Discover the convenience and flavor of indoor grilling with our guide to the 15 best smokeless indoor grills. Perfect for kitchens of all sizes, these grills bring the barbecue indoors without the smoke.
Why Choose a Smokeless Indoor Grill?
Indoor grilling has become a popular option for food enthusiasts who want to enjoy grilled meals year-round, regardless of weather conditions. Smokeless grills, such as the Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Indoor Grill and the Cuisinart Griddler, offer a cleaner and more convenient alternative to traditional grilling methods. With features like adjustable temperature controls and non-stick surfaces, these grills make it easy to cook everything from steaks to vegetables with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Choosing the Right Smokeless Grill for Your Home
When selecting a smokeless indoor grill, consider the following features to find the best match for your culinary needs:
Cooking surface area: When you’re looking at the capacity of indoor grills, make certain you have enough space for your intended purpose. Think about how many people you normally cook for, and also about those occasions when you cook bigger batches. Look for the cooking surface area size expressed in terms of square inches and choose in line with your needs
Overall dimensions: As well as determining that any indoor grill on your shortlist has a spacious enough capacity, you also need to ensure you can accommodate it on the kitchen counter
Temperature range and maximum temperature: You should first establish that the indoor grills on your shortlist allow you to cook in the temperature band you’re accustomed to. Not all grills allow you to cook low and slow, for instance, so check up on this first. You should also be clear that the grills you’re considering allowing you to cook at high enough temperatures at the upper end. If you like to sear your steaks, get a grill that lets you do this
Temperature control: Some indoor grills are almost entirely automatic, coming with preset grilling temperatures. Others allow you to take much more control and to adjust the temperature manually. As you would expect, some indoor grills let you combine these methods
Ease of cleaning: Some of the indoor grills we review today have a reputation for being awkward to clean. In our experience, any appliance that causes you problems in this area tends to end up gathering dust in the kitchen cupboard. Most of the best smokeless grills have a number of removable parts. In most cases, you can pop these safely in the dishwasher. If not, you’ll need to soak them in some hot soapy water and then give them a scrub by hand. We flag any grills on our shortlist with a reputation for being hard to clean so you can buy with your eyes wide open
Cooking functions: Some of the indoor grills on our shortlist today let you do nothing but grill. Others come with a variety of different cooking functions, from air frying through to searing. You can also find plenty of smokeless grills with a generous selection of presets. All that counts here is finding a grill that gels with your requirements
OK, that simple framework should be all you need to easily navigate our curated collection of the best indoor and smokeless grills you can find.
Our Grill Team spent over 21 hours testing and reviewing different indoor smokeless grills to find the best options out there.
I. The 15 Best Indoor Smokeless Grills
1. Our #1 Pick: Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Indoor Grill
The Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Indoor Grill stands out with its versatile cooking options, integrating a smart cooking system into a compact design. It is perfect for those who want to enjoy grilled foods throughout the year regardless of the weather.
- Features: This grill offers six cooking functions—grill, air fry, bake, roast, broil, and dehydrate. It incorporates Cyclonic Grilling Technology, delivering perfect char-grilled flavors by circulating 500°F air. The integrated smart thermometer ensures optimal cooking temperature without the guesswork.
- What We Liked: The versatility is a significant advantage, enabling users to replace multiple kitchen appliances with just one. The smoke control technology effectively minimizes smoke, making indoor grilling pleasant and smoke-free.
- What We Didn’t Like: The size of the unit can be cumbersome for those with limited counter space, and its premium features come at a higher price point, which might not fit every budget.
2. Best Budget: Cuisinart Griddler
The Cuisinart Griddler is an all-in-one kitchen solution that acts as a contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle, and half grill/half griddle. It’s designed for the home chef who enjoys versatility without sacrificing space.
- Features: Features include removable and reversible nonstick cooking plates, adjustable temperature controls, and a sleek stainless steel design. It also has a drip tray to catch excess fat and grease, promoting healthier cooking.
