Buying The Best Smokeless Indoor BBQ Grill in 2018
Whether you adore grilled meat, or you can’t resist grilled veggies, you have to admit that life without BBQ would be a lot less tasty. But, since you can’t always grill outside, you need something that can give you the same results and that you can use indoors. So I researched and tested the best smokeless indoor BBQ grills and all you need to know about them.
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I simply can’t imagine a weekend without barbecue. I mean, the succulent meat, the amazing vegetables, the smell… My mouth is already watering, and I’m only writing about it. But, long winter months, cold, rainy days, and my living conditions didn’t always allow for this kind of gastronomic pleasure. So I realized that what I need is the best smokeless indoor BBQ grill.
Smokeless Indoor BBQ Grill 101
Types of Indoor Grills
Before I found the best smokeless indoor BBQ grill models, I had to learn more about indoor grills. There are three main types.
Stovetop Grill
This is a grill that you simply put on your kitchen stove. Stovetop generates heat, and this grill simply uses it like a standard grill would use charcoal. A great thing here is that you can control the temperature with your stove’s controls. The rack is on the top of the heat source, and you just have to put your food on it.
Open Countertop Grill
This is an electric indoor type of grill that is designed to be on your countertop. Think of it as a hot plate with a griddle. A big plus is the fact that it offers a decent sized cooking surface, while a minus could be the fact that liquids can splash around your kitchen.
Closed Countertop Grill
Closed countertop models have a lid that closes on your food. This makes preparing the food faster as it is grilling both sides at the same time. The only minus is the fact that you can only prepare foods that are thin enough for the grill to close properly.
What to Look For In Your BBQ Grill
When you’re buying a smokeless indoor BBQ grill, there are several things you simply cannot overlook.
Surface Capacity
Make sure the surface is big enough for your needs. If you live single, a small surface will suffice and let you prepare food for up to 4 people (surface up to 140 square inches). On the other hand, if you plan to feed more people, you might look into models that can prepare food for 6 people at once (surface up to 200 square inches).
Size
Yes, I know it sounds like I’m repeating myself, but this is important. Take a grill that will allow you to prepare food for everyone in your household. The size of the grill is also important because of your space. If you don’t have a lot of spare room on your countertop, you need to take a more compact smokeless indoor BBQ grill model.
Materials
Metal is the best material for a grill since it can get hot and cold without getting damaged. Metal elements with hard silicone or plastic are the most popular because they will protect you from the heat. The grill itself should be nonstick, cast iron or porcelain coated aluminium grate.
Heating Element
The heating part of the grill must be able to reach about 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, it should heat the entire grilling surface evenly so all the food gets prepared at the same speed.
Indoor Grill Features to Consider
If you want to use your grill often, then you should choose a model that has every feature that you need for cooking.
Indicator light
A useful feature that will let you know when the grill is ready.
Lid
Closed lids have a cover by default, but some open models also include a lid. This can be handy for trapping the moisture – that way the meat will be juicier. Metal lids let out less heat, while the glass ones let you see the food while it’s cooking.
Grease tray or drip pan
Everything you grill will produce grease or juices. That is why this feature is a must. It will keep the mess to the minimum, and make grilling safer.
Temperature controls
Do you want total control or just the mere basics? If you’re grilling casually, low and high-temperature settings should be enough, but if you’re a perfectionist, look for something more precise.
Power switch
No power switch can be a safety hazard, so it’s best to pick models that can be turned off while they are still plugged in.
Non-skid feet
This feature will keep your grill firmly on the countertop, so there’s no danger that a hot appliance will start sliding around.
Contact plates
Choose the grilling surface wisely. You can take a grill with a flat surface, one with a grill, or a model with multiple switchable plates.
Removable parts
Make sure to pick a model with removable plates and drip pan so you can clean it properly.
Aroma scenter
This is not a necessity, but it can be a nice addition. Aroma scenter is a grill compartment where you can put spices or herbs that will be infused into your food.
After I did all my due diligence, I checked out dozens upon dozens of smokeless indoor BBQ grill models, and these 6 are the very best that I’ve found. So, let’s dive in.
What Is The Best Indoor Grill To Buy?
Consider the following:
Best Overall Indoor Grill: T-fal GC702 OptiGrill Stainless Steel Indoor Electric Grill
Why users love it?
