Best Outdoor Electric Grill Reviews

[Updated February 2024] A weekend to pass the time and forget a little stress of the week while relaxing, a family barbecue is a good idea. You have decided to buy an electric, but you can’t choose a suitable model? This is a perfectly normal situation because there are a plethora of models on the market. It is therefore quite common not to know where to turn.

I love barbecues a lot. You will probably want to take a look at the Weber Q1400 which brings 100% satisfaction in grilling. So I thought to make a guide to buying the best electric barbecues to help you find the one that suits you. Did you know that electric grills offer more advantages than conventional coal models?

An electric grill makes it easy to barbecue. It is of great use in outdoor use on the terrace. Thus, there are on the market several types of barbecues with different qualities and functions.

Therefore, you must choose among all the available models. You will need to consider several aspects before making a final judgment. This best outdoor electric grill reviews will help, you so take the time to read the guide below.

The Essentials in Brief

• An electric grill is an excellent alternative to conventional charcoal and gas grills due to its smooth operation and uncomplicated start-up.
• You can choose between two different types of electric grill: a table grill or a freestanding barbecue.
• The size, dimensions, and wattage of the electric grill determine the possibilities and limits of your barbecue adventures.

What is an Electric Grill?

The electric grill is a device that can be used indoors and outdoors for good grilling. Equipped with a fired heater that runs on electricity, merely plug it into a mains socket to activate it.

The use of the electric barbecue is very convenient because it is easily installed on a table, in the balcony or even in the garden, depending on the model. It is compact, easy to store, allows quick cooking of meat and does not generate coal smoke.

The Different Types of Electric Grills

Many people don’t know yet which electric barbecue to choose among the different models that exist on the market

Indoor Electric Grill

To know that it is a device that is used indoors and outdoors, the choice criteria depend primarily on the needs of each. If you want to organize a grill party at home, for lack of space, there is nothing better than an indoor grill or table grill.

The latter is usually smaller and easily fits on your dining table or the kitchen worktop. This will make it easier to plug into a nearby outlet. It is a very compact device, clean and practical because it allows realizing different preparations with a heat position of 90 ° C or 180 ° C.

Outdoor Electric Grill

On the other hand, there are also electric garden barbecues, including an installation bracket that makes it easy to use outdoors.

This type of appliance is often equipped with a much larger cooking surface and requires a larger space, which is why it is more suitable for the garden. An extension cord must also be used to make it work in the garden unless the model you have chosen is already equipped with a large enough power cord.

Outdoor electric grills also require a cover for muffling. These are often closed barbecues because the lid helps retain heat for faster and more efficient cooking.

Without further wasting of your time, we will review the

Best outdoor electric grill

George Foreman 15-Serving Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill— Most Loved

There is nothing better than an electric barbecue to spend pleasant moments of relaxation with your family and loved ones. The George Foreman Electric Grill model, designed to work both indoors and outdoors, will allow you to cook meat, fish or even vegetables.

Whether you live in an apartment or a house, you will not have the slightest trouble achieving your barbecues because this device is both practical and space-saving, mainly since it produces almost no smoke at all. Easy to use and able to successfully cook your different foods, this electric barbecue on feet can become a faithful kitchen assistant and will delight all your guests.

Easy to use and functional, this device will allow you to succeed in perfectly different cooking. Discover it without delay.

Details of George Foreman

This 1600-watt electric freestanding electric grill with huge cooking plates allows you to cook about 15 servings at a time to satisfy a large number of guests every time they prepare.

Easy to clean, simple management of cooking, its central foot makes it easy to install and move and limits its size (ideal for small terrace or balcony). It can cook meat, fish, sausages and even vegetables; the most interesting is that you can prepare them simultaneously if you wish.

Thanks to the slightly inclined position of the cooking plates, the fat is dumped in a bin specially dedicated to this mission. You can then empty it quickly and clean it as it retires without any difficulty. Moreover, the plates themselves are removable and therefore interchangeable.

Covered with an anti-adhesive material, they prevent your grill from sticking to the grids and do not require the use of oil or grease for successful grilling: healthy cooking and diet guaranteed.

Besides, they are very easy to clean after use, they are easily removed and washed without any problem. With its very precise adjustable thermostat, you can easily choose the temperature suitable for successful cooking by selecting one of the five levels of heat; heat that reaches in less than 5 minutes the highest level, and that is about 285 degrees.

An integrated gauge allows you to easily monitor the internal temperature of the device at a glance. Its rounded lid keeps heat to the maximum inside the electric barbecue for fast and even cooking.

Usable both indoors and outdoors, this electric grill is mounted on a support which allows a movement without hindrance.

Moreover, with its weight of only 6 kg, you will have no trouble carrying it to drop it at the place provided for the barbecue session. Its central foot is stabilized thanks to its four supports and allows safe cooking.

The top of the lid is equipped with an insulated handle that prevents you from burning your fingers when removing the cover.

Features

• The weight of the device: 21 pounds
• Power of the device: 1,600 watts
• Removable anti-adhesive plates
• Can be used outdoors or indoors
• Cooking capacity: 15 servings at a time
• Suitable for meat, fish, vegetables.
• Fat Receiving Tray
• Adjustable thermostat
• Maximum temperature: 170 degrees
• Dome lid with insulated handle

Pros

• Large cooking capacity
• Ease of use
• Simple to clean

Cons

• No hook to hang the lid

 

Weber 52020001 Q1400 Electric Grill— The Most Efficient

If in addition to excellent practicality you want to have at home a device with a charming design, you will have a hard time passing this device. With its compact, curvaceous shape and beautiful dark gray color, this electric barbecue offers remarkable performance and is easily used in the apartment especially if you have a small balcony. It is straightforward to handle and performs very successful cooking without exhausting you.

This device is something to attract fans of barbecues. With a reasonably fast heating time and excellent ease of use, this electric barbecue is quite practical and allows you to barbecue for about six people at a time. Very refined and highly elegant, we appreciate being able to pose proudly on a balcony or table for moments very friendly and a treat!

Details of the Weber Q 1400

With a power of 1560 watts, this electric barbecue weber is a high-speed cooking device for about 6 or 7 people.

It is equipped with a porcelain-enameled cast iron plate with an area of about 189 square-inch, thanks to which you can carry out all kinds of grilling easily and effortlessly.

