I think this frugal failure is about at the level of our suitcase disaster. Maybe not quite, but it’s really close! (Only this time, at least we can get our money back!) Whatever the case, I got a good laugh over it once I realized my stupidity. 🙂
After last Freezer Cooking Day and all your rave reviews of how a food processor has changed your life, I started considering whether maybe this was a tool I should invest in.
I spend a lot of time grating cheese and the processor could shave off at least 30 minutes of time each Freezer Cooking Day. I figured I’d recoup the investment pretty quickly just in that time savings alone. Plus, I could use it for chopping veggies and onions. And, based upon what you all said, I could also use it for a myriad of other tasks.
After some thought, I decided to take the plunge. I looked online, compared prices, looked at reviews and finally decided to go with the Cuisinart pictured above.
I was looking forward to the time and effort it was going to save me and I was especially happy that it was going to arrive before my next Freezer Cooking Day.
The box showed up on Tuesday and I tore into it excitedly and pulled it out. My mother’s helper comes on Tuesdays and she was standing nearby while I was telling her how I’d decided to buy one to replace our rusted little cheese grater. She looked over the box and then asked, “Um, how does it grate cheese.”
Um, good question. I don’t know. But it’s a food processor. Don’t all food processors grate cheese?
Well, apparently not all food processors grate cheese and the one I purchased certainly doesn’t. It grinds and chops, but doesn’t have a grating attachment.
Oops.
Needless to say, I felt like a complete doofus for buying something which doesn’t even do what I was specifically buying it for. And I felt even dumber that I didn’t even check the description to make sure the food processor actually grated cheese. That was, after all, kind of the whole idea behind buying it!
I’m planning to return the food processor–unless someone can tell me how I can grate cheese with it (it didn’t appear there was any sort of extra attachment you could buy, but let me know if there is!).
And since I’m obviously not very capable of ordering the right kind of food processor on my own, could you help me out? What brand and model do you recommend? Anything else I need to know before I royally screw up another purchase?!
Kelly says
Great posts…
What about paying for college? My son who was fortunate enough to get accepted to Boston College ($50k per year) can’t go because my we can’t afford it! Now I’m worried about him going to college at all. It hardly seems worth it to get my hopes up.
There is a great site that teaches you how to pay for college in today’s economy. I believe the site is http://www.collegefundingexperts.com.
Have anyone heard of this site? Is it a reliable source?
Chelle says
Also wanted to mention that after some more reviewing (for me and you) that the Handy Prep by Cuisinart (only 3 cups) comes with the discs for shredding and slicing. I brought this up because maybe you really only want a small one. Even, though I am excited and want the larger 12 or 14 cup models… Maybe this would be better instead of what you bought??? The one you have is just like any other ‘chopper.’ I have the cheapo Black and Decker 3 cup (Ergo) and it does the job for chopping but really stinks when it comes to chopping tomatoes or anything with a skin. It just turns to mush. Not at all good for liquids either. If you put more than 1/2 cup in there is overflows. It worked okay for making my son’s baby food. Not a perfect puree, but it worked. I have not tried to chop/shred cheese in it. I don’t think it would work. I would say that for the price it’s perfect for those of you who don’t want to dole out more than $20. You can find it almost anywhere.
jen says
Kitchenaid is worth the money. Here’s their outlet/seconds page. Also, they have a huge sale every July at their HQ in Ohio. The prices are great and they do phone orders. I got one of the highest priced mixers, a few attachments, extra bowl, and some other goodies for about $150
http://www.shopkitchenaid.com/category.asp?CAT=outlet
http://www.kitchenaid.com/flash.cmd?/#/page/inside-kitchenaid-experience-center
Kelly Webster says
Crystal, you can’t go wrong with a Cuisinart. This model grates cheese!
http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11026804&search=cuisinart&Mo=7&cm_re=1_en-_-Top_Left_Nav-_-Top_search&lang=en-US&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&Sp=S&N=5000043&whse=BC&Dx=mode+matchallpartial&Ntk=Text_Search&Dr=P_CatalogName:BC&Ne=4000000&D=cuisinart&Ntt=cuisinart&No=5&Ntx=mode+matchallpartial&Nty=1&topnav=&s=1
Barbara says
I got a Cuisinart the year before I got married. It lasted past our 18th anniversary. It’s Cuisinart replacement is still going strong (and we’re looking forward to anniversary #27!) I still have most of my four kids at home, so you know it gets a lot of use.
Chelle says
I am in the same boat as some of you. I an a reviewaholic and really want to make sure that I am making the right choice. I’m not sure this is possible since everyone uses their food pro for different reasons. I stumbled on this awesome review of the KitchenAid 12 cup.
http://www.kitchenaudition.com/?page_id=189
Here is the review for the Cuisinart 14 c.
http://www.kitchenaudition.com/?page_id=407
I think 12 would be all the bigger I want to go. I really want to see what you go with since you went with the mini prep to begin with. My guess is you want something smaller. I originally wanted a 7 or 9 cup, but then read (on America’s Test Kitchen, Consumer Search, etc.) that as soon as you want to make dough or have larger quantities of liquid it becomes a problem. I am sooo torn. I’ve been looking at food pros for almost a year and I still feel like I am at square one. I love reading everyone’s replies. 🙂
Martha Artyomenko says
Like everyone said, you have to buy a full sized one…I have an 11 cup cusinart. It is great! I personally think that Cusinart is better than Kitchen Aid for big families with the modern style, because with the modern style you cannot fill it up with anything liquid over like 2 c. or it drips everywhere. Salsa is really hard to make in it. My sister has one and it is frustrating! I love mine as I do not have that problem. You can get them at costco for fairly reasonable.
Wendy says
I have had a Cuisinart for the last 10 years. I bought it to make baby food. I make all of my baby food from scratch and went through 3 “cheap” food processors in about 2 months before I took the plunge and bought the Cuisinart. I have since made babyfood for the last 4 kiddos and it’s still going strong. Plus, I use it for all the other kitchen chores I do during the week. 🙂
Lynda says
Didn’t you send the Macy’s sale (25% off) + Ebates info? All their Cusiinart’s are on sale and free shipping. For your volume cooking, I would recommend a large version like 9 or 11 cup. It comes with all the attachments – including a dough hook to help when you are baking! I have not compared eBay yet. Make sure whatever you get has a strong motor and you will be happy for a very long time.
Amanda Y. says
I have no idea, I am in a very similar situation to yours…I got lost in all the reviews, so please post what you decide to go with and whether the next one is a winner! 🙂
Julie says
@Amanda Y., Me too, Amanda! I just went to Amazon and bought a salad shooter (from all the reviews)! Got one from Amazon in the “used” section from their warehouse with a damaged box for $21!
Leah says
Yes, the Mini-Prep is not really a food processor- it is a little grinder/chopper. (You can make some great banana frozen yogurt in it though, out of frozen banana slices and vanilla yogurt.) That’s why it’s cheaper that the bigger ones. We have a Cuisinart and love it- upgraded when I got married from the mini-prep.
Stacey Sharp says
Definitely get a Kitchen-Aide. Mine has a small bowl that fits inside the larger one so you can do smaller batches. It also comes with an attachment for slicing and grating. I bought mine when my oldest child was just starting solid foods and it worked great for baby food. Now I use it all the time to have veggies ready for a quick salad or even puree bananas for banana bread. I found it on sale at Dillard’s so it’s not my color of choice, but it works great!
Kathleen says
I love my Cuisinart processor. I think it was pretty expensive, but I received it as a wedding gift. It looks like you ordered a mini-processor, which is probably why it doesn’t have the extra attachments. Mine is a full-sized one and has 3 different blades. One is just a blade, one is a disc for slicing and the third is a disc for grating. I’ve had it for 7 years now and I LOVE it! I have to say that I’d love a mini-processor, too. My big processor is rather heavy and the parts take up a lot of space in the dishwasher, so it doesn’t make sense to use it for small jobs. And I frequently have small, quick jobs. I do have a mini-processor, but it’s really old (inherited it from my mother-in-law) and it’s not powerful enough (or the blade is too dull?) to chop up carrots or nuts the way I’d like it to. Good luck finding a good processor!
Cheryl says
I own a Black and Decker – have had it for at least 15 years. It grates, and I like it a lot. I use it several times a week. I doubt they have the same model – I did a quick search – but I’m sure their current models are comparable. The first two I looked and read reviews on said they have a grater! 🙂
Sue Morrison says
I have a Kitchen Aid but have used the Cuisinart extensively. You don’t usually need a grater attachment. You can just put hunks of cheese in the food processor and it will grind it up. It’s not as pretty as grated but certainly works in cooking.
Tami says
Does anyone know if the wide mouth (Hamliton Beach) has a grater option?
HeatherO says
I have a Salad Shooter I use to grated my cheese and it also slices. It is the best thing I have purchased and that was about 10 years ago.
Julie says
@HeatherO, Heather, does it just shred cheese, or does it grate it, too?
Heather says
@Julie, Julie, it grates just like a hand held one. We also use it for grated potatoes and cheese.
