Craving that delicious, smoky char of grilled food but short on space for a full-sized BBQ? Or maybe you just want the convenience of grilling without the hassle of firing up an outdoor unit. Whatever your reason, finding the Best Microwave Oven For Grilling could be the ultimate kitchen game-changer you’ve been searching for. This isn’t your standard microwave for just reheating leftovers. We’re talking about a versatile appliance that can deliver crispy-skinned chicken, perfectly browned paninis, and charred vegetables, all from your countertop.
But with so many options flooding the market, how do you choose the right one? Don’t worry, that’s where we come in. As the experts at MicrowaveOvenTop.com, we’ve done the heavy lifting to break down everything you need to know. Let’s dive in and find the perfect model to level up your culinary adventures.
What Exactly Is a Microwave with a Grill Function?
At its core, a microwave with a grill function is a combination appliance. It merges the standard microwave technology you’re familiar with—using microwaves to heat food from the inside out—with a powerful heating element, typically located at the top of the oven’s interior.
This grill element, often a quartz or metal coil, radiates intense heat downwards, mimicking the effect of a traditional grill or broiler. This allows you to achieve browning, crisping, and searing that a standard microwave simply can’t.
You can often use the functions in three ways:
- Microwave Only: For your everyday reheating, defrosting, and steaming.
- Grill Only: Perfect for toasting bread, melting cheese on top of a casserole, or getting a nice char on vegetables.
- Combination Mode: This is where the magic happens. The appliance alternates between microwave power and the grill, cooking the food quickly from the inside while simultaneously browning and crisping the outside. The result? Juicy grilled chicken in a fraction of the time.
The Unbeatable Benefits: Why You Need a Grill Microwave
Still on the fence? Let’s talk about why investing in a microwave with a grilling feature is one of the smartest moves you can make for your kitchen.
- Space-Saving Champion: It combines two appliances into one, freeing up valuable counter space. It’s an ideal solution for apartments, dorm rooms, or smaller kitchens.
- Speed and Efficiency: Combination cooking slashes cooking times. You can enjoy a “grilled” salmon fillet in under 10 minutes, a feat that’s hard to beat.
- Unmatched Versatility: Go beyond reheating. Make grilled cheese sandwiches, roast small cuts of meat, cook pizzas with a crispy crust, and even bake simple dishes if you opt for a model with a convection feature.
- Healthier Cooking: Grilling allows fat to drip away from food, especially when using the included grill rack. It’s a great way to enjoy flavorful meals with less oil.
- Year-Round Grilling: Don’t let rain or snow stop you. Enjoy the taste of grilled food any day of the year, right from the comfort of your kitchen.
Expert Take: “The biggest advantage of a grill microwave is texture,” notes Chef Isabella Rossi, a culinary consultant. “A standard microwave can leave food soggy. The grill function introduces radiant heat, which is key to developing that Maillard reaction—the chemical process that gives browned food its distinctive flavor and beautiful crust.”
A close-up shot of a perfectly grilled salmon fillet with a crispy, golden-brown skin, garnished with lemon and herbs, fresh out of the best microwave oven for grilling.
Our Top Picks for the Best Microwave Oven for Grilling in 2024
We’ve tested and analyzed countless models to bring you our top recommendations. These picks stand out for their performance, features, and overall value.
Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 (NN-CD87KS)
- Best For: The serious home cook who wants it all.
- Key Features: This is more than just a microwave grill; it’s also a convection oven and an air fryer. Its 1000-watt power and Genius Sensor cook technology ensure even results every time. The stainless steel interior is a breeze to clean.
- Our Take: If you’re looking for a true kitchen workhorse, this is it. The ability to microwave, grill, bake, and air fry in one unit is incredible. It’s a premium option, but its performance justifies the price.
Samsung MC12J8035CT PowerGrill Duo
- Best For: Families and those who love a crispy finish.
- Key Features: Samsung’s PowerGrill Duo technology provides a wide and powerful heating element, ensuring your food is browned from edge to edge. It also includes a unique “Crusty Plate” accessory that crisps up the bottom of foods like pizza and quiche.
- Our Take: The standout feature here is the powerful and even grilling. It’s spacious, making it great for larger dishes. The drop-down door design also gives it a premium, built-in look.
Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1
- Best For: Tech-lovers who appreciate smart, user-friendly design.