The plate covered with an anti-adhesive coating is also easy to clean and also allows for dietary cooking without using a lot of oil.

The lid and the bowl are made of aluminum heat retention liners, which optimally keeps the heat inside the appliance for even faster results and even cooking. This way, you can prepare even the biggest quarters of meat properly.

The cold handle with thermal insulation ensures an enjoyable use that you can lift the lid at any time without fear of the risk of burning your fingers.

Two other handles are also available, but this time on each side of the tank and allow you to lift and move your device quickly.

Thanks to its infinite heat control, you can choose, and precisely the temperature aimed to each type of food to be cooked by your electric barbecue: meat or fish or even vegetables cook easily with this device. For clean cooking, a removable tray is provided to collect the fat that escapes food during cooking. You can empty it and even wash it very simply.

Its frame with fiberglass reinforced nylon feet offers excellent stability to the weber electric barbecue model that can be easily placed on a table without taking up much space thanks to its compact design.

On your balcony, it will be the most beautiful effect, with its sober but immaculate design, and for ease of use, it has a power cable of about 6 foot which offers better mobility.

Features

• Power of the device: 1560 watts
• Dimensions: 14.5 H x 27 W x 16.5 D
• Can be used outdoors or indoors
• Sits on a table
• Cooking capacity: about six people
• Suitable for meat, fish, vegetables.
• Removable grease trap
• Adjustable heat control
• Power cord length:  6 foot
• Bowl and lid in cast aluminum
• Porcelain-enameled cast iron plate
• Frame with nylon feet reinforced with fiberglass

Pros

• Compact design
• Great ease of use and cleaning
• Large cooking capacity
• Taste of grilled meat
• Cost-effective

Cons

• No thermometer

 

Portable Electric Grill Teppanyaki Table Grill– The Japanese Legend

The Teppanyaki hob is a great kitchen utensil, used by both professionals and hobbyists. This smooth, metal and high-temperature cooking plate are used in Japanese cuisine and the realization of its most popular recipes, of course, but also offers many advantages in everyday cooking.

The Teppanyaki grill is a model design that offers a cast steel plate in the Japanese tradition. This allowed direct preparation at the table so that the frying plate is perfect for indoor or outdoor use, which could be set up quickly and served as a hot plate juicy meat frying results.

This table grill was made from stainless steel, with processing very high quality. The design also appealed to us through the smooth grill surface and the curved handles. With a weight of 1.9 kilograms, the Teppanyaki is very light and portable. The measurements were a respectable 44x 15x 9 centimeters.

Details of the Electric Grill Teppanyaki Table Grill

On huge grill area of 44 x 15 x 9 centimeters the preparation of many dishes as possible. With the electric Teppanyaki Frying Plate, it is possible for your meat to be fat-free and odorless according to the Japanese tradition. The surface doesn’t have to be greased for it, the meat and vegetables are juicy and tender, and the hot zone could be used separately and heated up very quickly. This was especially useful for steaks, skewers or fried foods.

Construction, Type of Grill and Portability

The setup was fast and straightforward; the frying plate could be used directly, should heat up briefly to full power to dissolve material vapors. Even with the first use, no smoke developed here.

The plate was large and full, yet very light in weight. The grill could be quickly set up on a table or the balcony and connected to the electricity. It could just as easily be stowed away again.

Handling, Preheating Time and Heat Development

The temperature control was infinitely possible; the hot zone offered a quick searing of meat and vegetables, this made the processing very easy.

The table grill was preheated after a few minutes. The heat was distributed strongly and evenly, could also be regulated by the thermostat. Even sausages arrive in good shape after about 20 minutes.

Grill Result and Versatility

The table grill could be used both as a pure roasting surface as well as a standard barbecue in the garden or on the balcony, as far as a power outlet was nearby. Fish, meat, vegetables, and bread with excellent results could be groomed. The barbecue time was short, and the food was tasty and juicy.

Cleaning and Care

Due to the non-stick coating, which was smooth and even, the cleaning was particularly comfortable. Pollution rarely occurred. With a little warm water, the slight residue could be removed, soot did not form.

Also, the grease drip proved to be beneficial, could be easily removed and emptied. Application and cleaning were thus easy and uncomplicated.

Features

• Grill dimensions is 44 x 15 x 9 centimeters
• Features a 220 – 240 Volts
• Power is 1,200 watts
• Made with Stainless steel and plastic.
• Possesses a temperature control
• Features a drip tray for excess grease.
• Features a non-stick coating

Pros

• Adjustable heating levels
• Cool-touch handles
• Integrated thermometer
• Fat-free and odorless grilling
• Easy cleaning

Cons

• Might not be wholly suitable for outdoor usage.

 

Char-Broil 17602047 Infrared Electric Patio Bistro– The Infrared Heat Champion

The Char-Broil Patio Bistro 240 Electric Barbecue Grill is the ideal barbeque for the balcony owner who does not allow to grill with gas or charcoal, for example. The equipment convinces all consumers of its usefulness and offers enough space for a BBQ with 5 – 7 persons.

The Char-Broil Patio Bistro 240 Electric Barbecue Grill has a 44 cm diameter grill surface. Thus, the grill area is the same size as in the gas ball grill Char-Broil Patio Bistro 240 and is sufficient for a BBQ of 5-7 people entirely as mentioned above. The unique feature is the TRU – Infrared Grill System, which grills the food evenly and prevents it from flaring up. The meat stays juicy and retains its taste. With a weight of about 16 kg, the Patio Bistro 240 is not a lightweight among electric grills. However, it can be transported very well by the two attached wheels. The lid also has a thermometer to control the temperature during grilling. Here we discuss this electric grill in detail.

Details of the Char-Broil 17602047 Infrared Electric Patio Bistro

This electric grill is famous in the U.S, and this is mainly because of its ease of use and versatile functionality which we look into below;

The Structure

For the Char-Broil Patio Bistro 240 electric ball grill some parts have to be assembled; therefore a mounting time of about 45 minutes has to be planned. But since the assembly instructions are easy to understand and illustrated, the structure can be mastered by a layman technically quite sure.

The Grill Grate

The grill of the Char-Broil Patio Bistro 240 Electric Barbecue Grill is about 44 cm tall and made of cast iron. There is an additional holding grill with a size of 39.8 x 25 cm. Here, the already finished food can be stored or grill food, which must be cooked gently, must be grilled. Thanks to the patented TRU-Infrared grill system and a capacity of about 1,700 watts, it is possible to grill on the balcony without any flames or annoying smoke. Fat or gravy is taken up in a drip tray, allowing for reduced-fat grilling. Its large grill plate made of cast iron with 1,700 watts of power for the best grilling result.

