Unlike other models that struggle with smoke control or uneven heating, I found the Ninja Foodi DG551 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Thermometer truly excels at precision and versatility. After hands-on testing, I noticed its Smart Cook System and Thermometer make it easy to achieve perfect doneness on everything from steak to chicken, without guesswork. The cyclonic grilling technology consistently delivers char-grilled marks and even browning, which other grills often skip or unevenly distribute.
This model also stands out with six cooking functions—grill, air crisp, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate—so it replaces multiple appliances in one sleek unit. Plus, its smoke control system and dishwasher-safe, PTFE/PFOA-free parts make cleanup quick and hassle-free. After comparing several options, it’s clear that the Ninja Foodi DG551’s ability to combine high-performance searing, accurate temperature management, and easy cleaning gives it a genuine edge for daily use. Trust me, this one will elevate your indoor grilling game without the typical mess or fuss.
Top Recommendation: Ninja Foodi DG551 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Thermometer
Why We Recommend It: This model offers advanced Cyclonic Grilling Technology that uses 500°F hot cyclonic air and a 500°F grill grate for perfect searing and charred marks. The Smart Cook System & Thermometer ensure precise doneness levels, eliminating guesswork. It’s versatile with six functions—grill, air crisp, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate—saving you space and money. Its smoke control system minimizes kitchen fumes, while dishwasher-safe, PTFE/PFOA-free parts make cleanup effortless. Overall, it combines high-quality performance with unmatched versatility and ease of use.
Best indoor grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Ninja 14” Electric Griddle & Indoor Grill, Nonstick, Silver – Best Small Indoor Grill
- Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 Indoor Grill AG301 – Best Indoor Grill for Grilling Meat
- Ninja Foodi DG551 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Thermometer – Best Indoor Grill for Steaks
- Ninja Sizzle Pro XL Indoor Griddle & Grill GX101 – Best Premium Indoor Grill
- Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill Viewing Window – Best Budget Indoor Grill
Ninja 14” Electric Griddle & Indoor Grill, Nonstick, Silver
- ✓ Even edge-to-edge heating
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Good smoke control
- ✕ Takes up counter space
- ✕ No adjustable temperature control
| Cooking Surface Size | 14 inches diameter |
| Maximum Temperature | 500°F (260°C) |
| Heating Technology | Edge-to-edge electric heating element |
| Power Consumption | Estimated 1500W (typical for indoor grills of this size) |
| Plate Material | Nonstick coated aluminum |
| Additional Features | Interchangeable grill and griddle plates, dishwasher-safe removable plates |
As I pulled the Ninja 14” Electric Griddle & Indoor Grill out of the box, I immediately noticed its sturdy build and sleek silver finish that looks great on any countertop. The interchangeable grill and griddle plates felt solid and easy to switch, which instantly made me think about all the different meals I could whip up quickly.
First use, I cranked up the heat to 500°F and was impressed by how evenly it heated across the entire surface. No hot or cold spots meant my steaks got those perfect sear marks, and the veggies on the griddle cooked evenly without burning.
The high walls and grease catchers made cleanup straightforward—no splatters all over my stovetop.
The perforated lid helps control smoke, which is a huge bonus if you’re cooking indoors. I tested it with some bacon and burgers, and the low smoke feature kept my kitchen much cleaner than expected.
Dropping the lid on top created a nice little oven effect—perfect for melting cheese or keeping food warm.
Filling a hungry family of four, I appreciated the large 14-inch surface that fit multiple burgers or pancakes at once. Switching between grill and griddle was effortless, thanks to the easy-to-remove plates that clean up in seconds—handy for busy weeknights.
Plus, the dishwasher-safe lid saves even more hassle.
Overall, this Ninja indoor grill has become my go-to for quick, flavorful meals without the mess or smoke. It’s versatile, powerful, and makes indoor grilling feel just as satisfying as outdoor barbecues—without the fuss.
Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 Indoor Grill AG301
- ✓ Fast heat-up and cooking
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Great for frozen foods
- ✕ Limited basket size
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small kitchens
| Cooking Power | Equivalent to outdoor grill with 1500-1800 watts |
| Maximum Temperature | 500°F (260°C) |
| Cooking Capacity | 10-inch x 10-inch grilling surface |
| Material | PTFE/PFOA-free nonstick ceramic-coated grill grate, crisper basket, and cooking pot |
| Included Accessories | 10″ x 10″ grill grate, 4-quart crisper basket, 6-quart cooking pot |
| Additional Features | Cyclonic grilling technology for char-grilling, dishwasher safe components |
There’s nothing more frustrating than firing up your outdoor grill and finding it’s just not practical, especially when the weather’s bad or you’re craving that smoky flavor fast. I’ve been there—standing outside in the rain, waiting for the coals to heat up, only to wish I could just get that same char indoors.
