There’s a particular kind of usefulness in a machine that flattens into a flat-top griddle for Sunday pancakes, folds into a contact grill for weeknight burgers, and clamps down as a panini press for lunch. The Cuisinart Griddler earns its counter space exactly that way, doing five jobs that would otherwise need a grill pan, a griddle, and a sandwich press.
What makes us love it is the clever reversible-plate design. The plates flip from ridged grill to smooth griddle, and the hinge opens flat to double your cooking surface or closes to press, so one appliance covers grilled cheese, sausages, steaks, pancakes, and paninis. It’s the all-purpose indoor cooker that quietly handles half your week’s meals.
Here’s what the Cuisinart Griddler does best, how the models compare, and which one fits your kitchen.
The Best Deals This Week*
-
Indoor Grill & Panini Press
$115.65
($129.95)Save $14.30 -
5-in-1 Indoor Grill & Panini Press
$119.46
($139.95)Save $20.49 -
Indoor Smoke-Free Grilling at Home
$139.99
($169.95)Save $29.96 -
5-in-1 Indoor Grill & Panini Press
$89.95
($99.95)Save $10.00 -
Ninja Indoor Electric Grill and Griddle 14"
$119.95
($149.99)Save $30.04
*Deals are selected by our commerce team
Deeper Dive: Our Top Picks
Our Top Picks
Cuisinart
Indoor Grill & Panini Press: Cuisinart Griddler 5-in-1 GR-4NNAS Stainless Steel
The Cuisinart Griddler GR-4NNAS works as a contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle, and half grill/half griddle in one unit, with dual temperature controls that reach up to 425°F for precise cooking across everything from pancakes to steaks. Home cooks who want one appliance to replace several countertop gadgets will find this earns its counter space.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Five distinct cooking modes in one footprint covers grilled cheese, hamburgers, panini, sausages, and pancakes without switching appliances.
- Griddle mode temperature range of 200°F to 425°F gives meaningful control for delicate items like eggs alongside high-heat searing.
- Dishwasher-safe removable plates and drip tray make cleanup a practical daily habit rather than a chore.
- PFAS-free nonstick coating addresses a common concern buyers have with older nonstick surfaces.
Cons
- At $115, it costs more than single-function panini presses, so buyers who only make sandwiches may not recoup the versatility.
- No customer reviews are currently available to validate real-world durability claims beyond manufacturer specifications.
Cuisinart
5-in-1 Indoor Grill & Panini Press: Cuisinart Griddler FIVE (GR-5NAS) with LCD Display & Sear Function
The Cuisinart Griddler FIVE handles five cooking modes in one unit, including contact grill, full griddle, and panini press, with a 175–450°F range and a dedicated sear function for meats and fish. Home cooks who want a single countertop appliance that replaces multiple tools will get the most value from its reversible nonstick plates and dishwasher-safe cleanup.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Five distinct cooking modes in one footprint reduces counter clutter for small kitchens.
- The 175–450°F adjustable range covers everything from melting cheese on a panini to searing a steak.
- Dishwasher-safe plates and an included scraping tool make cleanup straightforward after greasy cooks.
- The LCD panel with digital controls removes the guesswork of analog dials, especially useful for timed recipes.
Cons
- With no listed cooking surface dimensions in the product specs, buyers with large households should verify plate size before purchasing.
- At $119, it costs more than single-function panini presses, so buyers who only make sandwiches may be paying for modes they will never use.
Cuisinart
6-in-1 Elite Griddler GR-300NAS Review: Electric Grill
The Cuisinart GR-300NAS combines six cooking modes, a 500°F sear function, and 240 square inches of ceramic nonstick surface into one countertop appliance, replacing your contact grill, panini press, and griddle. Home cooks who want one device to handle weekday breakfasts, grilled proteins, and melts without juggling multiple appliances will get the most from it.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Six distinct cooking configurations reduce the need for multiple countertop appliances, saving both space and cost.
- Ceramic nonstick coating on reversible plates resists sticking and simplifies post-meal cleanup compared to standard nonstick.
- The LCD display with programmable temperature and timer gives precise control that basic dial-style griddlers cannot match.
- The top melt function adds an oven-broiler alternative for finishing dishes with melted cheese or toasted toppings.
Cons
- At 240 square inches the cooking surface suits families of four but may feel limiting when entertaining larger groups.
- The 500°F sear function and multiple modes add complexity that occasional users may find unnecessary compared to simpler single-purpose grills.
