8 best grilled cheese makers

Grilled cheese makers, also known as sandwich makers or panini presses, are specialized kitchen appliances designed to create delicious grilled sandwiches and paninis quickly and easily.These devices consist of two heated plates that press and cook the sandwich from both sides simultaneously. Here's what you need to know about them:

Basic Operation: Grilled cheese makers are straightforward to use. You assemble your sandwich with your choice of ingredients between two slices of bread, then place it inside the preheated sandwich maker. The device's top and bottom plates press the sandwich together and apply even heat, resulting in a perfectly grilled and toasted sandwich.
Versatility: While primarily used for making grilled cheese sandwiches, these appliances are versatile and can be used to prepare a wide range of other sandwiches and snacks. You can create paninis, quesadillas, stuffed wraps, and even cook certain types of meat or vegetables.
Non-Stick Plates: Most grilled cheese makers feature non-stick cooking plates. This non-stick surface ensures that your sandwiches won't stick to the plates, making for easy cleanup and minimal oil or butter needed during cooking.
Temperature Control: Some models offer temperature control options, allowing you to adjust the cooking temperature to achieve different levels of toasting and browning. This feature can be useful for customizing your sandwiches to your preferred level of crispiness.
Indicator Lights: Grilled cheese makers typically have indicator lights that signal when the appliance has reached the desired cooking temperature and when your sandwich is ready. This helps ensure that you don't overcook or burn your food.
Size and Capacity: Grilled cheese makers come in various sizes and shapes. Smaller models can make one or two sandwiches at a time, while larger panini presses can accommodate multiple sandwiches or larger servings.
Drip Trays: Some models have built-in drip trays to catch any excess oil or melted cheese that may ooze out during cooking. This feature helps keep your countertop clean and makes cleanup easier.
Grill Marks: Many grilled cheese makers are designed to leave grill marks on the sandwiches, giving them an appealing visual appearance and a touch of authenticity.
Portability: Some sandwich makers are compact and portable, making them suitable for dorm rooms, small kitchens, or for taking on camping trips or picnics.
Easy Maintenance: Cleaning a grilled cheese maker is usually hassle-free, thanks to the non-stick plates and removable drip trays. Many models also allow you to remove and wash the cooking plates separately.
Price Range: Grilled cheese makers come in a wide price range, from budget-friendly options to more advanced models with additional features. The choice often depends on your cooking needs and budget.

In summary, grilled cheese makers, panini presses, and sandwich makers are convenient appliances that simplify the process of creating delicious grilled sandwiches and other snacks. Their ease of use, versatility, and quick cooking times make them a valuable addition to any kitchen, whether you're preparing a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best grilled cheese makers on the market

Nostalgia GCT2 Deluxe Grilled Cheese Sandwich Toaster with Extra Wide Slots, Yellow

Nostalgia

Based on 718 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Make perfectly toasted, hot and melty cheese sandwiches in just minutes! Now with extra-wide toasting slots, Simply place your assembled cheese sandwich in the toasting basket, adjust the dial to your doneness preference, and then toast. The toasting baskets work to hold each sandwich in place while they cook to melty perfection. Who knew making delicious grilled cheese sandwiches was as simple as making toast!

2 EXTRA WIDE SLOTS: Making it easier to over-stuff your cheese sandwich, the extra-wide slots on this toaster allow you to add extra ingredients - like ham, bacon, tomatos and more cheese
REMOVABLE TOASTING BASKETS: Two reusable toasting baskets conveniently hold your cheese sandwich in place while toasting
ADJUSTABLE TOASTING DIAL: Select your preferred doneness on the toasting dial and create your perfect melted grilled cheese sandwich
SIMPLE CONTROLS: Equipped with Cancel, Preheat, and Defrost functions
COOL-TOUCH: The housing and handles stay cool to the touch for keeping hands safe
CORD WRAP: Storage is made easy and tidy with a cord wrap located in the botton of the unit
EASY CLEANING: Remove the toasting baskets and drip tray for simple cleaning