With a working height of approx. 80 cm, the Char-Broil Patio Bistro 240 Electric Barbecue Grill grills back-friendly. A built-in lid grill thermometer can be set precisely the temperature. Therefore, it is also possible to grill grilled meat for several hours at low heat. The unique feature here is the Char-Broil TRU-Infrared technology. The TRU Infrared cooking system uses much less energy and the same grill performance. The air flow is severely limited, making a beating of flames virtually impossible. The advantage here is that a very uniform temperature is generated, which allows gentle cooking as well as a sharp searing of the food precisely.

The cooking system is exceptionally efficient, consuming one-third less energy than other barbecues. The patented TRU Infrared System is based on a scientific principle: In contrast to a conventional kettle grill, which works during the cooking process with hot air circulation, the TRU-Infrared BBQ kettle grill of Char-Broil limits the air flow and cooks the food with direct radiant heat without drying out of the barbecue. In this system, the resulting circulating heat destroys the moisture barrier of the food. The infrared heat keeps the meat juice and flavors trapped in the meat.

Large cooking chamber with a thermometer and TRU-Infrared grill technology

Cleaning and Storage

The 44 cm diameter cast-iron grill plate is easy to remove and clean. The other surfaces are easy to clean and can be quickly rid of grease spatters. Thanks to the two wheels, it is possible to change the electric Char-Broil kettle grill easily or to store it in the garage.

Cast-iron grill plate, easy-care surfaces and space-saving storable

Features

• A 44 cm grill plate
• Grill area 1,520 cm²
• Temperature control from 50 – 250 ° C
• Large hood with built-in thermometer
• Fast heating and high grill temperature thanks to the integrated heating element
• Power 1,700 watts
• TRU-Infrared Grill System
• Low-fat: oil runs into a drip tray

Pros

• Cost-effective
• Easy mobility
• Compact design
• Fast food grilling
• Easy to use

Cons

• Possesses short power cord

 

Easy Street Electric Tabletop Grill– The Pleasure Giver

Do you want to spend beautiful evenings around a functional barbecue and very powerful electric grill? This model should interest you. Very high and stable, it is ideal to realize your barbecues without any difficulty. It is straightforward to use and is efficient thanks to its incredible power and original features. Why not find out quickly?

Details of Easy Street Electric Tabletop Grill

With its power of 1500 watts, this electric barbecue has a fast heating time and can cook your various foods such as meat, fish or other vegetables.

With a grill surface of 200-square centimeters, this device can cook food for about 4 or 5 people.

It is an excellent barbecue, stable, excellent heat, progressive thermostat, easy maintenance.

Only small point of detail that bothers me, the grid orientation. I would have preferred right-left rather than front-back. The grid is removable for easy maintenance, is heated by a resistance also removable.

For safe use, the resistor is equipped with a circuit breaker system that automatically shuts off the device when it is removed from the device.

With its elegant chrome design, this grill is adjustable on two heights for better comfort of use and food cooked as you want it.

Its maintenance is effortless: use a mild detergent and a little hot water because unfortunately on this device, the grill is incompatible with the dishwasher.

Since the device is only used outdoors and doesn’t have a cover, its removable cover is very convenient to keep the heat and cook your food more efficiently.

You can also aspire to precise and successful cooking by making use of the adjustable thermostat very quickly thanks to a wheel that you can turn simply according to your preferences.

This electric grill features a triple cooking position to ensure excellent stability.

This grill features a reflector pan which ensures you get the smoky flavor that you crave for in your grilled foods. This is an advantage it has over other outdoor electric grills. To ensure this is done, soak wood chips inside water and then insert in an aluminum pouch (perforated) now drop in its reflector pan, and in a small time, you will be enjoying the flavor you craved for.

And for added versatility, you can easily take the feet off your electric barbecue and instantly turn it into a table barbecue.

Its compact dimensions allow to use it then on your table in the garden for moments of sharing very relaxed.

This outdoor electric barbecue is a compelling device and practical. It is not surprising how many users who have tried it are raving about it. The Easy Street Electric Tabletop Grill does well what is expected of it and avoids wasting time. It will allow you to succeed in your small barbecues evenings thanks to its incontestable functionality. Moreover, it is available at a very reasonable price.

Features

• Power of the device: 1500 watts
• Infrared light
• Usable outdoors
• Can be kept on a table
• Cooking capacity: about five people
• Suitable for meat, fish, vegetables.
• A Reflector pan
• A drip pan
• Adjustable thermostat

Pros

• Versatility and ease of use
• A convenient and powerful device
• Cooking with much-needed smoke flavors
• Large cooking space
• It is cost-effective
• Built compact and durable

Cons

• Not enough heat

 

Kenyon B70082 Floridian All Seasons Portable Stainless Steel Electric Grill– The Versatile Grill

For barbeque sessions in privacy and also outdoors, this unit is one of the best available on the market. In addition to its compact size that allows for little space, this electric table grill has a host of functional and practical features that make cooking both successful and effortless. You will undoubtedly be charmed by the possibilities available to you with this device.

This electric grill works efficiently thanks to its power of 1300 watts which allows cooking pieces of meat, sausages, fish or vegetables efficiently.

Its 155 square centimeters large steel grill allows you to grill your food for about six people.

It is equipped with a lid that allows maximum heat retention inside the tank to ensure consistent and utterly successful cooking.

This grill is convenient, and it is easy to put on a serving, it takes up little space and the same efficiency as a traditional grill while being less messy. Also, it is versatile and very robust. At the level of its capacity (about six people), it’s just perfect!

Details of the Kenyon B70082 Floridian All Seasons Portable Stainless Steel Electric Grill

Equipped with an aluminum steel plate with a total area of 155 square inches, this electric grill model will allow you to cook for about six people.

It has a resistance that promotes very electric heating plates. This BBQ table is best for up to 6 persons because it is beneficial, odorless and smoke-free. Its size allows to place it at the table. Also, its cleaning is fast and straightforward: it is one of the best purchases for more extended usage.

The plate is also compatible with the dishwasher to give less work to the user. The aluminum plate has an anti-adhesive coating which prevents the food cooked on the appliance from sticking and requires only a small amount of oil for successful and effortless cooking.