- What We Liked: The Griddler’s 5-in-1 functionality allows for a variety of cooking techniques, making it a versatile choice for small and large meals alike. The easy-to-clean plates are dishwasher safe, making the cleanup process a breeze.
- What We Didn’t Like: Users have reported some issues with uneven heat distribution, which can affect cooking consistency. Additionally, the surface is prone to scratching, requiring careful handling to maintain its appearance.
3. Also Great: Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 Countertop Grill
A powerful indoor grill designed to create an outdoor grilling experience inside, thanks to its high heat capabilities and multiple cooking functions.
- Features: Offers five primary functions: grilling, air frying, baking, roasting, and dehydrating. Features a high-density grill grate for perfect char-grilled marks and flavors, with a built-in smoke control technology.
- What We Liked: Its ability to grill fiercely with char-grilled results while still managing smoke efficiently makes it an excellent choice for indoor grilling enthusiasts. The inclusion of an integrated smart thermometer adds to its precision cooking.
- What We Didn’t Like: Similar to its 6-in-1 counterpart, this grill also occupies significant counter space, which might not be ideal for everyone. Additionally, its price point remains on the higher side for its category.
4. George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Grill
This grill is designed for versatility and convenience, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. It’s ideal for those who enjoy grilling irrespective of the location, and its portable design means it can easily be moved from the kitchen to the patio.
- Features: It features a large, nonstick grilling surface, easy temperature control, and a removable stand for outdoor use. The patented slope design helps drain up to 42% of fat, making your meals healthier.
- What We Liked: The adaptability of being both an indoor and outdoor grill is highly appreciated, as it provides flexibility in cooking locations. The fat-removing slope is a great feature for those looking to cook healthier meals.
- What We Didn’t Like: The heating element can sometimes deliver inconsistent temperatures, which may require monitoring during cooking. Its large size also makes it less ideal for very small spaces.
5. Hamilton Beach Electric Grill
This affordable and compact electric grill is designed for easy indoor grilling, ideal for small households or quick meals.
- Features: Features a large nonstick grilling surface, adjustable temperature control, and a lid window that allows you to watch food as it cooks without losing heat.
- What We Liked: Its simplicity and functionality are perfect for everyday use, particularly for those who want a straightforward grilling experience without frills. The lid with a window is a practical addition, helping to keep the heat consistent while enabling users to monitor the cooking process.
- What We Didn’t Like: While it offers basic grilling capabilities, it lacks some of the advanced features found in more expensive models, such as a removable stand or a built-in smoke extractor. Additionally, the nonstick coating can wear over time, requiring careful handling and maintenance to extend its life.
6. Power XL Smokeless Electric Grill
Designed to cater to the needs of indoor grilling enthusiasts, this grill features advanced technology to minimize smoke, along with a spacious cooking area.
- Features: Large, non-stick grilling surface, built-in fan to reduce smoke, and a LED smart temperature control for even cooking.
- What We Liked: The large grilling surface is ideal for family meals, and the smokeless technology allows for indoor use without the worry of smoke filling the room. The temperature control ensures that foods are grilled to perfection.
- What We Didn’t Like: Some users have found that the fan, while effective in reducing smoke, can be loud during operation.
7. T-fal Optigrill XL
This advanced grill is engineered with precision grilling technology which automatically adjusts to the thickness of your food to deliver perfect grilling results.
- Features: It offers a variety of cooking programs for different types of food like red meat, poultry, sandwiches, and seafood. The Optigrill XL also features a frozen function for defrosting and cooking all in one step.
- What We Liked: The automatic sensor cooking technology simplifies the grilling process by adjusting the cooking time based on the thickness of the food. It’s ideal for those who appreciate technology that ensures consistently cooked meals.
- What We Didn’t Like: While the technology is impressive, it does come with a learning curve, and the price may be a bit steep for casual grillers. Some users may prefer more manual control over their cooking.
8. Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Grill
Brief Description: Designed for quick and easy meals, this indoor grill from Hamilton Beach features a large grilling surface and high heat searing capability, ideal for those who want speedy and delicious grilling results.
- Features: Comes with a 90 square-inch nonstick surface, adjustable temperature control, and a large drip tray for excess grease, making it perfect for cooking a variety of foods.
- What We Liked: The searing heat locks in juices and flavors, which is great for meat lovers, while the spacious cooking area allows for multiple items to be cooked at once. Its ease of use and straightforward cleaning are big pluses.
- What We Didn’t Like: The nonstick surface can degrade over time if not properly maintained. Some users have noted that the temperature control could be more precise.
9. Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 Grill
A powerful indoor grill designed to create an outdoor grilling experience inside, thanks to its high heat capabilities and multiple cooking functions.
- Features: Offers five primary functions: grilling, air frying, baking, roasting, and dehydrating. Features a high-density grill grate for perfect char-grilled marks and flavors, with a built-in smoke control technology.
- What We Liked: Its ability to grill fiercely with char-grilled results while still managing smoke efficiently makes it an excellent choice for indoor grilling enthusiasts. The inclusion of an integrated smart thermometer adds to its precision cooking.
- What We Didn’t Like: Similar to its 6-in-1 counterpart, this grill also occupies significant counter space, which might not be ideal for everyone. Additionally, its price point remains on the higher side for its category.
10. Cuisinart Electric Griddler
An enhanced version of the classic Cuisinart Griddler, this model offers robust grilling and griddling capabilities with digital controls for precision.
- Features: Digital controls for precise temperature settings, removable and reversible dishwasher-safe plates, and a sleek stainless steel design.
- What We Liked: The digital interface adds convenience and precision, enhancing the usability of the griddle and grill functions. It’s excellent for a variety of foods from hearty steaks to delicate pancakes.
- What We Didn’t Like: Despite its versatility, the price point is higher, which might not appeal to all budgets. The plates, while easy to clean, require careful handling to avoid scratching.
11. Power XL Smokeless Grill
Designed to cater to the needs of indoor grilling enthusiasts, this grill features advanced technology to minimize smoke, along with a spacious cooking area.
- Features: Large, non-stick grilling surface, built-in fan to reduce smoke, and a LED smart temperature control for even cooking.
- What We Liked: The large grilling surface is ideal for family meals, and the smokeless technology allows for indoor use without the worry of smoke filling the room. The temperature control ensures that foods are grilled to perfection.
- What We Didn’t Like: Some users have found that the fan, while effective in reducing smoke, can be loud during operation.
12. Techwood Smokeless Grill
Ideal for urban apartments and homes where outdoor grilling isn’t an option, this compact indoor grill promises a smokeless cooking experience.
- Features: Equipped with advanced airflow technology and a built-in fan to minimize smoke, it also features a digital temperature control and a nonstick cooking surface.
- What We Liked: Its compact design is perfect for small spaces, and the efficient smoke management system means it can be used comfortably indoors without the hassle of smoke. The temperature control provides precise cooking.
- What We Didn’t Like: The grill’s smaller size might not be suitable for larger families or entertaining. Some users might find the temperature maximum not high enough for searing meats as effectively as outdoor grills.
13. Techwood Raclette BBQ Grill
A unique addition to the indoor grilling market, this grill combines traditional grilling with a raclette function, making it perfect for interactive dining experiences.
- Features: Includes a non-stick grill plate, multiple raclette pans, and an adjustable temperature control for personalized cooking.
- What We Liked: The dual functionality allows for grilling on top while melting cheese or warming other sides in the raclette pans below, perfect for entertaining. The non-stick surfaces ensure easy cleanup.
- What We Didn’t Like: The size of the grill can make it cumbersome for smaller kitchens, and the raclette feature, while unique, might not be used frequently by all users.
14. Gotham Steel Indoor Grill
This grill boasts a ceramic and titanium surface, ensuring high durability and non-stick performance without the harmful chemicals typically found in non-stick coatings.
