Best Indoor Grill
- by Dino Paccino
- Last Updated: April 12, 2023
Are you a BBQ enthusiast in the market for the perfect indoor grill? With so many different options to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you.
Luckily, after years of helping people design and build their dream kitchens, this topic is one we have run into a fair bit. Using this experience, we decided to compile a list of some of the top options around, allowing you to choose the best indoor grill for your kitchen or indoor living space. So, without wasting any more time, let’s dive right in.
Our Top Indoor Grill Picks
- 1. Best Overall Value - PowerXL Smokeless
- 2. Best Searing Grill - Hamilton Beach Electric
- 3. Best Indoor & Outdoor - George Foreman
- 4. Best Versatility - Cuisinart Gridler Elite
- 5. Best Compact - Maxi-Matic Smokeless
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Our Top Picks For Best Indoor Grill
After trying and testing countless models, we have outlined what we believe to be the top 10 indoor grills available.
1. PowerXL Smokeless Indoor Grill - Best Overall Value
The first item on our list is a smokeless electric grill by Power. With overall dimensions of 13.75″ x 8″, this 1500-watt unit provides enough cooking space to grill a full rack of ribs, eight burger patties, and even an entire chicken spatchcock style. Furthermore, the grill is outfitted with a powerful extraction fan, providing a 100% smokeless grilling experience.
Another impressive feature is the easy-to-use LED controls that allow the user to quickly adjust the cooking temperature up to a max of 450 F, something not often seen on other indoor grills within the same price range. What’s more, the ceramics griddle plate is designed to evenly distribute heat from corner to corner, making it a great indoor grill.
As far as drawbacks are concerned, the Power smokeless grill has two issues of note. For starters, the grill is not the easiest to clean, and judging from users’ reviews, this is the most common complaint. Secondly, the grill cord is only 24 inches in length, which may be a tad short for some. That being said, with a price tag under $150, this smokeless grill is one of the better options around for anyone looking for a mix of quality and affordability.
The PowerXL Smokeless Indoor Grill and the Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill we tried out are both indoor electric grills that offer searing and grilling functions. However, the PowerXL grill is smokeless, making it a good option for indoor use. In comparison, the Hamilton Beach grill has a searing function that allows for high-heat cooking and can cook up to six servings at once.
Pros
- Large cooking surface
- Powerful extraction fan provides smokeless indoor grilling
- Comes with a tempered glass lid
- Grilling plate and drip tray are dishwasher safe
- The grill body is made out of cast aluminum, making it both solid and lightweight
- Fitted with easy to use LED smart controls
- Cooking temperatures range from 250 -450 degrees
Cons
- No handle
- Electric cord is only 24 inches long
- Short manufacturers warranty
2. Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill - Best Indoor Searing Grill
Next up, we have the Hamilton Beach grill, another excellent choice we evaluated for those who don’t want to wait for the passing of winter to grill up some steaks, pork chops, or chicken breasts. One of the grill’s unique features is its see-through hood lid, which can be easily closed to lock in heat and flavor. Like all other parts of the grill, the hood is easily detachable and dishwasher friendly, making the cleaning process as simple as possible.
Thanks to its oversized drip tray, the Hamilton Beach Grill is well equipped to deal with any excess grease or liquid that may come off meat or vegetables during the grilling process and is considered by many to be one of the better indoor grills within its price range.
That being said, at 12.4″ x 16.73″, the grill plate may be a little undersized for some people and may not be suitable for those looking to grill for an entire family.
Comparing the Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill and the George Foreman GFO201R, both electric grills that are easy to use and clean, but the George Foreman model has a larger cooking surface and is more suitable for outdoor use.
Pros
- Very affordable
- One of the best indoor grills for searing
- All parts are removable and dishwater safe
- One of the best indoor grills in terms of overall value
- The control panel comes with a pre-heating light
- Can reach a max temperature of 450 degrees F
Cons
- The grill may be on the smaller side for some people
- The 1200 watt burner will take longer to reach max temperatures compared to more powerful models
- Even when the hood-lid is down, the unit is not as insulated as other indoor grills
3. George Foreman GFO201R - Best for indoor and outdoor grilling
It’s hard to say what George Foreman is more well known for, being a two-time heavyweight boxing champion and gold medalist or as the inventor of one of the most popular lines of electric grills. Either way, the George Foreman Rapid Series is one of the best options for both indoor and outdoor grilling and is a popular item at tailgates.
