What’s better than a perfectly golden, melty grilled cheese sandwich? It’s a simple comfort food, but getting it *just right* can be a challenge. Ever end up with a burnt outside and a cold, unmelted middle? Or maybe your cheese oozes out everywhere, making a sticky mess?
Choosing the best griddle for your grilled cheese adventures can feel overwhelming. There are so many different kinds! Some get too hot, others don’t get hot enough. You want that even, crispy crust without the frustration. This is where the right griddle makes all the difference.
In this post, we’ll explore what makes a griddle great for grilled cheese. You’ll learn what to look for, discover different types of griddles, and find out how to pick the one that will turn you into a grilled cheese pro. Get ready to say goodbye to disappointing sandwiches and hello to cheesy perfection!
Our Top 5 Griddle For Grilled Cheese Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Griddle For Grilled Cheese Detailed Reviews
1. OVENTE Electric Sandwich Maker with Non-Stick Plates
Rating: 8.6/10
Craving a warm, delicious sandwich in a flash? The OVENTE Electric Sandwich Maker is your new kitchen best friend! This handy appliance makes toasting up your favorite breakfast treats, gooey grilled cheese, or satisfying tuna melts a breeze. It’s designed to save you time and bring a touch of gourmet to your everyday meals.
What We Like:
- Cooks hot sandwiches in just minutes, saving you precious morning time.
- It heats up quickly and toasts evenly thanks to its fast-heating element and heat-resistant stainless steel.
- The non-stick plates make food release super easy and cleanup is a snap – just a quick wipe!
- Its compact and lightweight design makes it perfect for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or apartments, and it stores upright to save space.
- The cool-touch handle and anti-skid feet ensure safe operation for worry-free cooking.
- Comes with US-based customer service and a 1-year warranty for peace of mind.
- Can also be used to make omelets and French toast!
What Could Be Improved:
- Indicator lights clearly show when the unit is on and when it’s ready to cook, but some users might prefer a more precise temperature control.
- While it’s great for sandwiches, it’s not designed for larger or thicker items.
This OVENTE sandwich maker is a fantastic, affordable tool for quick and tasty meals. It’s a simple way to enjoy your favorite pressed sandwiches and more, making it a smart addition to any kitchen.
2. Proctor Silex Deluxe Hot Sandwich Maker With Easy-Clean Durable PFAS-Free Nonstick Ceramic Plates
Rating: 9.1/10
Craving a perfectly toasted sandwich without the mess of a pan? The Proctor Silex Deluxe Hot Sandwich Maker is here to help! This handy appliance cooks up delicious grilled cheese, Reubens, tortas, and even subs in just minutes. Its stainless steel design looks great on any counter, and it’s built for easy cleaning.
What We Like:
- Makes hot sandwiches super fast, in under 5 minutes, thanks to its 700-watt power.
- Cleans up a breeze! The nonstick ceramic plates are PFAS-free and just need a quick wipe down.
- Cooks two thick sandwiches at once, or one extra-long one.
- The floating lid presses sandwiches evenly, so everything cooks perfectly.
- It stores easily, either flat or standing up, with a handy lid latch.
- Simple to use with clear power and preheat indicator lights.
What Could Be Improved:
- The cooking plates are fixed, meaning you can’t remove them for even easier cleaning.
- While it fits thick sandwiches, some very large or unusually shaped ones might be a tight squeeze.
This sandwich maker is a fantastic addition to any kitchen for quick and tasty meals. It’s a simple, effective way to enjoy your favorite hot sandwiches any day of the week.
3. Gotham Steel Nonstick Panini Press Sandwich Maker
Rating: 9.1/10
Making delicious, toasted sandwiches at home is now super simple with the Gotham Steel Nonstick Panini Press Sandwich Maker. This 2-in-1 appliance works as both a panini press and a grill, perfect for breakfast sandwiches or classic grilled cheese. It even has a handy indicator light to tell you when your creation is ready!