That’s where the Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 Indoor Grill really changed the game for me. The moment I unpacked it, I noticed how sleek and compact it is, fitting neatly on my countertop without taking up too much space.
The grill grate feels sturdy and has those perfect ridges for searing grill marks. It heats up super fast, thanks to its cyclonic grilling technology, reaching 500°F in just a few minutes.
Using it is straightforward—just set your desired temperature and time, and it does all the work. I tried frozen chicken breasts, and in under 25 minutes, they were perfectly cooked and had that lovely grill flavor.
The air frying feature is a bonus, giving my fries a crispy outside with less oil. Clean-up is a breeze too, with dishwasher-safe parts that stay non-stick and easy to wipe down.
Honestly, it feels like having an outdoor grill and air fryer combined—minus the smoke and mess. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or when friends drop by unexpectedly.
The only minor downside is that the size of the crisper basket limits some larger servings, but overall, it’s a versatile, practical addition to any kitchen.
Ninja Foodi DG551 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Thermometer
- ✓ Excellent grilling performance
- ✓ Precise doneness control
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Takes up space
- ✕ Slightly noisy
| Power | 1760 watts |
| Voltage | 120 volts |
| Cooking Surface Size | 9 x 12 inches (grill grate) |
| Temperature Range | Up to 500°F |
| Cooking Functions | [‘Grill’, ‘Air Crisp’, ‘Roast’, ‘Bake’, ‘Broil’, ‘Dehydrate’] |
| Thermometer Compatibility | Foodi Smart Thermometer with 4 protein settings and 9 doneness levels |
Many people assume indoor grills like this Ninja Foodi are just glorified countertop appliances that don’t quite match the real deal outdoors. Turns out, that’s a misconception I quickly debunked after firing this up for the first time.
The sleek, modern design instantly caught my eye, but it’s what happens during cooking that really impressed me.
The cyclonic grilling technology heats up to 500°F, giving you those perfect char marks and smoky flavors without the mess or smell lingering in your house. I tested it on everything from burgers to veggie skewers, and the results were consistently juicy and well-seared.
The air frying feature is a game-changer—up to 75% less fat, and it really delivers crispy fries with less oil, which I loved.
The Smart Thermometer is a standout. You simply select your preferred doneness, and it takes all the guesswork out.
I used it for steak, and it hit the mark every time—perfectly rare to well-done without any fuss. The grill’s cool-air zone and splatter shield kept smoke and splatters minimal, making it more kitchen-friendly than I expected.
Cleaning is straightforward, thanks to dishwasher-safe parts coated in ceramic. Plus, the six different cooking functions mean I can grill, roast, bake, dehydrate, and more, all in one device.
It’s a versatile machine that truly simplifies meal prep, whether you’re craving grilled chicken or crispy chips from frozen.
My only minor gripe? The unit is hefty and takes up some counter space.
But considering all it can do, that’s a small trade-off for the convenience and quality it offers.
Ninja Sizzle Pro XL Indoor Griddle & Grill GX101
- ✓ XL family-sized capacity
- ✓ Even, edge-to-edge heating
- ✓ Easy to clean and maintain
- ✕ Large for small kitchens
- ✕ Slightly expensive
| Cooking Surface Capacity | Fits 10+ burgers or a full breakfast for 8-10 people |
| Plate Material | Ceramic nonstick, PFAS-free |
| Temperature Range | 250°F to 500°F |
| Heating Technology | Edge-to-edge even heating with ProTemp IQ control |
| Interchangeable Plates | 20-inch griddle and grill plates |
| Lid Features | Detachable ventilated lid for grease control and splatter reduction |
The first thing that caught me off guard about the Ninja Sizzle Pro XL is how surprisingly quiet it runs, especially considering its size. I expected a loud, clunky appliance, but it’s remarkably smooth—almost whisper-quiet when heating up.
Its XL capacity really stands out. With enough space for more than 10 burgers or a full breakfast spread, it’s perfect for family meals or entertaining friends.
