The Best Indoor Electric Grill

Grilling out is great, but unless you live in an area of the world where the weather is always warm, you probably don’t even think about it during the chilly winter months. Even when temperatures are high, though, rain and heavy winds can keep you inside, hampering your plans for delicious burgers and steaks.

Electric grills have opened up the option of grilling indoors, allowing you to make delicious meals no matter what the weather outside is like. You can set up your grill on your counter and cook the same meats, poultry, kabobs and other items that you would make outdoors during nice weather. But the taste of your meat will vary based on the design of the grill, so it’s important to pay attention to that build while you’re shopping.

Getting the outdoor grill taste with an electric grill can be challenging, though. One of the best ways to achieve that smoky flavor is through the use of items like liquid smoke, which can help nature along. You’ll also find that the design of the grill itself plays an important factor in how your items taste. Look for a grill with technology that provides an even cooking surface to ensure consistency.

You’ll also find many indoor grills have cooking plates made from porcelain-enameled cast iron. Although this material packs plenty of benefits, it can take longer to heat up, sometimes forcing you to wait at least 10 minutes for the surface to get warm enough for you to start cooking. You may also find some indoor grills cut on and off while cooking, but this is simply a self-regulating feature that ensures the cooking is even.

Another important factor in an indoor grill is temperature control. If you cook using recipes or other instructions, you’ll want a grill that will let you set a specific temperature and leave it. You’ll often find that indoor grills have only a selection of temperatures rather than a range. So instead of being able to dial your grill to 425 degrees, you might find you have to choose either 355 or 445.

• Cleanup is an important consideration with any surface that will handle messy foods. You’ll find a nonstick surface is invaluable when it comes time to clean your grill after use. But many electric grills also let you remove the grill and other parts and clean them in the dishwasher.
• Also take a close look at the drip capture tray that’s built into most electric grills. These catch all the excess liquids that come off your grill, so they’re very important. Make sure the drip tray is also dishwasher-safe if you aren’t a fan of hand washing.
• Temperature range is an important consideration in an electric grill. Many will top out in the 400- to 450-degree range, which should cover most recipes.
• In addition to being able to cook inside, electric grills also typically use grill plates rather than grate-based grills, which means you can cook smaller items like shrimp without worrying about them falling through.
• Pay attention to the lid on the grill you choose. You’ll want one that completely covers what you’re cooking to reduce spatter, but you’ll also find that it comes in handy to have at least a partial-glass lid. With glass, you can see your items cooking without lifting the lid and reducing the temperature inside.
• Indoor grills are designed for countertop grilling, but there are some that can be used outdoors, as well. If you think you might have the need for an occasional backyard grill, consider that while you’re shopping.
• Some indoor electric grills go beyond letting you cook steaks and burgers. They offer interchangeable grill plates that let you cook items like pancakes and paninis.
• You buy an indoor grill for the convenience of cooking inside. However, some grills still put out an excessive amount of smoke, making them not quite as ideal. Look for a grill that’s designed to minimize smoke output.
• Many indoor electric grills require preheating before you set your food on the surface. Look for a grill with an indicator light that lets you know when the surface has reached the desired temperature.
• Safety is always a concern with any electric appliance. Your electric grill should have an easy way to lift the lid that doesn’t require using an oven mitt.
• Don’t get so caught up in the build of the cooking plates that you forget about the rest of the grill. You’ll need to be able to easily wipe the exterior clean, as it will inevitably get a few spills.
• The weight of the grill you choose will come into play every time you pull it out of the cabinet and put it back in. A lightweight grill is not only easier to maneuver around your kitchen, but you’ll also be able to take it with you when you go camping or head out to a family gathering at the park.
• The length of the power cord is also important. Make sure the power cord will reach from a power outlet to the area where you plan to use the grill.