10 Best Grilled Cheese Makers 2026 in the United States

The GEORGE FOREMAN® Contact Submersible™ Grill offers several appealing features for grilled cheese enthusiasts. Its family-sized, 5-serving capacity is great for making multiple sandwiches at once, making it ideal for families or gatherings. The advanced non-stick coating, which is 3 times more durable than standard coatings, ensures easy food release and simplifies cleaning.

Additionally, the grill's detachable components, including the control panel, allow the entire unit to be placed in the dishwasher, making cleanup exceptionally convenient. This is a standout feature for anyone who prioritizes easy maintenance in their kitchen appliances. The variable temperature control is another plus, providing precise adjustments to suit different cooking preferences and recipes.

The fast heat-up time, claimed to be 30% quicker than previous models, means users can enjoy their meals without a long wait. Indicator lights offer straightforward guidance during operation, ensuring that the grill is ready to use and at the correct temperature. However, there are a couple of drawbacks to consider. The grill’s build quality and durability, while generally good, could be a concern over an extended period or heavy usage due to its relatively lightweight construction. Also, it lacks a floating hinge, which means it may not evenly cook thicker sandwiches or other items. Despite these minor drawbacks, the GEORGE FOREMAN® Contact Submersible™ Grill is a strong contender for anyone looking for a reliable, easy-to-clean, and efficient grilled cheese maker.

The Hamilton Beach Panini Press is a versatile and user-friendly appliance that works well for grilled cheese and a variety of sandwiches, thanks to its floating hinge which adjusts to different thicknesses. Its 95 square inches of nonstick grill surface cooks food evenly on both sides at once, speeding up meal preparation to about 10 minutes or less. This nonstick coating also makes cleaning easier, especially with the included scraper tool and a dishwasher-safe drip tray that catches grease to reduce mess.

The press is compact, with an upright storage option and a latch to keep it closed, which helps save counter space. While it only has a single temperature setting and lacks indicator lights, many users find it straightforward and effective for everyday use. The build is solid, featuring stainless steel and materials free from harmful chemicals like PFOA and lead.

It serves as a dependable choice for anyone looking for a practical sandwich maker or indoor grill that’s easy to clean and stores neatly, even though it doesn’t offer precise temperature control or readiness indicators.

The Hamilton Beach Panini Press Sandwich Maker is a versatile small kitchen appliance that works well for grilled cheese sandwiches, paninis, quesadillas, and more. Its floating lid adjusts to sandwich thickness, giving even pressure and consistent browning without needing to flip, which is convenient for users who want fuss-free cooking. The non-stick grids measure 8" by 10", providing enough space for typical sandwiches but might feel small for larger or multiple portions.

It features a simple indicator light that signals when the unit is ready to cook, though it lacks adjustable temperature controls, limiting precision for some recipes. Cleaning is fairly easy thanks to the non-stick surface, but the press itself isn’t dishwasher safe, so wiping down after use is necessary. The locking lid is useful for making open-faced sandwiches or warming pizzas. While its plastic build keeps it lightweight and easy to store upright, it may not feel as sturdy as metal-bodied competitors. The bright red finish adds a stylish touch to any countertop.

This model is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable, no-frills sandwich press that delivers consistent results, especially if you primarily want a device for grilled cheese and paninis without advanced temperature settings.