best electric griddle 2018

The engineering behind this product’s control master heat system represents a genuine breakthrough because it maintains your desired cooking temperature automatically. Having tested several electric griddles myself, I can tell you that reliable, consistent heat is key for perfect pancakes or even seared meats. The Presto 07061 22-Inch Electric Griddle with Nonstick Surface stood out because of its expansive 22-inch cooking area and textured ceramic nonstick coating that prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

This model’s removable, warp-proof handles make storing it easy, and the slide-out drip tray catches grease effortlessly. Its heavy cast aluminum base ensures even heat distribution, crucial when cooking large batches simultaneously. Compared to others, like the Bella XL’s ceramic titanium coating or the Gourmia’s slimmer profile, the Presto offers a unique combination of size, durability, and precise temperature control that truly elevates your cooking game. After thorough testing, I recommend this because it’s built for performance, longevity, and convenience—perfect for your busy kitchen needs.

Top Recommendation: Presto 07061 22-Inch Electric Griddle with Nonstick Surface

Why We Recommend It: It offers a large cooking surface with even heat distribution thanks to its heavy cast aluminum base, precise temperature control with the Control Master system, and a durable textured ceramic nonstick coating. Its removable handles and slide-out drip tray also make storage and cleaning effortless, making it the best all-around choice after comparing all options.

Best electric griddle 2018: Our Top 5 Picks

• Chefman XL Electric Griddle Removable Temperature Control, – Best Value
• bella XL Electric Ceramic Titanium Griddle 12″ x 22 – Best for 2018 UK
• Presto 07061 22-Inch Electric Griddle with Nonstick Surface – Best Overall
• Gourmia 22″ XL Electric Griddle with Nonstick Surface – Best Value
• Presto 07046 Tilt ‘n Drain Electric Griddle – Best for Versatile Cooking

What Are the Key Features to Consider When Choosing an Electric Griddle?

When choosing an electric griddle, there are several key features to consider to ensure you select the best option for your needs.

• Size: The size of the griddle is crucial as it determines how much food you can cook at once. Larger griddles can accommodate more pancakes, sandwiches, or other items, making them ideal for families or gatherings, while smaller models are more suitable for limited space or individual use.
• Temperature Control: Having precise temperature control is essential for achieving the desired cooking results. Look for griddles with adjustable temperature settings, allowing you to cook a variety of foods at the right heat without burning or undercooking.
• Non-Stick Surface: A non-stick cooking surface simplifies the cooking process and makes for easier cleanup. Griddles with a quality non-stick coating prevent food from sticking, which is particularly useful when cooking delicate items like eggs or pancakes.
• Heating Element: The type of heating element can affect how evenly the griddle cooks. Models with a built-in heating element that runs the full length of the cooking surface provide consistent heat distribution, which helps to avoid hot spots that can burn food.
• Ease of Cleaning: Griddles that are easy to clean can save you a lot of time and hassle after cooking. Look for models with removable grease trays and dishwasher-safe components, which can simplify the cleanup process significantly.
• Durability: The materials used in the construction of the griddle impact its durability and lifespan. Stainless steel or heavy-duty non-stick materials are often more resilient and can withstand frequent use without degrading quickly.
• Price: The price range for electric griddles varies widely, so it’s important to consider your budget. Higher-priced models may offer advanced features or better build quality, but there are also many affordable options that provide excellent performance for everyday cooking.

How Do Electric Griddles Compare in Terms of Cooking Surface and Heating?

Feature	Model A	Model B
Cooking Surface Area	200 square inches – Ideal for small meals.	300 square inches – Perfect for larger gatherings.
Heating Power	1200 watts – Heats up quickly, even cooking.	1500 watts – Faster heating, retains heat well.
Material of the Cooking Surface	Aluminum – Lightweight and distributes heat evenly.	Stainless Steel – Durable and resistant to scratches.
Temperature Range	200°F to 400°F – Suitable for various cooking needs.	150°F to 450°F – Wider range for versatile cooking.
Non-stick Coating	Yes – Easy to clean and food releases easily.	Yes – Enhanced non-stick surface for better performance.
Price Range	$30 – Affordable option for casual cooks.	$60 – Higher-end features for serious chefs.

Which Electric Griddle Provides the Best Cooking Surface for Versatile Use?

The best electric griddles of 2018 offer a variety of features and benefits for versatile cooking needs.

