The Best Indoor Grill for Your Kitchen
Updated: Feb. 01, 2024
If you want to be able to grill in inclement weather or during the off-season, you're going to love our pick for the best indoor grill.
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While their function is the same, indoor and outdoor grills are as different as night and day. You see, indoor grills usually are the only types of grills powered by electricity. They’re designed to minimize smoke, as no one needs the fire alarm going off while cooking! And while you won’t get the same smoky flavor as you would cooking on a charcoal grill (hello, liquid smoke!), indoor grills are a great option for cooks looking for an easy, fuss-free grilling experience in the kitchen.
What Makes a Good Indoor Electric Grill?
When you’re shopping for an indoor grill, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. A great indoor grill is spacious enough to cook several servings at once, and it has a wide temperature range to help you prepare a variety of foods. Additionally, it’s always nice if its components are dishwasher-safe, as this saves you the hassle of scrubbing in between the grates and in other nooks and crannies.
With all this in mind, we found the best indoor grills for you:
The Best Indoor Grill: Krups Precision Indoor Grill
The Krups Precision Indoor Grill is our pick for the best indoor grill, thanks to its useful features and versatile cooking options.
Pros
- Automatic cooking settings: Not sure how long to cook your steak? The Krups grill has pre-programmed cooking modes for burgers, chicken, paninis, sausage, red meat, and fish. Not only will it automatically select the proper temperature, but it will alert you when your food has reached each level of doneness (rare, medium-rare and so on).
- Wide temperature range: If you want to pick your own temperature, the Krups Grill has a wide range of 250 to 525° F.
- Frozen food option: Forgot to defrost the chicken? This indoor grill has a special setting for frozen foods, so there’s no defrosting necessary.
- Great searing: Thanks to its upper and lower nonstick grill plates, this unit will put a beautiful sear on your food, without smoking up your kitchen.
- Easy cleanup: When you’re finished cooking, you can clean up in a flash, as both the grill plates and drip tray can go right in the dishwasher.
Cons
- Price: Krups Precision Indoor Grill can be more expensive than competitor brands, but we believe the quality is worth the price tag.
- Size: This compact model only has 85 square inches of grill space which is just enough to cook two burgers at the same time. It’s perfect for college dorms or grilling recipes for two.
Specs:
- Cost: $115
- Size: 17″ x 9.5″ x 16″
- Maximum temperature: 500°
- Cooking surface: 85 square inches
We Also Recommend…
If you can’t get your hands on this brand, there are a number of other indoor grills that will help you cook up delicious burgers, steaks, and grilled vegetables. Here are some popular options to consider.
Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill
For a compact, budget-friendly indoor grill, you can’t go wrong with this model from Hamilton Beach. It can hold up to six servings at a time and reach temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit,
Pros:
- See what you’re cooking: This model has a built-in glass viewing window so you can keep an eye on your food without opening the lid.
- Budget-friendly:Â If you’re not ready to spend big on an indoor grill, this product is priced just right.
Cons
- Cleanup: While the grill comes with an extra-large drip tray and the griddle is dishwasher-safe, some users report its nooks and crannies being tedious to clean. Luckily we have plenty of solutions for stuck-on grease.
- Material:Â The exterior and drip pan is made of lightweight plastic, making it susceptible to cracks or scratches.
Specs:
- Cost: $70
- Size: 6.8″ x 16.7″ x 12.4″
- Maximum temperature: 450°
- Cooking surface: 118 square inches
Philips Smoke-less Indoor BBQ Grill
This model from Philips can hold several servings at once, making burger night a breeze. While it isn’t quite smoke-free, the grill produces 80 percent less smoke thanks to its infrared heating technology—a key feature, since it doesn’t have a lid.
Pros:
- Easy to use: This grill heats up to one single temperature (446°) and stays consistent. For indoor grillers who spend most of their time searing and searching for perfect grill marks, the Phillips Smoke-less Indoor Grill is a good bet.
- Aesthetic:Â While we admit this isn’t going to impact the taste of your T-bone, it’s always nice to have stylish appliances in your space. This indoor grill’s minimalist design looks sharp in almost any setting.
Cons
- Bright light:Â The novel infrared heat comes at a cost, as the appliance lights up quite brightly when in use. This can be taxing on sensitive eyes, especially if you’re planning to cook over long periods of time.
- Price:Â The Phillips Smoke-less Indoor BBQ Grill skews towards the pricier side. However, you can almost always find it on sale online.
