For many individuals, the concept of indoor grilling transcends seasonal constraints. Regardless of whether it’s the midst of winter or the peak of summer, an indoor grill offers a convenient solution for those with limited outdoor space, such as apartment dwellers seeking to minimize oil and smoke while still savoring barbecue-style cuisine.
Essentially, it boils down to having a compact, kitchen-based alternative that provides the same grilled flavors without the need for a traditional gas barbecue.
The 6 Best Electric Indoor Grills
When it comes to electric indoor grills, there are many options available on the market. For those looking for a top-notch product, we recommend considering the following five models: Hamilton Beach’s Electric Indoor Searing Grill, Cuisinart’s GR-4N 5-in-1 Griddler, Proctor Silex’s 5-in-1 Electric Indoor Grill, T-fal’s GC70 OptiGrill Electric Grill, and Delonghi’s BG24 Perfecto Indoor Grill.
Additionally, the George Foreman GR340FB 4-Serving Classic Plate Electric Indoor Grill and Panini Press is also worth a look for those seeking a versatile product that can handle both grilling and panini pressing tasks.
Our Top Pick for the Best Electric Indoor Grill
Our top choice for an electric indoor grill is the Cuisinart GR-4N 5-in-1 Griddler, a versatile cooking companion that can cater to two people or a family of four. What sets this griller apart from others is its impressive array of features, including a floating lid that can be adjusted to accommodate thicker cuts of meat, three temperature control knobs, and a hinge release button for effortless plate removal.
Cleaning is also a breeze thanks to the detachable grilling plates and removable drip tray. With so many ways to cook and clean up, it’s no wonder this grill has earned its place as our top pick. Check out the current price on Amazon.
Two Types of Indoor Grills
Open Grill
A traditional open grill design features a single cooking surface where food is placed, cooked on one side, then flipped to seal the other. Some models boast a lid that contains heat, allowing for precise temperature control. This type of grill provides an authentic outdoor grilling experience, perfect for those who crave hands-on interaction with their meals.
Alternatively, indoor open-grill hybrids offer the flexibility to switch between open and contact grilling styles, giving you the best of both worlds.
Contact Grill
The contact grill stands out for its unique design, featuring two interlocking plates – one within the lid and another at the bottom. This configuration allows for faster cooking times compared to traditional open grills. Its compact size makes it an excellent choice for smaller kitchens or those with limited storage space. One of the key benefits is that the contact grill can accommodate a decent amount of food, making it suitable for families of four or entertaining guests.
The top and bottom plates provide ample cooking surface, while the lid serves as a press to achieve perfect grilling results – whether you’re making sandwiches or searing burgers. Moreover, the sealed environment created by the lid helps trap heat and juices, resulting in perfectly cooked meals with minimal smoke.
How to Choose an Indoor Grill
When it comes to indoor electric grills, one of the most significant advantages is their compact design, which makes them perfect for kitchens with limited space. While many models can easily fit on a tabletop or stove, there are still some key features to consider when selecting the right indoor grill for your needs. To help you make an informed decision, here are 12 essential tips to keep in mind as you search for your ideal grilling companion.
Size of the Grill
When it comes to indoor grills, the size of the grill is often determined by the dimension of its grilling plate. Typically, these plates range from 60 to 200-square inches in area, allowing for the simultaneous cooking of four quarter-pound burger patties, perfect for a family of four’s meal needs. However, if you’re planning to cook larger cuts of meat, you may need to divide your cooking tasks into batches, which can be a drawback.
For those who anticipate a higher demand on their grill, choosing an indoor grilling appliance with a longer cooking plate, such as the NutriChef, could be a wise decision.
Power
For optimal performance, most indoor grills operate within a 1500-1800-watt power range. Higher wattage speeds up preheating and cooking times, allowing for efficient meal preparation. However, lower-powered models (around 800-watts) are better suited for small-scale cooking tasks or thin cuts of meat. If you’re looking to cook thicker pieces like steak or pork, a higher-powered grill may be necessary, potentially requiring food to be cooked in batches.
