3 Best Indoor Electric Grills for Year-Round BBQ
If you think grilling is only possible outdoors, think again—indoor electric grills now deliver smoke-free, flavorful results, regardless of the season. These appliances combine adjustable temperature controls, reversible non-stick plates for both grilling and griddling, and built-in vents that reduce smoke, making them practical for any kitchen size. But with so many options—some with wattages up to 1500W, compact footprints around 15 inches, and features like dishwasher-safe parts—how do you choose the best for consistent, fuss-free grilling?
Secura Smokeless Indoor Grill with Reversible Plates and Glass Lid
If you want an indoor grill that’s powerful, easy to use, and keeps things clean, the Secura Smokeless Indoor Grill is a good choice. It has 1800 watts of power and a big 15.5 by 11.5-inch reversible non-stick plate. This large surface helps you cook food faster and makes it easy to move things from the grill to your plate. The glass lid helps stop splatters, keeps heat inside, and makes your food crispy and delicious.
The grill comes with removable parts that you can put in the dishwasher, so cleaning is simple. It has grease channels to catch drips and cool-touch handles to keep your fingers safe. Plus, it heats up quickly and lets you control the temperature precisely. The grill’s compact size and many features make indoor grilling easy and fun.
Best for: People who want a powerful grill with a big cooking area, easy cleanup, and temperature control for everyday cooking or small BBQs.
Pros:
- Large 15.5” by 11.5” reversible non-stick surface.
- Removable parts that go in the dishwasher.
- Glass lid helps keep heat in, reduce splatter, and make food crispy.
Cons:
- Designed only for North American 120V power, so it may not work outside the U.S.
- Comes with a 1-year limited warranty, which might not cover all damages.
- Only for indoor use—no outdoor grilling option.
CUSIMAX 1500W Indoor Smokeless Electric Grill with LED Display
The CUSIMAX 1500W Indoor Smokeless Electric Grill with LED Display is a great choice for anyone who wants to enjoy grilled food at home. It is perfect for small spaces like city apartments. This grill doesn’t produce smoke, so it won’t set off smoke alarms, making it easy to use indoors.
This grill has two functions. You can switch between a grill and a griddle. This means you can cook different types of meals on the same device. It saves space and money. The grill heats up quickly thanks to its Double U heating tubes. These tubes make sure the heat spreads evenly across the surface. The perforated plate takes away extra oil, making your food healthier.
It has an LED display that shows the temperature. You can adjust the heat from 200℉ to 450℉, so you get just the right temp for your food. The non-stick surfaces are easy to clean. You can even put them in the dishwasher.
This grill is best for people living in small spaces who want a smoke-free, easy-to-use, and versatile grill. It’s simple to operate and clean. However, it may not be big enough for large groups or family meals. It needs electricity, so you can’t use it outside for the flavor of outdoor grilling. Some users might find the temperature range limited for certain types of food.
Elite Gourmet Smokeless Electric Tabletop Grill (EMG-980B)
The Elite Gourmet Smokeless Electric Tabletop Grill (EMG-980B) is a great choice if you want to enjoy outdoor-style grilling inside your home. It has a large 14-inch nonstick surface that lets you cook many foods at once. You can grill steaks, veggies, salmon, or other favorites easily.
The tempered glass lid makes it simple to keep an eye on your food while cooking. Cool-touch handles help you move the grill safely, even when it’s hot. You can set the temperature up to 450°F, and the circular heating system makes sure your food cooks evenly and quickly.
Cleaning is easy because the grill parts are dishwasher safe. After your meal, just put the removable parts in the dishwasher. It makes cleanup fast and simple, so you can enjoy your food without a big mess.
This grill is best for people who want the flavor of outdoor BBQ but prefer to cook inside. It’s easy to use, cooks foods evenly, and cleans up quickly.
Pros:
- Large 14-inch nonstick surface for multiple foods
- Circular heating system for fast, even cooking
- Dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleaning
Cons:
- Only for indoor use, not outside
- Max temperature is 450°F, which may not be high enough for some recipes
- Slightly bulky, needs enough counter space
This grill is perfect if you want quick, simple indoor grilling with great flavor.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Indoor Electric Grills for Year-Round BBQ
When selecting an indoor electric grill for year-round grilling, you’ll want to consider the size and cooking surface—are you feeding a family of four or hosting small dinners? Smoke control features become vital if your apartment’s ventilation isn’t up to par, while a broad temperature range ensures versatility for everything from searing steaks at 500°F to slow-cooking veggies. Don’t forget ease of cleaning and multi-functionality; after all, nobody wants their countertop to resemble a barbecue battlefield after every use.
Size and Cooking Area
Choosing the right size for an indoor electric grill depends on how much food you want to cook at once. If you have a larger area, like 150 to 240 square inches, you can cook more servings at the same time. This saves you time and makes it easy to feed a family or guests. Some grills have reversible plates. You can switch between grilling and griddling to make different types of food.
If your kitchen has limited space, a smaller grill around 80 to 100 square inches might fit better. But keep in mind, a smaller grill means you can cook fewer items at once.
Make sure the grill fits well on your countertop and doesn’t make your space crowded. Bigger isn’t always better. If it’s too large for your area, it can be hard to use. But if the size matches your needs, it can make cooking easier and faster.