What makes this electric grill so functional is its 240 square inches circular, nonstick cooking surface. Furthermore, this George Foreman grill we tried out operates at nearly 1500 watts, meaning it reaches cooking temperature much faster than most other indoor grills.
What’s more, the GFO201R is fully apartment approved, making it a perfect option for those living in an apartment building where tenants are forbidden from operating charcoal and gas grills.
Although the GFO201R does make a solid case for being one of the best indoor grills around, it has two noticeable drawbacks. First off, the lid is opaque, meaning users have to remove it every time they want to check on the status of their meat or vegetables. Secondly, when used as an outdoor grill, the unit doesn’t come with a stand, making it awkward for park use and tailgate grill-outs.
Compared to another option we tried out, the George Foreman GFO201R and the Cuisinart Gridler Elite are both versatile grills that can be used for a variety of cooking methods, but the Cuisinart model is more expensive and offers more cooking options, such as panini press and griddle functions.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Can be used for indoor and outdoors grilling
- 240 square inches of cooking surface
- Powerful 1440 watt heating element
- Dishwasher safe drip tray
- Comes with a 3-year limited warranty
- Apartment approved
Cons
- Cover is not see-through, meaning heat will escape every the lid is lifted
- Doesn't come with a stand
4. Cuisinart Gridler Elite - Best Electric Indoor Grill For Top Cooking
Unlike the other three grills we have evaluated so far, the Cuisinart Gridler Elite provides users with a top grill function, making it perfect for making paninis and pressed sandwiches. In total, the grill comes equipped with six useful cooking options, including a contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle, half grill, and top. Together, these settings make for an extremely versatile indoor grill that can be used to cook a healthy variety of foods.
Another feature that separates this unit from the rest is the fact that it comes with interchangeable griddle and grill plates. These removable plates further add to the unit’s versatility and are a significant reason it enjoys such a high rating on Amazon.
When in its fully open position, the Gridler Elite offers an impressive 240 square inches of cooking surface and can even sear at temperatures of up to 500 F for two minutes at a time.
The Cuisinart Gridler Elite and the Maxi-Matic Smokeless Electric Indoor BBQ Grill are both indoor electric grills that offer a variety of cooking functions. The Cuisinart model is more expensive but offers more cooking options, including a griddle, panini press, and waffle plates. The Maxi-Matic grill is more affordable and is a good option for indoor barbecuing.
Pros
- Six useful cooking functions
- Removable plates allow you to switch between grilling and griddling modes
- Has top press capabilities
- Provides 240 square inches of grilling space
- Can sear at 500 F for up to two minutes at a time
- Perfect for Paninis and other pressured sandwiches
- When folded, it doesn't take up much counter space
Cons
- The price tag may be more than some are willing to pay
- Replacement plates are expensive and may not always be available
- The timer only works in 30 second intervals
5. Maxi-Matic Smokeless Electric Indoor BBQ Grill - Best Compact Indoor Grill
If you’re looking for a compact indoor electric grill, then the Maxi-Matic Smokeless Grill may be just what you’re looking for. With a circular cooking surface spanning 14″ in diameter, this grill may look like it would be under-powered, but with its 1300-watt heater, it can reach temperatures as high as 450F.
For those who don’t like the round design, Maxi-Matic also offers a 13″ x 9″ square model, which, like its round counterpart, also features easy-to-clean grill plates and a dishwasher-safe plastic covering.
Comparing the Maxi-Matic Smokeless Electric Indoor BBQ Grill and the PowerXL Smokeless Indoor Grill, both smokeless indoor grills that offer quick heating and easy cleanup. However, the PowerXL model is larger and more powerful, making it a better option for cooking larger meals.
Pros
- Despite its size, it can still reach temperatures as high as 450 F
- Compact
- Very affordable
- Made out of lightweight aluminum
Cons
- Despite what the package says, grill plates are not dishwasher friendly
- Only comes with a one-year limited warranty
6. Secura Indoor Smokeless Grill - Most High Powered Indoor Grill
The Secura Indoor Smokeless Grill we tested is a powerful 1800-watt unit that comes with a reversible cast-iron grill plate and an oversized drip tray, making it one of the best indoor grills around in its price range.
Aside from offering a high level of value, the model is equipped with a dishwasher-safe glass hood lid and added grease channel that helps drain grease and oil quickly and efficiently from the 22.5″ x 15.” cooking surface.
Given the overall quality, size, Power, and relatively low price, it’s easy to see why the Secura Indoor Grill enjoys great customer reviews and a high product ranking.