Heat Control Options
Indoor grills boast a versatile temperature range, typically spanning between 350°F to 450°F. Some models come equipped with fixed heat settings, while others feature adjustable dials or buttons that grant greater control over the cooking process. This added flexibility is particularly useful when preparing diverse dishes, as it enables you to tailor the heat to suit specific meat or vegetable types.
With an adjustable temperature at your disposal, you can effortlessly adjust the heat to achieve perfectly cooked results, whether searing a steak or grilling a panini. When tackling thicker cuts of meat or achieving that signature sear, look for an indoor grill capable of reaching temperatures as high as 450°F.
Automatic Shut-off Switch
The annoyance of undercooked or overcooked meals can be mitigated by the innovative features offered by certain indoor grills. For instance, many models are equipped with an automatic shut-off mechanism that detects when the food has reached the optimal level of doneness and then ceases heating.
On/Off Light and Heating Indicator Light
When it comes to indoor grills, some models come standard with an on/off indicator light that lets you know when the grill is active. However, for more precise control, some indoor grills are equipped with a dual-function lighting system, featuring both an on/off indicator and a dedicated heating light. The latter illuminates when the grill has reached its optimal temperature range, providing users with a clear visual cue to ensure their food is cooked to perfection.
Timer
One of the most convenient aspects of a timer is its ability to simplify the cooking process. By simply setting the timer to the precise cooking time required, you can then step away and let the device take care of the rest. When the timer reaches its predetermined end point, it will alert you with a notification, ensuring that your dish is cooked to perfection without requiring constant monitoring.
Removable Grill and Plates
For those who frequently host large gatherings, a versatile grill can be a game-changer. Many grills come with a lid that features a hinged design, allowing you to expand your cooking surface by flipping it open. This added space is ideal for catering to bigger groups or parties, as you can accommodate more food at once. Furthermore, the removable nature of these plates or grills makes post-meal cleanup a breeze.
Simply detach the plate, toss it in the dishwasher, or give it a good scrub by hand – the choice is yours.
Non-stick Grill Plates
The advent of non-stick grilling plates has made cooking with electric indoor grills more convenient and hassle-free. Like other non-stick cookware, this coating prevents food from sticking to the grill, making cleaning up a breeze. However, it’s essential to note that some non-stick surfaces can deteriorate over time, particularly if the grill is used frequently. To maintain their effectiveness, regular thorough cleaning of the plate or plates is crucial.
Floating Hinge
When it comes to contact grills, a floating hinge is an essential feature that enables you to apply even pressure on your food for consistent cooking results. This design is particularly beneficial when cooking thicker meats or paninis, as it allows you to press down firmly and evenly on the food without compromising its structural integrity. The floating hinge’s ability to flex and adapt to different thicknesses of food makes it an indispensable tool in any contact grill enthusiast’s arsenal.
Grease Tray
Indoor grills often employ a basic design featuring a small, cup-shaped grease catcher capable of containing limited amounts of fat. However, most models have an upgraded version with a spacious, drawer-like compartment designed to handle larger volumes of grease. Some indoor grills boast detachable and washable grease catchers or drip trays, making the cleaning process significantly easier.
Filter
While indoor grillers are significantly smaller than their outdoor counterparts, they’re still capable of producing smoke. Although the lid can effectively contain much of this smoke, it’s worth noting that not all cooking requires the use of a lid. However, if you’re working in a poorly ventilated kitchen, it’s essential to opt for an indoor griller with a built-in filter to minimize the impact of any lingering fumes.
Safety Features
When handling hot surfaces on indoor grills, safety should always be your top priority. Fortunately, many modern grills come equipped with thoughtful features that promote safe use. For instance, detachable temperature gauges allow for effortless cleaning and maintenance, ensuring the grill remains in pristine condition. Additionally, cool-touch handles provide an extra layer of protection against burns, giving you greater peace of mind as you cook.
6 Best Indoor Grills – Reviews
Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill
For those looking to replicate the flavors of an outdoor barbecue indoors, the Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill is an excellent choice. This compact and straightforward grill makes it easy to cook up a storm, even when the weather outside is less than cooperative. With its ample 118-square-inch cooking surface, you can effortlessly accommodate three to four small steaks at once.
