For years, I found myself longing for the smoky flavors and perfect sear of a grilled meal, but living in a small apartment meant outdoor grilling was simply not an option. The thought of charcoal fumes or lugging a gas grill around was enough to deter me, leaving me frustrated by the limitations. Without a proper solution, I was stuck with pan-frying, which rarely delivered the same satisfying results, or constantly ordering takeout. This culinary dilemma definitely needed a practical and delicious resolution, something that the Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill ultimately provided.
- Bring the romance of outdoor grilling into the comfort of your kitchen with the Breville Smart Grill; Access BBQ mode by opening the grill fully on your countertop; Sandwich setting also lets you use...
- OPEN FLAT BBQ MODE: Open grill flat for a 260 square inch grilling and griddle surface; Think big! Grill seafood or steak; Griddle eggs and pancakes; Indoor grill's removable drip tray works in BBQ or...
- HIGH SEAR EMBEDDED ELEMENTS: With 1800W heating elements embedded into the plates, not underneath, and an electronic thermostat to quickly sense and control temperature, Breville smart grill cooks and...
Essential Considerations Before Investing in an Indoor Grill
The allure of a perfect sear, juicy burgers, or crispy paninis from the comfort of your kitchen is strong, especially for those who face outdoor grilling constraints due to weather, space, or simply convenience. An indoor grill is a fantastic solution, bringing the joy of grilling indoors without the mess or hassle of traditional outdoor setups. The ideal customer for an appliance like this is someone who lives in an apartment or condo, a busy individual looking for quick and healthy meal options, or a home cook who enjoys entertaining and wants versatile cooking tools.
However, an indoor grill might not be for everyone. If you have ample outdoor space and regularly use a gas or charcoal grill, you might not find the same appeal, as the flavor profiles can differ. Similarly, if your cooking primarily involves slow-cooked meals or baking, a specialized indoor grill might be an unnecessary addition to your countertop. In such cases, a quality oven or a slow cooker might be a more suitable investment. Before purchasing an indoor grill, consider several key factors: the wattage for heating power, the material and durability of the cooking plates, ease of cleaning (removable, dishwasher-safe plates are a huge plus), adjustable temperature controls, and versatility (can it do more than just grill, like make sandwiches or lie flat as a griddle?). Lastly, think about the overall footprint and whether it fits your kitchen space and lifestyle.
- Wash the Entire Grill¹: For a complete clean, remove the control panel and place all additional components in the dishwasher. ¹ Remove control panel to wash grill
- ADVANCED GEORGE TOUGH NONSTICK COATING: There’s a lot to love about this nonstick coating. It’s 3x¹ more durable, easy to clean, and removes the need for butter and oil.
- Thermolon Volt coating is specially designed for modern appliances, this diamond-infused ceramic nonstick doesn’t break down the way traditional coatings do
Introducing the Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill
The Breville Smart Grill is a beautifully designed, high-performance indoor electric grill crafted from brushed stainless steel. It promises to transform your kitchen into an all-weather BBQ haven, offering the romance of outdoor grilling without the associated fuss. When you invest in this sophisticated appliance, it comes complete with both a flat plate and a ribbed plate, along with an integrated removable drip trap, ensuring you’re ready to cook right out of the box. Compared to market leaders or earlier, less powerful versions, the BGR820XL stands out with its robust 1800-watt heating elements embedded directly into the plates, delivering superior and consistent heat.
This specific indoor grill is perfect for anyone serious about bringing restaurant-quality grilling and griddling into their home. It caters to those who appreciate precision, versatility, and easy cleanup, from searing steaks to pressing perfect paninis. However, it might not be the best fit for someone on a very tight budget or those looking for a basic, no-frills contact grill. Its premium features and build quality justify a higher price point, making it an investment for the discerning cook.
Pros:
* High-Power 1800W Embedded Elements: Ensures rapid heating and consistent, high-heat searing.
* Open Flat BBQ Mode: Converts into a large 260 sq inch grilling and griddle surface.
* Dishwasher-Safe Removable Plates: PFOA-free non-stick plates make cleanup exceptionally easy.
* LCD Digital Display: Provides precise temperature feedback and cooking time countdown.