Cuisinart
Indoor Smoke-Free Grilling at Home: Cuisinart Griddler GR-6SNAS with 5 Cooking Modes
The Cuisinart GR-6SNAS is a 5-in-1 indoor grill that uses grease-reducing plates, adjustable plate tilt, and precision temperature control to minimize smoke while cooking everything from burgers to paninis. Home cooks who want versatile indoor grilling without triggering smoke alarms will find this especially useful year-round.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Five cooking configurations in one unit eliminates the need for a separate panini press, griddle, or contact grill.
- The smoke-reduction system makes apartment and condo cooking practical where ventilation is limited.
- Pre-programmed protein settings reduce the learning curve for cooks who are new to indoor grilling.
- Opening flat doubles the cooking surface, making it practical for batch cooking rather than just single servings.
Cons
- At $139.99, it costs more than basic contact grills, so buyers who only need one cooking mode may find the extra configurations unnecessary.
- Smoke-Less mode reduces but does not eliminate smoke entirely, so some ventilation is still advisable when cooking fatty meats at high heat.
Cuisinart
5-in-1 Indoor Grill & Panini Press: Cuisinart Griddler Compact for Everyday Cooking
The Cuisinart Griddler Compact delivers five cooking modes in one countertop appliance, with reversible nonstick plates that handle everything from pancakes to pressed sandwiches. Apartment dwellers, small households, and anyone replacing multiple single-use appliances will get the most value from its compact footprint and dishwasher-safe cleanup.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Five cooking configurations in a single unit means fewer appliances cluttering cabinet space.
- Dishwasher-safe removable parts cut cleanup time significantly compared to fixed-plate competitors.
- The included scraping tool and drip tray make between-cook maintenance quick without a full teardown.
- Reversible plates give both a ridged grilling surface and a smooth griddle surface without buying accessories.
Cons
- Compact sizing limits the cooking surface, making it less practical when cooking for more than two or three people.
- No floating hinge noted in the specs, which can make it harder to press thicker sandwiches or uneven cuts of meat evenly.
Chefman
Two-Slice Panini Press and Open Grill for Quick Meals, Chefman RJ02-180
The Chefman RJ02-180 presses two sandwiches and opens 180 degrees for grilling, with non-stick plates and a removable drip tray simplifying meal preparation and cleanup. It suits small kitchens, dorm rooms, offices, and road trips because its compact design handles quick sandwiches, burgers, steaks, and vegetables.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- The floating hinge adjusts to different sandwich thicknesses.
- The grill opens flat to provide a 10 x 8.75-inch cooking surface.
- The non-stick plates and removable drip tray reduce cleanup effort.
- UL approval and a one-year assurance provide added purchase support.
Cons
- The 5.5 x 8.75-inch closed cooking surface is limited to about two sandwiches at a time.
- The product data does not mention adjustable temperature controls.
Ninja Indoor Electric Grill and Griddle 14" - 500°F High-Heat Countertop Grill with Interchangeable Plates
This 14-inch electric grill reaches 500°F for restaurant-quality sear marks and includes both grill and griddle plates for steak, burgers, pancakes, and vegetables. Buy it if you want smokeless indoor grilling with edge-to-edge even heating and dishwasher-safe cleanup for families of 4-6.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Heats to 500°F quickly and maintains consistent temperature across the entire 14-inch surface, preventing unevenly cooked food.
- Interchangeable grill and griddle plates handle breakfast through dinner without needing multiple appliances on your counter.
- Nonstick coating releases food easily and both plates plus the mesh lid go straight into the dishwasher.
- Fits six burgers or pancakes at once, making it practical for feeding a family without cooking in batches.
Cons
- The 14-inch cooking surface may feel cramped if you regularly cook for more than six people or need to prepare multiple dish types simultaneously.
- Some users report the nonstick coating requires careful handling with silicone or wooden utensils to prevent scratching over time.
Editors' Picks
Cuisinart Indoor Grill & Panini Press: Cuisinart Griddler 5-in-1 GR-4NNAS Stainless Steel
Cuisinart
Indoor Grill & Panini Press: Cuisinart Griddler 5-in-1 GR-4NNAS Stainless Steel
The Cuisinart Griddler GR-4NNAS works as a contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle, and half grill/half griddle in one unit, with dual temperature controls that reach up to 425°F for precise cooking across everything from pancakes to steaks. Home cooks who want one appliance to replace several countertop gadgets will find this earns its counter space.