- Numerous programs
- Easy to use
- Incredibly simple to clean
Pros: This smokeless indoor BBQ grill cooks your food by adapting grilling cycles to the food’s thickness. It has 6 automatic programs that will let you grill just about anything you want to perfection. Read more here >>
Cons: It’s great for food that is evenly cut, but its performance isn’t exactly perfect when it comes to uneven cuts.
Details:
- This smart model comes with a lot of useful options: It has indicator lights and audible signals for well-done, medium, and rare. Its sensors will know how thick the food you’re preparing is, and in combination with one of its 6 preset programs, you’ll get the perfect BBQ.
- Grilling method: This model is electric, and it is actually more of a press than a classic grill. It will leave wonderful griddle marks on the food, adding taste and wow-effect.
- Best for: With its fat catching tray, I definitely think it’s best for meat grilling. It makes grilled chicken taste like a juicy dream.
- Does it have temperature control? Yes, definitely. What I really like here is that it has a whole bunch of options. It can cook meats from frozen, it lets you know the level of doneness with beeps, and it offers 6 cooking programs.
- Is it dishwasher safe? Both the nonstick plates and the drip tray can be washed in the dishwasher safely. The only thing I have to emphasize – you have to read the user’s manual before you remove those plates.
- Price to quality ratio? This great smokeless electric indoor grill will definitely not cost you an arm and a leg. With a price of around $150, it is an amazing deal, as it comes with a ton of features and a limited lifetime warranty. Check latest price on Amazon here >>
- User reviews: Before I decide whether I’ll take something or not, I love to see what people who already have it think.
According to people who already have this grill, they couldn’t be more satisfied:
I love it because it does all the thinking for me. No more worrying about ruining the meat, under or overcooking it. It’s simply perfect, and the steak I made on it was easily the best I have ever grilled.
At first I wasn’t impressed, but then I read the instructions carefully and had another go at it. The second time around everything came out perfect. It does just what it should do – it grills indoors, and it grills to perfection.
The build quality is amazing, the controls are fine, and the meat turns out fantastic. It’s super easy to use, efficient, and it takes up a fairly small amount of space.
What Buyers
Have To Say
Have To Say
Best smokeless stovetop grill: Kitchen + Home Stove Top Smokeless Grill Indoor BBQ, Stainless Steel with Double Coated Non-Stick Surface
Why users love it?
- Double-coated nonstick surface
- Doesn’t take up space at all
- Safe to use on gas or electric stoves, in the oven, and on the outdoor grill
Pros: If you love grilled meat and veggies, but you want something budget-friendly, simple to use and even simpler to clean, this smokeless indoor BBQ grill is definitely something you should look into.
Cons: Simplicity is great, but if you need your grill to have features like temperature control, indicator lights, etc., this model is not the best choice for you.
Details:
- Sometimes you just want to grill something simply, like people did before all these smart devices came. And I have to say, sometimes it is the best way. This little indoor BBQ grill allows you to reduce cholesterol and fat in your food while keeping all the flavour and juices sealed in.
- Grilling method: Couldn’t be simpler or more versatile. This stovetop grill does what its name says, sit on top of your stove. It has a drip pan under it that will catch fats. You can also use it to steam foods, which is a great additional option.
- This is the best indoor grill for vegetables: Yes, it is ok for meats, but because of its small surface, I like it a lot better for veggies. But, you can try it out and judge for yourself.
- Does it have temperature control? Sadly, no. You will depend on your stove completely with this model.
- Is it dishwasher safe? Both the nonstick grilling surface and the stainless steel drip pan can be put in the dishwasher.
- Price to quality ratio? If you love grilling from time to time, and you’re not too demanding, this is the perfect option. Priced at around $20, it is more than worth the buck and cheap enough to be disposable. Check latest price on Amazon here >>
I love checking out how these things do in the real world because anything can seem good on paper (or screen in this case). People who use this smokeless indoor BBQ grill seem rather happy with their purchase.
My apartment building has an incredibly sensitive fire alarm, so whatever I’m grilling, has to be absolutely smokeless. That is why I was a bit nervous about trying out this grill. I’m really impressed – it doesn’t produce smoke at all, and the food comes out great.
This is perfect for daily use. Veggies, sausage, pork, chicken, beef – it all tastes very good.