Christy says
My husband and parents just went in together to be me the 9-cup KitchenAid, which has both slicing and shredding attachments and a mini-bowl that fits inside for smaller jobs. I LOVE it! We’re shredding and slicing our own cheese now, and buying blocks of cheese already seems to be cheaper. I make my own baby food for my 9-month-old as well, and it takes half the time to puree stuff than it did in the blender. Love it!
Patty woodall says
if you are looking for something that grates cheese, the BEST thing in the world is a Salad Shooter….it is good for grating all kinds of things – even soap to make laundry washing detergent. It also comes with a slicing attachment which is great for potatos!
Julie says
@Patty woodall, I just ordered one, Patty! What kind of soap do you grate with it? I’m looking into making my own detergent!
alyssa says
Just wondering if you have a stand mixer. If so, there might be a grater attachment available for it. Then you might forget the food processer if that’s really all you want it for. I use a box grater mostly, but for a big job I use my kitchen-aid mixer for cheese.
Chantel says
I use my salad shooter to grate cheese and I love it. We bought ours used on ebay for like $10. I use it to grate all my cheeses and it is so easy to clean.
AllieZirkle says
I saw that Costco has a Cuisinart 11 cup for $159.99. It comes with the 4 blades and the additional accessories such as recipe booklet, pizza pan, and training DVD (I enjoyed this!).
http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11026804&cm_mmc=BCEmail_523-_-FOCUS-_-1-_-CusinartFoodProcessor
AllieZirkle says
@AllieZirkle, The $159.99 price includes an extra work bowl and free shipping/handling. You can borrow my Costco number if you’re interested. This is a great deal
Jennifer says
I have a 7 cup food processor, which might be the smallest size that comes with attachments. Mine is a cuisinart and comes with a slicing attachment and a grater. It looks like this one: http://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-DLC-2007N-Prep-7-Cup-Processor/dp/B00005OAZ3/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1272567245&sr=8-3
I think the key is you want to look for the spout/food feeder thing on the top and the metal disks. I think a food processor makes perfect sense for the kind of cooking you do with batch cooking. You’ll probably only use it on freezer cooking days and very rarely any other day of the month but it will save you so much time on those days. You can probably set up and grate a whole block of cheese in less than 3 minutes. That’s worth another 3 minutes of cleaning for me. Plus I don’t think cheese graters are all that easy to wash either.
Bethanie says
I am an avid cook and I work for a major housewares store. I have a KitchenAid food processor that I LOVE, but also recommend the Cuisinarts. Different models have different options, so don’t give up on Cuisinart based on this one experience. One of the most telling statistics is how rarely these two brands are returned to our store–we almost never see them being returned.
All the components are dishwasher-safe, and that’s where they go!
I cooked at home without the food processor and stand mixer, and I wouldn’t go back. They make my cooking life so much easier, and that makes the grocery budget go down!
Erin says
If you’re heading to Target anytime soon, look for Black and Decker food processors on clearance. A Hip2Save reader found one for $6.24. . . . Not sure if there is a grating attachment, though : )
Hannah says
Mine doesn’t have a grater attachment either, but throw some chunks of cheese in it and it “grinds” them into pieces equivalent to shredding. Works great for me.
lovingcouponing says
I think the problem is you bought a MINI food processor and you need the regular size or even the large one and those do come w/ cheese graters. I have a Cuisinart regular size and it’s my FAVORITE kitchen appliance. Very fast and comes w/ all the attachments, easy to clean etc. It’s hardy. My first one lasted about 10 years and was used a lot and now I bought a 2nd one just like it as I loved the first one so much. Return the mini, get a regular or large and YOU WILL BE HAPPY!
celia says
I spent seven years working in fancy restaurants, as a cook and then as a pastry chef. My personal belief is that food processors are not worth it at home. I HATE cleaning them. I don’t even use a stand mixer at home. I use a box grater when necessary, and call it a day.
Holly says
I’ve got a Bosch and you can buy additional attachments to grate cheese, slice veggies, and grate cabbage (they come together). I use the Bosch all the time to make bread (it’s powerful enough to use 100% whole wheat and turn out a light loaf), and I use the attachments at least every other day. I realize the Bosch is an expensive investment, but mine is over 10 years old and shows no signs of wear.
Briana says
I love my Ninja! It does the hard cheeses (romano, parmesan, colby, cheddar) well. However, I had some problems with a fontinella cheese.
But I use it for everything else…spinach, onions, cilantro, even to make ground beef chopped up nicely, etc!
brook says
If you only want to grate, just get a salad shooter. I love mine, grates cheese like a dream, and is cheaper than a processor. It also slices, and can do things like carrots, zucchini, etc.
Julie says
@brook, I’ve seen so many posts about the love of a salad shooter here, that I went to Amazon yesterday and purchased one!!! To be honest, I never even thought of shredding my own cheese – I pay an arm and a leg for the shredded bags. I purchased one in the “used” section on the salad shooter page. It came from Amazon Warehouse, and I got it for only $21 because the box was damaged! So excited to get it. Thanks all for the posts!
Cheryl says
I’ve had a KitchenAid for about 5 years and I don’t think there’s a day that I don’t use it for something! I shred big blocks of cheese which I then store in my freezer for use later. I don’t like the pre-shredded cheese as most brands contain PLASTIC to keep the cheese from clumping up…check the label.
Carlene says
you can buy most any attachment online. What’s a “mothers helper”?
AllieZirkle says
@Carlene, Think of a nanny-in-training 🙂 Mother’s helpers are usually a bit young to babysit but not old enough to nanny, depending on where you live… You might use a 12 year old home-schooler as a mother’s helper. MH’s will keep an eye on the kiddos while you work in another room, possibly run out on a quick errand, or even tidy the house for you while the kids nap. The perk is that the MH earns training and a few dollars while the mom is nearby to help, if needed, and the mom gets work done at a reduced cost to a full fledged nanny or child care.
Cindy says
I have the mini-prep… I bought it to make baby food (easily) and it works well for that. It is small and I could leave it out on my counter which I liked and which encouraged me to continue on making my own. Basically I would take what was for dinner and put it in there. It is a convenience item for sure. I also have a cuisinart blender/food processor combo for bigger but not huge jobs (I didn’t want a gigantic appliance taking up space in my kitchen). Anyways most larger food processors will grate cheese. It should have a disk that looks pretty similar to the grating surface on your current grater. It will save you tons of time and for the way I think you would use it (your freezer cooking days) it would be perfect. I always loved my mom’s when we were making tons of things that required grating and chopping.
Jisela says
My husband bought me the Black & Decker Quick ‘n Easy Plus MOdel FP1450, on Black Friday, in order to help me get out of the kitchen faster while at his mom’s for Thanksgiving and I must admit that for the money he spent, it works great. However, I do not do as much food prep as you do, so can’t really say how it would handle in your situation ; ) It does shred cheese and it mentions the following tips… 1)To shred soft cheese, hold cheese in freezer until sharp knife can only be inserted about 1/2 inch (about 30 minutes). 2) When shredding hard cheese, cut cheese into 1/2 inch cubes and shred no more than 4oz. at a time. 3) Spraying, chopping, cutting and shredding blades with nonstick spray will make cleanup easier. 4) If processing sticky foods, spray the inside of the workbowl with nonstick spray.
Hope this is helpful! Thank you for all you post and share with us as a way to help us be better at what we do!
Shannon says
i bought my cuisinart at a garage sale for $3! it’s looks like it’s from 1980 or earlier…but that’s when things were built better anyway! it has all the attachments and works wonderfully!
Jessica says
I have the older version of this Kitchen Aid one …
http://www.amazon.com/KitchenAid-KFP750OB-700-Watt-12-Cup-Processor/dp/B0002MH3OC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1272551552&sr=8-1
It’s going strong at almost 11 years old. I don’t know what attachments it comes with. When I bought mine, it came with a free box of a bunch of disks and gadgets. Kitchen usually has all kinds of rebates going.
trisha says
I bought a Kitchenaid 12-cup food processor a few months ago. So far I LOVE it! It has several attachments, even a smaller bowl that fits inside and turns it into a mini chopper (which I use a lot). It shreds potatoes so fast, I missed seeing the action the first time or two (hey where’d the potato go?).
I also have a salad shooter somewhere that I used to use a lot. I hardly shred cheese anymore (seems I can find it already shredded for same price or cheaper than buying a block of cheese). It may suit your needs very well. I wanted something that didn’t require as much effort on my part as the salad shooter and I hopefully we’ll need the big food processor for all the produce we’re going to grow this summer 😉
Emily says
Kitchen Aid!!! My husband bought this for me and I kept it in the box for a month. I was going to return it…..that was a couple of years ago. I can’t imagine not having it now. For Christmas my sister bought be an additional bowl….I use it so often….now I can do veges and cheese and not have to wash & dry the bowl in between. Previously, I had an attachment for my mixer, but this is sooo….. much easier.
Christine says
Mini-food processors do not come with attachments. You will need to purchase at least a 6-cup food processor for their to be attachments included. I have the same food processor you purchased and it does work well but since you want a cheese grater you will need to return your mini-Cuisinart.
And, since you will use your food processor quite a bit, I suggest you purchase a full-size Cuisinart. Maybe you can find a used one on Ebay or Craig’s List? I have never come across a food processor better than Cuisinart.