Specs:
- Cost: $280
- Size: 7.5″ x 21.9″ x 16.9″
- Maximum temperature: 446°
- Cooking surface: 112 square inches
Safety Tips for Indoor Grillers
Grilling indoors is generally safer than using an outdoor grill, as there’s no open flame, but it’s still important to take necessary safety precautions. Keep your family and home safe by following these best practices.
- Never use an outdoor grill inside your home.
- Cook in a well-ventilated area, as even indoor grills produce some smoke.
- Trim excess fat from your meat to reduce smoking.
- Never leave the grill unattended.
- Keep children and pets away from your indoor grill.
- Have a fire extinguisher nearby, just in case.
What to Cook on an Indoor Grill
A better question might be, “What can’t you cook on an indoor grill?” These indoor appliances can accommodate all of the same foods you’d cook on an outdoor grill, from hot dogs and hamburgers to corn on the cob and even grilled desserts. Plus, you have better control over the temperature on an indoor grill, allowing you to achieve more precise results. Here are some of our all-time favorite grill recipes to try out.
5-Star Grilling Recipes You've Gotta Try
Gourmet Burgers with Sun-Dried TomatoGuests will never see this coming! The goat cheese filling in these burgers is a pleasant and refreshing surprise. In comparison to American cheeseburgers, these really do feel gourmet!
Grilled Corn in HusksYou know it's summer when you can finally enjoy a nice corn on the cob. No need for anything crazy; some butter and parmesan are enough to make this side dish a masterpiece.
Grilled Romaine SaladYou can grill a steak so why shouldn't you be able to grill a salad? The simple dressing really sends it over the top.
Grilled Chicken SaladNever underestimate the power of a good salad. This perfect picnic meal will be your summer showstopper!
Brined Grilled Turkey BreastThis sweet and spicy turkey is super moist. The flavors are subtle, but present enough where you'll think of this recipe even around Thanksgiving.
Grilled Mahi MahiWant a change of pace at your next cookout? Grill up this mahi mahi with tropical fruit salsa and watch as everyone asks for the recipe. It's sweet, tangy and delicious!
Beef ‘n’ Pork BurgersAdding pork to your burgers is a grill master's best kept secret. The bacon really drives home the smokiness.
Chicken Strawberry Spinach SaladThis sweet poppy seed dressing is everything you want in a salad and more. The grilled chicken, strawberries and almonds are the perfect combination of savory, sweet and crunchy!
Grilled AsparagusGrilled asparagus makes a perfect side dish for grilled meats. It's ready in just 20 minutes and has a nice barbecue sauce taste.
Grilled Chorizo and Shrimp PaellaThis easy shrimp and chorizo paella is a must have this summer. The mango and lime give it a tangy flavor that goes along perfectly with the grilled chicken sausage. You won't want to miss out on this colorful meal.
Artichoke Steak WrapsReady in just 30 minutes, these artichoke steak wraps are a must have! Artichokes are rarely the main event in a meal, but these wraps will have you second guessing that notion.
Bratwurst and Chicken KabobsYou can get the best of both worlds with these double meat kabobs! The chutney packs a bit of heat with the pepper jelly.
Aloha BurgersBurgers and fruit might just be your new go-to debate topic. As for us, we can't get enough of it! These Hawaiian-inspired burgers are smoky from the bacon but fresh from the pineapple. See for yourself!
Grilled Pork and Poblano PeppersThis spice-rubbed pork is not for the faint of heart. It's a party in your mouth and a party at your table! Guests will request you make it every cookout.
Grilled Lobster TailsLobster tails aren't reserved for restaurants. And they're easier to make than you think! If you find yourself ordering lobster out a lot, give this recipe a spin.
Grilled Stone Fruits with Balsamic SyrupA balsamic glaze can turn any dish from good to great. Well, maybe not any but a case can be written for salads and toast and fruit and huh, maybe that is everything. The grilled fruit practically melts in your mouth. So what are you waiting for!
Grilled PattypansIf you've never tried pattypan squash, now is the time! This side dish will change the way you think about fruits and veggies and how they can come together.
Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Cherry Salsa MoleChocolate, cherries and pork? Say no more! The hint of spice in this dish is drool inducing.
Grilled Veggie PizzaIf you have any leftover veggies on hand, toss them together on a veggie pizza. It's a fun lunch—or even dinner—for the whole family!