When I first saw it, I was skeptical, but the number of great reviews convinced me to give it a shot. I was pleasantly surprised when it arrived. With some experimenting with the coating on veggies, I have to say it comes surprisingly close to a real outdoor grill.
What Buyers
Have To Say
Have To Say
Best indoor grill for steaks: George Foreman 4-Serving Removable Plate Grill
Why users love it?
- High quality with a great price
- Cooks up to 4 servings at once, and does so quickly
- Removable plates that are easy to clean
Pros: The plates on this smokeless indoor BBQ grill model are removable, and it isn’t just a smokeless indoor BBQ grill, it is also a Panini press.
Cons: The only things I didn’t like here are the lack of temperature control and the lack of an on/off switch.
Details:
- This simple model with removable plates and advanced nonstick coating heats up rather quickly and can grill 4 servings at once. Amazingly durable and practical, this model really pops out when you’re considering something small and practical for your indoor grilling culinary adventures.
- Grilling method: Electric. Yes, a simple electric grill, without an on/off switch. This means you’ll have to be a bit more careful with the power cord.
- It is best for cooking… Well, to be honest, this smokeless indoor BBQ grill can do anything – steaks, chicken, burgers… You can adjust the grill height for the thickness of the food you’re making.
- Does it have temperature control? Unfortunately, no. As I already mentioned, this is a flaw of this model. There’s no temperature control, so you’re on your own – you simply have to check the food every once in a while.
- Is it dishwasher safe? You can remove both the plates and the drip tray and put them in your dishwasher without giving it a second thought.
- Price to quality ratio? Simply amazing. With a price just under $30, this is one of the best choices out there. Check latest price on Amazon here >>
As smokeless indoor BBQ grill reviews go, this one comes with glowing recommendations.
A great indoor grill for two people, takes up very little space, and cleanup is really easy.
It heats up quickly and grills the food so fast that I almost burned the first meal I made on it. Very glad I got it.
I love it. I can even put a ¾ inch thick frozen hamburger patties on it and in 12 minutes they will be well done and seared on the surface. It also makes great rib eye, T-bone steak, and veggies.
What Buyers
Have To Say
Have To Say
Best Large Indoor Grill: Philips Smoke-less Indoor Grill HD6371/94
Why users love it?
- Heats up quickly
- Grills evenly
- Super simple to use
Pros: Philips went all out with this model. It has infrared technology and special reflectors that together make your food delicious and evenly grilled. Read more here >>
Cons: The price tag is a bit steep.
Details:
- This smokeless indoor BBQ grill has every feature you might want. What I really love is the fact that within 6 minutes, this grill will reach 446 degrees Fahrenheit and maintain that temperature through the cooking process.
- Grilling method: This electric grill uses infrared technology to grill your meat and veggies to perfection. The only thing you should bear in mind is the fact that there still might be some smoke when you grill something fatty like Italian sausages.
- It is best for cooking… Anything you want. Seriously, this grill is able to handle anything and cook it the way you like, and leave those wonderful grill marks.
- Does it have temperature control? No, but according to Philips, you always know the temperature, as it is always the same – 446 degrees. I have to say, even if it doesn’t have real temperature control, the “keep warm” button is pretty good – it will keep the food warm without drying it.
- Is it dishwasher safe? Yes. The two removable parts clean up effortlessly in the dishwasher. The walls of the unit are a bit more difficult to clean though.
- Price to quality ratio? Materials and technology used are definitely high quality, and if you love making BBQ for more people at once, this indoor grill is big enough for a party. It costs a bit over $260 so it isn’t exactly cheap, but if you need a bigger grill, this is definitely something to check out. Check latest price on Amazon here >>
According to people who have it for a while now, this model is the best indoor grill for chicken and beef.
Unlike with other indoor grills, you can really feel the heat with this one. Make sure not to place it under any counters, it needs open space. It is completely smokeless, and the meat turns out perfect.
It is heaven-sent. We live in an apartment building and love to grill, which can be a problem as you may imagine. We considered many options – a blowtorch, an illegal hibachi, but nothing was good enough. And then we ordered this. Everything that comes off of it is simply yum!
I tried various electric grills, and none of them were able to the job properly. I can say that this model is great for asparagus, hotdogs, steak, chicken, and hamburgers. Great BBQ flavour profile, but none of the smoke.
