For many of us, grilling in the backyard with family and friends is one of the highlights of summer. Of course, a good BBQ makes the task even more rewarding. You may not have realized it, but the electric BBQ is gaining in popularity as a convenient, easy-to-use alternative to traditional grilling.
Electric BBQs have come a long way thanks to cutting-edge technology that results in more consistent flavor without the mess, expense, or hassle of a charcoal, wood, or propane BBQ.
Intrigued? Here’s what you need to know about electric BBQs.
How an Electric BBQ Differs From Other Grills
An electric BBQ differs from other grills in a few key ways:
- Power source: Electric grills use electricity from an outlet to create heat and cook your food. Meanwhile, other grills use a flame source, charcoal, or pellets to create heat.
- Quick heating: An electric BBQ heats up in just a few minutes, as opposed to other types of grills, which require a bit of time to set up and create the right size flame.
- Accessories: Electric grills don’t require additional products like propane, charcoal, and lighter fluid, which often means a lower operating cost for an electric BBQ compared to propane grills.
The Many Benefits of an Electric BBQ
Here are just some of the reasons people love their electric BBQ:
- There’s no fuss at all, just plug in the electric BBQ and get cooking.
- Just because you don’t see flames dancing across your electric grill doesn’t mean it won’t infuse your food with great flavor. The high heat from electric grills browns the food and gives it a tasty outer crust.
- An electric BBQ creates less smoke than other types of grills so you’re less likely to irritate bystanders or neighbors with excessive smoke.
- If your apartment’s safety regulations prohibit open flames, an electric BBQ is the perfect solution.
- When it comes to electric grills, there’s no ash or residue left behind because electric grills don’t use combustible materials.
- Today’s electric grills include safety features like a timer that automatically shuts the grill off if it’s accidentally left on, or a circuit breaker that trips if there’s a wiring problem.
Is an Electric BBQ For You?
If you like a grill that’s easy to set up and clean, is cost-effective, and is safe to use indoors or outdoors, then an electric BBQ might be the right option for your grilling needs. Here are a few of our picks if you’re ready to dive into the world of electric BBQs.
Grill Big With George Foreman
The George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill offers a large round grilling surface that can fit more than 15 servings of food. So, it’s ideal for big get-togethers outside. And if the party heads indoors, just remove the sturdy base and the grill fits on a countertop.
If you’re familiar with the Foreman grills you may remember the sloped grilling surface, which allows the fat to drip off away from food and into the drip tray.
Additional features include:
- Temperature gauge
- Domed lid
- Special non-stick surface
Cuisinart Makes Electric Grilling Quick & Easy
Cuisinart’s Outdoor Electric Tabletop Grill is a perfect electric BBQ for tight spaces like small backyards and balconies. All you need is a power source, and you can start grilling your favorite meats, fish, and vegetables. Its size also means you can conveniently store it in a cabinet or closet.
Another feature people rave about is how quickly the grill heats up. In no time at all, you’ll be able to sear a steak perfectly.
Additional features include:
- 145-square-inch grilling surface
- Lid latch and spill-resistant drip tray
- Folding table base
- Porcelain enamel-coated grill grate
Enjoy High-Tech Grilling With the Char-Broil Electric BBQ
The stylish Char-Broil Patio Bistro Tru-Infrared Electric Grill uses infrared heat to cook food. A specially designed plate within the grill prevents flair up and creates even heat all the way through your food during cooking.
Another handy feature is the lid-mounted temperature gauge that lets you monitor the temperature inside the grill.
Additional features include:
- Integrated control knob to adjust temperature
- Easy-to-clean rust-resistant porcelain-coated grate
- Removable warming rack
Grilling Has Never Been Easier Than With an Electric BBQ
From start to finish, grilling on an electric BBQ is an easy process. Invest in an electric BBQ today and it won’t be long before you’re grilling tasty meals for friends and family.