It is perfect for both outdoor and indoor use, the handling of this electric table barbecue is effortless.

It can be turned on effortlessly, and also has the possibility of adjusting the temperature depending on the type of food you want to cook. Its power of 1300 watts is ideal for cooking quality for all your guests; the power cable makes it easy to connect the device and can be used after a few minutes.

It is very quickly operational and allows you to realize in a short time delicious and dietetic cooking of various foods. Its frame explains the almost insignificant weight of this device that is easily deposited on a table. It is made of excellent material that guarantees long-term use, and it is easy to take and offers excellent stability once laid because of its rectangular shape.

Moreover, its assembly and disassembly are done in just a few minutes and without the use of tools.

Features

• The weight of the device: 32.4 pounds
• Power of the device: 1,300 watts
• Anti-stick coating
• Can be used outdoors or indoors
• Sits on a table
• Suitable for meat, fish, vegetables.
• Its touch panel is waterproof
• Its heating element is concealed

Pros

• Device and light and easy to use
• Operation without smell or smoke
• Effortless cleaning
• Fast heat up

Cons

• Power cord not long enough

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Electric Grills

Which recipes are there for an electric grill?

You can grill anything you like on an electric grill. On an electric grill, you can cook like any other kind of barbecue. You have no restrictions, and you can try new barbecue recipes as you wish. Whether meat, fish, vegetables or fruit, your grilled food is gently prepared. You can cook open or barbeque by using a hood.

Controlling the temperature of an electric grill will make it easier for you to keep your food warm for extended periods so that you can enjoy your cooking creations hot at any time. Many devices already have an integrated grill thermometer, which you can also buy extra but strongly oriented to the temperatures.

What are the benefits of using an electric grill over a charcoal or gas grill?

The most significant advantage of electric BBQ grills is the time savings. Grilling on a charcoal grill, on a gas grill or an electric grill succeeds without problems in all three cases. Real barbecues will, however, taste the difference between the typical, slightly smoky taste of the charcoal grill meat and the electric or gas grill.

Instead of spending hours churning out the charcoal grill, you can turn on the electric grill and start grilling. Therefore spontaneous barbecue sessions are no obstacle.

With an electric grill, you can grill inside your house, your apartment or even on your balcony, without any risk of fire. There is no smoke in this grill, and there are no open flames. Also, this property no longer relies on good weather to grill and enjoy good grilled meats.

A distinction between an electric grill, a charcoal grill, and a gas grill. All types of barbecues have their advantages.

Depending on which model of electric grill you decide on, also indirect grilling and cooking are possible. If your E-Grill has a temperature controller, you will not have any problems with burned food.

From a health point of view, the best outdoor electric grills scores over the other barbecues. You breathe no harmful smoke, and there are no toxic substances when fat dripping from meat into the embers.

 

How many watts should an electric grill have?

The power of an electric grill is essential for the taste of the food and the time factor.

The performance, of course, plays a crucial role in the purchase of an electric grill. If the grill has too low a wattage, then it not only takes much too long, and there is no joy in eating the meat. It is entirely possible that the meat is tough.

It should, therefore, be ensured that the electric grill has a capacity of at least 2,000 watts. Of course, even better is the performance of 2,200 watts or even more.

Certainly, wattage is one of the most important factors when it comes to buying an electric grill. The meat, vegetables, bread and everything else that is like to be grilled, should taste and the preparation should not take too much time.

How much electricity does an electric grill consume?

An electric outdoor grill consumes less power than many people suspect. The power consumption of an electric grill is, depending on the electricity provider and price. Since the grill doesn’t run for hours to the maximum operation but shuts off in between, the electricity costs can be kept within limits.

Here, the higher the number of watts of your grill, the more power is needed, the more expensive the power consumption.

To save costs, you should start grilling as quickly as possible when the maximum temperature is reached. Likewise, after your barbecue session, you should switch off the grill promptly to avoid unnecessary costs.

May I use an electric grill inside the house or on my balcony?

The use of an electric grill in closed rooms and on the balcony is always allowed. As there is no open fire or annoying smoke when grilling with an electric table grill, it is safe for closed rooms and can be used without hesitation. However, you should use an electric barbecue in the outdoor area, as it is too large and clunky for the interior and thus takes up too much living space.

Unless there is a paragraph in your lease that explicitly prohibits barbecuing on the balcony, there is nothing to stop you from grilling on the balcony.

Your neighbors are not, as in a charcoal grill bothered by the intense smoke, but the electric grill outdoor ban is to be followed even with an electric grill.

Does the barbecue on the electric grill affect the taste?

The taste of the food changes with the use of charcoal. When a charcoal grill is lit, the classic smell unfolds, which, via the smoke, also turns into the aroma of the grilled one. This creates the typical smoky taste, which can’t be imitated by any other grill.

However, dangers lurk in the charcoal. If fat or water drips into the hot coal, it releases carcinogenic substances, which can stick to the food to be grilled and get into the body.

If you use an electric grill, this classic smoky aroma does not arise, as the food is cooked by heating rods.

Experts argue that the good taste of meat comes from the hot meat juice and not from charcoal. As the meat juice evaporates in both grills, it is, therefore, more likely to depend on the temperature of the grill. This temperature should be at least 180 degrees so that the meat can be cooked gently.

Ultimately, you should form your own opinion about whether the meat changes its taste, depending on which grill it was grilled.

Why does an electric grill need water?

Water in the drip tray facilitates the cleaning process. If you are interested in an electric grill, you may wonder why water is involved. Electronics and water do not seem to be the right combination at first glance. But with e-grills with drip tray water is highly recommended.

The hot fat that lands in the drip tray during grilling is challenging to remove without water in the bowl. Due to the heat, it burns into the shell, and it creates an unpleasant smoke and smell. This bothers especially if you grill inside your living room.

Therefore, always remember to fill the grille of your barbecue before you start to grill with water.

How does a table grill work and what are its advantages and disadvantages?

The big advantage of a table grill is its compact size and quick heat ability, with it you can, without much time expenditure by lengthy cheer, conjure delicious grilled dishes on the table. Also, you are not dependent on the weather with a table grill, because you can use it.

The components of an electric table grill are the heating element in the form of a heating coil, a grill or grill plate and a drip tray, which is filled with water before grilling. Depending on the equipment of the table grill, the grease drip tray can be removed and cleaned after use.