One of the key features that sets this grill apart is its ability to truly sear in flavors and juices thanks to the removable lid. The non-stick cooking grid also ensures that your food won’t stick to the surface, making for a hassle-free grilling experience. Temperature control is another area where this grill excels. With adjustable temperature settings up to 450°F, you can achieve perfect results whether you’re searing meat or cooking other types of dishes.
The unit’s power button light and preheat light keep you informed as the grill reaches optimal cooking temperatures. When it comes time to clean up, the removable lid and drip tray are dishwasher safe, making maintenance a breeze. To preserve the non-stick surface, it’s worth noting that soaking the cooking grid before cleaning is recommended.
On the plus side, this grill offers a range of benefits including its compact design, high searing capability, adjustable temperature control, even cooking, and delicious results. However, some users may experience minor drawbacks such as difficulty closing the lid on thicker steaks, significant smoking, a slightly flimsy-feeling lid, and moderate cleaning challenges. Check out the current pricing and availability of this grill on Amazon.
Cuisinart GR-4N 5-in-1 Griddler
The Cuisinart Griddler is an incredibly versatile cooking appliance, boasting five unique functions that cater to a wide range of culinary needs. With its impressive 1500-watt power output and generous 200-square-inch cooking surface, this griddle/grill combo can handle everything from breakfast staples like bacon and eggs to steak, chicken, and panini.
The device’s new design features a sturdy brushed stainless steel construction, a durable panini-style handle, and a hinge-release mechanism that allows for easy plate flipping. One of the standout features of the Cuisinart Griddler is its thoughtful design, which includes an integrated drip tray that catches grease as you cook, reducing mess and making cleanup a breeze.
The reversible cooking plates are removable and can be used in multiple configurations – flat for grilling or slightly inclined for panini-style cooking. The floating lid adjusts to accommodate varying meat thicknesses, although users should exercise caution when cooking fatty meats to avoid overflow.
Operation is straightforward, thanks to the intuitive power and ready-to-cook indicator lights, three selector knobs controlling temperature (up to 200°F to 425°F) and function (panini/grill), as well as an adjustable grill/panini temperature control. The detachable plates feature a quick-release button for easy cleaning and maintenance. While the cooking plates are dishwasher safe, Cuisinart recommends hand washing to preserve the non-stick coating.
A handy cleaning tool and recipe booklet come included with the purchase. Some notable pros of this product include its suitability for four-person households, affordable price point, five-in-one functionality, wide food range, integrated grease catcher, reversible plates, and adjustable temperature. However, some users have reported issues with cooking thick steaks, non-stick surface wear over time, and occasional on/off cycling during the cooking process.
Proctor Silex 5-in-1 Electric Indoor Grill
The Proctor Silex 5-in-1 Electric Indoor Grill is a remarkably versatile grilling machine, boasting a spacious 100-sq. inch cooking area that can accommodate a wide range of dishes, from juicy steaks to tender chicken fillets to crispy burgers. The grill’s unique design allows for effortless conversion into a panini maker or griddle, perfect for cooking eggs, pancakes, and grilled cheese sandwiches.
With its advanced heat technology, the Proctor Silex indoor grill ensures that your food is cooked evenly on both sides, eliminating the need for constant flipping.
The sleek and durable stainless-steel design of the grill adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen or dining space. The removable non-stick plates can be effortlessly cleaned with a simple button press, making maintenance a breeze.
To use the grill, simply arrange your food, set the desired temperature (allowing for low or high heat cooking), and rely on the indicator light to signal when your dish is cooked to perfection.
The Proctor Silex indoor grill also features a thoughtful drip tray that captures any juices or grease from your food, keeping your kitchen counter-top or dining room table spotless.
The sturdy handle allows for safe opening and closing of the lid, while the front-mounted control center provides easy access to all cooking settings. To further enhance the grilling experience, Proctor Silex includes a comprehensive cooking guide and a spatula cleaning tool to keep your grill plates clean and ready for the next grilling season.
Pros: The Proctor Silex 5-in-1 Electric Indoor Grill offers several notable advantages, including a generous cooking area suitable for three to four people, dual cooking panels featuring both grill plate and griddle, the ability to function as a panini maker, removable plates, and a standard cooking time guide. Additionally, the dishwasher-safe plates and drip tray make cleanup a cinch.