Pros
- Large cooking surface
- Smokeless
- Powerful 1800 watt burner allows the grill to heat up faster than most other models
- Very affordable for the quality
Cons
- The grill body is plastic
- Although the package says dishwasher friendly, the cast iron plate should not be put in the dishwasher
7. T-Fal 1800 Watt OptiGrill XL - Best Indoor Grill For Pre-Programmed settings
The T-Fall OptiGrill XL is a powerful 1800 watt indoor grill with a cooking surface of 18.9″ x 14.8″. The unit utilizes a design that is more akin to a traditional BBQ than the average electric grill and is outfitted with nine pre-programmed cooking settings, including:
• Burger
• Poultry
• Sandwich
• Sausage
• Red Meat
• Fish
• Pork
• Selfish
• Bacon
Along with these settings, the OptiGrill XL also has a built-in feature for cooking frozen food, something not seen on most indoor grills. Furthermore, the body is constructed out of high-quality stainless steel and is fitted with removable grill plates that truly are dishwasher safe making it a contender for the best indoor grill.
Pros
- 31 inch cord
- Dishwasher friendly removable grill plates for easy cleaning
- Comes with a wide array of pre-programmed settings
- Powerful 1800 watt burner brings grill up to cooking speed fast
- Good amount of cooking space
Cons
- Not everyone likes the design
- Controls are not in the most convenient place
- Considerable more expensive than other options
8. Dash Everyday Nonstick Deluxe Electric Griddle
If you’re looking for a budget indoor grill that provides a large amount of cooking space, the DASH Kitchen Non-Stick Grill is one of the better options available. Made out of cast iron and aluminum, this indoor grill measures 23.5″ x 16.3″ and is equipped with a 1200-watt burner capable of reaching temperatures as high as 450 F.
Of all options under $45, this offering from DASH we tested out is one of the best indoor grills around and comes backed by a one-year warranty. Furthermore, both the grill and drip tray are easily detachable and can be placed directly into the dishwasher after use.
While this grill provides excellent value for the price, potential buyers should understand that it is fairly basic and doesn’t have many of the fancy pre-set settings and LED controls common with higher-priced models. Instead, it employs a simple dial to control temperature.
Pros
- Price tag of under $60
- Large cooking area
- Evenly cooks food
- Parts are easily detachable and dishwasher friendly
- One of the best indoor grills in its price range
Cons
- Very basic, doesn't come with any fancy features or pre-sets
- 1200 watt burner may prove somewhat under powered for the size of the grill
- The drip tray must be partially filled with water before each use
9. Ninja Foodi Pro 5-in-1 Indoor Grill - Best Indoor Grill for College Dorms
The next grill on our tried and tested list, the Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 Indoor Grill, is one of the most versatile and options-heavy grills on the market. As the name implies, the Ninja Foodi Pro incorporates five distinct cook settings, which include:
• 4-Quart Air Fryer
• Roast
• Bake
• Dehydrate
• Cyclonic Grilling
For those who don’t know, Cyclonic Grilling technology involves heating air to 500F and circulating it around the food in a cyclonic pattern. The result is an even and balanced cook distribution of heat unmatched by most other grills available. What’s more, the Air Fryer setting uses 75% less fat than the average deep fryer, making it a perfect fit for the health-conscious individual.
While the unit may seem somewhat on the small side at first glance, it is equipped to fit four healthy-sized stakes, meaning it is big enough to cook for the whole family. However, because of the variety of cooking options, the Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 has become an extremely popular option for college students. If your son or daughter is heading off to college, you may want to consider sending them on their way with a Ninja Foodi.
When all the above is taken into account, it’s not hard to see why this grill enjoys a high rating on amazing Amazon based on over 4,500 reviews. The major drawback is it is quite expensive, and not everyone is willing to spend over $250 on an indoor grill.
Pros
- 5 unique cook settings
- Air fryer setting uses 75% less fat than the standard deep fryer
- Equipped with cyclone grilling technology
- Powerful 1750 watt burner
- Perfect for dorm rooms or small kitchens
- Comes with a 10" x 10" ceramic grill tray, a skillet, a roasting rack, and a veggie tray
Cons
- Expensive
- May be overcomplicated for some people
- Not suitable as an outdoor grill
10. Techwood Korean BBQ Smokeless Grill - Best Smokeless Grill
Rounding out the top 10 is the Techwood Korean BBQ Smokeless Grill, which comes equipped with a non-stick grilling surface and a tempered glass lid. Aside from the powerful 1500-watt heater, perhaps the most impressive aspect of this grill is its powerful fan which ensures that no smoke escapes, even when cooking at high temperatures.