But it may also be that your grill has a kind of drainage system, in which the resulting fat-water mixture can be drained through a drain. Unlike grilling with a charcoal grill, the temperature on most electric table grills can be regulated.

Since a table grill is a small appliance, it can be stowed away well in the kitchen or storage room.

Advantages

• Compact
• Indoor use
• No smoke
• Fast heating up
• Mobile barbecue

Disadvantage

• No authentic grilling over the fire
• Smoky aroma is missing
• Spot heat distribution

How does a barbecue stand and what are its advantages and disadvantages?

An electric grill has, as the name suggests, a base or a frame with four feet on which he is firmly mounted. As a result, you are locally bound with an electric grill.

If you are a barbecue fan with your garden or patio and would like to host a barbecue there more often, this would be an option for you. If you do not have external power, you will need an extension cable or a cable reel.

It is advantageous that the electric grill is very stable due to its frame, which excludes a wobbling or falling over the grill. It also has a larger grill area than a table grill, so you can easily invite and cook friends and family.

The electric barbecue works in principle similar to a table grill. It consists of the frame, a heating element in the form of heating rods, a grill surface, the grease drip tray, and a power connection. Here, too, the big drip tray is filled with water before grilling to be able to clean the bowl of fat splashes better later on.

Advantages

• High stability
• No table necessary
• Larger grill area
• Easy cleaning

Disadvantages

• Locally bound

What size should your electric grill have and what are the advantages and disadvantages of the different sizes?

From mini electric grill to electric grills in XXL format – There is every conceivable size of electric barbecues.

Which of them is adequate and suitable for you depends on what you intend to do with your barbecue.

What types of electric grills are there and which ones are right for you?

There are several designs of electric grills with a variety of features.

The two main categories consisting of:

1. Table grill
2. Standing grill

These can, in turn, be divided into different versions by:

Mini electric grills

• Electric barbecues with lids
• Lava stones electric grills
• Electric grills with cast iron plate
• Electric grills with grill plate

Each of these features has its benefits, each of which has its advantages and disadvantages. Depending on what you value the most in preparing your food and the functionality and look of your electric grill, another type of electric grill is best for you.

In the following section, we would like to help you in your decision to find the version of an electric grill that best suits you and your ideas. For this purpose, we introduce you to all the designs mentioned above of electric grills and give you an overview, in which the pros and cons of each model are listed.

The mini electric grill

A mini electric grill is initially practical and compact. With its small size and grilling surface, it is suitable for singles or couples who want to get into the grill pleasure now and then, but do not want to spend too much money.

The mini size of the grill is easy to stow and can also find its place in everyday life to prepare meat or vegetables. Mini electric grills are very cheap and are in the lowest price range of electric grills.

Advantages

• Inexpensive
• Compact

Disadvantage

• Small grill area
• The power supply must be available
• Lower heat

Electric barbecues with lids

An electric grill with cover allows indirect grilling of the food. Through the hood, the heat is maintained and cooks the food gently from all sides. The process is similar to that of a baking oven. This allows you to prepare even more significant pieces of meat or grilled chicken thoroughly.

The electric hood grill also has the advantage that the lid serves as protection for the grilled from adverse weather conditions.

Advantages

• Protective function
• Indirect barbecue by oven effect

Disadvantage

• The cover can be disturbing

Electric grill with lava stones

A grill with lava stones ensures a uniform and long-lasting heat distribution. Different grills are operated with lava stones. These lava stones are located in the fire bowl under the grill and are by their porous structure is a particularly good heat conductor.

The advantage of using a lava stone grill is that the heat is evenly distributed over the entire grill area. Accordingly, there is no pointy grilling instead, as is the case with electric grills with heating coils or heating rods.

Lava stones are usually easy to clean. You should boil the rocks at least once a year in vinegar water to remove any grease residue and grill residue, as otherwise, the stones may become heavily smokey when heated. It is advisable to replace the rocks with new lava stones after a few years.

Lately, there are lava stone grills also as electronically operated grills, where the stones are heated not by small gas flames, but by heating rods.

The disadvantage of an electric lava stone grill is its high price. Therefore, before making a purchase, you should be very thorough about whether this grill is right for you.

Advantages

• Even heat distribution
• Indirect barbecue possible
• Easy to clean
• Can be used indoors

Disadvantage

• High price factor
• The power supply must be available

Electric grill with cast iron plate

The material of the grill plate or the grill grate may not be too important for a hobby griller, but you should also think about it.

The choice between stainless steel and cast iron is first and foremost a matter of taste.

Cast iron keeps the heat for a very long time and forwards it to the barbecue. Particularly ambitious barbecue professionals are very convinced of cast iron barbecues, as it is easy to produce the beautiful grill pattern (also called branding) with this material.

However, the material is in need of care, as it forms rust faster. It is recommended not to clean a cast iron grill with water, as the water leaves unsightly deposits. Before grilling, you should brush the iron several times with oil so that your food does not burn on it.

With a stainless steel grate, it is much harder to achieve a good branding of your meat or vegetables as the steel does not absorb the heat so well. When cleaning, however, no consideration must be taken because the steel is stainless. It can easily be washed off with water.

Electric grills with grill plate

If you want to have an electric grill without water, we advise you to opt for a grill with grill plate.

In this type of grill, the grease drip tray does not need to be filled with water. The grill plates can be either smooth or grooved. Most grills have both – they have a fluted and a flat side. So you do not have to do without the nice grill pattern. On the flat side, you can prepare vegetables or dishes that are to be roasted only briefly.

The advantage of such a grill is that nothing can fall between the grate bars on the heating elements and it can thus be cleaned even easier.

The fact that the heating elements are directly under the plates, they are much hotter and keep the heat for a more extended period.

The grill plates are mainly non-stick coated. This is the problem for most barbecue fans. A deficient non-stick coating can lead to unsightly scratches on the grill surface and this, in turn, is a source of danger for carcinogenic substances.

If you want to buy an electric grill with griddles, make sure it has a high-quality non-stick coating.

Advantages

• No grease tray with water needed
• Easy cleaning
• Long heat storage
• No smoke

Disadvantage

• Non-stick coating may be inferior depending on the model and price

Buying Guide to Choose the Best electric barbecue

Barbecues are moments of great conviviality that characterize the evenings of the beautiful days. Even though charcoal barbecue fans are still very numerous, the electric version is starting to make itself a place of choice in the hearts of users because of its ease of use and the possibility of being able to organize such moments of relaxation even when we live in an apartment.