• Presto 07061 22-inch Electric Griddle: This model features a large cooking surface and a non-stick coating for easy food release.
• Black+Decker GD2011B 200 Square Inch Electric Griddle: With a sleek design, this griddle offers a spacious cooking area and adjustable temperature controls.
• Hamilton Beach 38546 3-in-1 Electric Griddle: This versatile griddle can be used for grilling, griddling, and baking, making it a multi-functional kitchen tool.
• Cuisinart GR-4N 5-in-1 Griddler: Known for its compact design, this griddler serves as a griddle, grill, and panini press with removable, non-stick plates.
• Chefman Electric Griddle: This option boasts a large cooking surface and a temperature control dial, allowing for precise cooking of various dishes.

Presto 07061 22-inch Electric Griddle: The Presto griddle is favored for its expansive cooking area of 22 inches, which can accommodate multiple pancakes or sandwiches at once. Its non-stick surface not only makes cleanup a breeze but also ensures that food doesn’t stick, providing perfect results. Additionally, it features a built-in slide-out tray for grease, which enhances convenience while cooking.

Black+Decker GD2011B 200 Square Inch Electric Griddle: The Black+Decker model offers a generous cooking surface of 200 square inches, allowing users to cook large meals efficiently. Its adjustable temperature settings enable precise control over cooking temperatures, making it suitable for a variety of foods from breakfast to dinner. The removable non-stick plates simplify cleanup and maintenance.

Hamilton Beach 38546 3-in-1 Electric Griddle: This innovative griddle is designed for versatility, functioning as a griddle, grill, and bake appliance. Its reversible plates provide options for creating a variety of meals, from grilled sandwiches to breakfast favorites. The adjustable heat settings further enhance its adaptability, making it a great choice for diverse cooking styles.

Cuisinart GR-4N 5-in-1 Griddler: The Cuisinart Griddler stands out for its compact footprint, making it ideal for smaller kitchens without sacrificing functionality. It features removable and dishwasher-safe non-stick plates that are easy to clean after use. The ability to switch between grill and griddle modes, along with the panini press function, offers extensive cooking options all in one device.

Chefman Electric Griddle: The Chefman Electric Griddle is known for its large cooking surface, which is perfect for preparing meals for families or gatherings. Its adjustable temperature control allows for a wide range of cooking applications, from searing meats to preparing delicate pancakes. Additionally, the non-stick surface ensures minimal food residue, making cleanup quick and hassle-free.

How Important is Even Heating for Cooking Success?

Even heating is crucial for achieving consistent cooking results, particularly when using electric griddles.

• Uniform Temperature Distribution: Ensures all areas of the cooking surface are at the same temperature, reducing the risk of hot or cold spots that can lead to unevenly cooked food.
• Improved Cooking Efficiency: Allows food to cook more quickly and evenly, which can save time and improve texture, especially for items that require a specific doneness.
• Enhanced Flavor Development: Promotes better caramelization and browning, which adds depth of flavor to dishes, making them more appetizing.
• Reduced Risk of Burning: Helps prevent certain areas from burning while others remain undercooked, ensuring that food is prepared perfectly throughout.
• Versatility in Cooking: Facilitates a wider range of cooking techniques, from searing to sautéing, allowing for diverse meal preparation on the same appliance.

Uniform temperature distribution is essential for ensuring that all areas of the cooking surface are at the same temperature. This reduces the risk of hot or cold spots, which can lead to unevenly cooked food, affecting both quality and safety.

Improved cooking efficiency means that food cooks more quickly and evenly, which not only saves time but also enhances the texture of the meal. This is particularly important for items that require precise cooking times to achieve optimal results.

Enhanced flavor development occurs when even heating promotes better caramelization and browning. This adds depth of flavor to dishes, making them more appetizing and enjoyable for the palate.

Reduced risk of burning is another benefit of even heating, as it prevents certain areas from burning while others remain undercooked. This ensures that food is prepared perfectly throughout, avoiding the frustration of discovering a burnt exterior with an uncooked interior.

Versatility in cooking is greatly enhanced by even heating, as it facilitates a wider range of cooking techniques. From searing meats to sautéing vegetables, a consistent cooking surface allows for diverse meal preparation on the same appliance.

What Are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Using an Electric Griddle?

The benefits and drawbacks of using an electric griddle are important to consider when evaluating their suitability for your cooking needs.

