Best Electric Grills for Indoor and Outdoor Use

Despite the differences between people on the planet, some things undeniably connect us. Can you think of some? One that always comes to our mind is the love for food. All people, from New York City to Tokyo, love eating delicious food. And we believe that we can agree that grilled food / BBQ is one of the most favorite globally!

When thinking BBQ/grilling, we usually think about spring and summer, no? Of course, it is possible to grill food during winter as well. But it is unlikely that you will find someone who would volunteer to turn the food on the grill when the temperature outside is below zero!

But would you believe it if we told you that you could enjoy perfectly prepared BBQ during winter without having to freeze outside? The only thing you need is an indoor electric grill. These devices are relatively new and thus are followed by a lot of misconceptions. Most common is that the food is not nearly as delicious as when grilling on charcoal, pellet, and even gas grill.

However, per a friend’s recommendation, we purchased an electric barbecue grill, and we have to tell you, we are super thrilled about it. We were lucky because we could consult an expert. However, with so many models out there, it was not simple to come to a decision. We guess that many people don’t have a lot of time to search for information, and they don’t have who to ask. Hence, we compiled our findings in these electric grill reviews to help you learn more about these fantastic and convenient devices.

Top 10 Best Electric Grills: Comparison Table

Electric Grills Benefits Over Gas or Pellet Models

If asked about the type of grill they would choose, the majority of people would choose gas grills, charcoal ones, or even pellet grills! Electric grills are often unfairly placed at the bottom of the list. We love grilling because of the smoke and flame. And because they don’t contain either, many people see electric grills for outdoors and indoors as nothing more than grill pans. However, we believe that this is bias and here is why.

The reality is that, whether you have an outdoor or indoor BBQ grill, you are guaranteed to have evenly cooked food. All foods that you cook on this appliance will have a grilled appearance with all the marks as it was cooked on a standard grill. Now, as far as the absence of smoke goes, it is essential to point out the following. Smoke undoubtedly brings that special taste to grilled food. However, it is unhealthy as it contains carcinogens. That is why it is considered that using the electric indoor smokeless grill is the healthiest option. Apart from that, when cooking on some of the top electric grills, you eliminate harmful gases and compounds that can contaminate the food. You also reduce the amount of oil in the food.

Electric Grills Types Explained

Now that we’ve learned what top electric grills are, let’s see the features that characterize them. While creating our electric grill reviews, we have found out that there are three types of electric grills – electric grills with carts, portable grills, and built-in models. 

And when you want to find only the best electric grill you first need to understand what type would suit your particular needs:

Cart-style Electric Grill

These grills offer a built option, but you can also move them from one place to another if necessary. With this type of grill, you can cook various foods at once. Hence they are a good option if you need to prepare meals for larger crowds regularly, as they come with wheels and are very portable. However, cart-style electric grills are on the heavier side, and thus it is better if you keep them in one place. They also work perfectly as the best patio electric grill.

Portable Electric Grill

For those who enjoy camping, a portable electric grill is a great option. These are small electric grill models, so they won’t take up a lot of space in your car. However, since they are small, it may take a longer time to prepare food for a larger group. It can also be a perfect electric grill for the balcony. However, if you choose such a type, you have to be especially careful and attentive since most of the fires caused by the grill were due to improper use in the indoor area.

Built-in Electric Grill

Built-ins is are counter or tabletop electric grills, designed to be fixed in outdoor kitchens. Moreover, this type is the best option for beginners, and it makes the best electric grill for steaks.

How to Select the Best Electric Grill

Indoor or Outdoor

So, plenty of people assume that it is possible to use the electric grills both inside and outside. Is it true, however? There are some indoor electric grill models. However, it doesn’t mean that you can use all of them equally outdoors and indoors. If you are interested to use it inside, you need to make sure that your model is an approved indoor electric BBQ grill.

But, of course, if you’re someone that loves to cook on fresh air, or go on picking, then looking for the outdoor electric grill would be the perfect option.

Size

Size is an important factor to consider when choosing an electric smoker or grill. You need to think about the number of people you will cook for on average. Apart from that, it is useful to consider the type of food. These grills are generally smaller than charcoal or gas grills and are more suitable for small family gatherings. Built-in options, however, can be an option if you want to organize large BBQ parties.

Wattage

Wattage is something that can determine the speed of the process. Higher wattage means that the grill can reach a higher temperature. Consequently, the higher the temperature, the quicker the food gets cooked.

Also, remember to pay attention to the BTU, since how well/fast your food cooks heavily depends on it! Usually, it’s best to choose an electric grill with 70-100 BTU.

Price

Many of us always consider the price of the gadget we are buying. Prices of electric grills vary significantly depending on size, wattage, portability, etc. If you are on a budget, think about how much you are ready to invest in a cheap electric grill.

Tips to Maintain an Electric BBQ

• Unplug the grill and let it cool
• Don’t immerse it in water
• Put removable plates in the dishwasher or hand wash them with soap and lukewarm water.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaners and metal scrub brush.
• Never immerse the power cord in water.

FAQ

Can Electric Grills Be Preheated?

In short, yes, they can. Ideally, you should preheat the grill for about 15 minutes before cooking. However, it can also depend on the type of grill and what food you’re cooking. However, remember to follow proper safety rules and stay within the range of safe cooking temperatures!

Is Any Oil Needed to Use an Indoor Grill?

That depends on whether the grill comes with a nonstick surface or not and the type of food. The great thing we learned in making out electric grill reviews is that you don’t need to use it for cooking meat on a nonstick surface in most cases. If you are not sure about the surface, you can add very little oil.

How Long Does an Electric Grill Take to Cook Food?

It depends mainly on the type of food. If you are grilling sausages or veggies, it will probably take only a few minutes. Cooking meat, however, will take about 20 minutes or so, depending on the type of meat.

Can an Extension Cord Be Used to Power an Electric Grill?

Technically, no rule says you can’t use an extension cord. However, it is not recommended. First, the amount of power from the extension cord is lower, which will affect the grilling quality. And second, it may be dangerous.

Conclusion

Electric grills are fantastic appliances, and in our opinion, unfairly depreciated. Indeed, the taste may not be as perfect as with a charcoal grill. However, it will be much healthier! We hope you agree with us, now when you know more about them, and that information we provided will help you choose the best electric grill 2023. However, no matter which model you choose, never forget about proper safety rules!

So, have you ever used an electric grill before?