- Key Features: This appliance cleverly combines microwave, convection, and air frying (which provides a grilling-like effect). The “Element iQ” system intelligently directs power where it’s needed for precise cooking. It also features a soft-close door and intuitive shortcut buttons.
- Our Take: Breville is known for its thoughtful design, and this model is no exception. It’s incredibly easy to use, with presets for everything from “Melt Chocolate” to “Air Fry Fries.” While it doesn’t have a traditional top-down grill element, its convection and air fry functions deliver superb browning and crisping.
How to Choose the Perfect Microwave Grill for Your Kitchen
Finding the best microwave oven for grilling depends on your specific needs. Here are the key factors to consider before you buy.
Grill Type and Power
Most microwave grills use either a quartz or a metal heating element.
- Quartz Grills: These heat up almost instantly, meaning less preheating time. They are also self-cleaning to an extent, as food splatters tend to burn off.
- Metal/Sheathed Grills: These are more traditional, like a broiler element. They take a bit longer to heat up but can be very powerful and durable.
Grill wattage is also crucial. Look for models with at least 1000 watts of grilling power for effective browning and searing.
Expert Insight: “From an engineering perspective, quartz elements offer a significant advantage in speed and efficiency,” explains David Chen, a senior appliance engineer. “They reach peak temperature in under a minute, which is perfect for quick jobs like toasting or melting cheese. For thicker cuts of meat, a robust metal element combined with convection airflow often provides deeper, more even browning.”
Size and Capacity
Consider where the microwave will live and how much you typically cook. Capacities are measured in cubic feet.
- 0.7 – 1.0 cu. ft.: Ideal for individuals or couples in smaller spaces.
- 1.1 – 1.6 cu. ft.: A great all-around size for small families.
- 1.7 cu. ft. and up: Best for large families or those who entertain often.
Remember to check the turntable diameter to ensure your favorite dinner plates will fit.
Added Features and Functions
The best models offer more than just a basic grill. Look for these value-adding features:
- Convection Cooking: A fan circulates hot air, allowing for true baking, roasting, and even crispier grilling results. This is the most versatile option.
- Sensor Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the steam food emits, taking the guesswork out of reheating.
- Inverter Technology: Delivers a continuous, steady stream of power for more even cooking and defrosting, preventing overcooked edges and cold centers.
- Easy-to-Clean Interior: Look for stainless steel or ceramic enamel interiors, which are more durable and easier to wipe down than standard painted interiors.
A thoughtful woman in a bright, modern kitchen appliance store comparing two different stainless steel countertop microwave ovens with grilling functions, checking the control panels.
The Verdict: Is a Grill Microwave Worth It?
Absolutely. For anyone looking to maximize kitchen functionality without sacrificing space, the best Microwave Oven for grilling is a stellar investment. It bridges the gap between a basic microwave and a full-size oven, offering incredible speed, convenience, and the ability to create dishes with the delicious texture and flavor you just can’t get from microwaves alone.
By considering your cooking habits, kitchen size, and desired features, you can find the perfect model that will not only meet your needs but also inspire you to get more creative in the kitchen. Happy grilling!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can you use metal pans in a microwave with a grill function?
Only when using the “Grill Only” or “Convection Only” modes. Never use metal when the microwave function is active, either alone or in combination mode, unless the manufacturer’s instructions specifically state it is safe with an included accessory like a metal rack.
2. Does a grill microwave cook like an outdoor BBQ?
It provides excellent browning and charring but won’t replicate the distinct smoky flavor of a charcoal or gas grill. Think of it more like a high-powered, super-convenient indoor broiler that also happens to be a microwave.
3. Is it hard to clean a grill microwave?
It can be slightly more challenging than a standard microwave due to the heating element. Look for models with stainless steel interiors and self-cleaning quartz elements. Always wipe down splatters after each use to prevent them from baking on.
4. What can you cook with a microwave grill?
The possibilities are vast! You can make grilled sandwiches, quesadillas, crispy-skinned fish and chicken, sausages, burgers, roasted vegetables, nachos, and even pizza with a crispy crust. It’s fantastic for anything that needs a browned, melted, or crispy top layer.
5. Is a grill microwave better than an air fryer?
They serve similar but distinct purposes. An air fryer excels at “frying” with hot air for a super crispy, crunchy texture. A grill microwave excels at browning and searing with direct, radiant heat. A combination model that includes all three functions offers the ultimate versatility.