Smoke Control Features
Indoor electric grills with smoke control make grilling easier and cleaner. If you don’t have a yard or want to keep neighbors happy, these grills help a lot. Look for grills that have built-in vents or smoke filters. These keep smoke and bad smells from spreading in your house. Some grills have adjustable vents or side openings. These let steam and moisture escape so smoke doesn’t build up. Many newer grills use special heating parts that make less smoke—sometimes as little as 5% of what regular grills produce.
Grills with grease trays help catch fats and oils. This keeps flare-ups and smoke down. Sealed lids or glass covers trap smoke and steam. This keeps your kitchen cleaner and makes indoor grilling easier. So, if you want to enjoy grilling without too much smoke, pick a grill with smoke control features.
Temperature Range Options
Have you ever noticed that some indoor electric grills can cook more types of food than others? The reason is often their temperature range. A good electric grill should have a temperature span from about 200°F to 450°F. This range lets you cook everything from soft fish to juicy steaks.
It’s also helpful if the grill has a precise thermostat. This means you can change the heat in small steps. Small steps help you get the perfect temperature for any recipe. Some grills have digital screens that show the temperature clearly. These make it easy to see and adjust the heat as needed.
Grills with a narrow temperature range or big jumps in temperature make cooking tricky. You can get stuck guessing the right heat. But a grill with a wide, adjustable range gives you more control. That means you can cook a variety of foods easily.
Having a good temperature range makes indoor grilling more fun and flexible. You can try many recipes all year round, not just straightening on one style of cooking.
Ease of Cleaning
When you want to enjoy indoor barbecues all year, cleaning can be a big deal. Look for grills with parts that are easy to take off and go in the dishwasher. These make cleanup faster. Non-stick surfaces help prevent food from sticking. This means you can wipe the grill clean easily. Pick grills with fewer nooks, hinges, and hard-to-reach spots. These spots catch dirt and make cleaning harder. Dishwasher-safe parts save you time and effort. Grease channels or traps keep grease from spreading everywhere. They help keep your area clean and neat. When your grill is simple to clean, you spend less time cleaning. You get to enjoy more time cooking and eating.
Versatility & Multi-Functionality
Choosing an indoor electric grill that is versatile and multi-functional can make cooking easier and more fun. Look for features like reversible plates. These plates can work as both a grill and a griddle. You can cook burgers and steaks on the grill side or pancakes on the flat side.
Adjustable thermostat controls help you set the right temperature. This is useful for cooking different kinds of food perfectly. For example, you can keep fish gentle or sear a steak hot. Removable plates and drip trays make cleaning simple. You can wash the plates in the dishwasher, which saves time and effort.
A glass lid with vents helps keep heat and moisture inside. This helps you cook food evenly without drying it out or overcooking. Some grills have two heat zones, so you can cook different foods at the same time. Others come with LED displays or multiple cooking surfaces.
All these features help you explore more recipes and enjoy your indoor grilling experience.
Safety and Build Quality
Focusing on safety and good build quality helps your indoor electric grill last longer and work better. A strong, rust-resistant design means it can handle lots of meals without breaking down. Look for features like handles that stay cool, heat-resistant housing, and secure lids. These help prevent burns and spills. Good temperature controls keep your food cooked just right, so nothing burns or is underdone. A leak-proof drip tray and grease catcher make cleaning easy and keep electrical parts safe. Certifications like UL or ETL show the grill has passed safety tests. Remember, a well-made grill isn’t just about lasting a long time — it also makes sure you can cook safely every time you use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Indoor Electric Grills Compare to Outdoor Grills in Flavor?
Indoor electric grills can’t quite replicate the smoky flavor outdoor grills provide, but they still deliver tasty, juicy results. You can achieve delicious grilled dishes inside, though the smoky essence may be milder or less authentic.
Are Indoor Electric Grills Safe for Small Apartments?
Yes, indoor electric grills are safe for small apartments when you follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions. They generate minimal smoke, have auto shut-off features, and are designed to prevent fire hazards—making them a convenient, safe choice.
Can Indoor Electric Grills Cook Frozen Foods Effectively?
Yes, indoor electric grills can cook frozen foods effectively. You should preheat the grill, adjust the temperature appropriately, and occasionally flip or rotate the food for even cooking, ensuring safely cooked and tasty results.
What Is the Average Lifespan of an Indoor Electric Grill?
You can typically expect an indoor electric grill to last between 3 to 5 years with proper care. Regular cleaning, avoiding overuse, and following manufacturer instructions help extend its lifespan, ensuring you enjoy many delicious meals.
Do Indoor Electric Grills Require Special Cleaning Tools?
Indoor electric grills usually don’t need special cleaning tools; regular non-abrasive sponges and gentle brushes work well. You should clean the grates and drip tray after each use to keep your grill in top shape.
Hello! I’m Eloise Wilson, the culinary enthusiast behind SimplyCookings. Cooking is my canvas and flavors are my palette. I’m here to share easy-to-follow recipes and kitchen wisdom that will make your cooking journey joyful and delicious. Join me and let’s turn everyday meals into extraordinary experiences!