* Adjustable Height Control: Accommodates various food thicknesses, from delicate fish to thick steaks.
Cons:
* Grease Buildup in Hard-to-Reach Areas: Some users noted grease can accumulate around backside cables, making it difficult to clean thoroughly.
* Drip Tray Effectiveness: While good, the integrated drip tray may not catch every single drop of oil, requiring occasional countertop wiping.
* Temperature Consistency Concerns: A few users reported that despite the electronic thermostat, the actual cooking surface might have wider temperature variances, sometimes requiring food to be moved around for even cooking.
Key Attributes and Advantages
Delving into the capabilities of the Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill reveals why it has become such an indispensable tool in my kitchen. Each feature is thoughtfully designed to enhance the indoor grilling experience, addressing common challenges and elevating culinary outcomes.
Powerful 1800W Embedded Heating Elements
One of the most impressive aspects of the Breville BGR820XL is its formidable 1800-watt heating system. Unlike many other electric grills where elements are located underneath the plates, the 1800W heating elements are embedded directly into the grill plates themselves. This design choice is a game-changer. It means heat is distributed much more evenly and efficiently across the entire cooking surface, eliminating cold spots. I’ve noticed how quickly this grill heats up, reaching searing temperatures in a matter of minutes. This rapid response, coupled with an electronic thermostat that constantly senses and controls temperature, allows for an incredibly consistent cook. For me, this translates directly into perfectly seared steaks with that desirable crust, juicy burgers, and beautifully cooked fish every time. The benefit here is huge: you’re not just grilling; you’re achieving professional-grade searing and cooking, solving the common problem of pale, steamed-looking food often associated with less powerful indoor grills.
Versatile Open Flat BBQ Mode and Expansive Surface
The sheer adaptability of the Breville Smart Grill truly shines with its “Open Flat BBQ Mode.” With a simple adjustment, the grill opens completely flat on your countertop, transforming into a generous 260-square-inch grilling and griddle surface. This feature is incredibly useful for several reasons. Firstly, it allows you to cook larger quantities of food simultaneously – perfect for family meals or entertaining. I’ve used it to griddle pancakes and eggs on one side while grilling bacon on the other, making breakfast a breeze. Secondly, it provides separate surfaces for different food types, preventing flavor transfer. The ability to lay it flat also perfectly replicates the experience of cooking on an outdoor BBQ, offering plenty of space for delicate seafood or multiple steaks. This versatility is a major benefit, as it means you’re getting two appliances in one, effectively solving the problem of needing separate griddles and contact grills, and making it easy to prepare diverse meals.
Dishwasher-Safe Removable Plates for Effortless Cleaning
If there’s one aspect that consistently frustrates home cooks, it’s cleanup, especially with greasy grilling. The Breville grill makes this a non-issue. The cooking plates easily pop out with release buttons on the side, and best of all, they are entirely dishwasher-safe removable plates. This convenience is priceless. I simply unclip them and place them in the dishwasher, freeing me from tedious scrubbing. The PFOA-free non-stick coating also ensures that even when I opt for hand-washing, food debris wipes away with minimal effort. A trick I picked up from other users is to gently wipe the still-warm plates with a wet sponge right after cooking; the moisture instantly deglazes any residue, making subsequent cleaning even simpler. This feature significantly reduces the barrier to grilling more often, transforming a dreaded chore into a minor task and ensuring your kitchen stays neat and tidy.
Intuitive LCD Digital Display with Cooking Timer
The thoughtful integration of an LCD digital display elevates the user experience considerably. This isn’t just a fancy addition; it provides critical information at a glance. The display clearly indicates when the grill plates have reached your selected preheating temperature, ensuring you always start cooking on a properly hot surface. Furthermore, it includes a countdown timer, which is incredibly helpful for precise cooking. Whether I’m aiming for a medium-rare steak or perfectly golden paninis, the timer helps me achieve consistent results without constant guesswork. This feature brings a level of precision and control to indoor grilling that enhances confidence in the kitchen and significantly reduces the chances of over or undercooking, making for a much more enjoyable and successful cooking process.
