Imagine waking up to perfectly golden pancakes, crispy bacon, or a savory grilled cheese sandwich without needing a giant, bulky appliance. Does that sound like a dream? For many home cooks, finding the right small griddle can feel like a quest. It’s tough to know which one will cook evenly, clean easily, and fit right on your counter. You want delicious meals, but the thought of wading through confusing descriptions and reviews can be overwhelming.
That’s where this guide comes in! We’re here to cut through the noise and help you find the perfect small griddle for your kitchen. We’ll explore what makes a great small griddle, from how well it heats up to how easy it is to scrub clean. By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear idea of what features to look for and be ready to pick a griddle that makes your breakfast and snack-making a breeze. Get ready to upgrade your cooking game!
Our Top 5 Small Griddle Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Presto 07211 Liddle Griddle | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
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Elite Gourmet EGR-2722B Electric 10.5″ x 8.5″ Griddle | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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Nordic Ware | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
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Elite Gourmet EG808 8” x 8″ Non-stick Electric Skillet | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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DASH Mini Maker Electric Round Griddle for Individual Pancakes | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Small Griddle Detailed Reviews
1. Presto 07211 Liddle Griddle
Rating: 8.7/10
The Presto 07211 Liddle Griddle is a fantastic kitchen helper for anyone who wants a quick and easy way to cook small meals. Its compact size makes it ideal for cooking for one or two people, fitting perfectly on your countertop or even in a dorm room. This griddle heats up quickly and cooks food evenly, making breakfast or a simple lunch a breeze.
What We Like:
- Its compact 8 1/2- x 10 1/2-inch cooking surface is just right for single servings.
- The PFAS-free ceramic nonstick surface makes cooking and cleanup super easy.
- Control Master heat control keeps your food at the perfect temperature.
- A built-in grease tray catches any extra drippings.
- You can fully immerse the griddle in water for cleaning after removing the heat control.
- The heavy cast aluminum griddle is built to last.
What Could Be Improved:
- While great for small portions, it’s not suitable for cooking for larger groups.
This Presto Liddle Griddle is a smart addition to any kitchen looking for convenience. It simplifies cooking and cleaning, making it a go-to appliance for busy individuals.
2. Elite Gourmet EGR-2722B Electric 10.5″ x 8.5″ Griddle
Rating: 8.9/10
The Elite Gourmet EGR-2722B Electric Griddle is a handy kitchen gadget. Its 10.5″ x 8.5″ cooking surface is just right for making meals for your family or just for yourself. You can use it for parties or to cook all sorts of different foods. It’s easy to use and heats up quickly, so you can start cooking in just a few minutes. The adjustable temperature goes up to 425°F, which saves you time and power.
What We Like:
- The 10.5″ x 8.5″ size is great for families or cooking for one.
- It heats up fast, reaching up to 425°F with its 1200 Watt power.
- You can cook more than just breakfast foods like pancakes and eggs. Try burgers, grilled cheese, veggies, and quesadillas!
- Cool-touch rubber handles make it safe to move.
- The non-stick surface makes cleaning up super easy. Just wipe it down.
- The warming tray and grease tray are removable and safe to put in the dishwasher.
- Skid-free rubber feet keep the griddle steady on your counter.
What Could Be Improved:
- The cooking surface might be a bit small for very large meals or entertaining a big crowd.
- While easy to clean, some tougher stuck-on food might still require a bit more scrubbing.
This griddle offers a lot of cooking options in a compact size. It’s a good choice for making quick and tasty meals without a lot of fuss.
3. Nordic Ware
Rating: 9.5/10
The Nordic Ware Mini Griddle, Black is a handy kitchen tool that brings a touch of versatility to your cooking. It’s like a smaller, more portable version of the big griddles you might have seen before. You can use it on your stove, over a campfire, or even in the oven.
What We Like:
- It’s made of aluminum. This helps food cook evenly.
- The nonstick coating makes cleanup super easy.
- You can use it on gas, electric, and ceramic stovetops.
- It’s tough and can handle heat up to 400 degrees.
- Its slim design means it stores away nicely.
- It’s perfect for small kitchens, camping trips, or even life on a boat.
- This griddle is made right here in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- The cooking surface is quite small (10.5 x 7 inches). It’s great for one or two servings, but not for cooking for a crowd.
- While it’s described as a griddle, it’s really more like a mini griddle pan. It doesn’t have the large, flat surface of a traditional griddle.
Overall, this mini griddle is a great addition for anyone who enjoys cooking in different settings. It’s a compact and effective tool for simple cooking tasks.
4. Elite Gourmet EG808 8” x 8″ Non-stick Electric Skillet
Rating: 8.5/10
The Elite Gourmet EG808 Electric Skillet is a versatile kitchen tool that makes cooking easy and enjoyable. Its compact 8” x 8” size is perfect for small kitchens or dorm rooms. You can cook a variety of meals, from breakfast favorites like pancakes to dinner dishes like stir-fried vegetables and even deep-dish pasta. The non-stick surface means food won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
What We Like:
- The non-stick cooking surface lets food release easily, making cleanup quick and simple.
- You can lock in flavors and moisture with the clear, tempered glass lid that has a vent.
- It heats up fast, so you can start cooking right away.
- The skillet is dishwasher safe after you remove the temperature control unit.
- Its thick cast aluminum body with a black finish won’t rust or warp.
- It’s safety tested and ETL listed, with a 600-watt power for efficient cooking.
- Cool-touch knobs and handles add extra safety.
- It makes a thoughtful gift for housewarmings or weddings.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 8-inch cooking surface might be too small for cooking large family meals or multiple servings at once.