User questions & answers

Question:	How long does it take once you put your sandwich in the toaster
Answer:	Not long ..it takes as long as a regular toaster
Question:	How many grilled cheese sandwiches can I make before the melted cheese at the bottom catches my house on fire
Answer:	Won't happen - you'll realize how horrible the machine is after making two or three test sandwiches and will either throw it out or return it.
Question:	Difference between Deluxe and regular model?regular
Answer:	I have the Deluxe and it doesn't have extra wide slots. Very disappointing! Regular size bread just with cheese is too wide for it. :(
Question:	Will the lowest setting allow for more of a golden brown than a crunch toast
Answer:	Yes

Uniware High Quality Sandwich Maker with Case, ETL Certified, Non-Stick Coating Plate, Cool Touch Housing, with Thermostat, Makes Sandwich, Omelettes, Grilled Cheese and more (Style 1)

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

★Make Delicious Sandwiches in a few Minutes:700~800 Watt, 50/60Hz
★Compact Design and Storage, Portable, Perfect for dorm rooms and all sized kitchens
★Easy to Use and Clean: Non-Stock Coating Surface makes it very easy to cook and clean
★Smart Indicator Lights : The indicator lighter let you know when the sandwiches are ready
★Cool Touch Housing and Locking Handle : For Safe Operation and Portability

3-in-1 Grilled Cheese Sandwich Maker Waffle Iron with Removable Plates - Aigostar

Based on 361 reviews Check latest price

3-in-1 Sandwich Maker - Comes with 3 detachable plates. Packed with sandwich, waffle, and grill plates. Perfect for classic sandwiches press, waffles, barbecue steaks, etc.
Even Waffle Iron Cooking - Double tube heating batter for waffles evenly that are crispy outside and tender inside.
Non-stick Coating Sandwich Grill - Nonstick coating prevent food from sticking to the breakfast sandwich maker. It’s very easy to clean.
Portable Panini Press Grills - This 750-watt bread sandwich maker heats up fastly to save your time! Power and preheat lights let you know when sandwich maker toaster plate is already ready for cooking.
Safe Sandwich and Waffle Maker-During the first few minutes of machine for waffle sandwich initial use, you may notice smoke and a slight odor. This is normal caused by protective oils and grime from the production process and will quickly disappear.

User questions & answers

Question:	Where does it show u where to plug it or does it have a plug because am not seeing one
Answer:	It has it's own plug. Directly on back. If you put the top down in picture; you'd see it.
Question:	Where does the fat drain
Answer:	No fat drainer
Question:	Do all the plates store inside the unit
Answer:	Just the plates that you are using. Other plates you can store elsewhere.
Question:	can i use it open like a grill
Answer:	You'd be wasting heat that way and only one side would get cooked. It's better closed one does not have to latch it down.

Product features

Aigostar 3-in-1 Kitchen Appliance

1. Waffle sandwich maker placed with waffle plates

2. Mix eggs and fine sugars until sugar is dissolved.

3. Add milk and stir well.

4. Combine the flour, cornstarch with the baking powder together

5. Add flour mixture and stir until there are no more powdery particles.

6. Add melted butter and mix well.

7. Turn on the power and preheat the waffle maker and wait for 3-5 minutes until the green light goes out.

8. Pour the mixture into the preheated waffle tray and wait for 3-5 minutes. lift the lid and remove the waffle.

Create delicious toasty combination

Either go for the obvious cheese & onion or cheese & ham or mix it up and try something a little different such as sausage & beans or Nutella & banana.

3 IN 1 SANDWICH MAKER

Apart from making crispy waffles, the machine is designed to make sandwich, grilled meats, etc

DOUBLE TUBE HEATS

Double tube heating batter for waffles evenly that are crispy outside and tender inside.

AUTOMATIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL

The automatic temperature control feature saves your sandwiches from overcooking or staying undercooked.

NONSTICK PLATES

Waffles slide out easily thanks to the nonstick plates, which are convenient to clean.