Along with easy-to-use LED controls, this Techwood indoor grill comes equipped with six pre-set temperatures designed to help you easily cook a wide variety of foods. Furthermore, the model is very aesthetically pleasing, fitted with a dark red, and designed to resemble something one would expect to find in a Korean BBQ restaurant.
Pros
- Affordable
- Powerful 1500 watt heater
- 21" c 13" grilling surface
- Detachable plates and drip tray
- Visually pleasing
- Completely smokeless
- 18 month manufacturers warranty
Cons
- Control panel and settings are somewhat basic
- Non-stick coating doesn't last very long
11. Presto 09020 Cool Touch Indoor Grill
The Presto 09020 is another budget option we tried out for those looking for an indoor grill with a price tag of $45 or less. The grill features a classic design and is equipped with a slanted grilling surface that ensures all grease and other liquids drain quickly and efficiently into the drip tray below.
Supporting overall dimensions of 19.75″ by 13.06″, the Presto 09020 provides users with a generous amount of grilling space. However, the designers were conscientious enough to keep the size just under that of a standard cupboard, meaning the grill is easily storable. On top of all this, Presto includes a matching spatula and a one-year no-questions-asked warranty and return policy.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Large grilling surface
- Comes equipped with a matching spatula
- Includes a one year warranty and no-questions-asked money back guarantee
Cons
- Doesn't come with a lid or cover
- 1200 watt burner may be underpowered for the overall size of the grill
12. Giantex 1350 Watt Electric Camping Grill
So far, we have yet to feature a grill designed to function just as well outdoors as it does indoors. If this sounds like something you’re after, take a moment to consider the Giantex 1350 Electric Camping Grill. Upon first viewing, what really stands out is the large removable stand that comes with the unit.
This stand allows the grill to be comfortably used in a variety of scenarios, including camping, RVing, tailgate parties, and even in an outdoor living space. What’s more, the 1350-watt burner ensures that food cooks evenly throughout the 240 square-inch grilling surface, which itself is dressed with a non-stick coating.
On the downside, although the cord is longer than what the normal indoor grill is equipped with, the overall length is not what one would expect from a unit designed to be used outdoors. As a result, many will require an extension cord to comfortably use this model.
Pros
- Designed to function outdoors as well as indoors
- Comes with a stand that allows the grill to sit at waist height
- Stand is equipped with a pad where items such as salt, pepper, and other condiments can be placed
- Drip tray can be easily removed and cleaned
- A good alternative to charcoal and gas grills
Cons
- More plastic parts than one may want
- Cord length may be an issue at times without an extension cord
13. Zojirushi EB-CC15 Indoor Grill
Zojirushi may not be the most well-known manufacturer in the world of indoor grilling, but that doesn’t mean they don’t produce a quality products. As can be seen by this one we tested out, the EB-CC15 is a relatively simple model, sporting a 12.5″ x 9.5″ grilling surface and a simple dial to adjust the temperature. However, with a price tag of close to $100, some people may feel the unit is a little basic to justify the price, even if it is a highly functional solution for grilling indoors.
Pros
- Decent amount of grilling surface
- Quality construction
- Equipped with heat resistant handles
Cons
- Very basic design
- For the price, some people may be disappointed by its lack of features
14. DeLonghi BGR50 Reversible Grill/Griddle
If you liked the simplicity and design of the Zojirushi, but want something with a few more features, the DeLonghi BGR50 may be a good fit. The grilling surface, which measures 14.75 x 9.25, is reversible, giving users both a grill and griddle option.
Overall, the grill features a quality contraction, with more metal parts than plastic.
Pros
- Decent sized grilling surface
- Reversible grill/gridle plates
- Quality construction
Cons
- Not much in the way of pre-programmed settings
15. George Foreman 4-Serving Grill And Panini Press
The second George Foreman grill on this list of tried-out products, the 4-serving grill and panini press, currently holds the number one seller spot on Amazon. Featuring a durable outer shell and reversible grill plates, this model offers quite a bit, considering it costs just under $30.
Another impressive feature of the grill is that it can function as both a press and a traditional grill. This dual functionality makes it extremely versatile and by far one of the best indoor grills within its price range.