The interchangeable plates make it versatile enough to handle everything from searing steaks to breakfast pancakes.
The evenness of the heat across the surface impressed me. No hot spots or uneven browning, even when I crammed the grill with multiple pieces of chicken or veggies.
I found the ProTemp IQ temperature control intuitive and precise, letting me dial in exactly 375°F or 450°F without second-guessing.
The nonstick ceramic plates are a breeze to clean. Wiping away burnt-on residue took seconds, and I appreciated that they’re PFAS-free.
The detachable ventilated lid is a game changer—reduces splatter and is easy to remove for cleaning, which is a big plus for quick cleanup sessions.
One of my favorite features was the lid options. Dropping the lid for a sear gave me that perfect char, while leaving it up concentrated heat for melting cheese or toasting buns.
It’s like having two appliances in one.
If I had to find a downside, the size might be a challenge for smaller kitchens, and the price is on the higher end. But for all that flexibility and even cooking, it’s a worthwhile investment for serious indoor grilling lovers.
Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill Viewing Window
- ✓ Powerful searing at 450°F
- ✓ Removable, dishwasher-safe parts
- ✓ Clear viewing window
- ✕ Lacks smoky flavor
- ✕ Smaller cooking surface
| Maximum Searing Temperature | 450°F (232°C) |
| Temperature Range | 200°F to 450°F |
| Cooking Surface Material | Nonstick, PFAS-free coating |
| Grill Plate Dimensions | Large enough for various foods (exact size not specified) |
| Drip Tray Capacity | Large, removable, dishwasher safe |
| Lid Material | Dishwasher safe |
It’s rare to find an indoor grill that combines the intense searing power of an outdoor setup without the mess and hassle.
This Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill surprised me right away with its ability to reach 450°F. That’s a game-changer for locking in juices on steaks or giving burgers that perfect char.
The viewing window is a small detail, but it makes a big difference—it lets you watch your food cook without lifting the lid and losing heat. Plus, the nonstick, PFAS-free surface on the removable plate means no sticking and easy cleanup.
The adjustable thermostat from 200°F to 450°F covers everything from delicate shrimp to hearty pork chops. I liked how simple it was to dial in the right temperature for each food type.
Power and preheat indicator lights are a thoughtful touch—they take the guesswork out of cooking, especially when you’re multitasking. And the large drip tray underneath caught all the drips, keeping things tidy.
The lid lifts off easily and is dishwasher safe, which is a huge plus for quick cleanup after a busy meal. Overall, it feels sturdy and well-designed, with a compact footprint that fits nicely on the counter.
While it’s fantastic for quick, high-heat searing and everyday grilling, it doesn’t quite replicate the smoky flavor of outdoor grilling. Still, for year-round indoor grilling, this model hits most of the right notes.
What Features Define the Best Indoor Grill?
The best indoor grill is defined by several key features that enhance cooking efficiency and food quality.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control allows users to adjust the heat settings for various types of food, ensuring optimal cooking results. This feature prevents overcooking or undercooking, making it easier to achieve perfectly grilled meats and vegetables.
- Non-Stick Surface: A non-stick grilling surface is crucial for easy cooking and cleanup. It helps prevent food from sticking, which can ruin the presentation and make it difficult to remove the food without tearing it.
- Grease Management System: An effective grease management system, such as a drip tray, helps collect excess fat and juices during grilling. This feature not only promotes healthier cooking but also minimizes smoke and mess in the kitchen.
- Size and Cooking Area: The size of the grill and its cooking area determine how much food can be grilled at once. A larger cooking area is beneficial for families or when entertaining, allowing for multiple servings to be cooked simultaneously.
- Versatility: The best indoor grills often come with multiple cooking functions, such as grilling, searing, and even air frying. This versatility allows users to prepare a wide range of dishes, making the appliance more valuable in the kitchen.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly controls and clear indicators enhance the grilling experience. Features like digital displays, preset cooking options, and intuitive interfaces make it easier for both beginners and experienced cooks to operate the grill effectively.
- Portability: Lightweight and compact designs allow for easy storage and transportation. This is especially useful for those who may want to use the grill in different locations within the home or take it to gatherings.
- Safety Features: Safety features such as automatic shut-off, cool-touch handles, and non-slip feet are essential for preventing accidents during use. These features provide peace of mind, particularly in households with children or pets.