If you only want to grate cheese then maybe a Salad Shooter is the way to go. I think they are around $30.
I had a Kitchenaid food processor and did not like it. It never fully chopped all the food and it is now at Goodwill. I also have a Kitchenaid blender and do not like it as it does not blend very well.
Sandy says
Try a Salad Shooter – I love mine! Quick – Fast – East Clean Up! I have the large one – it has a larger opening – more power. It has several blades for large and small grating and slicing sizes.
Jessica Bosari says
I find the Cuisinart raves perplexing. Had a processor from them once. It was okay, but not a wonder machine. I’m thinking these people have never owned a Kitchen Aid. I’m a little disappointed you didn’t go looking to get a second-hand cheese grater/processor, but to each her own…
It really amazes me how much you can do with the Kitchen Aid. Mine is about thirty years old now (handed down from my dad) and still works like new. I had no idea about the grater attachment…knew about the mean grinder attachment, but have an old fashioned crank one I use that my mother-in-law gave me. But looking up the shredder/grater I found other amazing things you can do with your Kitchen Aid:
Ice cream maker
Sausage stuffer
Pasta maker
Immersion chopper
Grain mill
Can Opener
Juice Extractor
Fruit and veggie strainer
The only downside to the mixer is the gunk left on the sides. You have to stop and scrape a few times. Now they have an attachment that mixes and scrapes at the same time, so I guess that concern is over. There’s one with angled swipe blades that work for mixing in chips and such in cookies that scrapes the sides without crushing the candy pieces in the bowl. Awesome! Off to eBay to find these attachments on the cheap!!!
nancy says
I agree with the comments about the Salad Shooter. Its hard to find them in stores but I find them on Ebay and 2nd hand stores for $2-$3. Works great for grating cheese, etc and slicing.
Ryn says
I have both the mini-prep and a larger Cuisinart food processor (not sure of the exact size). I’ve used the mini-prep for chopping nuts, onions, and peppers, and it works okay, but doesn’t do anything that the larger one won’t. I thought it would be more convenient because it’s smaller and lighter, but it’s really not, and it takes the same amount of time to clean once you’re done.
Donna says
I’ve been using a Kitchen Aid for years. Grates cheese just fine (with the grater attachment!).
SarahMay says
I have a Kitchen Aid food processor and have been VERY happy with it. Easy to use! (And I second the tip about freezing cheese slightly before using the grater attachment.)
Shelley says
My husband purchased the 16c. cuisinart elite for me. It is fantastic!! You can grate cheese, slice, knead dough, and blend anything to the smoothest puree. It has a very powerful motor and will chew through a block of cheese in seconds. It has 3 different sized bowls that interlock, as well as, a rubber gasket in the lid so when blending sauces you don’t end up with sauce coming out the top of the bowl. It is worth the investment!
Joanna @ Starving Student Survivor says
One tip once you get your processor figured out: the grater blade works best for hard cheese, like parmesan. If you’re doing softer cheese, put the cheese in the freezer for an hour or two before processing. It helps it grate instead of just squishing into a big cheese ball.
Jennifer says
My mother-in-law actually uses a processor (similar to the one you purchased) to crumble cheese. The consistency is much like the packages of cheese crumbles that are now available in stores. It’s what she uses for all her cooking.
Julie says
Okay, maybe I’m not being too brilliant! Can someone help me out? I am seeing many postings for a kitchenaid. I have the kitchenaid mixer, is this an attachment for the front, or a whole separate product? Thanks!
ksenia says
@Julie, There are both. You can get an attachment (about $35) for your mixer OR you can buy the KitchenAid food processor.
Shawna says
We absolutely LOVE our KitchenAid! It was rated highest by Cook’s Illustrated, has performed wonderfully over the last few years and yep, grates cheese too : ). Model #KFP750 Good luck!
Isel says
I have the large Cuisinart food processor that I bought at a warehouse club. It came with two bowls as well as all the graters; it even has a case for the graters. I love my food processor and can’t live without it!
Betsy says
I have a KitchenAid with the grater attachment, but I never use the attachment for cheese. I just throw a pound worth of chunks into the big bowl and process with the regular blades. Much easier than feeding it through the chute! LOVE MY KITCHENAID!
Sarah says
I never thought of that! Does it chop it fine enough? I also have a kitchen aid and use the cheese attatchment all the time! It does a great job but I wish that it had a slower speed on mine. It only has one speed and sometimes it would be nice to have more than one. I would definately recommend the kitchen aid for sure. I got mine off of Amazon.com and with a great deal. I think I only paid like $50 when it was on the sale because I found a rebate to go with it.
Betsy says
@Sarah, You can keep processing until it’s the size you want. Think of it more like the Kraft Crumbles they had for a while (or do they still make those?).
L says
I love my Salad Shooter! I pretty much only use it to grate cheese, though it also slices veggies, etc… They have them on Amazon, might be cheaper than a food processor.
I also love my food processor, but I use it for entirely different things, like making hummus, peanut butter, slivering up onions, making salsa, etc etc…
alpidarkomama says
I have a Cuisinart food processor and about a year ago I stopped using the cheese grater altogether. Cheese would often get stuck and stop the blade. I just put my cheese into the bowl with the regular blade and chop it up. I actually like it *better* than grated cheese!
Melissa @ Anxious for Nothing says
I have a 14-cup Cuisinart food processor and highly recommend it. Works fantastic for grating cheese!
Lauren says
I have the blender/processor combo, and I do not recommend it. I want the one they have on America’s Test Kitchen (kitchen aid?). Theirs sounds so quiet, and I think I’m losing bits of my hearing every time I use mine. (and it’s not quite big enough)
Camille says
I have both a big food processor and that Cuisinart mini prep. I love them both! I leave the mini right on the counter top and use it all the time to quickly chop up carrots, onions, make bread crumbs, etc. I only use the big one to shred!
Beth says
If it makes you feel any better I recently became obsessed with buying a burr grinder for coffee. I spent a lot of time reading reviews, chose the model I wanted, and waited for several months before I purchased it. When we got our income tax refund I went for it. I’m embarrassed to admit that I spent $160 on a coffee grinder. The worst part is it actually made our coffee worse! I cannot get the right grind, water to coffee ratio, temperature, etc.. And now I’ve spent so much time experimenting *nothing* tastes good to me any more.
Does your mistake look better now? 🙂
Melissa says
SALAD SHOOTER ALL THE WAY!!!!!
kate says
it’s been said lots, but I’ll back it up.
the 10 cup or 14 cup are the only ones with the attachments to grate. I have the cuisinart and it’s great. I also have the kitchen aid, but love my cuisinart for making doughs, scones, or other types of doughs that require pastry cutting. Even pie dough.
I also have a small cuisinart but only use it for small projects like quick baby food.
good luck.
Tricia says
I bought a Cuisinart, actually my husband bought it for me, off of Craigslist last year. It’s an older model, but was like brand new, all the blades and attachements were razor sharp and some were still in the original packaging. It slices, shreds, grates, juliennes, chops…it does it all and I LOVE it!! I defiantely recommend that you get a good one, you will NOT be disappointed. I even chop up my cooked chicken in it!
Hannah says
My mom has that brand and it does have both grating and slicing blades. I would check to see if you can buy those before returning it. Now, if you do return it, I have a kitchen-aid and use it all the time!
Amanda says
I just bought a GE 14-Cup Digital Food Processor from Walmart. It gets great reviews and is only around $50. It has all the features I was wanting in a food processor for a fraction of the price.
http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=12311468
Toni says
I have owned a GE 10 cup for a few months, however it’s huge but it works great it chops, shreds and does dough. My husband purchased it at walmart as a gift for myself.
Lori says
Thank you Crystal for sharing your human-ness. It’s inspiring to hear that you don’t have to be perfect to accomplish all you’ve done =)
jennybek says
I have a cuisinart that I’ve had for 10 years. It still is a wonder, and I love it! I use mine almost exclusively for grating cheese. I can vouch that they work for a long time.
Chris says
KitchenAid all the way unless America’s Test Kitchen recommends something different.
Melissa says
@Chris, AMEN to that! I got my recommendation from them too!
Leah says
@Chris, Yes, their reviews are the only ones I trust!
phillip says
dont waste the money on over priced names. go to walmart and pick up the black and decker for around 50 bucks. I kneed pasta dough in mine. works a treat.
Shannon S says
Crystal,
Go for a nice Kitchen Aid. It will last years and you can use it for everything. Spend the money, you won’t regret it!
