The Best Indoor Grills That Actually Deliver Real Sear and Flavor

I’ve tested a lot of so-called “indoor grills” over the years—most of which either smoked up the kitchen or left steaks looking boiled instead of seared. So I went into this roundup with pretty low expectations. What I wanted was simple: grills that could handle real food with real flavor, without setting off my smoke alarm or forcing me to deep-clean my entire kitchen afterward. After trying everything from compact countertop models to multifunction air fryer hybrids, a few stood out for all the right reasons. 

These grills delivered not just on performance, but on practicality. They were hot enough to sear, easy enough to clean, and compact enough not to dominate my counter space. If you’re craving grilled flavor without the outdoor setup, these are the best indoor grills actually worth your money to prepare Argentine Asado.

How I Tested the Best Indoor Grills for Argentine Asado

Testing indoor grills sounds easy—until you’re standing in a tiny kitchen with limited counter space, no range hood, and a neighbor who complains if you so much as toast bread too loudly. I wanted to see which grills could bring serious flavor without setting off the smoke alarm or filling the apartment with greasy fog when grilling meat cuts like falda. I cooked everything from thick ribeyes to quick weeknight veggies, and even gave a few breakfast tests a shot (because let’s be honest, if your indoor grill can’t handle bacon, it’s useless).

Beyond the basics of heat and smoke, I paid close attention to how each grill handled cleanup, how well it fit into a normal kitchen routine, and whether it actually made me want to use it again. A few had great sear power but were a nightmare to clean. Others were beautifully compact but left steaks gray and lifeless. In the end, only the ones that struck the right balance—flavor, ease of use, and realistic indoor practicality—made the cut.

1- Best for Apartment Dwellers Who Miss Real Grilling

Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill

I didn’t expect much going in, honestly. Most indoor grills I’ve tried in the past left me disappointed—either too smoky for a small space or not hot enough to get a proper sear. But this Hamilton Beach model surprised me. It hits that sweet spot between performance and convenience. I’ve grilled burgers, pork chops, veggies, even shrimp, and the results were consistently juicy and nicely browned. The hood really helps trap heat and keep splatter to a minimum, which makes indoor grilling feel a lot more manageable.

Setup was stupidly easy—plug it in, wait a few minutes, and it’s ready to go. I was also impressed with the build quality. It doesn’t feel flimsy or toy-like, and it actually looks decent on the counter. Cleanup is where this grill really earns its spot in my kitchen. The grate, drip tray, and lid all come off and wash up without drama. And for something that gets this hot, it really doesn’t smoke much. That said, I’d still recommend having a fan on, especially if you’re cooking fattier cuts.

Pros

• Heats up to 450°F for actual searing, not just “warm and brown.”
• Removable grate, lid, and drip tray all go in the dishwasher.
• PFAS-free nonstick coating works great, even with minimal oil.
• Compact but fits enough food for 1–2 people easily (up to 6 servings if you plan well).
• Delivers solid grill marks and real flavor, even indoors.

Cons

• No true off switch—once it’s plugged in, it starts heating.
• Not ideal for larger cuts or thick multi-item meals (surface area is limited).

2- Best for Small Kitchens and Big Flavor Seekers

Ninja Foodi 4qt 5-in-1

I didn’t expect to stop using my oven and air fryer completely, but once I got the Ninja Foodi Grill into my kitchen, that’s exactly what happened. This thing isn’t just a countertop grill—it’s an all-in-one solution that’s made cooking faster, easier, and honestly, more fun. Whether I’m searing salmon, roasting turkey legs, or air frying wings, the results have consistently impressed me. The food comes out juicy, flavorful, and cooked more evenly than I expected from an indoor unit.

What really sold me was the flexibility. Grill, bake, roast, dehydrate, air fry—it can handle it all without turning my kitchen into a sauna. That’s been a huge plus during the summer months. Cleanup is quick too, which means I actually look forward to using it instead of dreading the aftermath. Sure, it’s not perfect, but for what it offers in one compact appliance, I’d say it’s easily one of the best purchases I’ve made for my kitchen in years.

Pros

• Reaches up to 450°F, allowing for proper searing that locks in juices and flavor—ideal for steaks, burgers, and more.
• The nonstick grill plate, lid, and drip tray are all removable and dishwasher safe, making post-cooking cleanup quick and hassle-free.
• The PFAS-free surface prevents food from sticking, even without added oils or sprays.
• Offers 118 square inches of cooking surface—enough to cook for up to six people—without taking up too much counter space.
• Produces juicy, evenly cooked food with minimal smoke, making it a solid alternative to outdoor grilling.

Cons

• Once the grill is plugged in, it begins heating immediately, which may be inconvenient for those who prefer a true on/off control.
• While not overly bulky, the grill still requires some planning in smaller kitchens, especially when cooking multiple items or larger cuts of meat.