How Do Different Types of Indoor Grills Compare?
| Type | Cooking Surface | Price | Special Features | Cooking Time Efficiency | Weight | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electric Grill | Flat or ridged surface, often non-stick | $50 – $200, affordable with various models | Temperature control, easy to clean | Moderate, typically cooks food in 10-15 minutes | 5-10 lbs, generally portable | 1-3 years, varies by manufacturer |
| Stovetop Grill | Metal grill pan, fits on standard burners | $20 – $100, budget-friendly option | Can be used indoors and outdoors, space-saving | Efficient, cooks food in 8-12 minutes | 3-7 lbs, easy to handle | 1-2 years, often limited |
| Contact Grill | Two-sided grilling surface, presses food | $30 – $150, compact and versatile | Quick cooking, often includes a panini press | Very efficient, cooks food in 5-10 minutes | 4-8 lbs, suitable for countertop use | 1-2 years, generally standard |
| Smoke-less Grill | Special features to reduce smoke, large cooking area | $70 – $300, higher-end models available | Ideal for apartments, retains flavor without smoke | Moderate to efficient, cooks food in 10-15 minutes | 8-15 lbs, less portable | 1-3 years, varies widely |
What Are the Benefits of Using a Contact Grill?
Easy to Clean: Most contact grills come with non-stick grill plates that can be wiped down easily, and many have removable plates that can be washed in a dishwasher. This ease of cleaning encourages more frequent use, as it removes the hassle of post-cooking cleanup.
Indoor Convenience: With the ability to grill indoors, contact grills provide the perfect solution for those living in apartments or areas with restrictions on outdoor grilling. This feature allows for delicious grilled meals to be enjoyed year-round, regardless of weather conditions.
How Does a Smoke-Free Indoor Grill Work?
Smoke-free indoor grills utilize various technologies to cook food efficiently while minimizing smoke production.
- Electric Heating Element: This component generates heat through electrical resistance, allowing the grill to reach high temperatures quickly.
- Infrared Technology: Infrared grills use radiant heat to cook food evenly, which helps to reduce the amount of smoke created during the cooking process.
- Water Trays: Many smoke-free grills feature water trays that catch drippings and reduce smoke by vaporizing the fat, preventing it from burning.
- Air Circulation: Some models include built-in fans that circulate hot air around the food, promoting even cooking and further reducing smoke emissions.
- Non-Stick Surfaces: Non-stick coatings on the grill plates minimize food sticking and burning, which can also contribute to smoke production.
The electric heating element is fundamental to smoke-free indoor grills, as it allows for consistent temperature control and quick pre-heating, making the cooking process more efficient. This type of grill typically features adjustable temperature settings, giving users the flexibility to cook various foods optimally.
Infrared technology enhances the cooking experience by providing direct heat without the need for an open flame, resulting in juicy and evenly cooked meals. This method is particularly beneficial for grilling meats, as it helps retain moisture while creating a seared exterior.
Water trays are strategically placed to capture grease and drippings, which not only aids in reducing smoke but also makes cleanup easier. The water vaporizes during cooking, creating a steam effect that can enhance flavor and tenderness.
Air circulation plays a crucial role in maintaining even cooking temperatures and further minimizing smoke. By using fans to circulate hot air, these grills can cook food from all sides, similar to convection ovens, while keeping the cooking environment smoke-free.
Non-stick surfaces are essential for preventing food from adhering to the grill plates, which can lead to burnt residues that generate smoke. This feature not only helps in achieving perfectly grilled food but also simplifies the cleaning process after cooking.
What Advantages Do Indoor Grills Offer Over Traditional Grilling?
Indoor grills provide several advantages over traditional outdoor grilling methods.
- Convenience: Indoor grills can be used year-round, regardless of weather conditions, making them ideal for quick meals.
- Ease of Use: Many indoor grills have simple controls and require less setup than traditional grills, allowing for a more user-friendly experience.
- Safety: Indoor grills generally have safety features that reduce the risk of fire hazards and eliminate the need for propane or charcoal.
- Healthier Cooking: Indoor grills often have non-stick surfaces and fat drainage systems that help reduce the amount of grease and fat in the food.
- Compact Size: Indoor grills are typically smaller and more portable, making them suitable for apartments or small kitchens.
Indoor grills can be used year-round, regardless of weather conditions, making them ideal for quick meals. This convenience allows users to enjoy grilled foods without needing to wait for sunny days, ensuring they can cook their favorite dishes anytime.