Rachel Wyrick says
I have that exact one and I cut the cheese into chunks that will fit in there, not small just chunky and it cuts it up just fine, its going to melt and noone will know it was a different shape to begin with. I Love that little machine, I almost never put it away! Which is funny because I got the little one so it would fit in the cupboards better 😉
Melissa says
I know you value being frugal and spending as little as possible; however, with something you will use a lot, sometimes it is worth spending a little more money to have something that will last longer and really do what you intend it to do. Kitchen aid makes a great 12 cup food processor that comes with a 4 cup mini bowl that fits right inside for smaller jobs, as well as slicing and grating discs. I love this food processor! I can use it for grating cheese, making pasta or pie & bread doughs, slicing vegies, chopping nuts, smoothies, cake batter, dressings, mayonnaise…the list goes on! My old food processor was a 7 cup and it only held about 1 1/2 lbs of grated cheese which makes for a lot of work if you need to grate a lot at once! They are about $150-200, but they are well worth the money! http://www.amazon.com/KitchenAid-KFP750OB-700-Watt-12-Cup-Processor/dp/B0002MH3OC
Amanda says
I love my Cuisinart! And mine GRATES cheese! (which is by far my favorite part!) I got mine for Christmas. Mine chops, purees, slices, grates, kneads and mixes. It’s a 7 cup, but they sell a similar 11 cup one for about $50 more. This link is the one that I have: http://www.cuisinart.com/products/food_processors/dlc-2007n.html
Dawn says
I have to say that I bought the ‘big’ Cuisinart for Christmas for myself because Pioneer Woman rants and raves about her’s being so awesome. After 15 years with my Braun that I received as a wedding gift, I’ve never been so disappointed with something in my life! So, I won’t give you any advice on what TO buy but will say DON’T buy the big Cuisinart!
Amy Bushatz says
Theres one zillion comments on here saying “you bought the wrong one” and “the little one doesn’t do that” … and let me put in my two cents:
I have both the little and big (both wedding gifts). Return the little one. Right now. People said it would be great for doing “little” things… but the motor gets hot fast and Ive yet to find a little thing that the big one doesnt do better. I wish I had returned it.
The big one, however, is wonderful. And guess what? I ONLY use it (at this point at least) for shredding cheese. I bought TONS-O cheese a few months ago when Kraft was running their great printable cheese coupons and our commissary (military grocery store) had cheese for $1.50 for the big blocks. My freezer is stocked with cheese and once a week I pop a block in the fridge to thaw, shred the entire thing in 30 seconds, stick that in a zip lock and use it as needed. It’s amazing. … I am SO glad I own it.
Jenni says
I LOVE my KitchenAid slicer/shredder too! Use it mostly for cheese. Shredded carrots for carrot cake too!
Jennifer says
We have a Kitchen Aid. It’s the top of the line and a bit pricy (around $200), but we used our cash back rewards points for Gift cards to Bed Bath & Beyond. Paired that with the 20% off coupon and paid around $20 out of pocket. Yes it grates cheese, slices, chops, and has a dough blade. It also has a smaller bowl insert with a smaller blade for little jobs. All of that comes with it in a handy organizer box. It does everything excpet the dishes and there are a myriad of extras that can be purchased to go with it (non of which we own). I love it and would reccomend it to anyone.
Susan says
I got the SmartPower Duet Blender / Food Processor at Sam’s for $40. I am not sure if they still carry it. The food processor is only 3 cups but I don’t need anything bigger. It has the shredder/slicer attachment. The blender attachment is 40 oz and perfect for making shakes for the entire family.
http://www.cuisinart.com/products/blenders/bfp-703.html
Athena says
@Susan, We have this one too and love it, we also bought it as Sam’s.
Christina says
I got a cuisinart food processor for Christmas. Definitely recommend that brand. You need something like this http://www.cuisinart.com/products/food_processors/dlc-2007n.html – not a mini prep. Mini prep processors do not grate cheese. 🙂 I am sure you can find a less expensive model that can grate cheese and maybe even a cuisinart. I love the dough function too. I use to make homemade biscuits or doughs that you need to cut in butter. It will “cut in the butter” perfectly in about 10 seconds!! 🙂
Holly says
I would recommend the Kitchen Aid attachment if you already have a kitchen aid mixer.
I actually purchased a Black & Decker Food processor a few years back, and use it quite often. I didn’t have my Kitchen Aid mixer then….so it got used A LOT! I purchased it at Wal-Mart for about $25.00.
Good luck!
Kimberly R says
Love that Compassion is a link on your website. 🙂 I don’t know if it’s new, but it’s the first time I’ve seen it!
Crystal says
It’s new! Since the beginning of this year, we’ve committed to use a portion of the proceeds from this website to support Compassion — a ministry we hold near & dear!
Lynn says
As Jenna said, you can get an attachment for a KitchenAid mixer. If you have a Kohls, watch for a sale. Thats how I got mine. And it works great! Or should I sat GRATE??!! lol
Amy says
I have been searching for a small FP that grates and haven’t found one. I have a big Kitchen Aid and like it. You may want to try a Salad Shooter. My MIL has one and loves it. It does a little at a time but throws it right in your bowl.
Melissa Ceccofiglio says
Oh Boy the second I saw this picture I IMMEDIATELY knew where the goof up was…I’m so sorry about the inconvenience…but really you just have to get the 7 cup one and you will be perfectly happy. But I have to say I love this one too…It is GREAT at chopping up cooked ground beef for a more even taco meat or meat in stuffed shells…
Jenna says
If you have a KitchenAid mixer, you can get a slicer/shredder attachment that works well for cheese, veggies, and other things. It’s about $33 on Amazon right now.
Alecia says
Wow!! I am so thankful for your mistake! I’ve been thinking of buying one & all of this information & reviews has completely sold me! I have a GC for Bed, Bath, & Beyond that will be going towards this! Thanks for sharing and saving me so much time researching. I’m anxious to know if you’ll stick w/ Cuisinart or switch to the Kichen Aid. Be sure to keep us all posted!!
Marta says
I have this one (look at the link) from Hamilton Beach and I love it I’ve had it for the past 6 years and never had a problem with it, it has the grating attachment and it cost a bit over $30.
http://www.target.com/Hamilton-Beach-6-Cup-Food-Processor/dp/B000M2FCWC/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&searchView=grid5&qid=1272506779&frombrowse=0&fromGsearch=true&node=1038576%7C1287991011&keywords=food%20processors&searchSize=30&id=Hamilton%20Beach%206-Cup%20Food%20Processor&searchBinNameList=purchasing_channel%2Csubjectbin%2Ctarget_com_age%2Ctarget_com_gender-bin%2Ctarget_com_character-bin%2Cprice%2Ctarget_com_primary_color-bin%2Ctarget_com_size-bin%2Ctarget_com_brand-bin&searchNodeID=1038576%7C1287991011&searchRank=target104545&sr=1-6&searchPage=1
Christina says
@Marta, My sister and I both have this one, too. The Hamilton Beach 6-cup . . . I love, love LOVE it!
Kimery says
Has anyone heard of the Bullet Express I’ve seen advertised? Any opinions?
Ashley says
@Kimery, I have the Bullet Express and I love it. I use it to buy the tougher cuts of meats and turn it into hamburger. I have also used it for cheese, lettuce, cabbage, ect. The only issue I have with it is I don’t have enough cabinet space for all of the attachments to stay in one cabinet. I just need a bigger kitchen! LOL!
Dana Hess says
I love the Salad Shooter. I had one years ago then recently purchased another on EBay, original still in the box, for $3.00. It has all of the attachment cones for grating as well as the various slices including the one for potato chips. LOVE this thing. Super easy to clean too. While I love Cuisinart too, those things are so pricey and this does exactly what I need it to do and can even direct the fall of the grating over pizza, etc.
Katie @ goodLife {eats} says
I currently have the “elite” version of this food processor:
http://astore.amazon.com/gooeat02-20/detail/B002IA0PHS
I used to own the one you have pictured, but I wore it out. It is very good for making purees of any kind, chopping, making pesto, etc. I never needed a larger food processor before, but now that I do – I find myself lusting for this one: http://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-FP-14DC-Collection-14-Cup-Processor/dp/B002I5DMU0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1272506636&sr=8-1
it’s basically the full deal version of the small one I have now. I’m so happy with the small one that I’d like to upgrade to the “mac daddy” of the food processors. Just waiting for a good sale and a coupon. 🙂
Beth says
LOVE my 11-cup Cuisinart! Food processors are definately NOT created equal and other brands really do not measure up. 🙂
Chelsea says
@Beth,
Totally agree! I have the 7-cup cuisinart, but I definitely wish I had the 9 cup sometimes so I could whip up a batch of mashed potatoes, enough for the whole family.
Plus all the attachments came with it (some I’m still learning to use after 2+ years!).
Janelle Lott says
My mother-in-law bought me this for Mother’s Day. I actually had her take it back. Plan on adding money to it to get the bigger one. Holding our for a 30% off at Kohls or a deal somewhere else. I was bummed that this one didn’t “do” much of anything. I have a mini 1-cup food chopper, but I need a big one to do multiple jobs.
Megan says
http://www.marbeck.com/food_processor_cuisinart_blades.html
Robbfamily7 says
Cuisinart 11 cup! Doesn’t get any better.
Pam says
I have an 11-cup Cuisinart. It is a workhorse, and I use it all the time for everything, including my home baking business. I use it for making slaw, biscuits, pie crust, pureeing bananas for banana bread, shredding zucchini for zucchini bread and carrots for carrot cake, chopping nuts, making struessel topping, breadcrumbs, etc. It sits on the counter right next to my KitchenAid stand mixer (another EXCELLENT investment), and I never put them away because I use them so much. Yes, you can do the same things with other tools, that may cost less and take up less space, but after making a pie crust in a food processor in 15 seconds, or shredding a whole head of cabbage in 30, you will never go back. It is worth it, even though you have to wash all the pieces. Word of advise: wash immediately…trying to clean dried food from the FP pieces is not fun, and takes up all the time you saved by using it.
