Best Electric Griddles

The versatility of modern electric griddles is near boundless. And the explanation behind the seemingly infinite range of models is simple: it’s all about accessibility. Not everyone can afford a regular BBQ outing, especially people living in apartments or shared housing.

Electric griddles provide a perfect solution for the limitations created by the lack of space and opportunity, primarily by making the pre-heating and cooking less messy and more user-friendly. The current small appliance market makes it possible to choose a griddle capable of matching the requirements of your household as well as your skill level as a BBQ chef.

How to Choose a Good Electric Griddle?

Electric griddles in this category tend to be affordable and highly versatile. Some are more spacious while others give more freedom of operation, and though it may be tempting to go for the largest model, it’s important to choose a griddle according to the size and technical capabilities of your kitchen.

And since appliances that use heating elements are known to add to the utility bills, it’s in your financial interests to buy a model that won’t strain your resources. There are a few basic features you should pay special attention to when choosing a new electric griddle, most of them relating to dimensions.

Cooking surface size

Most inexpensive and mid-range electric griddles are perfectly family-sized, offering between 150 and 180 square inches of cooking space. If you need something more substantial, look into models with cooktops that measure 200 square inches and more.

It’s important to remember that the length of a griddle isn’t necessarily indicative of its total size, for example, a griddle shorter than 20 inches could still be larger than some 20-inch long models on the account of its width.

Materials

Griddling is considered to be one of the healthiest forms of cooking, but it won’t matter much if your griddle is made from toxic or harmful materials.

The safest and healthiest option would be a griddle made from safe metals such as aluminum and titanium cast frames or stainless steel and which also uses fully or partially ceramic cooktops with toxin-free non-stick surfaces.

Models with plastic-encased frames are significantly lighter than many aluminum or steel griddles, so they are best suited for frequent travelers and vacationers.

Cooking options

A griddle used to be more easily defined even a few decades ago, but now there are simply too many hybrid and combo options that get in the way of calling them something as simple as a griddle plate.

Today you will find griddles capable of other common cooking techniques all combined into one sprightly appliance, all of which is mainly motivated by allowing working people (primarily those living in apartment blocks) to have culinary freedom without the need to drive out for a picnic or buy a separate kitchen appliance.

Those who don’t need all these modern complications can still buy a classic griddle with a single griddle plate and adjustable thermostat, while BBQ lovers have a chance of treating themselves to both with a combo griddle that includes reversible plates with one side designed for griddling and the other for grilling.

More expensive residential griddles can include other features like panini presses and contact lids that might do wonders for your daily menu.

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List of Top-Rated Electric Griddles

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Photo	Product	Capacity	Type
	Cuisinart GR-4NP1	100/200 sq. in.	Contact grill and griddle
	BELLA 14606	210 sq. in.	Griddle plate
	Presto 07211	160 sq. in.	Griddle plate
	Hamilton Beach 38546	180 sq. in.	Reversible
	BLACK+DECKER GD2011B	200 sq. in.	Griddle plate
	Megachef MCG-106	165 sq. in.	Reversible
	Secura GR-1503XL	180 sq. in.	Reversible
	DASH DEG200GBRD01	187.6 sq. in.	Griddle plate
	Wolfgang Puck WPRGG0010	207 sq. in.	Reversible
	Zojirushi EA-DCC10	237.5 sq. in.	Griddle plate

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Review of the Best Electric Griddles

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Cuisinart GR-4NP1

Perhaps one of the most versatile electric griddles in this price range, the Cuisinart GR-4NP1 is an easy-to-use grill, griddle, and panini press combo encased in stylish stainless steel with a reversible plate, floating lid height, and adjustable heat levels.

Notable for its fluid design that changes depending on the cooking mode, the GR-4NP1 offers two main cooking area settings: the 11 by 9 inches—or 100 square inches—when closed and 200 square inches when open.

The first one uses the second or top plate to form a panini press, while the second one puts both plates side by side to extend the surface area. Both plates are removable and dishwasher safe, and in addition, they can also be reversed to be used as either the griddle plate or grill frame.

All cooking surfaces are BPA-free and are equipped with drip trays for catching oil residue and grease, making it easier to clean the entire appliance as well as ensuring your food is cooked in the healthiest possible way.

The 5-in-1 detail in the griddle’s model name describes five main cooking options supported by the unit’s reversible design and non-stick surfaces. 