What Buyers
Have To Say
Have To Say
Best Indoor & Outdoor Grill: George Foreman 15-Serving Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill
Why users love it?
- 15+ servings
- Indoor or outdoor – the choice is yours
- Adjustable temperature control
Pros: If you don’t have a lot of countertop space, this smokeless indoor BBQ grill model will be a life-saver. It comes with a pedestal, and thanks to the low smoke output, you can use it both indoors and outdoors.
Cons: The instructions in the user’s manual could be simpler, and I am not a fan of its short electric cord. You simply have to use an extension cord.
Details:
This George Foreman model simply looks and feels like a real grill. You can use it on the pedestal, or simply put it on your counter – whatever works for you. And, you can take it with you wherever you go, as long as you can find a plug, you can use it.
- Grilling method: Electric. With this model, you don’t have to worry about charcoal or gas, and it works like an outdoor grill would.
- It is best for cooking…meats. Any meat you can imagine. This grill will cook it wonderfully, remove the extra fat, and leave your favourite meat lean and healthy.
- Does it have temperature control? Yes, it does. And I have to say, it works like a charm. You can make adjustments from low to high, so your food will be prepared just the way you like.
- Is it dishwasher safe? The drip tray and the grill plate are both dishwasher safe. The body itself is electrical, so you just need to wipe it after use.
- Price to quality ratio? It costs around $80, and when you consider what you’re getting, it’s worth every penny. Check latest price on Amazon here >>
This smokeless indoor barbecue grill has a lot of positive comments, and now that I tested it and tasted the food from it, I understand them completely.
We can’t have propane or charcoal grills in our new apartment, so we decided to give this a shot. We used it for our annual BQ, and our entire family (us included) loved how the food turned out!
Get it! I love mine! I did a batch of 8 burgers and had room to spare. It’s easy to put together, and you’ll be grilling in no time. Also, the dome lid is genius, and it locks in the moisture to make the juiciest burgers I’ve ever had.
I almost got rid of my old gas grill after using this for the first time. Sure, it doesn’t have that charcoal taste, but it cooks evenly and leaves wonderful sear lines.
What Buyers
Have To Say
Have To Say
Best indoor grill cheap-budget: MaxiMatic EGL-3450GD Elite Cuisine 13-Inch Countertop Non-Stick Electric Indoor Grill
Why users love it?
- Removable, adjustable thermostat
- Detachable power cord
- Even, low-fat cooking
Pros: A huge plus for me is the thermostat that has clear temperature settings between 195 to 445 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cons: Although it does cook food just like an outdoor grill, this smokeless indoor BBQ grill model is definitely not as fast.
Details:
MaxiMatic really hit gold with this model. It’s simple to use, it’s convenient, it has a nonstick surface, and its high temperatures will lock the flavour in and guarantee perfect results every time.
- Grilling method: Electric. This 13 inch smokeless indoor BBQ grill is definitely big enough for you to forget that it isn’t an outdoor model.
- It is best for what you like most. Seriously, even though it takes some time to reach the desired temperature, you can prepare anything on it from seafood to meats and veggies, and the flavour will be just right.
- Does it have temperature control? Yes, and it is rather precise. You can choose the precise temperature you want, and once it reaches that temperature, it will maintain it during the entire cooking process.
- Is it dishwasher safe? The drip pan and grill are, while the rest has to be cleaned with a wet cloth.
- Price to quality ratio? You can get it for around $40 which is an incredible price for such a versatile smokeless indoor BBQ grill. You can grill on it, but you can also use it as a nonstick pan and prepare eggs, pancakes and toast. Check latest price on Amazon here >>
It’s rare that I see smokeless indoor grill reviews that are this positive.
Everything is easy about this model. I grilled everything on it, chicken, pork chops, steaks, even veggies, and I have to say, this is my new favourite appliance!
This little grill is more than I expected. It’s cheap, it’s fast, and my vegetables and tofu char up wonderfully.
I use it for shrimp and beef, and it definitely works better than I hoped. It’s easy to use, and incredibly easy to clean.
What Buyers
Have To Say
Have To Say
Indoor BBQ Pro Tips and Tricks
Can you have a BBQ inside?
I heard a bunch of people asking this very question, and after testing all of these smokeless indoor BBQ grills, I have to say YES. It will smell and taste just like an outdoor BBQ, except it won’t make as much smoke, or, in case of some models, at all.
