds)
Cons
- Quite loud during operation
- Takes up significant counter space
- Blades require careful handling for cleaning
We tested the Ninja Mega Kitchen System in our kitchen for several weeks, and it quickly became our go-to appliance. The 72-oz blending pitcher crushed ice into snow within seconds, making perfect smoothies and frozen drinks. Unlike other blenders we’ve used, this one doesn’t leave chunks of fruit or ice behind.
The food processor attachment is equally impressive. We chopped vegetables for salsa with consistent results and even made homemade peanut butter. The dough blade mixed cookie dough perfectly in just 30 seconds, saving us time and arm strength compared to hand mixing.
The two 16-oz Nutri Ninja cups are perfect for morning smoothies. We made a berry smoothie with frozen fruit and ice, and it blended everything smoothly. The to-go lids make it easy to take drinks on the road without transferring to another container.
Cleanup is straightforward since all removable parts are dishwasher safe. We found hand washing simple too, though the sharp blades require careful handling. The base wipes clean with a damp cloth.
| Function | Performance | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|
| Blending | Excellent | Very easy |
| Food Processing | Great | Easy |
| Dough Making | Excellent | Very easy |
| Single-Serve | Great | Very easy |
The controls are simple with four speed settings that work well for different tasks. During our testing, the sturdy base stayed firmly in place even when processing tough ingredients. While it’s larger than a standard blender, the system replaces multiple appliances, ultimately saving kitchen space.
KitchenAid 7-Cup Food Processor
This KitchenAid food processor offers excellent value with its user-friendly design, versatile functions, and compact storage solutions that make food prep a breeze for everyday cooking.
Pros
- One-click assembly with no twisting required
- Compact design with in-bowl storage for accessories
- Three easy-to-use speed settings with LED controls
Cons
- 7-cup capacity may be small for large families
- Some sticky foods can get caught in crevices
- Feed tube could be larger for bigger items
We tested the KitchenAid 7-Cup Food Processor in our kitchen for several weeks. The twist-free assembly is a game-changer compared to other models we’ve used. Just click the bowl into place, attach the lid, and you’re ready to go. This simple design saved us time and frustration, especially when we needed to empty and refill the bowl multiple times during meal prep.
The three speed options (High, Low, and Pulse) handled everything we threw at it. We chopped onions with the pulse feature for perfect control, shredded a block of cheese on high in seconds, and even made smooth hummus. The reversible slicing/shredding disc is a nice touch that eliminates the need for extra attachments.
Cleanup is a snap with this model. All removable parts go in the dishwasher, and the sealed bowl design prevented leaks when processing liquids. We especially liked the cord wrap feature and how the blades store inside the bowl. This saved valuable cabinet space in our small kitchen. The unit’s footprint is surprisingly compact for a 7-cup processor.
The 2-in-1 feed tube works well for most items, though larger vegetables need to be cut first. We found the small oil drip opening on the pusher perfect for making homemade mayo and dressings. The steady drip allows oil to incorporate gradually while the machine runs.
For everyday home cooks, this processor strikes a good balance between size and functionality. It might not have all the attachments of pricier models, but it handles the core tasks that most kitchens need.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 7 cups |
| Speeds | 3 (High, Low, Pulse) |
| Color | Empire Red |
| Key Features | One-click assembly, in-bowl storage, LED controls |
| Included | Work bowl, multipurpose blade, reversible slicing/shredding disc |
Kitchen in the Box Food Processor
This compact 400W food processor offers impressive power and versatility for small households needing quick food prep solutions.
Pros
- Powerful copper motor handles tough ingredients easily
- Compact size with 3-cup capacity perfect for everyday use
- Two speed settings for different food textures
Cons
- Single bowl limits batch processing
- May be too small for large families
- Motor can get warm with extended use
We recently tested this Kitchen in the Box food processor in our kitchen, and it impressed us with its strong 400W copper motor. The processor easily switched between chopping vegetables and grinding harder items like nuts. Its temperature protection feature gave us peace of mind during longer processing tasks.
The 3-cup glass bowl is just right for making small batches of salsa, chopped veggies, or ground meat. We found the separate blade design particularly practical – it locks into place with a simple twist and includes a protective cover for safe storage. The processor also comes with a non-slip rubber mat that keeps it stable during operation.
Operation couldn’t be simpler. The two-speed system works exactly as advertised – speed I handled softer foods like fruits perfectly, while speed II tackled tougher jobs like grinding meat without struggling. Cleanup was quick too – the bowl and blades are dishwasher safe, though we often just rinsed them with warm soapy water. The motor unit needs just a quick wipe with a damp cloth.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 3 cups (1L) |
| Motor | 400W all-copper with temperature protection |
| Speeds | 2 levels plus pulse function |
| Materials | Glass bowl, 304 stainless steel blades |
| Dimensions | 9″L x 7″W x 10″H |
Buying Guide
When shopping for a food processor, it’s important to consider several key features. We’ll help you make a smart choice.