What We Like:
- It makes sandwiches in just minutes, so you can eat quickly.
- Using it is very easy, even for kids.
- Cleanup is a breeze because nothing sticks to the nonstick surface.
- You don’t need extra oil or butter for healthier sandwiches.
- Indicator lights show you exactly when your food is done.
- The handle stays cool, making it safe to use.
- It creates perfectly toasted sandwiches with easy-to-cut lines.
- Its small size makes it easy to store and move, ideal for small kitchens or dorms.
- It comes with a 1-year guarantee for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- It only makes two sandwiches at a time, which might not be enough for a big family.
- The “easy cut edges” might not cut perfectly through all types of bread or fillings.
Overall, the Gotham Steel Nonstick Panini Press Sandwich Maker offers a quick and easy way to enjoy tasty, toasted sandwiches. It’s a great addition to any kitchen for fast and simple meal prep.
4. Elite Gourmet ESM2207XSS Sandwich Panini Maker Grilled Cheese
Rating: 9.5/10
Craving a perfectly grilled cheese or a warm, melty tuna melt? The Elite Gourmet ESM2207XSS Sandwich Panini Maker is here to make your kitchen dreams come true! This handy appliance doesn’t just stop at sandwiches; you can whip up fluffy omelets, golden French toast, and even sweet desserts in no time. Its sleek stainless steel design looks great on any counter and is built for smaller kitchens, tucking away neatly when not in use. Get ready for delicious, toasted, and sealed sandwiches that everyone will love!
What We Like:
- Makes more than just sandwiches – try omelets, French toast, and desserts!
- Toasts and seals sandwiches perfectly for a delicious meal.
- Compact stainless steel design saves counter and cabinet space.
- Non-stick plates make cleanup super easy – just wipe and go!
- Indicator lights tell you exactly when to start cooking and when your food is ready.
- Great for quick and easy meals for the whole family.
What Could Be Improved:
- Only makes 2 sandwiches at a time, which might be a bit slow for larger gatherings.
- The cooking surface is not removable, which could make deep cleaning a little trickier.
This sandwich maker is a fantastic addition to any kitchen looking for quick, easy, and tasty meals. It’s simple to use and even simpler to clean.
5. T-fal B36313 Specialty Nonstick Grilled Cheese Griddle Cookware
Rating: 8.6/10
The T-fal B36313 Specialty Nonstick Grilled Cheese Griddle Cookware is a handy kitchen tool. Its 10.25-inch size is just right for making delicious grilled cheese sandwiches and other flat foods. The black color looks nice in any kitchen. This griddle makes cooking easier and cleanup a breeze.
What We Like:
- The nonstick coating on the inside and outside is fantastic. Food slides right off, making cooking and cleaning super simple.
- It heats up evenly. This means your food cooks consistently without hot spots.
- The handles stay cool when you’re cooking. You can grip them safely without burning your hands.
- It’s safe to use with most stovetops, and you can even put it in the oven up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
What Could Be Improved:
- This griddle does not work on induction cooktops. Make sure your stove is not induction before buying.
This T-fal griddle is a solid choice for anyone who enjoys simple, well-cooked meals. It’s a dependable addition to your cookware collection.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Perfect Grilled Cheese Griddle
Making the perfect grilled cheese sandwich is an art. A good griddle can be your secret weapon. It ensures even browning and a gooey, melted center every time. This guide will help you find the best griddle for your grilled cheese dreams.
Why a Griddle is Better for Grilled Cheese
A griddle offers a large, flat cooking surface. This is ideal for grilled cheese. You can cook multiple sandwiches at once. The even heat distribution prevents burnt spots. It also gives you that satisfying golden-brown crust. Pans can be trickier. They have raised sides that can make flipping difficult. They also heat unevenly sometimes.
Key Features to Look For
1. Size Matters
Think about how many sandwiches you usually make. A small griddle might only fit one. A larger one can cook two or even three at a time. This is great for families or when you have guests.
