Hamilton Beach 25331 Steak Lover's Indoor Searing Grill

Overview

A single heating element under a flat nonstick plate does the work, with a digital control that pushes the surface to searing heat when the lit sear button is pressed. Fat runs off the plate into a drip tray that lifts out for washing. The stainless frame stands on its own on the counter.

Searing is why this grill exists: the high setting browns meat fast enough to lock in juices before the inside overcooks. Cooking area is the limitation, as the surface fits a couple of steaks or a few chicken thighs and no more, so a family dinner means grilling in rounds.

Who it's for

One or two person households that eat steak, pork chops or burgers weekly and lack an outdoor grill get a fast searing plate. Large families, or cooks who want to press sandwiches under a lid, should check for a lid before buying, as none is named.

Pros and cons

Performance notes

Sear quality depends on the plate reaching high heat before the meat lands, and the digital control with the sear button drives the single element to its top setting for that. Grease drains through the plate into the tray, which limits smoke from fat pooling. Cooking time is short because the plate is small and the element is directly beneath it.

Specifications