Ashlea says
Crystal,
If you get a big one, I think it holds about 10 cups or so, you can use it to make bread dough per the instructions in the book “The Best Bread Ever.” I usually use the bread machine for mixing dough, but this is just as easy and turns out some really awesome bread.
Mommy Daisy says
You know, I have a Hamilton Beach food processor. It’s not a big brand name one, but it’s great. I used it at a cafe I worked out and asked for the same one for Christmas. I’ve had it for years. I haven’t found anything that it doesn’t do well. And it has a grater/slicer attachment too. I love it, and it’s a reasonable price from Walmart too.
Jennie says
I LOVE my KitchenAid attachment for grating cheese. It is also the only way I ever do zucchini for breads and other recipes in the summer time. Works really well for grating/shredding other veggies…
Krista says
I have 2 Cuisineart food processors. The mini one that you just bought, and the big 11 cup one. I like the mini for chopping small amounts of things, but I LOVE my big processor. I have several attachments and blades that came with it. I can make pie crust, mix dough, the attachments make grating cheese a breeze, but the slicing attachments are my favorites. They turn making coleslaw and other similar items a 10 minute job instead of the 40+ minute job it had been. Plus they slice the vegetables really thin, not something terribly easy with a kitchen knife.
Hope this helps!
juli says
We got the bigger Cuisinart as a gift and it has the cheese grater and some other attachments. My husband loves to use it to make salsa. I love that I can put all the parts in the dishwasher:)
Kassandra says
Thank you for sharing this story, you made me giggle aloud… it’s nice to know we’re not alone in our frugile failures and OOPS moments! Ha ha It looks like many women have suggested great food processors… 😀 Have fun reading cheese grating directions! XOXO
Kristine says
I really like my Big Mouth Black & Decker.
Faith says
Funny you should post this because my mom just purchased the 9 cup KitchenAid for me today! I can’t speak to how well it works, but it does grate cheese, knead dough, etc. She got an excellent deal at Bed Bath & Beyond. You can use the typical BB & B 20% coupon and then there’s currently a $15 BB & B rebate valid 3/28 – 6/26.
Julie Johnston @ Flittebugs says
I use my 11 cup Cuisinart ALL THE TIME. And I am NOT a gadget girl! Mine has the grater and slicer atatchment. My kids love when I grate lettuce for tacos with it, carrots for cookies, make breadcrumbs, chop berries to make jam…..it is great! I also buy up sale sweet potatoes, bake, purre in it and then stick in freezer bags…all ready for recipes! It really is worth having. My mom has WORN hers for 28 years now, and it still runs! LOVE IT!
Rachel K says
I have a Black and Decker. It is prob. from the 80’s (it looks like it and it was from my grandma’s kitchen). I love it!! It is just like the Cuisine Art, in my opinion, and it was free! (Got to love a grandma getting rid of items!) I googled for it and they still have it(of course more modern looking than mine)! It has the blade, like the expensive big Cuisine Art, that flips and grates and chops. It’s the Black and Decker Power Pro.”With a 10-cup capacity and a full-range of dishwasher-safe accessories including a chopping blade, slice/shred disc and dough blade, you’ll have all the tools you need to chop, slice, shred, blend, grate, puree and more—all in one compact appliance.”-Target’s website. It is only $49.99 on their website!
Hope this helps! 🙂
Lenetta @ Nettacow says
@Rachel K, I have a Black and Decker too and I really like it. I’ve been using it like crazy to make power bars (like larabars) from Kitchen Stewardship’s Healthy Snacks To Go ebook. YUM.
Leanna says
I didn’t take the time to read all the other comments, so sorry if I am repeating someone!
I bought my food processor about 7 or 8 years ago. My husband and I did research, and found better reviews for KitchenAid, rather than Cuisinart. We purchased a large KitchenAid food processor from Bed, Bath, and Beyond with a coupon, and I have been extremely happy with it. You may want to look into KitchenAid processor. But Cuisinart is a reputable brand, so you should have good luck with either. Just make sure the product description shows/tells what features it has, so you get all the attachments you desire.
On the other hand, if you have a KitchenAid mixer, they sell a ton of attachmets for the mixers for things anywhere from grating to making sausage. So, if you don’t have the KitchenAid mixer, you may want to take a peek at what they have to offer, and see if that is an investment you want to make, rather than buying the processor.
Good luck!
WilliamB says
@Leanna, My KA mixer may be my favorite appliance. Even so, the attachments are a bit of a pain to use. They attach to the head of the mixer which means the feed tube (opening, actually) is quite high. Some of my shorter friends have to use a stepstool to be able to use the attachments.
I wonder – how much cheese do you need to grate so that buying the machine is less expensive than buying grated cheese? (I bet you’ve figured that out already.)
sally says
I have the 11-cup Cuisinart, and it is a TOTAL dream. I LOVE IT! I know it has the grater attachment, but I’ve never used it. My favorite thing to use my food processor for is to make hummus and pureed soups. Def return the mini and get the regular size one. It’s SO worth the price.
Jenn says
You should be able to go to the Cuisinart website and enter your model number to find the grating attachment. Every food processor I have ever owned (including my current one, a Cuisinart) had a grater attachment. It and my mixer are the two kitchen items I would be lost without!
cheflisa says
I keep my 14 cup Cuisnart on my counter top it looks good and gets use everyother day ( at least.)Ive had it for over 20 years.It was expensive ,but worth it.With the larger unit I grind meat ,make dough,grind everythingshred and grate .Ilove it.Kohls often has these on sale, pair it with a coupon and kohls cash and you can get a deal!
Johnlyn says
I paid $5 for my food processor at a thrift store. They show up there all of the time.
Mine came with a grater attachment, but I know someone who uses the food processr to chop up the cheese into small pieces. She says that it works just fine!
Rebecca says
I have a Black & Decker food processor that I bought way back in 1998? when I was in college. It has lasted forever and worked great. Grating, shredding, slicing, mincing, mixing dough…We now have a family of 6 and I use it all the time and still love it. Of course, that model isn’t made anymore but it looks like the Black & Deckers are cheaper than Kitchenaid or Cuisinart and IMO work just as well. Good luck! Funny story!
Jill says
I have a large food processor, but since I’m just cooking for 2 (plus 2 little people) it’s too big for my basic needs at this point-good for holiday baking and such. I asked for the mini chopper/grinder for a gift a couple of yrs ago and so glad I did-it’s great for quick little every day jobs-chopping onions, and other veggies quickly. If you can swing it, I would keep the little one and look for a big one later:)
Megan says
We have a Kitchenaid food processor (~11 cup, I can’t remember) and it works great. We wanted to buy a Cuisinart, but got a smoking deal on this one off of Craigslist. Yes, definitely invest in a larger version and you’ll be glad you did 🙂
Margaret says
For grating cheese, as well as slicing, there’s an attachment for the Kitchenaid stand mixer that is a slicer/shredder. If you have a Kitchenaid mixer, I’d highly recommend this attachment!
Myra says
I have the Cuisinart DFP-3 Handy Prep Food Processor and I absolutely LOVE it! It’s small, but it includes grating and slicing discs along with the regular blade. The part I love the most is that it has a chute attachment so you can just grate cheese (or slice potatoes, etc) right into a big bowl and keep going for how ever much cheese you want to grate. You don’t have to worry about the processor bowl filling up and stopping to empty it. Since it’s on the smaller side, it doesn’t take up too much space to store it. I also have a larger food processor, but I really prefer the smaller one because I do more small jobs than large jobs, and larger processors don’t work as well if the bowl isn’t very full. And when I need to do a big job, the chute attachment saves the day.
Amazon has the DFP-3 in stock for $55 right now! I’d highly recommend it!
Kelly Billhime says
I have a Cuisanart Pro Classic. My husband bought it for me years ago. It does grate cheese and has an attachment for thin slicing potatoes, carrots etc. I don’t use it often but when I make baked Mac & Cheese, it makes it soo much easier. Freshly grated cheese is soo much better then the kind you buy already grated.
Mellora says
I L-O-V-E my 2-bowl, 12-cup Kitchenaid.
http://www.kitchenaid.com/flash.cmd?/#/product/KFP750OB/
Aryn says
Although I adore my Mini Prep, it won’t grate cheese or handle big jobs. Now that I own a home, I’m looking into getting a full-size one. The small one is great for quick jobs like grinding nuts, chopping onions and other things for sauces, making breadcrumbs, etc. Since it’s small, it fits well in the dishwasher.
But it has no attachments. My mom has both, and she uses them both.
Elizabeth says
@Aryn, I have both, too. Totally worth having both if you cook a lot. I pull out my mini-prep more often, but for big jobs, the 11 cup is indispensable.
Joy says
@Aryn, I also have both of the Cuisinarts although I tend to only use the larger one. The mini is…mini. It’s useful if you’re only chopping/pureeing a small amount of something (that won’t reach the blade in the larger one). My larger Cuisinart came with a grater and a slicing disc (2) plus 2 blades, a metal one and a plastic one. If I remember right I bought mine at Kohls. If you wait to get their 30% off coupons and time it right with their appliance sales it makes for a great purchase!