First is the classic closed contact grill for grilling smaller batches of burgers, steaks, and chicken. Then there is the open full grill for preparing larger portions in one go and open full griddle with both plates reversed for making grease-free breakfast food.

The half-grill + half-griddle setting allows you to cook different types of food at the same time, with the grill used for charring steaks and the griddle plate taking care of eggs and bacon or pancakes and omelets. 

And finally, the panini press mode with its floating cover and safe handle lets you create panini sandwiches with classic char lines and well-distributed heat that helps cook the filling at required levels.

The grill, griddle, and press modes each can be controlled from the front panel as they are equipped with control dials for temperature adjustment. The panel also provides indicator lights that display optimal temp levels for each cooking mode.

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BELLA 14606

With its lightweight yet sturdy construction, the portable BELLA 14606 is both highly mobile and durable, incorporating safely manufactured durable components into its compact design.

In contrast to other electric griddles in this range, the BELLA 14606 uses a more heat-conductive plate with a special coating of copper, titanium, and ceramic that allows for faster non-stick cooking at temperatures as high as 400 degrees Fahrenheit, all with low risks of overheating thanks to the extra plate layer added for protection.

Moreover, the plate is made with Healthy-Eco BPA-free materials, so you won’t have to worry about your food being contaminated with harmful elements. The plate can also be effortlessly washed and even fully submerged in water for faster cleaning. 

For safer handling and cooking, the griddle comes with neatly-tucked handles on both sides as well as the single-dial temperature adjuster located on the power probe.

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Presto 07211

Thanks to its aluminum frame and narrower plate dimensions, the Presto 07211 boasts one of the lightest designs in its category while at the same time providing enough cooking space for two large servings.

Measuring 10.5 inches long and 8.5 inches wide, the non-stick cooktop can put out up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and ensures the entire surface is heated evenly. This results in better-grilled food with fewer instances of burning where more delicate ingredients are involved.

In addition to being easy to move and set up, the griddle’s heavy-cast aluminum frame also displays strong resistance to warping even when working at a maximum power capacity of 1000 watts.

The griddle features a heat adjustment control that lets you set any temperature level between 200 and 400°F at any stage of the grilling process and its integrated drip tray successfully gathers cooking grease to make the actual cleaning less messy. The 7211 can also be fully immersed in water for a more thorough cleaning provided you remove the heat control propr to washing.

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Hamilton Beach 38546

The dual-purpose Hamilton Beach 38546 is a powerful indoor grill and griddle combo with independent heat adjustment systems and easily switchable cooking settings.

As a double-sided griddle, the 38546 includes reversible cooking plates both of which can be removed from the main appliance and washed in the sink or dishwasher without any issue. The grease tray can also be detached for faster washing in the dishwasher.

The two plates can be arranged into 3 main plate settings thanks to their easy snap-on construction. These options include the full grill with traditional grate ridges, the full griddle with a smooth non-stick surface, and the half grill half griddle for simultaneous grilling and griddling.

Each side also features its own heat controls that allow you to regulate cooking temperatures depending on the plate set-up as well as the recipe.

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BLACK+DECKER GD2011B

This spacious yet relatively light BLACK+DECKER GD2011B is an ideal choice for traditional breakfasts, family dinners, and even small BBQ gatherings all of which can be done indoors, on a patio, or even on a balcony.

With a standard-sized main cooking area of 10 by 20 inches, the GD2011B is able to serve 8 portions in one go. The 200 square inches of non-stick surface also means you can cook different types of food side by side all in one batch.

The griddle is also safe to move thanks to its cool-touch design and heat-resistant handles, so it’s possible to adjust the appliance even during cooking without the risk of burning your hands.

The griddle’s heat control includes a detachable probe that clicks and locks in place and a temperature dial for adjusting heat intensity.

Another efficient addition to the design of this model is the grease-collecting tray that can be removed for faster cleaning. Whatever you choose to cook, all excess oil, fat, and grease are safely collected in the tray, making the food healthier while also helping you with post-meal cleaning.

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Megachef MCG-106

As its name clearly suggests, the MegaChef Dual Surface contact grill is, in fact, a 2-in-1 electric grill-and-griddle equipped with a reversible cooktop and removable glass lid designed for healthy and more diverse indoor cooking.

