Electric grills have revolutionized outdoor cooking, making it possible to enjoy that smoky barbecue flavor without the hassle of charcoal or gas. Whether you’re living in an apartment with strict fire codes or simply want a more convenient grilling option, the best electric grills offer a perfect solution. These innovative appliances combine the ease of indoor cooking with the char-grilled taste we all crave.
Gone are the days when electric grills were seen as a poor substitute for their gas or charcoal counterparts. Today’s models boast advanced technology and design features that rival traditional grills in both performance and flavor. From compact tabletop versions to full-sized outdoor units, there’s an electric grill to suit every need and space.
Why Choose an Electric Grill?
Electric grills offer several advantages over traditional grilling methods. They’re incredibly convenient, heating up quickly and maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. This precision allows for more control over your cooking, resulting in perfectly grilled foods every time.
Another major benefit is their versatility. Many electric grills can be used both indoors and outdoors, making them ideal for year-round grilling regardless of weather conditions. They’re also a great option for those living in apartments or condos where open-flame grills are prohibited.
Safety is another key factor. Electric grills eliminate the risk of flare-ups and don’t produce harmful carbon monoxide, making them a safer choice for families with young children or pets.
Top Picks for Best Electric Grills
After extensive research and testing, we’ve compiled a list of the best electric grills currently on the market. Each of these grills offers unique features and benefits to suit different grilling needs and preferences.
Fire Magic EL500i 240v 31-Inch Built-In Electric Grill with Dual Touchscreen Control, Digital Timer, Bluetooth & Magic View Window
Want the best electric grill that money can buy? Look no further. The Fire Magic EL500i has everything you need and more. This grill features dual touchscreen controls and a digital timer. It even has Bluetooth! You can monitor your food from your phone. The Magic View window lets you keep an eye on your food without opening the lid. This grill is perfect for anyone who wants the ultimate grilling experience. This grill is built-in, so you will need to make some space. But trust us, it’s worth it!
Coyote 18-Inch 120v Portable Electric Grill
Some folks think electric grills are just for small spaces like apartments. But this Coyote electric grill is proof that you can get great grilling anywhere! It’s a portable electric grill, so you can take it on camping trips, to tailgates, or just use it in your backyard. This grill is small but mighty. Don’t let the 18-inch size fool you. This grill heats up fast and can get up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. It also has a variable temperature control, so you can cook a variety of foods.
You might be wondering about cleanup. It’s a breeze because this Coyote electric grill has a non-stick grilling surface. It also has a removable grease tray that makes it super easy to clean. The Coyote 18-Inch 120v Portable Electric Grill is a great option if you are looking for a portable and easy-to-use electric grill.
Le Griddle Ranch Hand 30-Inch 3600W Built-In / Countertop Electric Commercial Style Flat Top Griddle
You might not think of a griddle when you think about the best electric grills, but think again! This griddle gives you that classic diner-style cooking right in your backyard. It’s built tough. The Ranch Hand is made from heavy-duty stainless steel. It can handle lots of burgers at your next barbecue.
This griddle is also versatile. You can use it as a built-in unit on your outdoor patio. Or you can use it as a countertop appliance. It’s completely up to you. This griddle also heats up quickly because it has 3600 watts of power.
PGS Commercial T-Series 30-Inch Built-In Electric Grill With Timer
The PGS Commercial T-Series grill is a great option if you want a built-in electric grill. This grill gives you the power and performance of a commercial grill, but you can enjoy it at home. The T-Series has a sleek stainless steel design. It also has a convenient timer. This grill heats up quickly and evenly. You can use it to cook a variety of foods.
Fire Magic E251s Freestanding 110v Electric Grill on Patio Post Mount
Some folks love the convenience of electric grills but want more flexibility in terms of placement. An electric grill on a patio post mount, like the Fire Magic E251s, could be the perfect solution! The Fire Magic E251s is a freestanding electric grill that runs off of standard 110v power. This means you can plug it into any standard outdoor outlet. This grill gives you the power and performance of a gas grill without the hassle of propane or charcoal.
The Fire Magic E251s has a sleek stainless steel design that looks great on any patio. This grill also has a variety of features that make grilling easy and fun. It has a large cooking area, so you can cook for a crowd. It also has a built-in rotisserie burner, so you can cook whole chickens or roasts.
Features to Consider When Choosing an Electric Grill
When shopping for the best electric grills, there are several key features to keep in mind:
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Cooking Area | Determines how much food you can cook at once |
| Power (Watts) | Affects how hot the grill can get and how quickly it heats up |
| Temperature Control | Allows for precise cooking of different types of food |
| Portability | Important if you plan to move the grill or use it for camping/tailgating |
| Ease of Cleaning | Removable parts and non-stick surfaces make maintenance easier |
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Electric Grill
To ensure you’re making the most of your electric grill, consider these tips:
- Preheat your grill: Just like with gas or charcoal grills, preheating is crucial for achieving those perfect grill marks.
- Use marinades and rubs: These can add extra flavor to compensate for the lack of charcoal smoke. Consider using a Morgan Hunt Glaze to enhance your grilling experience.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill: Leave space between items to ensure even cooking and proper heat circulation.
- Experiment with wood chips: Some electric grills have charcoal options or allow for the use of wood chips to add a smoky flavor.
- Clean after each use: Regular cleaning will extend the life of your grill and prevent flavor transfer between meals. Make sure your grill has a removable drip tray for easy cleanup.
FAQs about best electric grills
Are electric grills worth it?
Electric grills are definitely worth considering, especially if you live in an apartment or have limited outdoor space. They offer convenience, safety, and consistent cooking results. While they may not provide the exact same flavor as charcoal grills, modern electric grills can produce excellent grilled food with proper use and seasoning techniques.
What is the disadvantage of an electric grill?
The main disadvantages of electric grills include the need for a power outlet, potentially lower maximum temperatures compared to gas or charcoal grills, and the lack of traditional smoky flavor. Some models may also have smaller cooking areas. However, these drawbacks are often outweighed by their convenience, safety, and versatility for many users.
Do electric grills taste the same as gas?
While electric grills can produce delicious grilled food, the taste may differ slightly from gas grills. Gas grills often impart a subtle flavor from the combustion process. However, many electric grill users find that with proper seasoning, marinades, and grilling techniques, they can achieve results that are very close to, if not indistinguishable from, gas-grilled food.
Are electric grills healthier?
Electric grills can be considered healthier in some aspects. They don’t produce potentially harmful carbon monoxide or carcinogens from burning charcoal. Many electric grills are designed with sloped surfaces that allow fats to drain away, potentially reducing the fat content of the food. However, the healthiness of grilled food ultimately depends more on what you’re cooking and how you prepare it, rather than the type of grill used.
Conclusion
Electric grills have come a long way in recent years, offering a convenient and efficient alternative to traditional gas and charcoal models. The best electric grills combine powerful heating elements, precise temperature control, and thoughtful design features to deliver an excellent grilling experience. Whether you’re dealing with space constraints, local regulations, or simply prefer the ease of electric cooking, there’s an electric grill out there to suit your needs. By considering factors like cooking area, power, and special features, you can find the perfect electric grill to elevate your outdoor (or indoor) cooking game.