$115.65 at AmazonEditors' Favorite
Color: Brushed Stainless Size: Medium Dimensions: 13.5 x 11.5 x 7.12 Inches Weight: 11.5 Pounds Product Group: Kitchen Binding: Kitchen
Shop NowCuisinart 5-in-1 Indoor Grill & Panini Press: Cuisinart Griddler FIVE (GR-5NAS) with LCD Display & Sear Function
Cuisinart
5-in-1 Indoor Grill & Panini Press: Cuisinart Griddler FIVE (GR-5NAS) with LCD Display & Sear Function
The Cuisinart Griddler FIVE handles five cooking modes in one unit, including contact grill, full griddle, and panini press, with a 175–450°F range and a dedicated sear function for meats and fish. Home cooks who want a single countertop appliance that replaces multiple tools will get the most value from its reversible nonstick plates and dishwasher-safe cleanup.
$119.46 at AmazonGreat Value
Color: Digital Griddler Size: Digital Gridder Dimensions: 8.75 x 16 x 13.75 inches Product Group: Kitchen Binding: Kitchen
Shop NowCuisinart 6-in-1 Elite Griddler GR-300NAS Review: Electric Grill
Cuisinart
6-in-1 Elite Griddler GR-300NAS Review: Electric Grill
The Cuisinart GR-300NAS combines six cooking modes, a 500°F sear function, and 240 square inches of ceramic nonstick surface into one countertop appliance, replacing your contact grill, panini press, and griddle. Home cooks who want one device to handle weekday breakfasts, grilled proteins, and melts without juggling multiple appliances will get the most from it.
$249.00 at AmazonColor: New Version - Elite Griddler Size: New Version - Elite Griddler Dimensions: 10.37 x 18.5 x 16.5 inches Weight: 19.6 Pounds Product Group: Kitchen Binding: Kitchen
Shop NowCuisinart Indoor Smoke-Free Grilling at Home: Cuisinart Griddler GR-6SNAS with 5 Cooking Modes
Cuisinart
Indoor Smoke-Free Grilling at Home: Cuisinart Griddler GR-6SNAS with 5 Cooking Modes
The Cuisinart GR-6SNAS is a 5-in-1 indoor grill that uses grease-reducing plates, adjustable plate tilt, and precision temperature control to minimize smoke while cooking everything from burgers to paninis. Home cooks who want versatile indoor grilling without triggering smoke alarms will find this especially useful year-round.
$139.99 at AmazonColor: Stainless Steel Size: Medium Dimensions: 9.25 x 14.5 x 14 inches Weight: 9.8 pounds Product Group: Kitchen Binding: Kitchen
Shop NowCuisinart 5-in-1 Indoor Grill & Panini Press: Cuisinart Griddler Compact for Everyday Cooking
Cuisinart
5-in-1 Indoor Grill & Panini Press: Cuisinart Griddler Compact for Everyday Cooking
The Cuisinart Griddler Compact delivers five cooking modes in one countertop appliance, with reversible nonstick plates that handle everything from pancakes to pressed sandwiches. Apartment dwellers, small households, and anyone replacing multiple single-use appliances will get the most value from its compact footprint and dishwasher-safe cleanup.
$89.95 at AmazonColor: Silver Size: OS Dimensions: 10.58 x 10.58 x 7 Inches Weight: 8 pounds Product Group: Kitchen Binding: Kitchen
Shop NowChefman Two-Slice Panini Press and Open Grill for Quick Meals, Chefman RJ02-180
Chefman
Two-Slice Panini Press and Open Grill for Quick Meals, Chefman RJ02-180
The Chefman RJ02-180 presses two sandwiches and opens 180 degrees for grilling, with non-stick plates and a removable drip tray simplifying meal preparation and cleanup. It suits small kitchens, dorm rooms, offices, and road trips because its compact design handles quick sandwiches, burgers, steaks, and vegetables.
$34.99 at AmazonColor: Black Size: 2 Slice Dimensions: 10 x 12 x 5 inches Weight: 4 Pounds Product Group: Kitchen Binding: Kitchen
Shop NowNinja Indoor Electric Grill and Griddle 14" - 500°F High-Heat Countertop Grill with Interchangeable Plates
Ninja Indoor Electric Grill and Griddle 14" - 500°F High-Heat Countertop Grill with Interchangeable Plates
This 14-inch electric grill reaches 500°F for restaurant-quality sear marks and includes both grill and griddle plates for steak, burgers, pancakes, and vegetables. Buy it if you want smokeless indoor grilling with edge-to-edge even heating and dishwasher-safe cleanup for families of 4-6.