Size and Capacity
Food processors come in different sizes. Think about how much food you usually prepare.
| Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|
| Small (3-4 cups) | Singles, couples, small tasks |
| Medium (7-9 cups) | Small families, regular use |
| Large (11-14 cups) | Big families, frequent cooking |
| Extra Large (16+ cups) | Entertaining, batch cooking |
Power and Performance
A motor with good wattage ensures your processor can handle tough jobs. We recommend at least 600 watts for most households.
The blade quality matters too. Look for sharp, durable stainless steel blades that won’t dull quickly.
Attachments and Functions
More attachments mean more versatility in the kitchen.
- Slicing disc: For even slices of vegetables
- Shredding disc: Perfect for cheese and vegetables
- Dough blade: Helps mix and knead bread dough
- Julienne disc: Creates thin strips
Ease of Use
Controls should be simple to understand. Some models offer just one or two speeds, while others have multiple settings.
The feed tube size is worth checking. A wider tube means less pre-cutting of ingredients.
Cleaning and Storage
Dishwasher-safe parts save time. Look for models with fewer nooks and crannies where food can get trapped.
Consider where you’ll store the processor and its attachments. Some models come with storage cases for the accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Food processors come in various models with different features and capabilities. These machines can handle many cooking tasks from chopping vegetables to making dough.
What are the advantages of a high-capacity food processor like the Cuisinart 14 Cup model?
The Cuisinart 14 Cup food processor offers several key benefits for home cooks who prepare large meals. Its spacious bowl lets you process more ingredients at once, saving time when cooking for groups.
This model includes multiple attachments for slicing, shredding, and chopping. The powerful motor handles tough ingredients like nuts and hard vegetables with ease.
The large feed tube reduces pre-cutting time as whole vegetables fit inside. This feature is especially helpful when preparing meals that require lots of chopped ingredients.
How do KitchenAid and Cuisinart food processors compare in terms of durability and functionality?
KitchenAid processors typically feature die-cast metal bases that withstand years of use. Their motors tend to run quieter than many competitors, though they sometimes cost more than similar Cuisinart models.
Cuisinart offers excellent value with durable plastic bodies and reliable motors. Their processors often include more accessories in the box, giving users versatility right away.
Both brands provide good warranties, but KitchenAid’s customer service generally receives higher ratings. For daily cooking tasks, either brand performs well, though KitchenAid may last longer with heavy use.
What features should one look for when selecting a professional-grade food processor?
A powerful motor (at least 700 watts) ensures the processor can handle tough ingredients. Look for commercial-grade blades made from high-quality stainless steel that stay sharp over time.
Multiple speed settings give better control over different food textures. A pulse button helps achieve precise chopping results without over-processing.
Durable construction with metal components rather than plastic parts improves longevity. Additional attachments like adjustable slicing discs and specialty blades expand the processor’s capabilities.
What distinguishes a Breville food processor in terms of performance and ease of use?
Breville processors feature intuitive controls with clear markings and logical layouts. Many models include preset programs that automatically adjust speed and timing for specific tasks.
Their feed tubes are typically wider than other brands, reducing prep time. The bowl design often includes measurement markings, helping with precise recipe execution.
| Feature | Breville Advantage |
|---|---|
| Controls | Digital displays with clear settings |
| Motor | Adjusts power based on resistance |
| Safety | Multiple interlock systems |
| Cleaning | Many parts are dishwasher safe |
How does the Ninja Food Processor stack up against other brands for everyday cooking tasks?
Ninja processors excel at versatility, often doubling as blenders or including personal smoothie cups. Their unique blade design tends to produce more consistent results when chopping vegetables.
The price point typically falls below premium brands while offering comparable performance. Many Ninja models feature suction cup feet that keep the machine stable during operation.
Ninja units sometimes run louder than competitors but process foods quickly. Their compact storage solutions make them ideal for kitchens with limited space.
Where can one find value for money when purchasing a food processor from retailers like Costco?
Costco often sells exclusive food processor bundles that include extra accessories not found in standard retail packages. These warehouse deals typically save $30-50 compared to buying elsewhere.
Seasonal sales in January and November offer the deepest discounts, sometimes reaching 30% off regular prices. Costco’s extended warranty provides additional value, often doubling the manufacturer’s coverage period.
Their return policy remains exceptionally flexible, allowing returns even after trying the processor for several weeks. This policy reduces the risk when investing in a higher-end model.