Kristen says
I have a Braun food processor, I think it’s from the 1970s or 1980s; I got it at a garage sale a couple summers ago for $10. I love it! I look forward to reading more about tips or things to make with the food processor; I’ve only used the chopping blade so far.
Kansas Mom says
Mine is a Cuisinart of some sort, but it’s old old old, so they probably don’t even sell the model anymore.
But when you do have it and it’s running, make graham crackers! We love the homemade ones and it’s really easy in the food processor. Mix it together in there, mold it a little, chill for an hour, then roll it out and slice with a pizza cutter. The recipes we use (cinnamon and chocolate) even have no eggs so the kids can nibble and I don’t have to worry about them getting sick like I would with cookie dough!
Erin says
You want a seven or eleven cup Cuisinart. Think carefully about how you will use it before you buy, though. I have the one you purchased here as well as the seven-cup Cuisinart. I actually use the four cup more because the seven cup is often too large for the task at hand. (I don’t freezer cook, and I usually buy [i.e., get free] shredded cheese.) If you just want to chop a bit of onions, for example, the larger Cuisinarts are really too big to do a good job (though to be fair, I generally chop onions with a knife because food processors tend to bruise the onions too much). The four cup is great for bean dip, salsas, and other recipes made in smaller batches.
I know you’re a minimalist, but you might consider keeping the four cup for day-to-day use and also getting an eleven cup for (primarily) freezer cooking. It seems excessive, I know, but each processor has its uses.
When you select the higher capacity model, check to ensure that they come with grating/slicing disks.
Traci says
Don’t feel bad Crystal! You did great to go with a Cuisinart – they make the best processors. Most of the small ones only chop/grind, but Cuisinart JUST discontinued the DFP-3 model – which does come with a slicer/shredder disc and a chute attachment (which shoots your slices or shreds right into your bowl instead of the food proc’s bowl). You can probably still find this online or at stores. I work at a Le Gourmet Chef and we still have some in stock.
Since I sell these for a living, I have a lot of opinions on this subject. Personally, I like the smaller ones because they are easier to store. If you need a large batch of something, you can always do it in batches. That’s what I do when I want to make coleslaw for a crowd. (The only time this isn’t practical is if you’re using it to mix or knead a dough – that should all be done together.)
Marquisha says
Ok, I take my last comment back, I just read that there is no shredding disc and that it only “chops” cheese. But my Big Mouth food processor didn’t cost much more than this, and I love it!
PollyS says
I got my cuisinart attachments at Chefs.com.
Stick with Cuisinart. You won’t be sorry.
Oh, and CALL chefs.com and ask for free shipping. They’ve never turned me down.
Edith says
I don’t have a food processor, but really want one. The best reviews that I have found for kitchen equipment is through America’s Test Kitchen through Cooks Illustrated.
They always go with the most reliable, does what it says it does, will last you, best bang for your buck pots, pans, grinders, mixers, etc. And surprisingly they usually pick the middle of the pack pricewise. However it looks that for food processors they recommend spending the big bucks. They have a review on food processors here: http://www.cooksillustrated.com/equipment/overview.asp?docid=10339
They also recommend getting a unit that has both a big bowl and a small bowl in case you just want to do some small jobs. You have to subscribe for their free 14 day trial to get the “results” so stock up on good free recipes during that 14 day trial! It can truly be just a trial, which is nice. But it has good information. We love their grilled pizza recipe, their cinnamon bun recipe, etc.
Marquisha says
I couldn’t read all the comments, so I’m not sure if someone already said this, but have you tried to see what happens if you turn the attachment that you have upside down? I know that sometimes they do different jobs once they are upside down, instead of have a different attachment.
RuthS says
Yeah, like Celia said, bigger food processor. Should come with a little disc that grates the cheese.
Lauren @ Just Add Lauren says
I am so glad that someone else did this!! I think I may have the same food processor as you too. I have always heard about people grating cheese in their food processor, and I’ve wondered how that was possible, but I guess now I know that I just don’t have the attachment! I also think that using your food processor for chopping isn’t all that great…at least I haven’t had good luck with it. When I tried to chop onions with it they began onion mush.
I mostly use mine for making bread crumbs or doing things like that that really need to be finely processed up. The one I have also had a blender that hooks onto the same base, so I use the blender a lot.
Melissa says
I have an 11 cup kitchenaid and LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it! It came with the grating and slicing attachments, and a smaller bowl. I just got it in January, and the reason I bought it over the Cuisinart was because Cuisinart was sold recently and the customer service is not what it used to be. I was told and read in many sources that if you have any problems with the Cuisinart, you may as well throw it in the trash because they won’t fix it. Good luck, and hope you enjoy what ever you end up with!
Becca says
@Melissa,
I have the same type of food processor and I really like it too! I’ve used it to grate and slice veggies, but never cheese.
RACHEL says
@Melissa,
CRYSTAL-
I agree here… get the 11 cup KITCHEN AID-
Normally, Cuisanart is good… but in food processor land….Kitchen Aid is king. 🙂
Alissia says
@RACHEL,
Totally agree! I have the 11 cup kitchen aid too, with grating and slicing attachments….love, love, love it! I use it for making pie crust, shredding cheese & veggies. I even use the smaller bowl that came with it to make baby food. You will love it 🙂
Siobhan says
@Melissa,
I don’t know how it “used to be”, but I just had a fabulous experience w/cusinart cust svc about my ice cream maker. They were helpful and polite and even sent me a free replacement part when all I was trying to find out was how to tell what the part number was so I could order it from the website (since it was my fault it broke)
Erica Iwamura says
another vote for Cuisinart fan.. get a larger one. I have had mine for about 5 years.. got it from Costco and it still works great!
Celia says
I just realized that you bought a 4 cup! Lady, return that and get the 11 cup!!!!
Celia says
Yes, get a larger size Cuisinart! My mother still has hers from over 20 years ago! It is worth the investment and Cuisinart is an excellent brand. Mine has a few attachments: a grater, slicer and the chopper in the bottom. I have used mine in place of a blender and love shredding cabbage and cheese in it!
Susan J says
@Celia,
Amen to what Celia said! We love our BIG Cuisinart, and have been using it lately to make green smoothies. We don’t even own a blender!
Homemaking Joyfully says
I concur! I have the regular size Cuisinart and it is used daily. I love the grater attachment. I actually have the Cuisinart Smart Power Duet – this model has a blender and a separate food processor, but both use the same base and it’s amazing. I purchased it at Costco when my last one (Sunbeam) bit the dust. I wouldn’t trade this appliance for anything.
Kathi says
I like my Black and Decker 10 c. I think it was about $60 (after a 20% off q) 4-5 years ago. I do “everything” in it (grate, slice, mix dough) because I have carpal tunnel and couldn’t do some of this otherwise
christi says
I have this one, by viking….and I plan on it lasting a lifetime 🙂
http://www.vikingappliance.com/viking_food_processor_866_prd1.htm
LOVE it, but it’s heavy, so there’s no moving it around often, though.
Ashley says
I got an awesome food processor for free from my local freecycle! Just asked for one and got two offers. I absolutely love mine and it grates cheese like a champ! 🙂 Might want to try that route!
Lisa says
I don’t have a food processor that grates cheese either. I still do it the old fashion way. It seems like I can get grated cheese so cheap that I hardly ever have to grate cheese!
Anyway, this is one of the funniest posts you have ever written! I guess I laughed so much because this is exactly something I could have done! 🙂
Good luck with your search!
Amanda says
Cuisinart is one of the best brands you can buy of food processors. You should return the 4 cup one though, and purchase the 7 cup or higher, as those are the ones with the grating attachment.
Stephanie says
I agree! i love my Cuisinart 7 cup…and it grated cheese, shreds carrots, slices thing, kneads dough…
Whitney says
The mini-prep Cuisinart does not grate cheese. We received one as a wedding present. The regular Cuisinart Food Processer comes with an attachment that will grate cheese. That was a present also. I love them both!!
Julie Finch says
Crystal,
Thank you for being so honest!
I really appreciate your posts-whether it be shopping, house hunting, finances, etc…I feel like I’ve gained so much wisdom from you! This little tid-bit just saved me from adding a faulty item on my wedding registry 😉
Thanks to all the other women who posted, I now requested a Cuisinart 7-cup since it seems to be the most suggested!
It brings me so much encouragement to know that there are women who are willing to be upfront and share what they’ve learned with others., so thank you for all you do 🙂
Sarah says
I have the 7-cup cuisinart that came with 4 blades including the shredding and 4 mm slicing disc. It is amazing, I don’t have to worry about breaking it as the motor is a work horse, and it’s probably one of the most versatile appliances I have in my kitchen. When I bought it I think it was right around $100 and I would buy it again in a heart beat.
Shannon says
I have the cuisinart 11 cup food processor. I love it. It’s totally versatile and works perfectly for everything I need, from cheese to salsa to pie crust. I got mine on sale at Macys for $95. I would definitely stick with Cuisinart. I had two Black and Decker models and they both broke quickly. I think its worth the investment, especially if you have swagbucks gift cards to use! I would get a 7 cup capacity minimum, but more likely 10 or 11 cups. You’ll be glad you did!