Pros
- Dual press and grill functionality
- Inexpensive
- Fitted with an extra durable outer shell
Cons
- Doesn't come with any pre-set functions
- Has a large number of plastic parts
16. Gotham Steel Ultra Non-Stick Indoor Grill
This offering by Gotham Steel is one of the few indoor grills we tested that feature a genuine grill-style cooking plate by having slants that allow grease and fat to drop down into the collection tray below. For those who can’t wait for summer to start BBQing, the Gothan Steel Indoor grill is one of the better options available to simulate the experience in the warmth of your kitchen.
Pros
- The entire body is made of steel
- The ceramic cooking plate features a true grill style
- Both the grease catcher and grill surface are dishwasher friendly
- Very affordable
Cons
- The 12" x 1-" cooking surface may not be enough for some
- Temperature controls are very basic
17. Hamilton Beach 8-Serving Party Grill
None of the indoor grills we have evaluated on this list are quite as unique as the Hamilton Beach 8-serving party grill. As can be seen from the photo, this grill features a two-layer design. The top layer, where all the heavy cooking will be done, is half grill/half griddle and features 200 square inches of grilling space.
The bottom is made up of eight small warming trays that can be used to melt cheese or keep condiments warm.
Pros
- Unique design that works great for parties or get-togethers
- Non-stick grill plate and warming trays are all dishwasher friendly
- Affordable
Cons
- Not everyone will like the dual grill/gridle design
- User reports indicate that the warming trays don't get as hot as many would like
18. Presto 07061 22-inch Electric Griddle With Removable Handles
If the extent of your indoor grilling will involve frying eggs, bacon, or pancakes, then the Presto 07061 22-inch Electric Griddle is one of the better options around. Retailing for around $100, this model features a 200 square-inch removable ceramic cooking surface capable of reaching cooking temperatures as high as 400 F.
It should be noted that this grill does not have the largest drip tray and is geared towards cooking breakfast and not full-course steak meals.
Pros
- Excellent option for frying eggs, bacon, and pancakes
- Large griddle surface
- Ceramic griddle plate
Cons
- Small drip tray
- Not suitable for cooking dinner meals
Indoor Grill Buying Guide
Now that you have an idea of some of the best indoor grills on the market, it’s time to decide which one works best for you. However, not everyone knows what criteria to take into account when making this decision and end up picking a grill they are unhappy with.
Because of this, we’ve taken the time to outline a few key points of consideration that will help you choose the best indoor grill for you and your kitchen.
Affordability
First and foremost, how much are you willing to spend? As we saw in the previous section, indoor grills can vary widely in price, and narrowing down a price range can significantly improve the buying process.
When considering the price, also think about what you want to get out of your grill. Do you plan on just making the occasional panini or grilled chicken sandwich, or do you want to be able to grill salmon and steak for your entire family? When choosing a price range, always consider how you intend to use your indoor grill.
Construction Material
These days, most indoor grills are made out of aluminum, stainless steel, and sometimes cast iron. Each material has its pros and cons and isn’t something to be overlooked during the buying process. For example, if you plan on storing your grill on a shelf or in a cupboard above head height, you may want to go with a lighter material like aluminum. Similarly, if you plan on taking your grill to a tailgate party, a picnic, or even camping, it may be wise to choose a tougher material that doesn’t dent as easily, such as stainless steel.
Size And Watts
Size, along with wattage, are major determining factors when it comes to the amount of food you can grill at any given moment. Once again, when buying an indoor grill, take a moment to think about how much food you plan on cooking with it and purchase a model that provides a cooking surface and wattage to match.
Ease of cleaning
One of the main drawbacks of indoor grills compared to outdoor models is the time it takes to clean. With outdoor grills, fat, grease, and food bits drop down into flame, where they are quickly burnt off. By contrast, indoor grills don’t use an open flame and must trap all grease and liquid fat in the drip tray, which must be emptied and cleaned after each use.
When buying an indoor grill, take a moment to read some user reviews to get a good idea of how easy to clean a specific model is. Moreover, indoor grills with dishwasher-safe parts should be strongly favored.
Smokeless or Not
Unlike outdoor grills, indoor grills don’t use an open flame, and therefore no smoke is produced. However, the presence of smoke when cooking is inescapable, especially when fatty meat is involved. If it’s within your budget, consider buying an indoor grill with a built-in fan. If you plan on cooking lots of steak or lamb, you won’t regret it.
Warranty
No matter the type of product in question, some manufacturers offer better warranties than others. This should be factored into the decision, especially when comparing two or more indoor grills against one another. That being said, most vendors will offer a two or three-year extended warranty for a very reasonable price. If there’s a grill you like, but you’re unimpressed by the manufacturer’s warranty, consider purchasing an extended warranty.