$119.95 at AmazonBrand Name: Ninja Included Components: 14’’ Nonstick Flat-Top Griddle Plate, 14’’ Nonstick Grill Plate, Ninja Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill & Griddle14’’ Nonstick Flat-Top Griddle Plate, 14’’ Nonstick Grill Plate, Ninja Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill & Griddle See more Global Trade Identification Number: 10622356598887 UPC: 622356598880 Manufacturer: Ninja Part Number: GR101 Item Type Name: Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill & Griddle, 14'' Interchangeable Nonstick Grill and Griddle Plates, Dishwasher-Safe Removable Mesh Lid, 500F Max Heat, Even Edge-to-Edge Cooking, Grey/Silver Best Sellers Rank: #1,573 in Kitchen & Dining (See Top 100 in Kitchen & Dining) #5 in Electric Contact Grills ASIN: B0C8VHBBZK Customer Reviews: 4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars (3,615) 4.6 out of 5 stars Material: Metal, Plastic Other Special Features of the Product: Dishwasher Safe, Non Stick Coating, Scratch Resistant, Temperature Control Wattage: 1450 watts Voltage: 120 Volts Item Dimensions D x W x H: 14.72"D x 15.16"W x 6.1"H Item Weight: 7.8 Pounds Color: Grey/Silver Product Style: Modern Warranty Type: 1 Year Warranty Special Feature: Dishwasher Safe, Non Stick Coating, Scratch Resistant, Temperature Control Brand: Ninja Product Dimensions: 14.72"D x 15.16"W x 6.1"H Style: Modern
Shop NowAbout These Recommendations
The technique above is the point of this guide; the products are here because they help. We have not tested them ourselves — we did not buy or use this gear. The recommendations come from comparing specifications and materials against the patterns in verified owner reviews, so treat them as a shortlist worth researching rather than a verdict from our own kitchen.
Availability and prices change often, so check the current listing before buying. We earn a commission on purchases made through links on this page, which never affects what we recommend.
The Picks We Love
Cuisinart Griddler 5-in-1 (GR-4NNAS)
The best all-around pick and the classic that defines the line. This 5-in-1 handles everything: contact grill for burgers and steaks, panini press for sandwiches, full open grill, full griddle for pancakes and eggs, and a half-grill/half-griddle for cooking both at once. The reversible nonstick plates flip between ridged and smooth and pop out for dishwasher cleaning. In stainless steel with a floating hinge that adjusts to food thickness, it’s the versatile workhorse most people should buy. For one machine that does grilling, griddling, and pressing, this is where we’d start.
Cuisinart Griddler FIVE (GR-5NAS)
The step-up pick with smarter controls. The Griddler FIVE adds an LCD display, a dedicated sear function for a high-heat crust on steaks, and more precise temperature control to the same 5-in-1 versatility. The sear feature is the standout, giving proteins a better browned exterior than the basic model. If you cook steaks and want more control over heat plus a clear display, the FIVE is worth the upgrade. Same reversible-plate flexibility, more cooking precision.
Cuisinart Elite Griddler 6-in-1 (GR-300NAS)
The premium pick for serious indoor cooks. The Elite is a 6-in-1 with electric grill, griddle, and panini press modes, a high 500F sear, and dual-zone temperature control so you can run the two halves at different heats, ideal for cooking a steak and vegetables simultaneously. The larger capacity and dual zones suit bigger families and more ambitious cooking. For someone who wants maximum control and capacity from an indoor grill, the Elite is the top of the Griddler line.
Cuisinart Griddler GR-6SNAS (5 Modes, Smoke-Free)
The pick for smoke-conscious kitchens and apartments. This Griddler emphasizes smoke-free indoor grilling across five cooking modes, so you can grill burgers and steaks indoors with less smoke filling the kitchen, a real plus for apartments or anyone without good ventilation. It keeps the reversible-plate versatility while minimizing the smoke that indoor grilling can produce. For grilling indoors year-round without setting off the smoke alarm, this is the considerate choice.
Cuisinart Griddler Compact (5-in-1)
The space-saving pick. This compact version delivers the same 5-in-1 versatility, grill, griddle, contact grill, press, half-and-half, in a smaller footprint for tight kitchens, dorms, or couples who don’t need the full-size capacity. It stores more easily and costs less while still covering everyday grilling and pressing. For someone short on counter space who wants the Griddler’s flexibility without the bulk, the Compact is the sensible pick.
