Imagine this: The sun is shining, your friends are over, and the smell of delicious food fills the air. You’re ready to grill, but that old charcoal grill is a hassle. Or maybe you live somewhere you can’t have a gas grill. That’s where the outdoor electric grill shines! It’s a fantastic way to enjoy backyard cookouts without the smoke, the mess, or the complicated setup.
But stepping into the world of electric grills can feel a little overwhelming. So many brands, so many features! How do you know which one will cook your burgers perfectly or get your veggies nice and crispy? You want a grill that’s easy to use, heats up fast, and still gives you that satisfying grilled flavor. It’s a common problem for anyone looking to upgrade their outdoor cooking game.
In this post, we’re going to cut through the confusion. We’ll explore what makes a great outdoor electric grill and help you understand the key things to look for. Get ready to discover how to find the perfect electric grill that will have you hosting amazing cookouts all summer long. Let’s dive in and find your ideal grilling companion!
Our Top 5 Outdoor Electric Grill Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Cuisinart Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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Cuisinart Indoor/Outdoor Electric Griddle | 9.5/10 | Check Price |
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Bistro Pro Electric Grill & Griddle + Charcoal Mode | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
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George Foreman Indoor Outdoor Electric Grill | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Outdoor Electric Grill Detailed Reviews
1. Cuisinart Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill
Rating: 9.2/10
Meet the Cuisinart Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill, your new go-to for delicious grilled food, no matter where you are! This versatile grill lets you cook indoors or outdoors, making it perfect for apartments, patios, or even taking it on a camping trip. Its 2-in-1 design means you can use it on its stand outside or place it on a table inside. The nonstick cooking surface is spacious, and you can adjust the heat to get your food just right.
What We Like:
- Versatile Use: You can grill indoors or outdoors with the stand or tabletop options. It’s great for kitchens, balconies, and patios.
- Generous Cooking Space: The 240 sq. in. nonstick surface fits up to 12 burgers, perfect for feeding your family or friends.
- Easy Temperature Control: Five heat settings from 350°F to 550°F let you cook everything from burgers to vegetables perfectly.
- Clean Grilling: A special channel directs grease into a cup below, reducing mess and preventing flare-ups.
- Fast Setup: No tools are needed! You can assemble it and start cooking in less than 10 minutes.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 6-foot power cord might be a little short for some outdoor setups, requiring an extension cord.
- While the nonstick surface is great for cooking, long-term durability of the coating could be a concern for some users.
This Cuisinart grill offers a convenient and flexible way to enjoy barbecue flavors year-round. It’s a fantastic option for anyone seeking an easy-to-use and portable grilling solution.
2. George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill
Rating: 8.6/10
Dreaming of juicy burgers and perfectly grilled veggies, even if you live in an apartment? The George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill makes it possible! This black, 15-serving grill is designed for convenience, letting you grill anywhere, anytime. Its smart features mean you can enjoy delicious grilled food without the hassle of charcoal or propane.
What We Like:
- The GEORGE TOUGH NONSTICK COATING makes cooking and cleaning a breeze. You won’t need extra butter or oil, and a quick wash after each use keeps it in top shape.
- The REMOVABLE STAND offers amazing flexibility. Take it from your patio to your countertop in a snap, so weather never ruins your grilling plans.
- With ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE CONTROL, you get perfect heat every time. Five settings let you grill everything from steaks to desserts with confidence.
- It’s APARTMENT APPROVED! This electric grill has no charcoal, no propane, and no messy flare-ups, making it safe to use indoors on a heat-safe surface or outdoors.
- The FAT-REMOVING SLOPE is a game-changer. It helps remove up to 42% of fat from your food, leading to healthier meals. Just make sure the grill is level for the grease to drain into the drip tray.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the nonstick coating is durable, it’s important to remember to use only nylon scrubbers to avoid damaging it.
- The grill needs to be level for the fat-removing slope to work effectively, which might require a bit of attention when setting it up.
This George Foreman grill delivers fantastic grilling results with incredible ease. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting delicious, healthy grilled meals at home.