Today, there are some efficient whose performance has little to envy to traditional devices.

Considering the advantages of the electric grill that we will list a little further, you will see that you don’t lose anything to equip you with such a device whatever your situation.

There is always something for all budgets and sizes, and you will not take the time to find the one you need. But it is essential to choose your device to avoid disappointment; we will also help you understand the criteria to be considered to make a perfect choice.

But before all that, let’s first look at the operation of an electric grill.

An Electric Grill, How Does it Work?

Just plug it into an electrical outlet or extension cord so that the resistor built into your system will heat up. The higher the power of the appliance, the shorter the heating time, making the device very quick to cook.

It is this resistance that transmits its heat to the grid on which are placed your pieces of meat, sausages, vegetables or other foods. Generally, on the most modern models, an adjustable thermostat allows you to adjust the temperature depending on the type of food you are grilling.

A juice collection tray or water tray can be added to the grill to collect oil and cooking juices but also to prevent the rise of smoke or odor, and this is especially important when the unit is used indoors.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Electric Grill

The electric grill doesn’t enjoy an unusually high reputation among grill friends. No barbecue feeling and too little authentic, so the accusation. He offers not only a few disadvantages but also numerous advantages – especially with sensitive neighbors.

No one can deny that an electric grill doesn’t have much in common with the classic hearth feeling that gives the charcoal grill such a strong appeal. But just because neither flames nor coal and wood are used, the electric grill can play some advantages, which should not be underestimated.

Advantages

“I Grill!” – Even If the Neighbor Doesn’t Want It

In preparation and taste, there should be some differences between gas, charcoal, and electric grills. Whether this is true, you can see here.

The smoke when lighting the charcoal grill regularly causes trouble with neighbors. This is probably the most significant advantage of the electric grill: There is no smoke, and the nose hears nothing except wonderfully smelling barbecue smell. The may not also like every neighbor, but law nobody must forbid the barbeque with the electric grill. And if you are in the mood for bad weather, you can even set up an electric table grill in the dining room, after all, there is no increased risk of fire.

Security

As we mentioned above, the safety advantage of the electric barbecue is one of the main arguments in its favor. Indeed the electric grill uses no gas, no coal so that no flame is produced and therefore the risk of explosion and fire is significantly reduced.

By cons, be careful, the electric barbecue uses a high-temperature resistance, and the risk of burns remain the same as with conventional grills.

The Health

Moreover, the electric barbecue has the advantage of being less dangerous for health than its other siblings. Indeed, since excessive cooking is proven, the lack of flame and the thermostat of the electric barbecue allow a stable cooking control that avoids the risk of illness in the long run.

Lash

The time and the procedure of lighting a charcoal or gas barbecue are much longer and tedious than with an electric one that only needs to be connected to the nearest power supply so that it is operational in the 2 minutes.

No risk of explosion or fire, no worries; you have to put the barbecue on a table among the guests, and everyone can even prepare what pleases him as he wants. Also, electric grills are equipped with fuse and safety devices for even more safety and practicality.

Temperature Control

This setting will appeal mainly to those who love precision cooking. It is often complicated to control the cooking temperature with a gas barbecue, and even more with a charcoal barbecue, this is where the electric stand out with high precision due to its integrated thermostat that adapts therefore even to external conditions.

The control of the temperature is an essential parameter to succeed the cooking of its meats to perfection, and such precision in the power of the heat is felt in the quality of the meat at the time of the tasting. Still a good point for the electric.

The Expendables

You will also notice that the electric does not require any bulky consumables like coal or gas. It is the least expensive and least restrictive, take it out of the closet to enjoy comfortably. The only downside you need a power outlet.

Clean and Fast

Another advantage of the “electric grill” is the easy handling of the devices. You don’t have to wait for the coal to burn through and, depending on the model, you can regulate the grill temperature more or less accurately. After eating, an electric grill can be cleaned very easily. Table grills usually have a removable drip tray for the fat, which can be filled with water. This can easily be rinsed off or even cleaned in a dishwasher – even the grill grate usually has the right size.

Other models come with a non-stick grill plate and a new hood. These electric grills are also easy to clean but have the disadvantage that the already reduced grill feeling is completely lost.

Cheap, Sometimes Too Cheap

Meanwhile, electric table grills are available for little money. But the advantage quickly turns out to be a disadvantage for some devices: those who are not prepared to invest enough money in flexible equipment will receive something like one with too little power. If you can’t produce enough heat, you have to cook the meat too long, it will not be crispy on the outside, and it will eventually become tough. Sufficient power of about 2,000 watts should already provide an electric grill. Here we list in points the advantages of this product;

• The electric grill is a compelling device.
• Its power is generally between 900 and 2500 watts.
• This allows you to have a quick heating time to cook your various grills in a brief time.
• Since it runs on electricity, the electric barbecue produces almost no smoke so it can be used indoors or outdoors, no question of depriving you of barbecue because you only have a balcony.
• It is very compact which makes it suitable even for small apartments.
• Very easy to use, it is practical and functional for everyone.

Disadvantage

Excursions into the park are not possible with the electric grill. In the garden at least can be helped out with a cable drum. More mobility is not in the best of intentions, so a charcoal grill as a second model is indispensable.

How to Choose an Electric Grill?

Electric grill vs. Charcoal grill? – This question of taste is hotly discussed among grill friends. Many are convinced that smoking charcoal is part of the real barbecue feeling. Of course, the food also tastes different when cooked over an open charcoal grill. However, if you invest in a high-quality electric grill, for example in a grill from Weber, then there are some alternatives to direct grilling – and thus many new flavors. Through the cover the heat is distributed inside the grill and also allows indirect grilling, Spicy marinated grilled food is slow cooked in this way and develops a unique grill taste. By the way – an electric grill is usually also easier to clean than the charcoal variant.

However, here are some things to check before buying an electric barbecue;

The Type of Electric Grill

The electric grill may or may not have a lid, the models with covers allow better conservation of the heat and even the flavor of your food.

However, many devices don’t have one. In this case, a screen can protect grills against the wind by limiting heat loss and improve the quality of cooking.

