findXbeast is reader-supported, which means when you buy through links on this site, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.Read full disclosure.

Best Food Processor For Making Pesto

Affiliate Disclosure
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through these links. Read more

If you’ve ever tried to whip up a vibrant, homemade pesto only to end up with uneven chunks or a soggy mess, you know the right food processor can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll break down the top models that blend speed, power, and precision, so you can achieve that silky, herb‑laden sauce every time. Trust our hands‑on testing and honest reviews to help you pick the perfect kitchen companion for pesto perfection in your own kitchen.

Key Takeaways

  • The top pick features a powerful 1000W motor for fast, smooth pesto blending.
  • Auto-iQ presets simplify pesto making with one-touch convenience.
  • A 9-cup capacity handles large batches without overflow.
  • Precision stainless steel blades ensure consistent, fine chopping.
  • Choose a model with at least 800W power and sharp blades for best results.
Editor’s Choice

Ninja Food Processor

Ninja Food Processor
Auto-iQ Power

Why we choose:

  • Powerful 1000W motor
  • Auto‑iQ one‑touch presets
  • Large 9‑cup capacity

Product Comparison: Best Food Processor For Making Pesto

Auto-iQ Power

Ninja Food Processor, Professional Plus, 1000 Peak Watts, 4 Functions for Chopping, Slicing, Purees & Dough with 9-Cup Processor Bowl, 3 Blades, Food Chute & Pusher, Silver, BN601

Ninja Food Processor, Professional Plus, 1000 Peak Watts, 4 Functions for Chopping, Slicing, Purees & Dough with 9-Cup Processor Bowl, 3 Blades, Food Chute & Pusher, Silver, BN601

Ninja

The Ninja Food Processor Professional Plus packs a 1000‑peak‑watt motor that crushes basil, pine nuts, and cheese into silky pesto with minimal effort. Its Auto‑iQ presets let you select chopping, slicing, pureeing or dough with a single touch, removing guesswork from every recipe.

A generous 9‑cup bowl accommodates large batches, perfect for family‑size sauces or entertaining. Stainless‑steel precision blades deliver even cuts, while the dedicated dough blade handles pizza crusts and bread dough.

Easy‑to‑clean components and a compact footprint make it a versatile, reliable workhorse for any home chef.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • Powerful 1000W motor
  • Auto‑iQ one‑touch presets
  • Large 9‑cup capacity
  • Precision stainless blades
  • Includes dough blade

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • Bulky footprint on counter
  • Higher price point

Check price

14‑Cup Versatility

Cuisinart Food Processor, 14-Cup Vegetable Food Chopper for Mincing, Dicing, Shredding, Puree & Kneading Dough, 720-Watt Motor, Stainless Steel, DFP-14BCNY

Cuisinart Food Processor, 14-Cup Vegetable Food Chopper for Mincing, Dicing, Shredding, Puree & Kneading Dough, 720-Watt Motor, Stainless Steel, DFP-14BCNY

Cuisinart

The Cuisinart 14‑Cup Food Processor delivers a robust 720‑watt motor that quickly turns fresh basil, garlic, and pine nuts into vibrant pesto. Its extra‑large feed tube and spacious bowl let you process sizable portions without stopping, while the included stainless‑steel slicing disc, shredding disc, and chopping blade cover most kitchen tasks.

Simple on/off and pulse controls give you precise timing, and all removable parts are dishwasher‑safe for easy cleanup. Backed by a three‑year limited warranty on the unit and a five‑year motor guarantee, it offers dependable performance for everyday sauces, dips, and small‑batch meals.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • 720W motor power
  • Huge 14‑cup bowl
  • Dishwasher‑safe parts
  • Three‑year unit warranty
  • Versatile disc set

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • No adjustable slicing blades
  • Loud at high speeds
  • Heavy when full

Check price

Side‑Scrape Design

Hamilton Beach Food Processor & Vegetable Chopper for Slicing, Shredding, Mincing, and Puree, 10 Cups + Easy Clean Bowl Scraper, Black and Stainless Steel (70730)

Hamilton Beach Food Processor & Vegetable Chopper for Slicing, Shredding, Mincing, and Puree, 10 Cups + Easy Clean Bowl Scraper, Black and Stainless Steel (70730)

Hamilton Beach

With its generous 10‑cup capacity, the Hamilton Beach Food Processor tackles everything from thin slices to coarse purees, making it a solid choice for pesto lovers. The powerful motor handles pine nuts, basil, and cheese without stalling, while the built‑in side‑scraper eliminates the need for a spatula, ensuring every green leaf ends up in the bowl.