Waffle Maker

Cut & Seal Sandwich Maker

Steak Grill

BBQ Grill

Lumme Sandwich Maker, Sandwich Toaster, Panini Press, Quesadilla Maker, Grilled Cheese, French Toast Press, Pizza Pockets Press, Indicator light, Omelet, White (Black)

Based on 50 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Lumme Sandwich Maker Make fast, fun sandwiches and more Put away your frying pan and make a hot sandwich the easy way with the Lumme Sandwich Maker. In just a few minutes, you can serve family favorites like grilled cheese sandwiches or pizza pockets. Simply assemble your sandwich, place it inside the sandwich maker, and close the lid. When it’s done, you’ll have a toasted sandwich with sealed edges and warmed filling. The preheat light lets you know when it’s ready to cook, and the nonstick plates easily wipe clean. For space-saving storage, lock the handle and store this compact appliance upright in any cabinet. Make Sandwiches and More Turn a lunchtime staple into something special by making it warm and toasty. Or quickly cook other meals like omelets, French toast, and desserts. Compact Design and Storage Built for small spaces, the Lumme sandwich maker is compact in size and can be stored easily- taking up minimal cabinet space. Easy-Clean Nonstick Plates Cleanup couldn’t be easier thanks to the nonstick plates. Simply wipe them clean with a damp cloth once they’ve cooled. Key Features: Quick & easy meals Easy-clean, nonstick plates Power on & preheat lights Compact, Easy Storage

Easy Clean Nonstick Plates: Cleanup Couldn’t Be Easier Thanks to the Nonstick Plates. Simply Wipe Them Clean With a Damp Cloth Once They’ve Cooled
Indicator Lights: Power on and Preheat Lights Let You Know When It’s Time to Cook. Do not use steel wool, scouring pads, or abrasive cleansers on any part of the unit
Toasty Results, Sandwich After Sandwich: A Warm, Toasty Sandwich Is Always a Good Idea for a Quick, Satisfying Meal
Compact Design and Storage: Built for Small Spaces, the Lumme Sandwich Maker Is Compact in Size and Can Be Stored Easily Taking up Minimal Cabinet Space
Make Hot Sandwiches and More: Turn a Lunchtime Staple Into Something Special by Making It Warm and Toasty; Or Quickly Cook Other Meals Like Omelets, French Toast and Desserts

User questions & answers

Question:	can the plates be removed for cleaning? if so, how? thank you
Answer:	Hi, The plates are not removable. The best way to clean is to take the plug out, Make sure the plate isn't hot.

Hamilton Beach Sandwich Maker, Makes Omelettes and Grilled Cheese, 4 Inch, Easy to Store (25430), BLACK

Hamilton Beach

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Put away your frying pan and make a hot sandwich The easy way with the Hamilton Beach sandwich maker. In just a few minutes, You can serve family favorites like grilled cheese sandwiches or pizza pockets. Simply assemble your sandwich, place it inside the sandwich maker and close the lid. When it’s done, you’ll have a toasted sandwich with sealed edges and warmed filling. The preheat light lets you know when it’s ready to cook, and the nonstick plates easily wipe clean. For space-saving storage, lock the handle and store This compact appliance upright in any cabinet. Wipe cooking grids and outside of unit with a damp, soapy cloth. Rinse cloth and wipe grids again.

Make a hot sandwich in just a few minutes: turn a lunchtime staple into something special like grilled cheese sandwiches or pizza pockets. Or quickly cook other meals like omelets, French toast and desserts.
Easy to clean: the nonstick plates easily wipe clean.
Space-saving storage and compact design: Lock the handle and store This compact appliance upright in any cabinet.
Power on and ready to cook preheat light: the power on light lets you know the unit is on and the preheat light lets you know when it’s ready to cook.
Power on/ preheat lights

