You’ve just watched a video of someone flipping pancakes and searing smash burgers on a flat top, and now you’re convinced: you need a griddle. But walking into the world of griddles can feel overwhelming. There are electric countertop models, cast iron stovetop pans, outdoor gas-powered units, and a dizzying array of sizes and features.
This guide is here to cut through the noise. We’ll walk you through the essential features to look for, and we’ll highlight a few standout options that are perfect for someone just starting out. By the end, you’ll know exactly which griddle fits your cooking style and your space. If you’re also curious about other outdoor cooking gear, check out our outdoor cooking category for more guides.
Pros
- Extra-large cooking surface handles large batches easily.
- Nonstick surface releases food cleanly and simplifies cleaning.
- Removable temperature control and drip tray enhance convenience and health benefits.
- Heats up quickly and maintains consistent temperature across most of the griddle.
- Lightweight and easy to store despite its large cooking area.
Cons
- Heat distribution can be slightly uneven across the entire surface, with some areas cooking faster than others.
- No built-in indicator light to show when the griddle has reached the set temperature.
- The power cord may be short for some kitchen layouts, requiring a nearby outlet.
The Chefman XL Electric Griddle is a versatile and spacious countertop cooking appliance designed for families, home cooks, and anyone who loves preparing large breakfasts, burgers, or complete meals in one go. With a generous 10x20 inch nonstick cooking surface, it can easily accommodate several pancakes, eggs, bacon, and sausage simultaneously, making it ideal for busy mornings or feeding a crowd.
Standout features include an adjustable temperature control that ranges from 200 to 420°F, allowing you to warm tortillas, fry eggs, or sear burgers with precision. The nonstick surface reduces the need for added oils, and the slide-out drip tray collects excess grease for healthier cooking. Real-world performance is impressive: the griddle heats up quickly and maintains even heat across most of the surface, though some users note slight hot spots near the edges.
Design and build quality are solid for the price point. The griddle is lightweight at 4.4 pounds and features a removable temperature control that makes the cooking surface fully immersible and dishwasher safe. The drip tray slides out easily for cleaning, and the overall construction feels durable. However, the lack of a temperature-ready indicator light and a relatively short power cord are minor inconveniences.
Potential drawbacks include the aforementioned uneven heat distribution, which can cause some areas to cook faster than others. This is common among electric griddles and can be managed by rotating food occasionally. Additionally, the temperature control dial could be more precise, but it works well enough for most cooking tasks.
Overall, the Chefman XL Electric Griddle offers excellent value for its price, delivering a large, nonstick cooking surface with convenient features that simplify meal prep and cleanup. It is a reliable choice for families, tailgaters, and anyone needing extra countertop cooking space without breaking the bank.
Brand: Chefman
Model: RJ23-LG-V3
Dimensions: 11.7 inches deep x 21.4 inches wide x 7.4 inches high
Weight: 4.4 pounds
Cooking Surface: 10 x 20 inches
Wattage: 1500 watts
Voltage: 120 volts
Temperature Range: 200 to 420°F
Material: Aluminum with nonstick coating
Color: Black matte
Included Components: User guide
Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
Certifications: UL approved
Buying Guide
Size and Cooking Surface
Think about how many people you typically cook for. A compact griddle, like the Chefman Electric Griddle with Removable, offers a 10 x 16 inch surface, which is great for a couple or a small family. If you often cook for a crowd or want to make a full breakfast spread, the larger Chefman XL Electric Griddle with Removable provides a 10 x 20 inch cooking area.
For those who prefer a stovetop option, the EWFEN Reversible Grill/Griddle measures 16.7 x 9.5 inches and fits across two burners. If you plan to cook outdoors, a larger surface is often more practical, but for indoor countertop use, a smaller footprint might be easier to store.
Heat Source and Temperature Control
Electric griddles are the easiest for beginners because they offer precise temperature dials. The Chefman models, for instance, allow you to adjust from 200°F to 420°F, which is perfect for everything from warming tortillas to searing steaks. You just plug it in, set the dial, and wait for the indicator light.
Cast iron griddles, like the EWFEN, rely on your stove’s heat. They heat up quickly and retain heat beautifully, but you need to manage the burner yourself. For outdoor cooking, gas griddles offer high heat and large surfaces, but they require more setup and a propane tank. If you’re just starting, an electric model gives you more control and less guesswork.
Material and Non-Stick Coating
Non-stick electric griddles are a beginner’s best friend. They require less oil, and food releases easily. The Chefman griddles feature a non-stick surface that’s also dishwasher-safe and immersible, making cleanup a breeze. Just remove the temperature control before washing.
Cast iron is naturally non-stick once it’s seasoned, and it gets better with use. The EWFEN griddle is pre-seasoned and free of PFOA and PTFE. It’s durable and can last a lifetime, but it requires a bit more care: you need to dry it thoroughly after washing and apply a thin layer of oil to prevent rust. If you’re okay with that maintenance, cast iron offers excellent heat retention and a classic cooking experience.
Versatility and Extra Features
Consider what you’ll be cooking. A reversible griddle like the EWFEN gives you two surfaces: a ribbed side for grilling meats and a smooth side for eggs and pancakes. That’s a great way to get more value from one pan. Electric griddles usually come with a drip tray to collect grease, which is a nice feature for healthier cooking.
Also, think about where you’ll use it. The EWFEN is compatible with gas, electric, induction, and even campfires, making it a versatile option for both indoor and outdoor cooking. If you’re interested in exploring more outdoor flat top options, you might want to read our top outdoor flat top griddles guide for additional ideas.
Final Thoughts
When you’re just starting out, the right griddle is one that fits your space, your cooking style, and your comfort level. For effortless countertop cooking and easy cleanup, we highly recommend the Chefman XL Electric Griddle with Removable; it’s spacious, user-friendly, and a joy to use. If you prefer a stovetop option that can go from kitchen to campsite, the EWFEN Reversible Grill/Griddle is a durable, versatile choice that will serve you well for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest griddle for a beginner to use?
Electric griddles are generally the easiest for beginners because they offer consistent heat and simple temperature controls. Look for models with a non-stick surface and a removable temperature probe for easy cleaning, like the Chefman electric griddles.
Can I use a cast iron griddle on a glass-top stove?
Yes, you can use a cast iron griddle on a glass-top stove, but you should be careful not to slide it around, as it can scratch the surface. Lift it gently when moving it. The EWFEN reversible griddle has a smooth bottom that is less likely to scratch, but always use caution.
How do I clean a non-stick electric griddle?
Most non-stick electric griddles have a removable cooking surface that is dishwasher-safe, making cleanup simple. If yours isn’t dishwasher-safe, wipe it with a soft cloth or sponge and warm soapy water, then dry it thoroughly. Always unplug the griddle and let it cool before cleaning.
What can I cook on a griddle?
Griddles are incredibly versatile. You can cook breakfast favorites like pancakes, eggs, and bacon, as well as lunch and dinner items like grilled cheese, quesadillas, stir-fries, and smash burgers. The flat surface is also great for vegetables and even toasting buns. For more inspiration, check out our griddle mastery guide.