Easy‑click attachments let you switch between shredding, slicing, and mincing in seconds, and the compact footprint fits comfortably on most countertops. Overall, it delivers reliable performance without breaking the bank.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • Large 10‑cup bowl
  • Side‑scraper eliminates spatula
  • Multiple blade attachments
  • Powerful motor for nuts
  • Easy countertop storage

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • Bulky for small kitchens
  • No built‑in timer
  • Plastic components feel cheap

Check price

Stack‑Press Mini

Hamilton Beach Electric Vegetable Chopper & Mini Food Processor, 3-Cup, 350 Watts, for Dicing, Mincing, and Puree, Black (72850)

Hamilton Beach Electric Vegetable Chopper & Mini Food Processor, 3-Cup, 350 Watts, for Dicing, Mincing, and Puree, Black (72850)

Hamilton Beach

The Hamilton Beach Mini Food Processor packs a punch in a 3‑cup frame, ideal for daily pesto batches and quick sauces. Its patented stack‑and‑press lid lets you start chopping with a simple press, while stainless‑steel blades pulverize herbs, nuts, and garlic effortlessly.

A built‑in oil dispenser on the lid makes emulsifying dressings a breeze, and the 350‑watt motor handles tough ingredients without overheating. All removable parts are dishwasher‑safe, and the compact size stores neatly in a drawer, perfect for small kitchens or on‑the‑go cooking.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • Stack‑and‑press operation
  • Oil dispenser lid
  • Dishwasher‑safe parts
  • Powerful 350‑watt motor
  • Compact 3‑cup size

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • Limited bowl capacity
  • No slicing function
  • Plastic bowl may warp

Check price

Dual‑Bowl Power

GANIZA Food Processors, Electric Food Chopper with Meat Grinder & Vegetable Chopper – 2 Bowls (8 Cup+8 Cup) with Powerful 450W Copper Motor – Includes 2 Sets of Bi-Level Blades for Fruits/Meat/Nuts

GANIZA Food Processors, Electric Food Chopper with Meat Grinder & Vegetable Chopper - 2 Bowls (8 Cup+8 Cup) with Powerful 450W Copper Motor - Includes 2 Sets of Bi-Level Blades for Fruits/Meat/Nuts

Ganiza

The GANIZA Food Processor combines a powerful 450‑watt full‑copper motor with two interchangeable bowls—an 8‑cup glass and an 8‑cup stainless steel option—making it ideal for pesto lovers who need both precision and capacity. Its dual stainless‑steel blades effortlessly turn basil, pine nuts, and cheese into a silky sauce in seconds, while the two‑speed control lets you fine‑tune texture.

Safety features like automatic blade stop and overheat protection give peace of mind, and the BPA‑free construction ensures clean, food‑grade handling. Whether you’re whipping up a quick batch or preparing larger meals, this versatile chopper delivers consistent results.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • Powerful 450‑watt motor
  • Two interchangeable bowls
  • Dual stainless‑steel blades
  • Two speed settings
  • Safety auto‑stop feature

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • Overheat pause needed
  • Glass bowl temperature limit
  • Bulky countertop footprint

Check price

Overheat‑Safe Pro

Ganiza Food Processor, 2-Speed Food Chopper Meat Grinder with 8 Cup Stainless Steel & 8 Cup Glass Bowls, Upgraded Button & Smart Overheat Protection Light – Includes Clean Brush, 2 Sets of Blades

Ganiza Food Processor, 2-Speed Food Chopper Meat Grinder with 8 Cup Stainless Steel & 8 Cup Glass Bowls, Upgraded Button & Smart Overheat Protection Light - Includes Clean Brush, 2 Sets of Blades

Ganiza

Ganiza’s 2‑Speed Food Processor offers a sleek ergonomic design with a patented button layout that reduces hand fatigue during extended pesto prep. Featuring the same full‑copper motor and dual 8‑cup glass and stainless steel bowls, it delivers consistent, fine chopping for basil, garlic, and nuts.

The built‑in overheat protection light alerts you before the motor strains, extending lifespan. Its BPA‑free construction and spring‑loaded blades ensure safe, hygienic operation, while the clear visual cues help you achieve the perfect pesto texture every time, whether for a small family dinner or a larger gathering.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • Ergonomic button design
  • Overheat protection light
  • Dual bowl versatility
  • Consistent fine chopping
  • BPA‑free construction

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • Glass bowl shatter risk
  • Limited to 8‑cup capacity
  • No pulse function

Check price

12‑Cup Stack

Hamilton Beach Stack & Snap Food Processor and Vegetable Chopper, BPA Free, Stainless Steel Blades, 12 Cup Bowl, 2-Speed 450 Watt Motor, Black (70725A)

Hamilton Beach Stack & Snap Food Processor and Vegetable Chopper, BPA Free, Stainless Steel Blades, 12 Cup Bowl, 2-Speed 450 Watt Motor, Black (70725A)

Hamilton Beach

The Hamilton Beach Stack & Snap Food Processor makes pesto prep a breeze with its 12‑cup sealed bowl and powerful 450‑watt motor. Thanks to Stack & Snap technology, assembly is quick—no fiddly twist‑locks—so you can start chopping in seconds.