- Features: Ultra-nonstick surface, cool-touch handles, and a temperature control dial for various cooking needs.
- What We Liked: The unique surface is easy to clean and provides a healthy cooking environment without butter or oil. It heats up quickly and maintains a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process.
- What We Didn’t Like: The grill’s maximum temperature may not be high enough for those looking to achieve a sear similar to outdoor grills. Some users might find the build quality to be less robust compared to other models.
15. Kenyon Floridian Portable Electric Grill
Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, this portable electric grill is known for its quick heating and high heat capabilities, suitable for serious grillers living in apartments or homes without access to outdoor spaces.
- Features: Portable design, marine-grade stainless steel construction, and even heat distribution across the grill surface.
- What We Liked: It heats up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit in just 10 minutes, allowing for a true grilling experience. The compact and portable design makes it easy to store or take on the go.
- What We Didn’t Like: The premium construction comes at a higher cost, making it an investment piece. Additionally, the grill plate size might be too small for larger gatherings.
Recap of The 15 Best Smokeless Indoor Grills
If you came here today to Hempenhill with no idea how to differentiate between the best indoor smokeless grills, you should be an expert after today’s detailed guide.
Whether you’re content with a straight-up indoor grill, or you’d prefer a more multipurpose appliance, we’ve included something for everyone today.
Just like these convenient indoor grills make your cooking easier, Rolon mobile truck repair ensures your vehicle is always running smoothly with their expert on-the-go repair services.
We have just opened up for business here at Hempenhill, but we have a an aggressive content calendar for the coming months. With summer already drawing to a close, we can’t wait for those fall nights and plenty of indoor grilling.
Take a moment to bookmark our blog and be sure to pop back soon for more informative content on all aspects of grilling. See you soon!
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- Best Electric Grills
- How to BBQ Ribs on a Gas Grill
- How to Clean Pit Boss Pellet Grill
- Best Weber Grill
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FAQs About Smokeless Indoor Grills
Is an electric indoor grill truly smokeless?
No, most will still kick out a very small amount of smoke. This is almost inevitable when you’re grilling at high temperatures, particularly when you’re cooking oily foods or greasy meats. The best indoor smokeless grill will efficiently drain away the surplus fat and grease so they don’t hit the hot parts of the grill and start smoking.
Is it safe to use my electric grill indoors?
Most electric grills should be perfectly safe to use indoors. Regardless of the fuel source, though, and even if the grill is designated safe for indoor use, you should always monitor the grill closely to avoid any nasty surprises. Also, ensure no flammable objects are anywhere near the grill.
How healthy is indoor grilling?
Indoor grilling is typically considered healthy because you are heating the foods to very high temperatures, with the excess fat and oil designed to drain out into the drip trays provided. The result of this is clean and crisp food that’s pretty healthy as a rule. Beyond this, many of the indoor smokeless grills we review also come equipped with the ability to air fry your food. Using this method, hot air is circulated around inside the cooking chamber. This serves to cook your food so it’s crisp and golden outside but juicy inside. The best part? You can use as little as a tablespoon of cooking oil to achieve this.
Is it possible to use my indoor grill out in the yard?
Yes. You should make sure your electric grill is never exposed to any rain for obvious reasons. You should ideally refrain from using an extension cord. If you can’t avoid this, make sure the cord and plugs are protected from moisture, too.
Can I sear steaks and burgers on my indoor electric grill?
As long as you make sure you preheat your grill sufficiently, most indoor smokeless models will hit high enough temperatures to sear your steaks and burgers. As an added kicker, many of the best units come with reversible cooking surfaces. As well as a classic smooth surface, you’ll get a griddle bundled on some indoor grills, allow you to further sear your meat with those trademark ridges.
Why is my smokeless indoor grill smoking?
The most common reason for this is failing to properly remove the food residue after each use. If this happens, the initial heating can create smoke as the food debris starts burning. Beyond this, setting the grill to super-high temperatures is also liable to yield a little smoke.