Cons: While an excellent product overall, some users may find that the Proctor Silex indoor grill lacks a timer feature and has a somewhat bulky design.
T-fal GC70 OptiGrill Electric Grill
The T-fal GC70 OptiGrill Electric Grill boasts innovative technology that simplifies your cooking and grilling experience. With its intuitive touch panel interface, you can program the grill to cook your food to perfection. The automatic sensor adjusts to the thickness of your food, ensuring even cooking every time.
The multi-colored dial on the lid provides a range of operating functions, allowing you to choose from preheating, starting cooking, and customizing cooking settings – including steak doneness options like rare, medium, or well-done. A built-in indicator light and beep alert let you know when your food is ready, eliminating the need for constant monitoring.
This powerful 1800-watt grill features six cooking programs, including defrost function, and ample grilling space for two to three people (100-square inches). The angled plates are designed for effortless fat release, while the brushed stainless steel housing adds a touch of sophistication. Easy cleaning is also a breeze, thanks to removable drip trays and plates that can be washed by hand or placed in the dishwasher.
While this grill excels at cooking frozen food quickly, it may not be ideal for large groups or those on a budget due to its higher price point. However, its stylish design, ease of use, and built-in sensors make it a top choice for those seeking a convenient and reliable grilling experience.
De’Longhi BG24 Perfecto Indoor Grill
The De’Longhi Indoor Grill is a winter cook’s best friend, allowing you to create mouthwatering barbecue dishes from the comfort of your own home. The secret to its success lies in its fully embedded grill plate heating element, which ensures even cooking and locks in juices with the tempered glass lid. As an added bonus, the fat drips down rivulets on the grill, eliminating any smoke or mess.
One of its standout features is its ability to reach scorching temperatures of up to 450°F – perfect for searing or keeping already cooked meat warm. The lower setting is ideal for slower cooking or keeping food at a comfortable temperature. The non-stick cooking surface can accommodate beef patties, vegetables, and more for four people, although larger pieces may require batch cooking.
The adjustable temperature gauge can be removed for cleaning and storage, while the cool-touch handle ensures safe handling when moving the grill. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the non-stick plate and removable drip tray. With its ability to provide good, even cooking results and high temperature, it’s little wonder why this grill has become a favorite among many.
However, some users have reported that the plug can come loose over time, and preheating may take a few minutes longer than expected.
George Foreman GR340FB 4-Serving Classic Plate Electric Indoor Grill and Panini Press
The George Foreman Electric Indoor Grill is a well-rounded option that excels in versatility, providing a 60-square-inch cooking surface that can accommodate four quarter-pound burger patties or small paninis. While it’s perfect for smaller meals, you may need to cook larger pieces of meat in batches. The grill reaches a maximum temperature of 400°F within four minutes and can cook a full meal in just 10 minutes.
Its 1-inch adjustable hinge also allows for thicker cuts of meat to be cooked evenly. The grill’s advanced coating ensures that food doesn’t stick, while simultaneously protecting the grill from scratches and wear over time. This indoor grill is particularly appealing to health-conscious barbecue enthusiasts, as it features a sloping grilling surface that drains up to 42% fat and a drip tray to catch excess grease.
Additionally, the unit’s removable plates can be placed in the dishwasher for easy cleaning, with the exception of handwashing the grill itself. The George Foreman Electric Indoor Grill is praised for its even cooking results, durability, and reduced fat content. However, some users may find it lacking in terms of its limited capacity to cook large amounts of food, as well as a relatively short power cord and lack of temperature control.
Nevertheless, it remains an excellent option for small gatherings or everyday meals.
Our Top Pick for the Best Electric Indoor Grill
When it comes to finding the best electric indoor grill, our top recommendation is the Cuisinart GR-4N 5-in-1 Griddler. This versatile cooking device offers a wide range of capabilities, from grilling and panini pressing to serving two people or a family of four. One of its standout features is the adjustable floating lid, which allows for thicker pieces of steak to be cooked with ease.
Additionally, it comes equipped with three temperature selector knobs, a hinge release button, and a removable drip tray for added convenience. Furthermore, the grilling plates are designed for easy cleaning, making maintenance a breeze.