Heather says
I have that one. Hardly use it. Can’t grate carrots either. Good for a few small things. Get a bigger one.
Kelly says
I hate when that happens. Thank goodness for return policies 🙂 I have a 7 cup “Pro-Classic” Cuisinart. I love it. I don’t get it out to chop some green peppers for dinner or anything; that wouldn’t be worth the hassle, but I do use it when I’m doing a bunch of stuff at once. With your once a month cooking thing, I think you should consider the bigger one though. If I’m making a bunch of hashbrowns or something, I do have to empty it out midway.
Miriam says
I hav a cuisinart 7 cup processor that came with a slicer and a grater attachment that I like very much.
Rebecca says
I have had two of the Cuisinart mini preps and the motor has burned out in both of them! They are definitely for small amounts of very soft foods. But I do have a Cuisinart 7 cup from about 1980 (it was a hand me down from my husband’s great aunt) that I have been using for about six years now and it is fantastic! I have the shredding and slicing discs. I use the shredding disc all the time! I use the basic blade for lots of things, including chopping up veggies so small that my kids don’t see them in their dinners! I also use it for mixing biscuits, cobblers, pie crusts, and pesto. I do wish the bowl was larger, though. If this one ever breaks, I will get the 11 cup version. I think Craigslist is a great place to look for one! Good luck!
Nancy Broyles says
If you want to grate cheese it helps to have a food processor with a wide mouth. I bought this one at walmart. It has slicing, shredding and dough blades and it holds up to 14 cups! The best part is it’s only $44. It’s sold at WalMart so you can have it shipped to your local store for free. Plus, it has a waranty. I LOVE this thing. It probably doesn’t work well on small things like chopping one onion but when you do bulk cooking it’s awesome. Did I mention it’s only $44? http://www.walmart.com/ip/GE-14-Cup-Digital-Food-Processor/12311468
Laura says
I’m with you, Crystal! DH & I have been married 19 years and have never had a food processor. I’ll take the plunge one day. Maybe after you find one you like!
Michelle says
Hi Crystal,
I love your website & get so many great tips & ideas from you. Thank you! I don’t have a food processor, so I can’t give you a recommendation on a good one. Have you looked to see if you have a freecycle group in your area? (www.freecycle.org) I was looking for something really random & put up a ‘wanted’ post on there & had multiple responses. People are happy to help you & thrilled to get something unwanted out of their house & keep it out of a landfill. Best of all – it’s free for you! : )
Lee says
I have a 7 cup cuisinart, older model. I actually bought the floor model at sears to make baby food for my now 4 year old. I use my blade to “grate” cheese into cubes. I don’t do OAMC though, but 4 cups may end up being to small as it won’t actaully process 4 cups to well of dried things like cheese and bread crumbs.
Marla says
I would return this one. 4 cups is not going to get you very far with the amount of cooking you do. As others said, go with the 11 cup Cuisinart. I’ve had mine for almost 10 years and have been very happy with its performance.
Melissa says
Oh, Crystal! I feel so bad for you! What a disappointment! I would definitely send it back and upgrade to an 11-cup or a 13-cup for as much as you want it to do.
I have a Cuisinart 11-cup and LOVE it! I told my husband that my KitchenAid and my Cuisinart are going to heaven with me! 🙂 Mine will grate cheese really well with the shredding disk. The disk (and there are several different kinds) mounts on a post that you insert in the same place where you would put the blade, so the disk sits close the top of the work bowl. (Think: looks like a mushroom with a flat cap..) I can shred a pound of cheese at a time before I have to dump the bowl. It does a grea job of shredding carrots, too!
I have a dough blade which is fabulous for pizza crust.
I have a chopping blade which I like so much for veggies!
My hubby bought it for my birthday at Costco several years ago. I came with four disks, disk storage box, the two blades, and an extra work bowl (which is so nice!). It was definitely worth the cost!
Happy cooking!
Miriam says
My MIL gave me a 7-cup Cuisenart for my birthday last year (I like her! 😀 ) and it came with a couple different blades, a grater blade included. I love the machine 🙂 Sounds like you’ve gotten lots of different advice. Hope you can find something to fit your need and wallet 🙂
Summer says
My new 7 cup Cuisinart was delivered today. I ordered it at Bed Bath and Beyond. To use their 20% off coupon you have to go into the store to order it, since none of my local bbb stores carry it. I somehow got them to waive the shipping. I think they will do it if you are persistant enough. So I got it for I think $85 after tax. I have read so much good stuff about it- I hope it lives up to its name!
Kristen says
I also have the 11 Cup Cuisinart Food Processor. It was recommended by America’s Test Kitchen/Cooks’ Illustrated. It’s really the minimum you have to get to be really versatile. Anything less and it won’t have the capacity or features that you may find that you need.
Sherry says
We’ve all made similar mistakes to the one you’ve made- how else would we learn. If you have a Kitchen Aide mixer, you might look into getting the shredder attachment. It might be cheaper than buying a whole other appliance, and it saves on space. Just a thought. Hope you find what you’re looking for:)
jill says
I have a Black and Decker quick and easy plus food processor that I bought to shred cheese and vegetables. It was reasonably priced and works well. I think it was around $30.00.
Amy in SC says
I bought the attachment to my KitchenAid stand mixer. I got it at Kohl’s when I got a 30% off coupon. It grates an 8 oz block of cheese in seconds. I absolutely love it. It also slices/shreds veges. I have a KitchenAid food processor (the very basic one) and it works very well at chopping…almost too well. Sometimes veges can get over-chopped. 🙂 Hope this helps.
Frugalista says
@Amy in SC, @Amy, your comment is convincing me to give the KitchenAid attachment a second chance. My DH got it for me for Xmas (he was supposed to send in for a rebate, I believe, hehehe) and I tried it once or twice and didn’t like it. Seemed too much cheese gunk got caught on the outside portion. Maybe if I freeze the cheese first.
Stephanie says
Yep, you definitely bought the wrong one for doing cheese. The one you have works really well on small batches of things – I use mine mostly for chopping nuts (when I need more than just a little bit). I have a bigger Cuisinart that will do cheese (I don’t use it for that often, mostly because I don’t think about it), but I seem to remember reading that some cheeses grate better (and more easily) when they’re frozen. The instruction book will tell you which ones. Good luck!
Tami says
http://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-DLC-2014N-PowerPrep-Capacity-Processor/dp/B00004WKHT/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1272491673&sr=8-3
It too is a Cuisinart, but it has 4 blades: a shredding blade (what you need), a slicing blade, a knife blade (this will chop your onions in no time flat) and a dough blade. I also make pie crusts and small batches of breads in it – like pizza dough. Love, love love it! I’ve recommended it to several friends and the ones who have bought it love theirs too. It is more expensive than the one you bought but it will do much, much more.
Allie Z says
@Tami, i LOVE mine too!!! I can’t say enough positives about it. And forget issues with nooks and crannies. These new attachments are dishwasher safe so clean up is EASY.
My 12 cup Cuisinart shreds 1 block of 1 lb cheese in 6 seconds. 8 onions are chopped in 30 seconds.
Don’t forget that Silas and his friends will eat you out of house and home. A BIG Cuisinart is an investment and very much worth it!!!
Candi says
I got a Food Network food processor and it has two shredding/slicing attachments in a drawer in the bottom of the processor. Like you, I waited a long time (I’m 36 and bought it 2 years ago) to purchase it. Hopefully you can return it for one that shreds and slices, but like the other readers, I would go ahead and buy a bigger one at least a 7-11 cup bowl. You’d be surprised how fast it fills up. I love it so much, if it died, I’d have to buy another one straight away 🙂
Mary Ann says
Bummer! Even my tiny food processor grates cheese. That’s definitely one of the main selling points of a food processor I think. I have a slicing blade (the round disc kind that fits at the top) and when I turn it over, the other side is grating. Pretty clever design I think, less to keep track of. Hope you find something that works for you!
BT says
I have the same one as Evangeline Andrews.
I got it on amazon for half the price too!
Teresa says
i have the 7 cup cuisinart and love it. have bought it for our daughters and now some of our granddaughters. it’s a great size for 2 and have also used it for large amounts (just needed to do a couple batches). i selected one that doesn’t have the adjustable feeding tube as it looked like it would be time consuming to clean. mine is easy to use and easy to clean. =) DLC-5 (around $80 when Macy’s has it on special). works great to chop, slice and like another post, i usually just pulse several times instead of using the grating attachment. not sure if the 4 c will be big enough for your OAMC.
Mary Snow says
The one I use & like is from Hamilton Beach & is around $30 from Kmart. It has the 6 cup bowl it is not a mini. I keep it in the pantry & not on the counter. I dont use it too often but I do like it.
Evangeline Andrews says
I have this one…Cuisinart
Custom 14™ Food Processor – DFP-14BCN
and I have to say it’s a workhorse in our kitchen especially for OAMC. I can’t do without it!
