Contact Grill Recommendations: A Guide to Indoor Grilling

Want to enjoy the taste of the grill all year round, without a garden or balcony? For many apartment dwellers, this seems like an unfulfilled dream. Smoke, ash, and the hassle of a charcoal grill make indoor grilling impossible. A contact grill offers a practical and clean alternative. These appliances allow for fast, low-fat cooking and deliver impressive results, from juicy steaks to perfectly grilled vegetables.

This article serves as your guide. We'll explain the key features to look for when making your choice and present a selection of models suited for various needs, thanks to their specific functions and features.

What to Look for When Buying a Contact Grill

Choosing the right appliance depends on your personal cooking habits. Three key criteria will help you make an informed decision.

1. Power and Temperature Control

Power, measured in watts, is a crucial factor for heating time and the grill's ability to maintain a consistently high temperature. Models with 2000 watts or more are generally capable of searing meat perfectly and creating those classic grill marks. For even more precise control, look for appliances that allow you to set the temperature for the upper and lower plates independently. This lets you gently cook delicate foods like fish on one side while searing a steak at high heat on the other.

2. Functionality and Versatility

Modern contact grills are often much more than just sandwich makers. So-called 3-in-1 grill models offer additional uses:

• Contact Grill Position: The lid rests on the food, cooking it from both sides simultaneously. This significantly reduces cooking time.
• Open Tabletop Grill Position: The appliance can be opened 180 degrees, doubling the grilling surface. This allows several people to grill together at the table, similar to a raclette experience.
• Oven Position: On some models, the top lid can be locked in place to hover over the food. This function is ideal for melting cheese on dishes or for reheating meals.

3. Cleaning and Handling

Easy cleaning is a key convenience factor. A contact grill with removable plates has a clear advantage here. These plates can be released at the touch of a button and are easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher. A high-quality non-stick coating prevents food from sticking and reduces the need for extra oil or fat. Also, look for an integrated drip tray that collects excess fat and juices, making countertop cleanup easier.

Top Contact Grill Recommendations

Based on the criteria above, we have compiled a selection of appliances that stand out for their specific features.

Braun MultiGrill 9 Pro CG9160

Why it stands out: The Braun MultiGrill 9 Pro is engineered for performance and precision. With 2200 watts of power and two independent thermostats, it offers complete control over the cooking process. The Boost function briefly heats the plates up to 265°C, creating a deep sear on steaks. The included food thermometer allows you to monitor the core temperature of your food with precision.

Pros:

• High Power: 2200 watts for fast heating and a perfect sear.
• Precise Control: Two independently controlled thermostats for the upper and lower plates.
• Boost Function: Reaches up to 265°C for intense roasted flavours.
• Versatility: 3 grilling positions (contact, BBQ, oven).
• Easy Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe grill and griddle plates.
• Accessories: Includes a food thermometer for monitoring core temperature.

Who it's for: Ambitious home cooks who value maximum control and high temperatures. If you love cooking steaks with a perfect crust or appreciate the flexibility of an oven function, this is the appliance for you.

To the Braun MultiGrill 9 Pro CG9160

Tefal OptiGrill 2-in-1 Smart Grill GC772D10

Why it stands out: The Tefal Optigrill is renowned for its smart grilling technology. The GC772D10 model automatically measures the thickness of the food and adjusts the cooking time and temperature accordingly. A visual colour-ring indicator shows the cooking level from rare to well-done. With nine automatic programmes for different foods, it simplifies grilling and delivers consistent results.

Pros:

• Smart Technology: Automatically measures food thickness and adjusts the cooking cycle.
• Visual Cooking Indicator: A light indicator shows the progress of the cooking process.
• Automatic Programmes: 9 preset programmes for meat, fish, poultry, sandwiches, and more.
• 2-in-1 Function: Can be used as a contact grill and an open tabletop grill.
• Easy Cleaning: Removable, dishwasher-safe plates and juice collector.
• Sustainability: According to the manufacturer, it is designed to be repairable for 15 years.

Who it's for: Users who value convenience and foolproof results. If you don't want to constantly monitor your food and prefer straightforward operation, you'll benefit from the automatic programmes.

To the Tefal OptiGrill 2-in-1

Adler AD 3059 Electric Grill

Why it stands out: The Adler AD 3059 combines a high maximum power of 3000 watts with exceptional flexibility thanks to its reversible grill plates. One side is ribbed for classic grill marks, while the other is flat, making it perfect for pancakes, fried eggs, or delicate foods like fish fillets. Independent temperature control for both plates and an integrated timer complete the feature set.

Pros:

• Very High Power: Up to 3000 watts for extremely fast heating.
• Reversible Grill Plates: Each plate has a ribbed and a flat side for maximum versatility.
• Independent Temperature Control: Separate settings for the top and bottom plates from 60°C to 230°C.
• Practical Details: Timer function (1-99 minutes) and space-saving vertical storage.
• Easy Cleaning: The removable plates are dishwasher-safe.

Who it's for: Budget-conscious users who don't want to compromise on high power and versatility. The reversible plates make this electric grill an all-rounder for creative cooks who want to prepare more than just classic grilled food.

To the Adler AD 3059 Electric Grill

Looking for More Options?

The models featured here cover a wide range of functions. However, if you haven't found the perfect appliance for your kitchen yet, you can find more alternatives in our main category.

Discover Our Full Range of Outdoor Kitchens, Grills & BBQs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What can you cook with a contact grill? A contact grill is extremely versatile. Besides classic sandwiches and paninis, you can prepare steaks, burger patties, chicken breasts, fish fillets, and a variety of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or aubergines. Models with flat plates are even suitable for fried eggs or pancakes.

2. What is the easiest way to clean a contact grill? The easiest method is to use a model with removable, dishwasher-safe plates. After the appliance has cooled down, the plates and the drip tray can be removed and placed in the dishwasher. For models with fixed plates, it's best to wipe them down with a damp cloth or paper towel while they are still lukewarm.

3. Is grilling with a contact grill healthier? Compared to pan-frying, grilling with a contact grill can be considered a lower-fat cooking method. The angled design of the grill surfaces and the integrated drip tray allow excess fat from the food to drain away. Additionally, the non-stick plates generally require little to no extra oil.