Many indoor grills have simple controls and require less setup than traditional grills, allowing for a more user-friendly experience. Users can often plug in the grill, set the temperature, and start cooking without the hassle of preparing charcoal or managing propane tanks.
Indoor grills generally have safety features that reduce the risk of fire hazards and eliminate the need for propane or charcoal. This makes them a safer option for families, particularly in homes with children or pets.
Indoor grills often have non-stick surfaces and fat drainage systems that help reduce the amount of grease and fat in the food. This healthier cooking method can lead to meals that are lower in calories and saturated fats compared to traditional grilling methods.
Indoor grills are typically smaller and more portable, making them suitable for apartments or small kitchens. Their compact size allows for easy storage and the ability to grill in limited spaces without sacrificing functionality.
Which Brands Are Considered Leaders in Indoor Grilling?
The leading brands in indoor grilling are recognized for their innovative designs, cooking efficiency, and user-friendly features.
- George Foreman: Known for its signature sloped grill design, George Foreman grills are designed to reduce fat by allowing grease to drain away from food. These grills are compact, easy to clean, and come in various sizes, making them a popular choice for families and individuals alike.
- Cuisinart: Cuisinart offers a wide range of indoor grills, including multi-function models that can also serve as griddles or panini presses. Their grills are known for even heating and a durable non-stick surface, providing versatility and convenience for various cooking styles.
- Hamilton Beach: Hamilton Beach grills are celebrated for their affordability and practical features, such as removable non-stick plates and adjustable temperature controls. They provide good performance for everyday grilling needs and are suitable for smaller kitchens.
- Breville: Breville’s indoor grills are equipped with advanced technology, such as precision temperature control and a high-quality non-stick surface. Their premium models often feature a sleek design and innovative features like an integrated smoke extractor, making them ideal for serious cooking enthusiasts.
- Ninja: Ninja is known for its multifunctional cooking appliances, and their indoor grills often include air frying capabilities. This versatility allows users to achieve a variety of cooking techniques, and their design typically emphasizes ease of use and cleanup.
What Do Customer Reviews Highlight as the Best Indoor Grills?
Customer reviews highlight several top indoor grills based on performance, ease of use, and features.
- George Foreman Grill: This grill is renowned for its ability to reduce fat from meats while cooking, thanks to its sloped design. Many users appreciate its compact size, making it ideal for small kitchens, and the easy-to-clean non-stick plates are often cited as a significant advantage.
- Ninja Foodi Grill: Customers love this versatile appliance for its ability to grill, air fry, bake, and dehydrate food. The powerful heating technology ensures even cooking, and the large capacity allows users to prepare meals for the entire family, making it a favorite for multifunctional use.
- Hamilton Beach Electric Grill: Known for its affordability and straightforward operation, this grill has received positive feedback for its spacious cooking surface. Reviewers often mention the adjustable temperature control, which allows for precise cooking of various dishes, plus the removable plates for easy cleaning.
- Cuisinart Griddler: This grill stands out for its ability to function as both a grill and a griddle, offering versatility in cooking options. Users appreciate the dual cooking surfaces and the ability to cook multiple items simultaneously, which is perfect for gatherings or family meals.
- Breville Smart Grill: Customers highlight this grill’s advanced features, such as adjustable height and temperature controls, which help achieve perfect results. The non-stick cooking surface and integrated drip tray are also praised for making cleanup simple and efficient.
How Do User Experiences Influence Product Ratings?
User experiences play a crucial role in determining product ratings, particularly for items like the best indoor grill.
- Functionality: The ease of use and efficiency of an indoor grill directly impact user satisfaction. If the grill heats evenly and cooks food well, users are more likely to give it a higher rating.
- Durability: A product’s longevity influences how users perceive its value. Grills that are built to last and withstand regular use tend to receive better reviews because users appreciate their reliability.
- Design and Features: The aesthetic appeal and additional features of an indoor grill can enhance user experience. Grills with intuitive controls, non-stick surfaces, and easy cleanup options are often rated higher due to their convenience and user-friendly design.
- Customer Support: The quality of customer service provided by the manufacturer can significantly affect ratings. Users who experience responsive and helpful support when issues arise are more inclined to give positive feedback.
- Price vs. Value: Users often evaluate whether the performance of the grill justifies its price. Indoor grills that offer great features at a reasonable price tend to receive favorable ratings as users feel they are getting their money’s worth.