How to Choose
Start with capacity and how much control you want. The standard 5-in-1 (GR-4NNAS) is the right pick for most people, full versatility at a fair price, while the Compact suits tight spaces and the Elite serves bigger families with dual-zone heat. Then weigh the upgrades: a dedicated sear function (Griddler FIVE) and a high 500F sear with dual temperature zones (Elite) genuinely improve steak results and let you cook two foods at different heats, but they cost more, so they’re worth it only if you’ll use them. If you grill indoors often and lack ventilation, the smoke-free GR-6SNAS is worth prioritizing. Across all models, the reversible nonstick plates that pop out for the dishwasher are the feature that makes a Griddler pleasant to live with, confirm your pick has removable, dishwasher-safe plates. For the utensils to use on it, see our cooking utensils guide.
Care and Use
The Griddler is easy to maintain if you treat the nonstick plates kindly. The plates are removable and dishwasher safe on most models, the biggest convenience, so pop them out and wash them rather than scrubbing a fixed surface. Use silicone or wood utensils, never metal, to protect the nonstick coating, and avoid cooking sprays with propellants, which leave a sticky residue that builds up over time; a light brush of oil works better. Let the machine cool before removing the plates and wiping the housing with a damp cloth (never submerge the base). For the drip tray that catches grease in grill mode, empty and wash it after each use. With that routine, the plates stay slick and the machine lasts for years. Store the plates flat or in the unit so they don’t warp.
Pairing and Ideas
A Griddler anchors a lot of casual cooking, and it pairs naturally with the right accessories. Keep silicone-tipped tongs and a spatula on hand to protect the nonstick plates, and a basting brush for oiling the surface. For paninis and grilled cheese, good bread and a press-friendly cheese make all the difference, and the half-grill/half-griddle mode lets you cook eggs alongside bacon for a full breakfast. If you also grill outdoors, the Griddler complements rather than replaces a real grill, it’s the rainy-day and weeknight option. Round out your indoor-cooking setup with picks from our cooking utensils guide and, for outdoor flame cooking, our portable grill guide.
Reader Q&A
What can you cook on a Cuisinart Griddler?
A lot: burgers, steaks, and sausages (contact or open grill), pancakes, eggs, and hash browns (flat griddle), grilled cheese and paninis (press mode), and with the half-grill/half-griddle setting, two types of food at once, like bacon and eggs. The reversible plates and opening hinge make it a true 5-in-1, covering grilling, griddling, and pressing from one machine.
What’s the difference between the Cuisinart Griddler models?
The standard GR-4NNAS is the versatile 5-in-1 workhorse. The Griddler FIVE adds an LCD display and a sear function. The Elite (GR-300NAS) is a 6-in-1 with a 500F sear and dual-zone temperature control for cooking two foods at different heats. The Compact is a smaller-footprint 5-in-1, and the GR-6SNAS emphasizes smoke-free indoor grilling. Choose based on capacity, control, and whether you need sear or dual zones.
Are the Cuisinart Griddler plates dishwasher safe?
On most models, yes, the reversible nonstick plates are removable and dishwasher safe, which is the feature that makes the Griddler easy to clean compared to fixed-surface grills. Always check your specific model, and use silicone or wood utensils (not metal) to protect the nonstick coating so the plates last. Letting them cool before washing prevents warping.
Can you use a Cuisinart Griddler as a panini press?
Yes, that’s one of its core modes. The hinged top closes down onto the food with a floating hinge that adjusts to the thickness of your sandwich, pressing paninis and grilled cheese evenly. Use the smooth or ridged plates depending on whether you want grill marks. The press function is one of the main reasons people buy a Griddler over a single-purpose grill.
Is the Cuisinart Griddler good for steaks?
Yes, especially the models with a sear function. The basic Griddler grills steaks well in contact or open mode, while the Griddler FIVE and Elite add a dedicated high-heat sear (up to 500F on the Elite) for a better browned crust. For the best steak results indoors, choose a model with the sear function; the standard model still does a respectable job for everyday cooking.
The Last Word
The Cuisinart Griddler is the 5-in-1 indoor cooker we love for its sheer versatility: grill, griddle, contact grill, panini press, and half-and-half from one machine with reversible, dishwasher-safe plates. The standard GR-4NNAS is the do-everything pick for most people, the Griddler FIVE and Elite add sear and dual-zone control for serious cooks, and the Compact saves space. Use silicone utensils to protect the plates, and it’ll handle half your week’s meals. Pair it with our cooking utensils guide.
Write Your Review
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!