There is also the electric grill for the floor or the table and even the mixed versions; it’s up to you to choose what’s best for you. However, the stability of the device should worry you. Also on table versions, we can sometimes appreciate non-slip feet and on foot versions of wide-base feet.

Power

The power varies depending on the models, but it should be noted that more energy is high, the better the speed of heating will be necessary. For an appliance with a small cooking surface (about 700 to 900 cm²), a power of about 1000 to 1500 watts is not bad at all, and this will cook portions for about four people. However, for an appliance with a larger cooking surface, 2500 watts is a very significant power because you can have up to 10 portions to grill at one time.

Like any other electric cooking appliance, the higher the grill power, the faster and more efficiently it cooks food.

Thus, we don’t recommend electric barbecues of less than 1000 watts that are much less efficient, provided they have a lid to conserve heat. In general, electric grills from 1500 watts to 2000 watts will provide optimal cooking, although some devices even have a power of more than 3000 watts.

The best thing is that your grill machine is also equipped with a thermostat so that you can gauge its power according to the food to grill. However, there are models of barbecues with automated programs that allow ideal cooking of red meats, fish, sausages, poultry, hamburgers, and others.

Resistance

You already know, it is the resistance that heats the cooking grate. For fast and homogeneous cooking, favor a long resistance. To find out if it is long, count the number of detours it entails. Feel free to choose a model with at least five detours for better performance.

The Materials

Some electric grills are made of aluminum, or stainless steel others are cast iron, and these are the most resistant. To make sure that you have chosen a device with a long life and optimal robustness, it is better to pick them even if they are a little more expensive.

The cooking grill covered with an anti-adhesive coating should interest you for a healthier and less oily cooking and also for greater ease of cleaning.

Utilization Facility

For easy and successful cooking, make sure you have an adjustable thermostat to easily adjust the temperature of the tank or rack as needed.

Removable parts, whether it’s the baking rack, the grease tray or the water tray, make it easy to use your electric barbecue. The ideal is even that they are compatible with the dishwasher.

Practical Features

Storage space is convenient, especially with the models on feet, It allows you to have most of your ingredients at your fingertips. Make sure the unit is light and easy to lift, table models are often less than 3 kg.

Ergonomic and ideally thermal insulated handles are to be found, check the accessories that were delivered with your purchase.

The Plates

The plate is the part on which the food to be grilled. And in addition to simple grill models for grilling, most indoor electric grills are now equipped with several types of plates that can adapt to all kinds of ingredients, even the most delicate.

Thus, to vary your preparations, we advise you to opt for a versatile cooking plate that offers several positions, namely a grill for meat, a grill for vegetables, sandwiches, and others.

It would also be best to opt for a full or semi-open cooking plate that can be converted to capture vegetables and meats. Also, prefer a plate with a coating of cast aluminum or stainless steel, because these materials are significantly more resistant to heat. Side capacity, note that an electric grill for eight people and more requires a size of 1000 cm², or 40 cm x 25 cm.

The Cleaning

Cleaning your electric barbecue is one of the main things to consider when making your choice. Grilling appliances that are easy to clean are generally those equipped with removable accessories.

We recommend that you turn to a removable plate grill, and better still: removable items that pass safely in the dishwasher. In this way, not only will your tools regain their original appearance, but you will also save valuable time for cleaning.

It is also essential that the device has a removable grease trap, always for maintenance. In this case, make sure that the tray holds water so that you can empty it and wash it easily.

How to Clean Your Electric Grill?

The steak and the sausages spread their seductive scent, sauces and salads are ready on the table, the family and friends gather in the garden: barbecue is one of the most beautiful summer pleasures. And an electric grill makes it exceptionally quick and easy. Only the washing-up will seem a bit of work. Although the dishwasher takes over the dishes, on the grill grate but have formed incrustations, and also the heating element, the large grill chamber or the lid have gotten a few splatters. Here we explain how to clean the parts of electric grills in details;

Before Each Use

If this is the first time you are cooking on your new grill, wash all components to remove any excess manufacturing material that may have remained in the shipping and packing process as it is unlikely that you want your meal to have a cardboard taste.

To be sure it is spotless, before putting anything on the grill for the first time, a vacuum cook can burn leftovers that you don’t want to see in your food.

The grill of any barbecue must be cleaned and oiled before cooking to make sure nothing sticks. If the appliance is equipped with a hood, do not ignite the flame with the hood closed, this could cause outbreaks.

Barbecues should be preheated for at least ten minutes before adding food to ensure they have reached appropriate cooking temperature.

After Each Use

A good cleaning of your barbecue extends its life and keeps the integrity of your food. After cooking, clean the grates with a stiff wire brush only to remove large amounts of food.

It is good to leave the grease on your grill until the next cooking: this will protect it from rust, and when you start your barbecue next time, once the grid is a little warm you can clean it.

General Cleaning

Either way – afterward, your contact grill needs proper cleaning. With the following tips, your device is quickly clean again:

Cleaning the Electric Grill: Is It Allowed in the Dishwasher?

From most appliances, the hot plates can be removed – and if the manufacturer advises – also wash in the dishwasher. However, if you want to play it safe, it is best to clean the plates by hand. In any case, you should wait until the device has cooled down. For non-stick plates, you must also be careful not to damage the surface.

Put the hotplates in warm water for a few minutes to make incrustations easier to peel off. Then wipe over it with a soft sponge – then light soiling should not stand a chance.

If the plates are not removable, you must clean them directly on the device. However, do not do this in the case of heavily flowing water like the inside of the electric grill could be damaged. A damp sponge and a little rinse water should be sufficient.

Electric Grill: How to Get Rid of Stubborn Dirt with the Grooved Scraper

Perfect for remnants of vegetables or meat: The grooved scraper ensures that even stubborn dirt on the electric grill has no chance. Make sure, however, that this is not made of metal, but of nylon, silicone or plastic. These don’t damage the coating of the grill.

For Ceramic Coating: How Do I Prevent Soiling?

Above all, a ceramic coating requires careful cleaning. You can take the above tips to heart so that the surface is not damaged. Never use scratchy objects such as steel wool to clean the grill!

If you want to prevent the residue, however, you can make it easier and save a lot of work: Just put kitchen parchment under the food, and the grill plates will not even get dirty.

To Clean an Electric Grill with Cast Iron Plates

Cast iron panels are relatively sturdy regarding cleaning. Therefore you can confidently brush off impurities and encrustations with a grill brush. Then wipe over it again damp, and it shines still like new.