Can you use a charcoal grill inside?
A resounding no. I know it is tempting, and that people might think that nothing can go wrong. But here’s the thing, even if you have ventilation, you should never use charcoal indoors, as it produces CO fumes that can kill you.
Can you use a propane grill indoors?
Another big nope. Gas grills, just like charcoal ones, produce a lot of carbon monoxide that can kill you even in small amounts.
How do you grill without a grill?
You can use any type of cast iron pan. You can also get a grill pan or choose one of the options from the reviews above – a stovetop or an electric grill. Another great thing to do? Use liquid smoke, it will add that BBQ aroma.
Can you grill on the stove?
Oh yes, and how! A grill pan or a stovetop grill will do the job wonderfully. If you get a good stovetop grill you can grill meats, seafood, and veggies to perfection, but without any smoke, or grease splatter.
How to grill indoors on a stove
Just place the grill pan or a stovetop grill on your stove, heat it until it’s very hot. Set the food on the grill, reduce the heat to medium, and that’s it.
How do you grill steaks indoors?
You can do it in several ways – in the oven, in a skillet, a grill pan, on a stovetop grill, or on an electric smokeless grill.
How long do you cook a steak on an indoor grill?
Once the grill is hot, you need to grill a steak for 8-15 minutes while turning the meat halfway through until it’s at 140 degrees, and it has those nice sear marks.
How do I grill chicken without a grill?
Spray the grill pan, or an iron cast pan with cooking spray and preheat for a minute. Place the chicken meat in the hot pan. Cook for about 4 minutes on one side, flip and leave for another 4 minutes on the other side.
Can you grill in the oven?
Yes, and it is incredibly simple. Preheat your broiler in the oven on high. Place the oven grill close to the heat source. Broil the veggies or meat on both sides just as long as you would on a grill.
DIY indoor smokeless grill
This is how our grandparents used to do their indoor grilling on rainy days. You take a metal plate and wrap it in aluminium foil. Then you turn your burner on high. Put the plate on it, wait until it radiates heat. Spray with a bit of cooking spray, and place meat on it. Prepare as you would on a grill. It should produce little to no smoke and give that grilled taste to the food. And voila, a smokeless indoor BBQ grill.
Indoor charcoal grill
While grilling with charcoal indoors is not recommended, there are still ways for you to get your favourite charcoal scented meats and vegetables. Small portable charcoal grills can be used near a window or on your terrace safely.
Built-in indoor charcoal grill
If you have the means, you can build a charcoal grill in your home. They are rather pricey, and you will have to build a good ventilation system if you want a real charcoal grill indoors.
How to build an indoor charcoal grill
If you decide to do this, you will basically be building a cooking fireplace in your kitchen. For this, you have to contact your local zoning board and get the permits. Also, you should check if that will work for your home. Installing a chimney and a hearth is very complicated, so you will have to contact a professional.
Indoor gas grill
Even though you should never use a gas grill in closed spaces, with some caution you can use a portable gas grill near an open window or on your terrace.
Indoor gas grill for kitchen
If you have a working carbon monoxide detector in your kitchen, you can use an indoor gas grill, but you will need good ventilation, and you won’t be able to grill for long.
How to use liquid smoke to improve taste
This is captured smoke that has been turned into a liquid so you can add it to your food. It is FDA-approved. All you need to do, to get that perfect smoky flavour, is brush a little onto the meat in the last minutes of grilling.
How to Use a Non-Stick Grill Pan
Preheat the pan on medium high temperature. Place lightly oiled meat or vegetables onto it. Cover the pan with a lid. It will speed up the cooking process, and enhance the smoky flavour. Leave for two minutes, then flip. Repeat until done.
In the end
It’s all up to you. Which of the models listed above is the best smokeless indoor BBQ grill depends on your preferences? If you need a stovetop grill, the Kitchen + Home model should be perfect for you. If you want something that’s good both for outdoors and indoors, the George Foreman 15-serving grill is the way to go. You need something large? Check out the Philips model. Need something budget-friendly? Go for the MaxiMatic grill. The best grill for steaks? George Foreman 4-serving model is something you should seriously consider. On the other hand, if you want a model that is best overall – T-fal is your choice.