3. Cuisinart Indoor/Outdoor Electric Griddle
Rating: 9.3/10
The Cuisinart Indoor/Outdoor Electric Griddle is a versatile cooking companion that brings the joy of grilling to any space. This 2-in-1 portable BBQ features a flat top nonstick cooking surface, adjustable heat settings, and can be used on its stand for outdoor cookouts or removed for tabletop convenience. It’s perfect for those with limited space or who want to enjoy grilled meals year-round.
What We Like:
- It offers both indoor and outdoor cooking options, giving you great flexibility.
- The spacious 240 sq. in. nonstick cooking surface is perfect for feeding a family.
- You can easily adjust the heat from 350°F to 550°F with 5 different settings.
- Grease is effectively managed with a central channel that directs it to a collection cup.
- Assembly is a breeze because no tools are needed, and it’s ready in under 10 minutes.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 6-foot cord is convenient, some users might prefer a slightly longer one for more placement options.
- The collection cup for grease, while effective, might need frequent emptying during longer cooking sessions.
This Cuisinart griddle makes cooking fun and easy. Its smart design and simple operation make it a fantastic addition to any kitchen or patio.
4. Bistro Pro Electric Grill & Griddle + Charcoal Mode
Rating: 9.5/10
The Bistro Pro Electric Grill & Griddle + Charcoal Mode, Black – 25302145 offers amazing versatility for any outdoor cook. This grill lets you choose how you want to cook, giving you options for different flavors and styles.
What We Like:
- You get two grills in one! It’s an electric grill that can also turn into a charcoal grill. This means you can have that smoky charcoal taste whenever you want.
- You can add wood chunks to the charcoal for even more smoky flavor.
- It gets really hot, up to 650°F, using just electricity. This is great for searing your food.
- It’s not too big, so it fits nicely in smaller outdoor spaces. It looks good too.
- It comes with a griddle that’s big enough for the whole family. You can easily wash it in your kitchen sink.
- You have 240 square inches of space to grill about 12 burgers. There’s also a warming rack to keep food warm or cook with indirect heat.
- It plugs into a regular 110-volt outlet, so no special hookups are needed.
- The digital screen makes it easy to see the temperature.
- Special heat reflectors help the grill work its best when you switch between electric and charcoal.
- The grates are coated to reduce flare-ups and help food cook evenly for juicy results.
- It has side shelves and a mid-shelf to keep all your grilling tools and ingredients handy.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it offers charcoal mode, the primary cooking power is electric. Some purists might prefer a full charcoal experience.
- The primary cooking area, while decent, might feel a bit small for very large gatherings.
This grill is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves to grill and wants flexibility in their cooking methods. It offers great features for a wide range of outdoor cooking needs.
5. George Foreman Indoor Outdoor Electric Grill
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready for delicious, healthy grilling anywhere with the George Foreman Indoor Outdoor Electric Grill. This grill is designed for convenience and great taste. It’s perfect for apartment living or backyard fun.
What We Like:
- It’s big enough for over 12 servings, so you can feed a crowd.
- It’s apartment-approved because it’s electric, meaning no charcoal or propane needed.
- You can control the heat with five different settings for perfect cooking.
- The non-stick coating makes cooking and cleaning super easy.
- It helps make your food healthier by removing up to 42% of fat.
What Could Be Improved:
- The grilling surface is rectangular, which might limit some creative grill marks.
- It requires an electrical outlet, so you can’t use it completely off-grid.
This George Foreman grill makes healthy eating simple and fun. It’s a fantastic option for anyone wanting to enjoy grilled food without the hassle.
Your Guide to the Best Outdoor Electric Grill
Thinking about getting an outdoor electric grill? That’s a smart move! Electric grills are super easy to use. They heat up fast and clean up quickly. This guide will help you pick the perfect one for your backyard adventures.
What to Look For: Key Features
1. Cooking Surface Size
Think about how many people you usually cook for. Small grills are great for one or two people. Larger grills can feed a whole family or a party.
2. Temperature Control
Good temperature control means you can cook different foods just right. Look for grills with adjustable heat settings. This lets you sear steaks or gently cook fish.