Amy- Cutting Coupons in KC says
I purchased the Food Network Mini Food Processor at Kohls (on sale & with a coupon & Kohls Cash of course) a couple of months ago and I love it!! It has the attachment to grate cheese (it also does a great job of shredding carrots). The best part is that it is small so it is very easy to store. Here is a link to the one that I purchased:
http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStore/landingpages/foodnetwork/kitchenelectrics/PRD~522680/Food+Network+3Cup+Mini+Food+Processor+and+Chopper.jsp
Frugalista says
Crystal — I agree with the person who said that a regular food processor “grates” cheese just fine. I used to ues my Mini Prep for that a lot before it broke.
I also agree with the person who said that with all the cooking you do, you need a full-sized one. I used to get sick of feeding batches of stuff into that Mini Prep. Then I got the Cuisinart Duet but the food processor part broke.
Why do I keep breaking my food processors? I don’t know, I think maybe from making breadcrumbs? Or maybe even from grating cheese? Too dry maybe?
elizabeth says
I have a Wolfgang Puck processor that I got from an aunt who doesn’t cook anymore. It is fantastic but heavy. I saw online it is pretty expensive – upwards of $200. But if you see it on Craigslist or something like that, know that it works great.
Alea says
I have the cuisinart duet. It has one base and 2 tops – one blender, one food processer. The container is not huge, but I don’t use it for coleslaw for the whole family either. A bigger one might be nice someday for hash browns and such, but I like the space savings with only one base. I got my first one for our wedding 10 years ago, and just replaced it with the same thing since it was worn out! It was about $60 at costco. The one downside – its LOUD! More money might mean quieter motor.
And – I would have totally done the same thing!
Cathy says
I had a Cuisinart that DID grate cheese, and it was the worst one I’ve had. Now I’ve got the slicer/shredder attachment for my Bosch and it works well, though it’s probably not for everyone as you have to have the mixer base to use it.
ThriftyShannon says
I have that exact mini-prep, and there aren’t any attachments for it, at least not that I’ve ever seen. It’s basically only good for chopping things up. It does a great job on the chopping – I mainly use it for onions, but have used it for other things as well. I am going to be looking into a larger one that will shred cheese and knead bread dough and so on, and am thinking of either a Kitchenaid or a Cuisinart 11 cup. I would suggest sending that one back and getting a larger one that has attachment options. 🙂
Lynn says
It looks like you bought a mini one. You need a regular full size one to do what you want it to. I would suggest either the Cuisinart or the Kitchen Aid ones.
Patti says
I have a 25 year old LARGE Cuisinart Food Processor that has four different blades. It does everything from making bread dough to grating cheese or coleslaw. It is still going strong so you really get your money’s worth. I rate it on the level of my Kitchen Aid mixer that I have had since 1977. Between the two, you’ll be covered. I agree that you should go for the biggest and best – with your cooking skills, you’ll be using it all the time.
AnneStrawberry says
I’ve used lots of different food processors and would recommend the Cuisinart 7 cup. It’s super quick and easy to clean. Really any bigger Cuisinart is great but I’ve found that my bigger KitchenAid food processor (12 cups) has a lot of rims to clean and can almost be too big, making me less likely to use it. I did get it for only 70 bucks at Bed Bath and Beyond, though, which was pretty sweet (especially since it was $175 at Amazon when I bought it). They price match to Kohls, and they were running an early morning special, so I got the morning price, plus a 20 percent off coupon, plus a 20 dollar rebate after the fact.
I also thought I would use all the attachments with the bigger mixer but I still really only use the blade and the shredder and slicer, which the seven cup comes with. Hope that helps! 🙂
Emily says
Hi! I own the food processor you pictured. I received it as a wedding gift. It’s definitely a simple smaller model and does not have any cheese grating capabilities. It is perfect for pureeing baby food/fruit and for making pesto. My sister in law has a nicer higher model Cuisinart that has a cheese grating attachment. I don’t know the model number. Some day if mine ever fizzles out, I’ll definitely buy one with that attachment. It would be so handy to have! 🙂
Veronica says
I have a big (and pretty) KitchenAid food processor. Hubby bought it for me and his theory is alway “bigger is better”. I think my KitchenAid would grate my refridgerator if I get it get close enough. And it came with both a large and small bowl … and their respective attachments. I do bulk cooking 3 times a year and haven’t been able to kill any of my KitchenAid equipment yet.
Bekki says
As a few others have said, the 7 cup Cuisinart is great! Here’s the link to its Amazon listing so you can see what it looks like: http://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-DLC-10S-Classic-7-Cup-Processor/dp/B00004S9EM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1272489787&sr=8-1
Margery says
I have the 11-cup Cuisinart, which I love, and it has a grating disc. We use it all the time.
Susan says
I agree about the Presto Salad Shooter. We use our all the time. I often put in the grater blade and grate blocks of cheese right into a zip top bag to use for cooking- it looks just like it was store bought. It is also great on veggies. Mine was my mothers from the 80s when it came out, and it is still going strong with no new parts or replacements needed. It also washes really easy in the dish washer. No little parts to get gunky with food. I have seen them at yard sales before, so keep an eye out!
Sarah in Alaska says
I bought the same one. Sigh. I think their advertizing on Amazon is deceptive.
I kept it though, because I had gotten it for more than just cheese.
Tiffany says
Crystal,
The picture of the one you bought just finally loaded….
You bought a mini food processor. Why, with all the cooking you do would you buy that one?? Get a regular size Cuisinart. They are the best and a work horse. Those little one aren’t good for anything but baby food.
Kelly says
Cuisinart Customer Prep 11-cup Food Processor. It grates everything from cheese, to carrotts, to potatoes (for hash browns), to nuts, to meat, etc. Also great for blending soups and making pesto. It was a little more expensive (I think $169 at Costco) – but I love it and I use it all the time.
I’ve had the smaller versionAnd it also has a bread hook and makes great dough for french bread and pie crust. HTH.
Hillary says
I second looking for the grating attachment for the Cuisinart you purchased. I have 2 different Cuisinart’s (12 cup food processor with grating attachment, and a mini-prep) and they are hands down my FAVORITE kitchen appliances!! I couldn’t live without them. The grating attachment is no hassle at all and you can literally turn a huge block of cheese into beautiful shreds within seconds!
Tiffany says
I got sick an tired of going through food processors and finally bought a Cuisinart. I have never been happier with a purchase. That is strange it didn’t come with the attachment. Just order it! I wouldn’t settle for anything less.
Tasha says
I have a 7 cup Cuisinart and LOVE it!
Bethany says
Look at their website and see if they have a grating blade that will fit yours – I bet they do! I never had a food processor either until I got my MIL’s hand-me-down and it saves so much time! I mostly use it for stir frys and also for shredding cabbage 🙂
Katie says
Have you looked for a used one on Craigslist? or yard sales? (let friends and family know you are looking for one too.) If your craigslist is very good, then you can even put a want ad out there.
I’m probably weird, but this is one item I don’t think you need the latest and greatest of. But yes, you will need one that can grate cheese. 😉
kerry D. says
My inexpensive Hamilton Beach food processor does just fine to make salsa, shred cabbage and so on (don’t know about cheese) BUT I’ve found that the container is awfully small for the kind of cooking I’m doing these days. For OAMC, the size of the container would really matter, as it’s a nuisance to keep removing and emptying into a bowl (as I did recently, making cole slaw.)
Abigail says
I have a Cuisinart which I use all of the time to “grate” cheese, but I never use the grating attachment. I just use the blade in the bottom of the bowl and it produces the perfect, soft cheese crumbles. Much easier than messing with the grater attachment. In fact, that’s my preferred cheese “medium” if that makes sense! The crumbles melt nicely, blend well into recipes, and are perfect for cheese that has been in the freezer that won’t “grate” right anyhow. I would try using your food processors blade attachment with your cheese!
sarah says
I have a cheap hamiliton beach one that has a grating feature, but i don’t hard core use it. I love my 3 cup cuisinart that i use a ton– have you looked to see if the sell an attachment piece so you don’t have to return it. The grater thing in mine is a plate piece you insert.
Steph says
If you’re mainly interested in shredded/chopping, you might look into a salad shooter (Presto ?) instead. It works great for shredding/grating cheese, potatoes, zucchini, carrots, apples, etc. We don’t use the slicing blade as often, but it’s also good for most things (except cheese – that only works for shredding). I don’t think it handles onions well, though. It doesn’t take up a lot of room either!
Beth @ Penny Pantry says
@Steph,
if you mainly want to grate cheese…. I’ve had the same presto salad shooter for 15 years. It’s main purpose has been to shred cheese, but i have used it to shred carrots and cabbage for coleslaw a lot too.
it was a wedding gift that i almost took back to the store because i literally thought…”I’ll never use this!” boy was i wrong…i’ve used it alot and it sure has saved me a lot of time over the years…especially when once a month cooking.
Dana says
@Beth @ Penny Pantry,
I have a Salad Shooter that I love too! I originally got it for my mom for Christmas YEARS ago. She gave it to me when my dad got a food processor for her that same year.
Connie says
I do not have a food processor, so cannot comment. However, just thought that this post was “too cute”. Thanks for sharing and keeping it real! Thankfully, you will get lots of feedback from others, hope it helps, and soon! Happy Day! ~C