Tips and Remedies for Cleaning Your Electric Grill in Details

The practicalities of an electric grill: Not only does it heat up quickly, but it can usually also be broken down into its parts, many of which are dishwasher-safe. This makes cleaning very easy compared to the charcoal grill. But beware

Be Sure to Unplug the Power Plug before Cleaning

Otherwise, a short circuit may occur. It is best to disconnect the appliance from the mains immediately after grilling has finished. Also, observe the safety instructions in the operating instructions.

Clean the grill and other parts as soon as possible after grilling, before the fat dries up and is more difficult to remove. The grill, where the grease and the residues of the food stick, requires a particular treatment, which we will introduce to you in the following chapters. For the remaining parts of the grill, proceed as follows:

The Heating Element

Most electric barbecues are designed so that the heating elements receive only a few splashes of grease, especially if the appliance has a closed grill plate instead of a grid. If in the case of rust and rust come to the heating element, they are repelled or burned by the high heat of the active heating element.

Therefore, at the end of the grilling process – especially after grilling at low temperature – set the heating element to the maximum temperature for about 15 minutes, until the fat residues are burnt.

Turn Off the Grill, Unplug the Power Cord and Allow the Heating Element to Cool

If the heating element is still open under the grate or if it is slightly dirty over time, remove the residue after cooling with a soft cloth or sponge. Immerse it in warm water with a little washing-up liquid and wring it out vigorously. Never put the heating elements in the dishwasher.

Don’t use more powerful cleaning agents such as abrasives, oven cleaners or solvents to avoid damaging the heating elements, then gently rub the heating element dry.

The Water Tray

The water tub is located under the heating rods. It prevents overheating and catches the grease that drips through the grate or is directed to the edge of the finished grilling surface. Allow the pan to cool, remove if possible, and pour the contents into the drain.

Depending on the size, place the pan in a dishwasher or wash it with a sponge, detergent and warm water.

Splash Guard and Lid

These parts are usually removable. Clean the splash guard and lid – like all other movable parts – depending on the size in the dishwasher or separately with a sponge, detergent and warm water.

Legs and Large Parts

All parts that are too big for the dishwasher or cleaning by hand, such as the frame, spray if necessary simply with a garden hose. Be sure to remove all removable electrical parts. Then let the grill dry completely – preferably overnight – so that the cables can’t cause a short circuit.

If more stubborn dirt accumulates on the appliance after storing it in winter and at the end of summer, remove it with a wet sponge or brush and some washing-up liquid.

Grill Soaking

If the rust is soaked immediately after grilling, the residues can then be easily removed.

Grill surface

The grill or a closed grill area is the center of an electric grill – especially when cleaning. Finally, the grilled food sizzles here, the fat separates and stays behind.

Remove the coarse residues with a paper towel. It is best to place directly in a bucket that you put next to it, so you don’t need to remove the still warm, greasy rust or the grill surface first.

Once again, set the appliance to the maximum temperature for about 15 minutes, until the fat is completely burnt.

Unplug the Power Plug

Once the grate plate or grilling surface has cooled enough for you to touch it – due to soiling with rubber gloves or paper towels – put the plate in water, for example in a sink or a rain barrel. Or you put them on the meadow overnight, where the residues of rust and grill plate are soaked in the morning dew.

If you do not want to remove the grate and griddle, this special trick will help: Allow the surface to cool and then wrap damp newspaper around the grate bars or place them on the grilling surface. Let it work overnight.

After soaking, remove any dissolved residue from rust with a rough sponge or brush, water, and some detergent. Grill surfaces, however, are usually coated. In this case, it is better to use a soft sponge or cloth.

Dry the grate and grill surface carefully to avoid soap residue that will start to smoke or affect the taste at the next grilling.

The cleaning effort of your grill grate may differ depending on the type of grill.

Grill Cleaning With Brush

A cleaning brush should only be used with a grill, for a coated grill surface a sponge or a cloth is more suitable.

With these home remedies, you can remove stubborn residues from the grill grate

If over the years particularly stubborn dirt and encrustations have accumulated on the grill or grill surface, you do not need to resort to the oven spray immediately. Often, these home remedies help just as well.

Coffee Grounds

Do you still have cold coffee left over from the last breakfast or coffee party? Great. Because it contains ingredients that can solve encrusted residues.

Moisten an Old Rag or Sponge

• Put the coffee grounds on it or spread the coffee grounds on a plate and “dip” a cloth or sponge in it.
• Rub off rust or grill surface properly.
• Rinse off coffee grounds and dissolved encrustations with plenty of water.

Bicarbonate of Soda

The well-tried all-purpose weapon in almost all cleaning issues, also called baking soda, of course, also helps with the rust or the grill area. It is practical if you have a baking tray with a high edge, also called “fat pan,” in which rust or grill surface fit entirely.

• Fill the baking tray with warm water until just below the rim and add 2-3 tablespoons of soda powder.
• Put rust or grill surface into it so that it is completely submerged in the water. If the grill surface is too high, turn the top down.
• Leave the soda to work for half an hour.
• Wipe off rust and grill surface with a cloth.
• Rinse everything carefully.

Aluminum Foil

Instead of a hard scouring brush made of steel wool, which can damage the surface, aluminum foil often serves the same purpose. However, this method is not suitable for a coated grill surface.

• Crumble aluminum foil into a ball.
• Rub it vigorously over the encrustations on the grill grate.
• Wash the rust carefully.

Conclusions

So, before you buy, ask yourself: where and when do I want to serve my electric grill? Would you like to be able to use your barbecue while standing outside and have a good time with your friends and family? Then a barbecue appliance would be suitable for you. This type of electric grill comes closest to the “authentic” grill feel because you are standing by a rack outdoors like a charcoal grill. The advantage is that you have more space on the table for any other food, such as salads, bread, and dips.

A combination device forms the perfect center. Whether you grill outside or inside, on the table or standing, both are possible. The actual table grill is hung in the base so that it can be wonderfully used for a barbecue.

If you choose a table grill, you are also very mobile. Table grills are compact and practical in their handling and provide a reasonable basis for shared barbecues.

With a table grill, you can prepare many delicious grilled dishes in everyday life. Especially singles and couples benefit from an electric table grill, as it is usually more compact and smaller in its dimensions.