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In a hurry to melt cheese? My favorite raclette grill has to be the Swissmar Classic Anthracite Raclette.
If you haven’t been introduced to this raclette before, you’ll soon realize its a crowd-pleaser – at dinner parties and other gatherings. Raclette is both the name of the cheese and a dish itself. Originally from Switzerland, this traditional cuisine is becoming popular worldwide.
Zero cooking skills are required – and each of your guests can make their own meal based on their individual preferences. Before we explain further how, let’s find out what makes the best raclette grill.
A raclette grill is a versatile electric grill that contains several elements to create a self-serve, delicious meal. It’s mainly composed of two sections:
Here are some features you may wish to consider when looking for your grill:
First, you want to consider how many people you’re generally hosting. Are you purchasing this grill for family use, or are you looking to invite guests over?
While you find models aimed for dual-use, we recommend selecting a machine for six or eight people. If you’re only serving four, you can still use an 8-person grill. However, if you’re missing pans, some of your diners will remain hungry.
The cheese doesn’t need a high temperature to melt. However, for the meat, you do need a reliable, strong heating element to cook your food quickly and adequately.
Generally speaking, the smaller the grill, the less powerful the machine. If you’re looking for an 8-person grill, aim for 1000 to 1500 watts.
An adjustable temperature control feature gives more flexibility in cooking styles. You can also save on energy when you aren’t cooking meat or ingredients requiring intense heat.
Some grills come with a gradual light indicator for better visibility. If you’ve delegated temperature control to one of your guests, you’ll be able to monitor it from across the table.
Along with the number of watts, the cooking plate itself is critical for searing food, specifically meat.
Not only does granite look luxurious and impressive, but it’s also sturdy, heat resistant, and durable. As granite isn’t porous, it makes the cleaning process simpler once the party is over.
Cast aluminum is an excellent heat conductor. As it's lightweight, the appliance will also be easier to move and handle. This material doesn’t rust and is quick to wash, and some parts can even be placed in a dishwasher.
Teflon models can often retain heat better than other models and is often less costly. A significant advantage of these plates, though? You got it – their non-stick feature.
Not only does this make the cooking process smoother and less messy, but cleaning the surface will also be faster. You won’t have to struggle with food residue, risking scratches and damages on the way. Keep in mind, however, that non-stick surfaces don't last as long as granite types.
Grills are powerful electrical appliances, and inferior quality products can be a hazard. Both UL and ETL certifications give you confidence that the model has been thoroughly tested to ensure your safety.
Although your appetite will surely be growing by this point, wait for a touch longer before choosing your unit. I’ve gathered the best raclette grills to look out for:
I feel the Swissmar Classic Anthracite raclette grill could be one of the most user-friendly models on the market. First, you can adjust the temperature, whether you’d like to sear meat or slow-cook vegetables.
The cast aluminum cooking plate is reversible. It has a grill pattern on one side and a flat crepe plate on the other. This means that you’ll be able to cook both mains and desserts on a single machine.
Swissmar is also renowned for its quality products. The non-stick surface, with an enameled matte finish, is designed for both durability and fuss-free to clean-up.
As for the handles, they should remain cool for secure handling.
Finally, the grill comes with eight high-quality spatulas, raclette dishes, and even a few recipes to get you started. It’s also UL certified to ensure its safety and quality.
Dimensions: 16.5 x 9.6 x 5.6 inches
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This raclette grill from Milliard can feed up to eight people and could possibly be the best raclette grill for culinary creativity.
You can use the granite stone for both slow cooking or searing meat. The second plate, however, is made of Teflon material and is reversible. It’s flat on one side and features a grill top on the other. The three different surfaces offer scope for a varied menu at your dinner party.
The manufacturer also adds convenience and ease-of-use to the raclette grill. The non-stick pans are a breeze to clean, plus, both the tops and the receptacles are dishwasher safe.
To add to this, it comes with eight wooden spatulas and color-coded cheese pans. You can designate a receptacle to each one of your guests — putting paid to any arguments over cheese stealing!
Dimensions: 18 x 5 x 9.2 inches
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I feel the Artestia Electril Tabletop raclette grill has a couple of stand-out features. You’ll find a sliding button to control the heat setting conveniently. There is also an indicator to let you know the precise temperature of the plate. This means whether you’re grilling steak or shrimp, you'll be cooking the way you want to cook.
In addition, the plate can heat up to 375-degree Fahrenheit. You should be able to sear your meat perfectly and evenly.
Both the stone plate and the reversible cast aluminum cooking surface need to be hand washed. The eight cheese pans and the spatulas, however, can be conveniently cleaned using a dishwasher.
Finally, the handles are designed to withstand high-heat, and the entire grill is ETL certified.
Dimensions: 18.3 x 9.2 inches
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In my opinion, the Hamilton Beach model could be the best raclette grill in terms of value for money. Although it’s economical, it comes with all the needed features to make this machine efficient and convenient.
Like many of the other grills, it’s constructed to accommodate up to eight people. However, it’s unique in two ways.
First, there is ample cooking space on this plate — a total of 200 square inches. Second, the cooking surface is divided into two areas — a flat side and a grill. This is ideal if you need to cook multiple styles at once – there's no need to flip the top.
The cooking temperature of this grill can also be adjusted. When set at the highest heat, the extra-long handles should prevent unwanted burns.
Finally, not only is the material non-stick, but the plates, pans, and included spatulas are all dishwasher safe — saving you time and dreaded clean up afterward.
Dimensions: 15.5 x 16.5 x 7.12 inches
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If you liked the Swissmar Classic but wished it came with a cooking surface made of stone, the Swissmar Stelvio Stailness Raclette might be better suited for your style. It includes a single but impressive granite plate that should wow your guests at first glance.
The plate comes with grooves on all four sides to collect the juice as you’re cooking. You’ll only need to wipe the plate once it has cooled down.
The large grill is also designed for eight people and includes a temperature control feature. Inside the box, you’ll even find some raclette recipes if you need additional inspiration.
Lastly, this model includes all the needed accessories for a successful and delicious meal. You will, of course, find the eight non-stick cheese pans, but also the same amount of spatulas able to withstand high-heat.
Dimensions: 16.5 x 19.5 x 5 inches
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A great raclette grill not only makes delicious and easy-to-make meals. It also creates unique memories, is fun, and adds a different spin to your dinner parties.
Out of the five I’ve reviewed, my favorite raclette grill has to be the Swissmar Classic Anthracite Raclette. Yes – a Swiss manufacturer isn’t surprising.
Aside from its country of origin, the Swissmar comes with many useful functions, including temperature control and a reversible cooking plate. It’s designed for eight people and comes with all the necessary tools for a dinner party with a difference.