3- Best for Weeknight Grilling Without the Smoke

Chefman Electric Smokeless Indoor Grill

After years of dealing with bulky outdoor grills and messy stovetop setups, I decided to try the Chefman Electric Smokeless Indoor Grill to see if it could deliver that grilled flavor without the smoke or hassle. I wasn’t expecting it to replace a charcoal grill by any means, but I wanted something that could handle a decent steak or some veggies on a weeknight without setting off the smoke alarm or turning the kitchen into a grease trap.

What I found was a surprisingly efficient, compact, and easy-to-clean grill that actually makes indoor Argentine Asado feel practical. It’s not flashy, and it has its limitations, but the Chefman delivered on its promise: solid grilled results with almost no smoke, and just enough heat to get a nice sear—if you’re patient. For the price, it’s a solid option, especially if you live in an apartment or just want a fuss-free way to grill indoors.

Pros

• With the water tray filled, this grill cuts down smoke to almost nothing. It’s apartment-friendly and doesn’t trigger alarms like other indoor grills.
• The non-stick cooking surface and dishwasher-safe parts make post-grill cleanup painless. No scrubbing forever to get grease off.
• The heat zones allow for cooking meats and veggies at different temps at the same time—great for full meals on one surface.
• Cool-touch handles and auto shut-off add peace of mind, especially when cooking around kids or pets.
• Despite its small footprint, the cooking area is large enough to make dinner for two or three without rotating batches constantly.

Cons

• Not having a cover limits some of the grilling techniques and heat retention. A workaround like foil can help, but it’s not the same.
• While it does a solid job on most foods, those wanting a deep sear or fast cook time might wish it reached higher temps.

4- Best for Small Patio Grilling Without the Hassle

George Foreman Indoor Outdoor Electric Grill

I picked up the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill mainly because I needed something apartment-friendly that could still handle a decent cookout. No propane, no charcoal—just plug it in and grill. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting much, but this grill has delivered some surprisingly solid results. Whether I’m grilling ribs, burgers, or chicken, it heats up fast and gives that grilled finish I miss when I can’t use a traditional barbecue.

The grill surface is big enough to feed a group—definitely over a dozen servings if you plan it right—and cleanup is painless thanks to the non-stick coating. It’s not without its flaws, though. The stand is wobbly, and the build doesn’t exactly scream premium quality. But for what it is, and the flexibility it offers indoors or out, it’s been a reliable part of my routine.

Pros

• The 200 square inches of grill space really come through when cooking for guests. It fits a surprising amount of food at once.
• It heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly across the surface, making it easy to grill meats, veggies, and more without constantly rotating things around.
• No propane or open flame means it’s ideal for balconies or apartments with strict rules. It’s portable and fits well in tight areas.
• The non-stick grill plate makes cleaning simple. No scraping, no scrubbing—just a quick wipe down or rinse and you’re done.
• True to the George Foreman brand, the sloped design drains away excess fat, which is a nice touch when grilling meats.

Cons

• The base design could be sturdier. The center pole doesn’t feel super stable, especially when the grill is loaded with food.
• While functional, the overall construction feels a bit cheap. It’s not the kind of grill you want to knock around or leave outside too long.

5- Best for Small Kitchens

George Foreman 4-Serving Removable Plate Electric Grill

The George Foreman 4-Serving Removable Plate Electric Grill and Panini Press has become one of those appliances I didn’t expect to use this often. At first, I just wanted something quick for weeknight meals—no smoke, no flare-ups, just simple grilling. But it ended up becoming a go-to for everything from bacon and burgers to grilled veggies and choripanes. The fact that it heats up fast and doesn’t require a drop of oil already makes it a win in my book.

What really stands out is the ease of use. You plug it in, wait a couple of minutes, and you’re good to go. The removable plates make cleanup ridiculously fast—I usually just pop them into the dishwasher. It’s compact, great for small kitchens, and while it’s not perfect (some food does slide around on the sloped surface), I genuinely think this is one of the most convenient countertop grills for everyday meals.

Pros

• It heats up in just a few minutes. I’m usually cooking within 5–6 minutes of plugging it in.
• The grill plates come off easily and go straight into the dishwasher. Way better than scrubbing stuck-on grease by hand.
• The George Tough coating lives up to the name. No oil needed, and nothing sticks, even thin cuts of fish or bacon.
• It’s small enough for tight spaces but still cooks a full meal for two, maybe four, depending on what you’re making.
• The slope does a solid job at draining fat. Great if you’re trying to eat a little cleaner without giving up flavor.

Cons

• The sloped surface works for fat drainage, but things like chorizos can slide off if you’re not careful.
• The materials aren’t the most durable. It works fine, but I wouldn’t bank on it lasting 10 years with heavy use.

Conclusion

Not every indoor grill passed the Argentine Asado test—and honestly, that’s a good thing. I’d rather have a short list of go-to appliances than a cabinet full of compromises. What I found is that the best indoor grills don’t try to replace your backyard barbecue; they just make grilling accessible, fast, and low-effort. Whether it’s the full-flavored results from the Ninja Foodi or the simple practicality of the George Foreman 4-Serving Grill, these picks made me want to grill more often, not less. That’s the kind of kitchen upgrade I can get behind.