The Best Indoor Grills | Affordability | Construction Material | Size and Watts | Ease of Cleaning | Smokeless or Not | Warranty |
PowerXL Smokeless Indoor Grill | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 |
Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill | 5/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 |
George Foreman GFO201R | 4/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 2/5 | 3/5 |
Cuisinart Gridler Elite | 3/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 |
Maxi-Matic Smokeless Electric Indoor BBQ Grill | 5/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 3/5 |
Secura Indoor Smokeless Grill | 3/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 |
T-Fal 1800 Watt OptiGrill XL | 2/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 |
Dash Everyday Nonstick Deluxe Electric Griddle | 5/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 1/5 |
Ninja Foodi Pro 5-in-1 Indoor Grill | 3/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
Techwood Korean BBQ Smokeless Grill | 4/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 3/5 |
Presto 09020 Cool Touch Indoor Grill | 4/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 |
Giantex 1350 Watt Electric Camping Grill | 5/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 2/5 |
Zojirushi EB-CC15 Indoor Grill | 2/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 |
DeLonghi BGR50 Reversible Grill/Griddle | 2/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 |
George Foreman 4-Serving Grill And Panini Press | 4/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 2/5 | 3/5 |
Gotham Steel Ultra Non-Stick Indoor Grill | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 |
Hamilton Beach 8-Serving Party Grill | 4/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 2/5 | 3/5 |
Presto 07061 22-inch Electric Griddle With Removable Handles | 5/5 | 3/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 | 2/5 | 3/5 |
Best Indoor Grills FAQs
What is the difference between grill and griddle plates?
The terms grill and griddle get thrown around a fair amount, yet not everyone is clear about what the differences are. In basic terms, a griddle plate is made up of a solid cooking surface, whereas a grill plate consists of slatted bars separated by an opening or indents. Almost all standard outdoor grills and BBQs utilize a grill plate, whereas Griddle plates are much more common with indoor grills.
What are the pros and cons of both grill and griddle plates?
Generally speaking, grills work better at higher temperatures (400 F and up), whereas griddles are more suited for temperatures in the 350 to 400 F range. Furthermore, the slatted nature of grills allows for grease and other liquids to fall into the drip tray with ease and is one of the reasons they are preferred for higher temperatures.
What is wattage and why is it important?
Wattage measures the rate at which electrical energy is generated or consumed, making it an important topic among indoor grill enthusiasts. The more watts an indoor grill is capable of producing, the more heat it is able to emit. Moreover, the more watts a grill can generate, the quicker it can reach cooking temperature.
What kind of wattage do I need for my indoor grill?
How much wattage you will need will depend mainly upon what you want to do with your indoor grill. For example, smaller press grills designed to make paninis, grilled cheese sandwiches, and similar items will only require 900 – 1100 watts. Conversely, grills that use a large cooking surface and are designed to effectively cook several different items at once typically require 1250 – 1500 watts to get the job done.
Will an indoor grill emit smoke when I'm using it?
One way indoor grills differ from their outdoor counterparts is they don’t use an open flame to generate heat. Instead, the grill or griddle is heated electrically, a process that doesn’t produce smoke. That being said, cooking will always produce some level of smoke, especially when fat and grease are involved. As a result, many indoor grills come with a built-in fan designed to capture and trap any smoke produced during the cooking process.
Are all indoor grills electric?
Although propane grills do exist, they are not often designed for indoor use and are primarily marketed for camping, RVing, and general outdoor use. As a result, most indoor grills run on electricity.
What is better: electric or gas grills?
The answer to this question comes down to personal preference and what you want to do with your grill. However, depending on where you live, outdoor grilling may only be possible a few months of the year due to weather, causing you to turn to indoor grills in the meantime.
Electric grills are also favored by people who live in an apartment complex or condo that doesn’t allow open-flame grills and BBQs to be used by tenants.
The Bottom Line: The Best Indoor Grill
In conclusion, with so many options available, choose the finest indoor grill for your needs can be overwhelming. To assist you make a well-informed choice, take into account aspects like price, construction material, size and wattage, simplicity of cleaning, smokeless or not, and guarantee. We hope that our ranking of the best indoor grills and shopping guide allowed you to focus your search for the ideal grill for your indoor cooking requirements.
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Dino Paccino
Dino is a lifelong writer and home improvement specialist. He enjoys bringing cutting-edge information on home renovation and remodeling to Kitchen Infinity.