Grilled Italian Sausage SandwichesIf you're in the mood for Italian, you've come to the right sandwich. This meal might seem more laid back but that's exactly what makes it perfect for a hot summer day.
Shrimp ‘n’ Scallops Tropical SaladThis zippy fruit salad is cut through with smoky shrimp and scallops. If you love seafood, you'll love this salad!
Cedar Plank Salmon with Blackberry SauceThis salmon is a nice balance of sweet, smoky and spicy. Maybe you've never thought about salmon and fruits before this moment, but now you'll only wish you'd thought of it sooner.
Grilled Huli Huli ChickenThis overnight marinated Hawaiian chicken is well worth the wait. With brown sugar, ginger and soy sauce, you can use this marinade for anything!
Mango & Grilled Chicken SaladWhen it's hot out, you want nothing more than to bite into a juicy piece of fruit. This mango chicken salad gives all of that and more with added crunch from the snap peas.
Grilled Vegetable PlatterYou really can't go wrong with grilled veggies. This simple honey and balsamic vinegar marinade proves once again that balsamic vinegar is the secret to a great cookout.
Grilled Honey-Balsamic Glazed FruitSweet and salty lovers unite! We might have just found your new favorite dessert. Peaches with honey and balsamic vinegar is the best way to end a barbecue.
Grilled Chicken and Mango SkewersThese skewers bring all the best flavors of summer together. This colorful plate is as Instagram-worthy as it is tasty.
Fresh Artichokes with Lemon-Yogurt DipArtichokes are made to be enjoyed simply and with this tangy lemon-yogurt dip you can do just that. The perfect appetizer for an epic cookout, you won't want to underestimate the veggie again.
Grilled Peach, Rice & Arugula SaladOne reviewer wrote that she'd give the recipe 10 stars if she could, and we couldn't agree more! This summer salad is not a want but a need. The grilled peaches are an impeccable touch.
Grilled Figgy PiesA figgy pie is exactly as it sounds: a combination of figs, maple, walnuts and creamy mascarpone. These hand held pies will go fast!
Bacon & Swiss Chicken SandwichesThis chicken sandwich is restaurant quality! And just when you thought it couldn't get any better, you can make extra honey mustard on the side for dipping.
California Burger BowlsLike Chipotle, you can choose whether to have your burgers as is or in a bowl. The difference is that in a bowl you can really load them up! Veggies and even fruit can adorn your hamburger bowl.
Tarragon AsparagusAsparagus is an underrated veggie that rarely sees new ways to eat it. Until now! This tarragon-honey marinade is exactly the change of pace we were looking for.
Sweet Sriracha WingsThese sweet and hot wings are going to make a splash at your next outdoor party. They're made sweet with orange juice and honey. It sounds unlikely but somehow makes perfect sense!
Cilantro Lime ShrimpThis garlic and lime marinade will wow at your next cookout. The flavor is spot on and the preparation is easy enough to add it into your meal rotation.
Lemon Garlic MushroomsThese lemony grilled mushrooms might take some of the spotlight off the main course. They're just that good! Skewers ensure that they're grilled to perfection.
Grilled CabbageYou'll be surprised by how good this is. Gone are the days of begging your kids to eat their veggies. With this on the side, their plates will be cleared!
Grilled Southwestern Potato SaladThis potato salad is the best side dish for some classic steak tacos. With sour cream, corn and lime, it has a nice pop to go with your Tex-Mex dinner.
Spicy Grilled EggplantThis Cajun grilled eggplant is the most versatile dish of the season. It pairs well with any meat and takes up way more space than your average veggies.
Grilled Apple Tossed SaladApples and bleu cheese? Yes please! This salad is a beautiful storm of crunchy, sweet and savory toppings. The balsamic dressing is the glue that ties it all together.
Grilled Steak and Mushroom SaladSteak and mushrooms are an unbeatable combination. This light dinner is packed with protein while still tasting like a vinegar-Dijon dream. If you enjoyed this, then you must try our favorite vegetarian grilling recipes.
Fruit ‘n’ Cake KabobsWe love grilling and we love cake. So grilled cake has to be a stroke of genius, right? These fruit and pound cake kabobs are everything you didn't know you were missing.
Burger AmericanaEver had peanut butter and bacon on a burger? What about coleslaw? Try out any toppings that strike your fancy with these versatile, everyday burgers.
Originally Published: August 13, 2020