User questions & answers

Question:	Is only 1 side supposed to get toasted
Answer:	It toast both sides at the same time
Question:	is this product having warranty
Answer:	Yeah it has a one year warranty. Should have a paper about it in the box.
Question:	Product dimension? Is this accurate? 10.8 x 11.2 x 4.1 inches
Answer:	I'm not entirely sure.. as I don't have a measure tape. The product itself is relatively small. I don't know if you had the hot sandwich maker back in the day, but this would be a very good replica of the same type of "sandwich maker" 20 some years ago. I thoroughly enjoyed it until a month ago. I should clarify, my family really loved it.
Question:	Is it American or European voltage
Answer:	Please accept the following discount codes as a reward for your loyalty :) All valid until July 16th (Home Office FURNITURE & DECOR) 1）ASIN:B06XGD4S54 Set of 4 Kitchen Chairs, Fabric Cushion Side Chairs with Sturdy Metal Legs, 5 Colors are Available 2): ASIN:B079NM7SPV Large Home Office Computer Writing Desk with 5 Side Shelves , Beech and White 3): ASIN:B01MT80N1J High Back PU Leather Computer Game Racing Chair (Black&White +Black & Red) 4): ASIN:B07QJYSDRX Folding-No-Assembly Entryway Console Table (Walnut+ Black) 5) ASIN:B07PCHWKLF Living-Room Easy-Assembly Folding Coffee-Table ,Walnut Brown(Espresso)

Product features

About Us

We're proud that our product quality, wide variety of options, superior customer service and brand name strength continue to earn us kudos with consumers. And we're committed to helping make your day a little easier, more creative and flavorful through Good Thinking applied to the style and function in all of our small electric appliances.

With products on kitchen counters across the nation, Hamilton Beach designs, markets, and distributes a multitude of small electric household appliances. Our portfolio includes blenders, slow cookers, coffee makers, food processors, breakfast sandwich makers, rice cookers, irons, mixers, toasters, ice cream makers, electric knives, can openers, breadmakers, grills, countertop ovens, air purifiers, and more.

Nostalgia TCS2 Grilled Cheese Toaster with Easy-Clean Toaster Baskets and Adjustable Toasting Dial

Nostalgia

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Nostalgia TCS2 grilled cheese sandwich toaster creates the perfect hot melted toasted cheese sandwich with no mess in minutes. The two removable grill toasting baskets holds sandwiches in place while cooking and have cool touch handles for easy removal. Make a standard grilled cheese or come up with your own creations, The possibilities are endless.

Make 2 grilled cheese sandwiches in just minutes!
Two reusable toasting baskets
Select your preferred doneness on the toasting dial
Equipped with cancel, preheat, and defrost functions.
The housing and handles stay cool to the touch for keeping hands safe.
Storage is made easy and tidy with a cord wrap
Remove the toasting baskets and drip tray for simple cleaning.

User questions & answers

Question:	can you use it to jut make one sandwich at a time
Answer:	HI Patricia, yes you can make 1 sandwich at a time. Please feel free to reach out to our Customer Care Team at 920-347-9122 with any further questions or visit us online at nostalgiaproducts.com.
Question:	But can u butter the bread??..it’s not grill cheese if u can’t butter it first
Answer:	Yes you can. I have buttered both pieces of bread without problem. The manufacturer suggests that you use thin sliced bread for your sandwiches, but I have used both thin sliced and regular sliced sandwich bread.
Question:	Doesn't the chees drip into the toaster while toasting
Answer:	There is a little bit of cheese that drips but it gets caught in the baskets, which are very easy to clean.
Question:	Will this make me a better dad? If not I won’t buy it
Answer:	No, getting a Lodge cast iron skillet or griddle will make you a better dad. Slathering the butter on some hearty bread, quality cheese between the slices. That’s how you do it.

Elite Gourmet ESM-2207 Maxi-Matic Sandwich Panini Maker Grilled Cheese Machine Tuna Melt Omelets Non-stick Surface, 2 Slice, Black

Elite Gourmet

Based on 753 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Elite Cuisine ESM-2207 Maxi-Matic Sandwich Panini Maker Grilled Cheese Machine Tuna Melt Omelets Non-stick Surface, 2 Slice, Black

SANDWICHES AND MORE – Prepare deliciously warm grilled cheese sandwiches or tuna melts in minutes, omelets, French toast, or even desserts. Enjoy top performance with the simple to use, easy to clean Elite Gourmet nonstick sandwich maker.
COMPACT DESIGN – Built for small space, takes up barely any counter space, stands upright for storage taking up minimal cabinet space. Perfect for dorm rooms, camping and all sized kitchens.
EASY TO CLEAN – The Deluxe non-stick plates simply wipe clean with a damp cloth when cooled. No oil or butter needed, makes for healthier eating, and provides for hassle free, 1-2-3 cleanup.
INDICATOR LIGHTS – Power and Ready lights let you know when to add sandwiches and when they’re ready to serve fresh and hot for the perfect snack or lunch.
COOL TOUCH LOCKING HANDLE – Cool-touch locking latch for safe operation and convenient portability. Stores away neatly into any space.
COMPLIES WITH ETL + FDA, NO BPA: The sandwich maker uses environmentally friendly materials, complying with the FDA and no BPA plastic.