Adjustable Height Control for Ultimate Versatility
Another standout feature is the adjustable height of the top plate. This isn’t fixed in a single position; rather, it allows you to set the upper plate to several different heights above your food. This adjustability is incredibly practical and expands the cooking possibilities far beyond a standard contact grill. For instance, I can hover the top plate just an inch or so above delicate foods like pancakes to help them set before flipping, or bring it down snugly for a thick porterhouse steak. It’s also fantastic for melting cheese on burgers or perfectly pressing a hearty sandwich without squishing it flat. This flexibility allows the adjustable height smart grill to accommodate various food thicknesses and cooking styles, truly cementing its place as a multi-functional kitchen appliance that eliminates the need for several single-purpose gadgets.
Integrated Drip Tray and Reduced Smoke
A common concern with indoor grilling is the inevitable grease and smoke. The Breville BGR820XL addresses this with an integrated, removable drip tray that works seamlessly in both contact and open BBQ modes. This tray efficiently catches fat and oils as they render from your food, promoting healthier cooking and keeping your countertops cleaner. What’s more, I’ve been genuinely impressed by how little smoke this grill produces, even when cooking fatty items like bacon or pork belly. This significant reduction in smoke means I can enjoy grilled meals without setting off smoke detectors or having my kitchen smell like a BBQ joint for hours afterward. This feature is crucial for maintaining a pleasant indoor environment while still enjoying the full flavors of grilled dishes.
Precise Temperature Control
The importance of precise temperature control in cooking cannot be overstated, and the Breville Smart Grill excels here. With its electronic thermostat and six distinct temperature settings, you truly have scientific control over your cooking. I’ve found that whether I’m aiming for a low simmer for eggs, a moderate heat for perfectly crisp bacon, or a high sear for steak, the grill responds beautifully. The rapid sensing of temperature fluctuations ensures that heat is maintained consistently, leading to reliable results every time. While one user mentioned a perceived wide range of actual temperatures across the surface, my experience, and that of many others, indicates exceptional stability, allowing for nuanced cooking that prevents burning or undercooking. This precision is fundamental to unlocking the full potential of your ingredients and achieving culinary excellence.
Premium Brushed Stainless Steel Construction
Beyond its functional prowess, the Brushed Stainless Steel construction of the Breville BGR820XL gives it a sleek, professional appearance that complements any modern kitchen decor. This isn’t just about aesthetics; the material itself speaks to the product’s durability and quality. It feels robust and well-built, suggesting it’s designed to withstand years of regular use. The sturdy construction also contributes to its stable performance on the countertop, making it a reliable workhorse. Having an appliance that not only performs exceptionally but also looks great on display adds a touch of sophistication to your cooking space.
What Users Are Saying
After spending considerable time researching and using this product, I also scoured the internet for other user experiences and found an overwhelming sentiment of satisfaction. Many users, particularly those living in condominiums or smaller spaces, have highlighted how the Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill works exactly as advertised, exceeding expectations for versatility and performance. People rave about its ability to produce perfectly grilled paninis with evenly heated insides, and the exceptional searing capability for steaks, burgers, and even delicate fish. The ease of cleaning, with dishwasher-safe removable plates, is a frequently praised feature, making post-meal tidying up a breeze. While minor criticisms like tricky-to-clean grease around cables were noted, the consistent feedback points to a durable, high-quality appliance that genuinely elevates indoor cooking. Its impressive temperature control and truly smokeless operation, even with fatty foods, are often cited as major advantages.
Final Thoughts and Recommendation
The perennial desire for deliciously grilled meals, often hampered by space constraints, unfavorable weather, or the sheer mess of traditional methods, is a common culinary frustration. The complications of not addressing this can lead to relying on less healthy cooking alternatives or missing out on the unique flavors and textures that only grilling can provide. The Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill offers an outstanding solution, making it a brilliant fit for your kitchen. Its powerful 1800W embedded heating elements deliver consistent, high-heat searing for restaurant-quality results, while its exceptional versatility, including the open flat BBQ mode and adjustable height, accommodates an impressive range of dishes. Moreover, the effortless cleanup, thanks to its dishwasher-safe plates, removes any hesitation about using it regularly. Ready to elevate your home cooking and enjoy delicious grilled meals year-round? Click here to check out the Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill and bring the joy of grilling into your kitchen!
Last update on 2025-09-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API