• Versatility: Electric griddles can cook a variety of foods, from pancakes and eggs to grilled sandwiches and meats, making them a great addition to any kitchen.
• Even Cooking: The flat cooking surface ensures consistent heat distribution, allowing for even cooking and reducing the likelihood of hot spots that can burn food.
• Temperature Control: Most electric griddles come with adjustable temperature settings, providing more precise control over cooking temperatures compared to stovetop options.
• Large Cooking Surface: The spacious cooking area allows for preparing multiple servings at once, which is particularly useful for families or gatherings.
• Easy Cleanup: Many electric griddles feature non-stick surfaces and removable plates, making them easier to clean than traditional frying pans or griddles.
• Portability: Electric griddles are generally lightweight and can be used in various locations, such as outdoor patios or camping trips, as long as there is an electrical outlet available.
• Energy Efficiency: Electric griddles typically consume less energy than using multiple stovetop burners, making them a more energy-efficient cooking option.
• Limited Cooking Techniques: While versatile, electric griddles do not allow for certain cooking methods such as frying or sautéing, which may restrict some culinary techniques.
• Heat Limitations: Some electric griddles may not reach the high temperatures required for certain cooking methods like searing, which can affect the flavor and texture of foods.
• Dependence on Electricity: An electric griddle requires a power source, which limits its use during power outages or in places without electrical outlets.
• Space Requirements: Electric griddles can take up significant counter space, which might be a concern in smaller kitchens.
• Possible Uneven Heating: While most offer good heat distribution, lower-end models might struggle with maintaining consistent temperatures across the entire cooking surface, leading to unevenly cooked food.

How Can You Effectively Maintain and Clean Your Electric Griddle?

To effectively maintain and clean your electric griddle, consider the following essential practices:

• Regular Wiping: After each use, wipe down the griddle surface with a damp cloth or sponge to remove food particles and grease.
• Non-abrasive Cleaners: Utilize mild, non-abrasive cleaners or a mixture of vinegar and water to clean stubborn stains without damaging the non-stick surface.
• Deep Cleaning: Occasionally perform a deep clean by soaking the removable parts in warm, soapy water and scrubbing them gently with a soft brush.
• Proper Drying: Ensure that all components are completely dry before reassembling the griddle to prevent rust and maintain optimal performance.
• Storage: Store the electric griddle in a dry place, preferably with a protective cover, to keep it free from dust and debris.

Regular wiping of the griddle surface after each cooking session is crucial to prevent the buildup of grease and food remnants, which can lead to unpleasant odors and affect cooking performance.

When it comes to cleaning, using non-abrasive cleaners ensures that the non-stick coating remains intact, allowing for easy cooking and cleaning in the future.

A deep cleaning routine should be established periodically, where you can remove any detachable parts and soak them in soapy water to eliminate any stuck-on grime, making them easier to clean.

It is vital to dry all components thoroughly to avoid moisture build-up, which can cause rust and diminish the lifespan of the griddle.

Lastly, proper storage of your electric griddle, ideally in a protective cover, will shield it from dust and damage, helping to keep it in excellent condition for future use.

What Insights Can We Gather from Customer Reviews on Electric Griddles?

Customer reviews on electric griddles provide valuable insights that can help potential buyers make informed decisions.

• Performance: Reviews often highlight how well an electric griddle performs in terms of heat distribution and cooking efficiency. Customers frequently comment on whether the griddle heats evenly, how quickly it reaches the desired temperature, and its ability to maintain that temperature during cooking.
• Ease of Use: Many reviews discuss the user-friendliness of electric griddles, including their setup, operation, and cleaning process. Consumers appreciate features such as non-stick surfaces, removable trays, or dishwasher-safe components that simplify cooking and maintenance.
• Durability: Feedback on the longevity of electric griddles is common, with customers sharing experiences regarding the build quality and materials used. Reviews often mention if a griddle has withstood regular use without warping, peeling, or malfunctioning.
• Versatility: Customers frequently express their opinions on how versatile an electric griddle is for various cooking tasks. Reviews may highlight the ability to cook different types of food, from pancakes and eggs to meats and vegetables, showcasing its adaptability for different recipes.
• Value for Money: Many reviews evaluate whether the electric griddle offers good value for its price. Shoppers often compare features and performance against the cost, discussing whether they believe the investment is worthwhile based on their cooking needs and frequency of use.
• Size and Capacity: Reviews provide insights into the size of the electric griddle and its cooking surface area, which can greatly affect meal preparation for families or gatherings. Customers often mention how much food can fit on the griddle at once and whether it meets their specific cooking requirements.

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