User questions & answers

Question:	Is it electric
Answer:	You can fold the foot rest out of the way.
Question:	How is this a Panini maker
Answer:	Send a message to Amazon who will give you the contact information for the seller. I broke my foot rest after just 4 months of having this chair and they sent me replacement parts.
Question:	How many watts does it use
Answer:	The foot rest is pretty sturdy. I’m 6’ 4” 225 lbs and it supports the weight of my muscular legs very well. I do, however, recommend that you only use it while the chair’s back is fully reclined. Otherwise, you run the risk of the chair tipping over. Technically you can use the foot rest while the back is fully upright, but it’s not comfortable - at least not for me. I also recommend that you keep some WD-40 handy as the foot rest’s poles can “stick” to the casing after repeated use. Good ol’ friction I tell you.
Question:	What plug it has? I want EU plug
Answer:	I don't see any way to remove the cover.

Auertech Compact Sandwich Maker, Mini Toaster and Electric Panini Maker Omelette Grilled Cheese Machine with Non-Stick Plates, Indicator Lights, Cool Touch Handle (Single Sandwich)

Based on 143 reviews Check latest price

🥪【MORE THAN SANDWICHES!】 Make golden grilled cheese sandwiches in minutes, omelets, or even French toast. This mini sandwich maker is so cost-effective that you only need one appliance to make a variety of cuisines. Cooking is an art that calls into full play one's imagination and creativity. Get an Auertech sandwich maker and start your DIY culinary journey!
🥪【EASY TO CLEAN】 Equipped with high-quality nonstick plates, the sandwich maker ensures effortless food release and making it super easy to clean. Simply wipe them clean with a damp cloth once they’ve cooled. Don't worry about messing up your kitchen. NOTE: THIS IS A MINI SANDWICH MAKER, DO NOT PUT TOO MANY INGREDIENTS IN AND FORCE IT TO CLOSE.
🥪【INDICATOR LIGHTS】 The red light lets you know that the appliance is turned on, and the green light indicates that the appliance is preheated and ready to cook. The 500W efficient heating system allows the sandwich maker to preheat quickly, the double plates heat the sandwiches evenly, making them crispy outside and tender inside.
🥪【COMPACT & PORTABLE】 Designed for small spaces and outdoor use, the sandwich machine is compact and can be stored upright. Perfect for dorms, camping, RV traveling and all sized kitchens. Plug in and preheat until the green light turns on, put in the ingredients and cover the machine, you’ll get crispy sandwiches in 3 minutes. This is so easy!
🥪【COOL TOUCH HANDLE & NON-SLIP FEET】 Cool-touch handle and safety lock ensure safe operation and easy to carry. The non-slip feet provide extra grip and stability to prevent slipping from the countertop. WARM NOTE: Feel free to contact us if you have any problems, we will respond within 24hrs and resolve the problems as the way you want.

User questions & answers

Question:	Do you have to use both sides at the same time
Answer:	I bought this chair for my son who spends hours gaming. He is 5'9 and is about 250-260lbs and he seems to like this chair and has no complaints about it
Question:	Can you make eggs ect in this
Answer:	They are not

Product features

Auertch Compact Sandwich Maker

The 500W efficient heating system allows the sandwich maker to preheat quickly and heat the sandwiches evenly, making them crispy outside and tender inside. In addition, the sandwich maker comes with high-quality nonstick plates, it ensures effortless food release and making it super easy to clean. Designed for small spaces and outdoor use, the sandwich machine is compact and can be stored upright. Perfect for dorms, camping, RV traveling, and all sized kitchens.