2. Temperature Control
Good temperature control is important. You want to set the heat and have it stay there. Some griddles have simple dials. Others have digital displays. Look for one that heats up quickly and evenly.
3. Non-Stick Surface
A non-stick surface makes cooking and cleaning much easier. Your cheese won’t stick and burn. This means less scrubbing later. It also helps your sandwiches slide off perfectly.
4. Drip Tray
Some griddles have a removable drip tray. This catches grease and crumbs. It keeps your countertop clean. It also makes cleanup a breeze.
5. Even Heating
This is crucial for grilled cheese. You want the entire surface to be the same temperature. This ensures your bread toasts evenly. It also melts your cheese all the way through.
Important Materials
1. Cast Iron
Cast iron griddles are very durable. They heat up slowly but hold heat very well. This can lead to a great crust. However, they need to be seasoned and maintained carefully. They are also heavy.
2. Aluminum
Aluminum griddles are lighter than cast iron. They heat up quickly. Many have non-stick coatings. These are a popular choice for home cooks.
3. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is strong and doesn’t react with food. It can be a good material for griddles. However, it might not have the best non-stick properties on its own.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
1. Heating Elements
Look for griddles with strong, consistent heating elements. These ensure even heat distribution. Poor heating elements can create hot spots. This leads to burnt edges and undercooked centers.
2. Thickness of the Plate
A thicker griddle plate generally heats more evenly. It also retains heat better. Thinner plates can warp easily. They also don’t hold heat as well.
3. Durability of Non-Stick Coating
A high-quality non-stick coating will last longer. It will also perform better. Cheap coatings can scratch easily. This makes your griddle less effective and harder to clean.
User Experience and Use Cases
1. Easy Cleanup
A good griddle should be easy to clean. Non-stick surfaces and removable drip trays help a lot. You want to spend more time eating your sandwich than scrubbing the griddle.
2. Versatility
While this guide is about grilled cheese, many griddles can do more. You can cook pancakes, bacon, burgers, and more. Think about what else you might cook.
3. Storage
Consider where you will store the griddle. Some are quite large. Others are more compact. Electric griddles often have a cord that needs managing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best type of griddle for grilled cheese?
A: Electric griddles are often the best choice. They offer consistent heat and easy temperature control. They are also very user-friendly.
Q: Do I need a special griddle for grilled cheese?
A: Not necessarily. You can make grilled cheese in a regular frying pan. But a griddle makes it much easier to get perfect results, especially for multiple sandwiches.
Q: How hot should my griddle be for grilled cheese?
A: Medium heat is usually best. Around 350°F (175°C) works well. This allows the bread to toast golden brown while the cheese melts.
Q: Can I use butter or oil on a non-stick griddle?
A: Yes, but use it sparingly. A little butter or oil helps with browning and flavor. Too much can build up on a non-stick surface.
Q: How do I clean a cast iron griddle?
A: You should not use soap. Scrape off food bits. Rinse with hot water. Dry it thoroughly. Then, apply a thin layer of cooking oil to prevent rust.
Q: What is a “hot spot” on a griddle?
A: A hot spot is an area on the griddle that gets much hotter than the rest. This can cause food to burn in that spot.
Q: Can I use metal utensils on a non-stick griddle?
A: It’s best to avoid metal utensils on non-stick surfaces. They can scratch the coating. Use silicone, wood, or plastic utensils instead.
Q: How long does it take to cook a grilled cheese on a griddle?
A: It usually takes about 3-5 minutes per side. This depends on your griddle’s heat and the thickness of your sandwich.
Q: Are griddles difficult to store?
A: Some electric griddles are large. However, many are designed to be stored upright or fit into cabinets easily. Non-stick surfaces make them easier to clean before storing.
Q: What size griddle do I need for a family of four?
A: A griddle that can cook at least two to three sandwiches at a time would be ideal. Look for a cooking surface of at least 10×10 inches or larger.
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 Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!