The big‑mouth chute accepts whole potatoes or tomatoes, cutting down on pre‑cutting, while the reversible slicing/shredding disc and stainless‑steel chopping blade handle herbs, nuts, and cheese effortlessly. Suction‑cup feet keep the unit stable on the countertop, and the sealed bowl prevents messy leaks.

Ideal for families who need large batches without sacrificing ease of use.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • Large 12‑cup bowl
  • Easy snap assembly
  • Powerful 450‑W motor
  • Big mouth chute
  • Stable suction‑cup feet

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • Bulky countertop footprint
  • No built‑in timer

Check price

Large‑Feed Chopper

Hamilton Beach Food Processor & Vegetable Chopper for Slicing, Shredding, Mincing, and Puree, 8 Cup, Black

Hamilton Beach Food Processor & Vegetable Chopper for Slicing, Shredding, Mincing, and Puree, 8 Cup, Black

Hamilton Beach

The Hamilton Beach 8‑cup Food Processor blends compact size with versatile performance, perfect for small‑batch pesto and other sauces. Its large feed chute lets you drop a whole block of cheese or a handful of basil without pre‑cutting, while the reversible disc shreds and slices vegetables in seconds.

Two speed settings plus a pulse function give precise control, and the 450‑watt motor handles tougher ingredients like nuts and garlic. The sturdy plastic bowl is dishwasher‑safe, and the unit stores easily in tight kitchens, making it a solid choice for everyday prep.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • Compact 8‑cup size
  • Two speeds plus pulse
  • Reversible slicing disc
  • Large feed chute

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • Smaller overall capacity
  • Plastic bowl less sturdy

Check price

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Buying Guide

Buying Guide: Best Food Processor For Making Pesto

Capacity & Size

  • Match bowl size to typical batch volume
  • Consider overall footprint for countertop storage
  • Check if the unit fits under cabinets
  • Look for removable bowls for easy handling

Performance

  • Higher wattage ensures smoother pesto
  • Variable speed settings for control
  • Consistent torque for tough ingredients
  • Low noise operation is a plus

Blade & Attachments

  • Sharp stainless‑steel blades for fine chopping
  • Dedicated pesto or herb disc improves texture
  • Include additional discs for slicing or shredding
  • Easy‑swap system for quick attachment changes

Ease of Cleaning

  • Dishwasher‑safe parts reduce manual washing
  • Non‑stick bowl interior prevents food sticking
  • Simple disassembly without tools
  • Sealed seals to prevent leaks during cleaning

Safety & Durability

  • Safety lock mechanism prevents accidental start
  • Overload protection extends motor life
  • Robust housing resists wear and scratches
  • Warranty coverage indicates manufacturer confidence

FAQs

What motor power is ideal for making pesto?

A motor of at least 600 watts provides enough torque to crush fresh basil, nuts, and cheese without overheating. Higher wattage models (800‑1000W) can handle larger batches and tougher ingredients more quickly. However, very high‑power units may be overkill if you only make small amounts occasionally.

How important is the bowl capacity for pesto recipes?

A 2‑3‑quart bowl is perfect for most home pesto batches, allowing enough room for ingredients and the blade to circulate. Larger bowls (5+ quarts) are useful if you frequently make pesto for parties or batch‑cook, but they take up more storage space. Choose a size that matches your typical batch volume to avoid waste.

Should I look for a specific blade type?

A stainless‑steel S‑shaped or mini‑chopper blade is best for creating a smooth, evenly emulsified pesto. Some processors include a separate shredding disc for cheese or nuts, which can add texture options. Ensure the blade is removable and dishwasher‑safe for easy cleaning.

Is a food processor with multiple attachments worth the extra cost?

Multi‑attachment models give you flexibility to slice, shred, and knead dough, which can be valuable if you want a single appliance for many tasks. If pesto is your primary use, a simpler processor with a good blade and motor may provide better value. Consider how often you’ll use the extra functions before paying a premium.

How does price relate to overall value for pesto‑making processors?

Mid‑range processors ($100‑$150) often strike the best balance of power, capacity, and durability for pesto. High‑end models may offer quieter operation, premium materials, and longer warranties, but the performance gains for pesto are marginal. Evaluate warranty length and customer reviews to gauge long‑term value.

What cleaning features should I prioritize?

Look for processors with dishwasher‑safe bowls and blades, as pesto can leave oily residue that is hard to scrub by hand. A wide‑mouth opening makes it easier to scrape out stuck ingredients. Some brands also offer a quick‑rinse function that speeds up cleanup.

Does noise level matter when making pesto?

Food processors with insulated housings or lower RPM settings tend to operate more quietly, which is helpful in open‑plan kitchens. While noise isn’t a direct factor in pesto quality, a quieter machine can make the cooking experience more pleasant. Check product videos or reviews for real‑world noise impressions.

Leave a Comment