Featuring a reversible non-stick plate, this MegaChef provides an extensive cooking area that measures 15 by 11 inches on each side, giving you around 165 square inches of grilling and griddling surface.

The unique lockable lid is added for extra protection against the heat and oil splatters but it can be removed for accommodating smaller spaces.

Moreover, the griddle’s thermostat allows you to control the cooking temperature with minimal effort so it’s possible to cook a large range of meals, from various breakfast foods to barbecue steaks and burgers with classic charred lines.

It’s also easy to clean and move this combo model since it’s both light and compact. At only about 6 pounds, the griddle is easy to pack and transport, making it an ideal choice for frequent leisure travelers. As long as your destination has electricity and an easily accessible three-prong outlet, the griddle can be hooked up and used without an issue.

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Secura GR-1503XL

A powerful and versatile grill combo, the Secura GR-1503XL packs an impressive 1800-watt heating element with adjustable temperature control and a removable probe with a long connection cord for more effortless installation.

Although this 2-in-1 model is more on the heavy side, at least compared to other reversible griddles, the GR-1503XL is a perfect fit for most kitchen counter spaces and outdoor prep areas.

The griddle is safe for cooking indoors but it can also be used for traditional outdoor BBQ and roasts. With its 15.5 by 11.5-inch cooking plate, the griddle creates enough space for preparing large breakfasts while offering the other grated side for making burgers, hot dogs, and steaks with classic juicy charred lines.

The griddle’s design adds to the efficiency of its performance, from the heating element located between the two plates ensuring better heat distribution to the interior drip tray safely collecting leftover grease and oil. 

Unlike similar dual griddles, the GR-1503XL comes with extra protection in the form of the lock-on glass lid meant to shield you from hot sizzling oil. When the lid is closed, the optimal cooking temperature is also preserved inside the interior space while allowing you to closely monitor the grilling process.

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DASH DEG200GBRD01

One of the more affordable and stylish flattops, the Dash Everyday non-stick electric griddle offers a spacious cooking plate designed to fit multiple portions of breakfast foods as well as classic burgers, sausages, and steaks.

Measuring 19.75 inches long and 9.5 inches wide, the cooking area provides plenty of space for multiple servings while ensuring no food ends up burning stuck to the plate thanks to the PFOA-free non-stick coating.

Underneath the plate, you will find a slot-and-lock drip tray which is both easy to install and remove for later cleaning. Another useful design feature is the griddle’s anti-sleep feet added for better balance.

The griddle’s slick red exterior cleans quickly, and the cool-touch handles are safe to use even during cooking. This model is also compatible with all North American electrical outlets.

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Wolfgang Puck WPRGG0010

Among the largest and most powerful models on the list, this reversible Wolfgang Puck grill and griddle is made with big households in mind, offering enough cooking space and wattage to serve regular family breakfasts as well as holiday cookouts and garden parties.

With the main cooktop measuring 207 square inches, the griddle is capable of cooking up to 8 even portions in one go, saving you both time and effort in the morning or during crowded house parties.

The dual-purpose non-stick plate can be flipped over to be used as a classic BBQ grate for grilling hamburgers, hot dogs, and other traditional party foods. For extra safety, the plate is secured to the griddle base via an interlock system that uses a series of reliable latches.

The heating system shows fast heat-up times and can preheat the plate to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for immediate grilling and searing. And to ensure you are completely protected from the heat, the griddle features cool-touch handles to give you full access to the grilled food without the risk of sustaining burns.

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Zojirushi EA-DCC10

The Zojirushi EA-DCC10 is an impressive lidded griddle with a smooth ceramic cooking surface, durable aluminum-cast body, and stylish stainless brown finish designed to serve large crowds and small gatherings alike.

With its 19 by 12.5-inch plate and toxin-free non-stick surface, the Gourmet Sizzler offers a truly staggering 237.5 square inches of cooking space which can be used for a wide range of recipes.

The actual cooktop is placed within the griddle frame for safer and more efficient cooking, so in that regard, the griddle slightly differs from traditional flat tops and can be used for various stews and Asian-style BBQ.

As for the cooking settings, the griddle lets you control the heat levels to your liking and also selects the Keep Warm mode that operates between 176°F and 425°F. The ceramic surface is reinforced with titanium and other stainless elements. Both the plate and the griddle’s bodyguard lid can be completely immersed for faster washing.

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Q & A