- While the lid is vented, some users might prefer a lid with a handle that stays cooler for longer.
This skillet is a great addition to any kitchen for its convenience and ease of use. It’s a reliable choice for everyday cooking and simple meal preparation.
5. DASH Mini Maker Electric Round Griddle for Individual Pancakes
Rating: 8.8/10
Craving a quick and tasty treat? The DASH Mini Maker Electric Round Griddle is your new kitchen bestie! This little silver griddle is a game-changer for making single servings of all your favorites. It’s not just for pancakes; you can whip up eggs, cookies, and even grilled cheese sandwiches with ease. Its compact and lightweight design makes it ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or taking it on your next camping trip. Plus, the included recipe book will get you started with delicious ideas!
What We Like:
- Super versatile: It cooks more than just pancakes, like eggs and cookies!
- Super easy to use: Just plug it in and wait for the indicator light.
- Very compact and lightweight: Perfect for small spaces and travel.
- Great as a gift: It’s a thoughtful present for anyone.
- Comes with a recipe book to inspire your cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- The cord is a bit short at 31 inches, which might limit where you can plug it in.
- It only makes one serving at a time, so if you’re cooking for a crowd, it will take a while.
This DASH Mini Griddle is a fantastic tool for quick meals and snacks. It’s a simple and fun way to enjoy your favorite foods anytime!
Your Go-To Guide for Choosing the Perfect Small Griddle
Why a Small Griddle?
A small griddle is a kitchen hero. It’s perfect for quick breakfasts, tasty snacks, and even small meals. Think pancakes, eggs, bacon, grilled cheese, or even quesadillas. They don’t take up much space and are super easy to clean. This guide will help you find the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
- Even Heating: The best griddles heat food evenly. This means your pancakes cook up golden brown on both sides, and your bacon fries without burnt spots.
- Non-Stick Surface: A good non-stick surface makes cooking and cleaning a breeze. Food slides right off, and you won’t spend ages scrubbing.
- Temperature Control: Some griddles let you set the heat. This is great for cooking different foods that need different temperatures.
- Drip Tray: A removable drip tray catches grease and makes cleaning much easier.
- Size: Think about what you’ll cook most often. A small griddle might be 10-12 inches wide.
- Cord Storage: Some griddles have a place to wrap the cord for neat storage.
Important Materials
What Makes a Griddle Good?
The material of your griddle affects how it cooks and how long it lasts.
- Cast Iron: This is a classic choice. Cast iron heats up slowly but holds heat very well. It’s super durable. However, it needs to be seasoned and can rust if not cared for properly.
- Aluminum: Aluminum heats up quickly and evenly. Many aluminum griddles have a non-stick coating. They are usually lighter than cast iron.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is strong and doesn’t react with food. It can sometimes be harder to get even heating without a non-stick coating.
- Ceramic Coating: This is a popular non-stick option. It’s often considered a healthier choice than some older non-stick coatings.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Griddle Great or Not So Great?
- Build Quality: A sturdy design means your griddle will last longer. Look for solid construction and no wobbly parts.
- Heating Element: A good heating element ensures consistent temperature across the entire surface.
- Durability of Non-Stick Coating: A high-quality non-stick coating will last longer and resist scratches.
- Ease of Cleaning: Removable parts and a smooth surface make cleaning much faster.
- Safety Features: Cool-touch handles and non-slip feet add to a safer cooking experience.
User Experience and Use Cases
How Will You Use Your Small Griddle?
Small griddles are incredibly versatile. They are perfect for:
- Breakfast Lovers: Cook pancakes, eggs, bacon, and sausage all at once.
- Apartment Dwellers: They are compact and great for kitchens with limited space.
- Quick Lunches: Make grilled cheese sandwiches, quesadillas, or warm up tortillas.
- Snack Time: Fry up some mini pancakes or toast bread.
- Portability: Some small griddles are easy to take on camping trips or to dorm rooms.
Think about how much cooking you do and what types of food you prepare. This will help you choose the right size and features.
Small Griddle FAQs
Q: What is the main purpose of a small griddle?
A: A small griddle is for cooking small batches of food quickly and easily, like breakfast items or sandwiches.
Q: Are electric griddles better than stovetop griddles?
A: Electric griddles offer more consistent heat control. Stovetop griddles use your stove’s burner, which can sometimes lead to uneven cooking.
Q: How do I clean a small griddle?
A: Always let the griddle cool first. Wipe it down with a damp cloth or sponge. If it has a non-stick surface, avoid abrasive cleaners. For cast iron, you’ll need to season it after cleaning.
Q: Can I cook meat on a small griddle?
A: Yes, you can cook bacon, sausage, and thin cuts of meat. Just make sure to manage the grease with a drip tray or by tilting the griddle.
Q: What size is considered a “small” griddle?
A: A small griddle typically measures between 10 to 12 inches in width, suitable for cooking for one or two people.
Q: Is a non-stick surface important for a small griddle?
A: Yes, a non-stick surface makes cooking and cleaning much easier, preventing food from sticking and reducing the need for extra oil or butter.
Q: How does the material affect cooking?
A: Cast iron heats evenly and retains heat well but is heavy and needs care. Aluminum heats quickly and is lighter, often with a non-stick coating.
Q: Can I use metal utensils on a small griddle?
A: It’s best to use wooden, silicone, or plastic utensils, especially on griddles with non-stick coatings, to prevent scratching.
Q: What are some common foods to cook on a small griddle?
A: Pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, grilled cheese sandwiches, quesadillas, and French toast are popular choices.
Q: Should I look for temperature control on a small griddle?
A: Temperature control is helpful if you plan to cook various types of food that require different heat settings, allowing for more precise cooking.
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!