3. Heating Elements
More heating elements usually mean more even cooking. Some grills have one main element. Others have two or more for better heat distribution.
4. Ease of Cleaning
Nobody likes a tough cleanup. Removable cooking grates and drip trays make cleaning much simpler. Non-stick surfaces are also a big plus.
5. Portability and Storage
If you plan to move your grill around or store it often, consider its weight and size. Some grills have wheels. Others fold up for easy storage.
What’s it Made Of? Important Materials
The materials of your grill affect how well it cooks and how long it lasts.
Cooking Grates
Stainless steel grates are durable and resist rust. They are easy to clean too. Cast iron grates get hot and create great grill marks. They need a little more care to prevent rust.
Body and Housing
A grill with a stainless steel body looks good and lasts a long time. It’s also strong. Grills made with other metals might rust over time.
Heating Elements
Look for durable heating elements that can withstand high heat. These usually come with good warranties.
Quality Matters: What Makes a Grill Great (or Not So Great)
Several things make an electric grill a good buy.
What Makes it Better
- Even Heating: A grill that heats up evenly cooks your food perfectly. No more burnt edges and raw centers!
- Durable Construction: Sturdy materials mean your grill will last for many cookouts.
- Simple Controls: Easy-to-use knobs and clear temperature settings make grilling stress-free.
- Good Safety Features: Things like sturdy stands and heat-resistant handles add safety.
What Makes it Worse
- Uneven Hot Spots: Some grills get hotter in one area than another. This makes cooking tricky.
- Cheap Materials: Grills made with thin metal or plastic parts might break easily.
- Difficult Cleaning: If parts are hard to remove or clean, you might dread using your grill.
- Poor Temperature Stability: If the grill’s temperature jumps around a lot, it’s hard to cook food just right.
Your Grill, Your Way: User Experience and Use Cases
Outdoor electric grills are fantastic for many situations.
For the Apartment Dweller
If you live in an apartment or condo with a balcony, an electric grill is often your only option. They don’t produce smoke like charcoal or gas grills. This makes them neighbor-friendly.
For the Quick Weeknight Meal
Electric grills heat up in minutes. You can go from wanting dinner to having dinner ready very fast. This is perfect after a long day.
For the Backyard Enthusiast
Even if you have a larger patio, an electric grill can be a convenient choice. It’s great for smaller gatherings or when you don’t want to fire up a big grill.
For the Safety-Conscious Cook
Electric grills are generally safer than gas or charcoal. There are no open flames. This means less risk of flare-ups or accidental fires.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are outdoor electric grills as good as charcoal or gas grills?
A: They are different! Electric grills are super easy and quick. They don’t give you that smoky flavor, but they cook food well. They are great for convenience and small spaces.
Q: How hot do outdoor electric grills get?
A: Most electric grills can reach temperatures between 300°F and 500°F. This is hot enough for most grilling needs.
Q: Can I use an outdoor electric grill indoors?
A: No, you should not use an outdoor electric grill indoors. They are designed for outdoor use only due to ventilation and safety reasons.
Q: How do I clean an outdoor electric grill?
A: First, unplug the grill. Let it cool down. Remove the grates and drip tray. Wash them with soap and water. Wipe down the inside and outside with a damp cloth.
Q: How long do outdoor electric grills last?
A: With good care, a well-made electric grill can last many years, often 5 to 10 years or more.
Q: Do I need a special outdoor outlet for an electric grill?
A: You need an outdoor-rated extension cord. Make sure it’s the right gauge for the grill’s power. The outlet itself can be a standard outdoor outlet.
Q: What is the difference between a portable electric grill and a larger one?
A: Portable grills are smaller and lighter. They are good for camping or small balconies. Larger ones have more cooking space and might be on a stand.
Q: Can I get grill marks with an electric grill?
A: Yes, you can! Some electric grills have grates designed to create nice grill marks. Cooking at higher temperatures also helps.
Q: Are electric grills good for smoking meat?
A: Electric grills are not typically designed for smoking. They are better for direct grilling and searing.
Q: What kind of power do electric grills use?
A: They plug into a standard household electrical outlet, usually 120 volts. Some larger models might need a higher voltage outlet.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!