The Best Grill Press and Waffle Maker, According to the Brimly Test Kitchen
“We put this grill-press-waffle-maker hybrid to the test!”
BY STAFF @THE BRIMLY TEST KITCHENSeptember 5, 2024
Image Source/Editors @ Brimly
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Let's be real. Finding the perfect kitchen gadget can feel like searching for the Holy Grail. You want something that can do it all—grill, press, waffle, and maybe even whip up a meal with minimal effort (we can dream, right?). That's exactly why we need to talk about the Breville Sear and Press Grill. This appliance made us at Brimly Test Kitchen stop and rethink our approach to multifunctional kitchen tools. We put this grill-press-waffle-maker hybrid to the test, and spoiler alert: we're obsessed. Let me explain why this little powerhouse is our new best friend in the kitchen.
Breville Sear and Press Grill Stands Out
For starters, the Breville Sear and Press Grill doesn't just sit pretty on your counter—it delivers on versatility. If you've ever wished your grill plates could magically flip or change, this grill is for you. The plates are dual-sided, which means you can flip them from a smooth surface to a grill surface with ease. Want to grill a panini? You've got it. Need to sear a steak with those iconic grill marks? Check. It's like having a two-in-one that doesn't compromise on quality. And honestly, that's something we're here for.
At Brimly, we've had our fair share of grills, and most of them have one frustrating thing in common: cleaning. Let's talk about how miserable it is to clean a grill with stationary plates. You know the ones. They're heavy, they're clunky, and trying to scrub them clean without making a mess is a nightmare. But the Breville Sear and Press Grill? Absolute genius. The plates are completely removable and dishwasher-safe. Yes, you heard that right. Non-stick, easy-to-remove plates that you can just pop in the dishwasher. Cleanup is no longer a war zone. You're welcome.
It's a Grill and a Waffle Maker? Yes, Please.
If you're anything like us, you probably appreciate an appliance that can pull double duty (and save counter space). One of the standout features of the Breville Sear and Press Grill is that it's not just a grill—it's also a waffle maker. Yep, you can swap the grill plates out for waffle plates, transforming this gadget into the ultimate breakfast companion. We snagged the additional waffle plates for a super reasonable price, and let me tell you, they're a dream. Making waffles has never been easier, and the non-stick surface means no more battling to get those perfect squares out in one piece.
We've used plenty of waffle makers over the years, but none that can flip between grilling steaks and making waffles in the same day. The versatility here is unmatched. Plus, with the adjustable top plate feature, you can "float" the top over your sandwich or waffle without squishing it into oblivion. It's kind of like levitating magic but for your food. You can control the height, so whether you're cooking a giant stacked sandwich or delicate waffles, you're covered.
Breville Sear & Press Grill
Is It Worth Investing in a Dual-Purpose Appliance Like This?
In short, absolutely. Here at Brimly, we used to buy kitchen gadgets like they were going out of style, but the truth is, most of them had one single purpose. And guess what? They took up space. Loads of space. The Breville Sear and Press Grill has allowed us to simplify and streamline our kitchen without sacrificing the diversity of what we can make. It's a real space-saver, and trust me, if you've ever had a cluttered kitchen counter (or worse, pantry), you know the struggle.
We've been using this grill for everything from paninis to pancakes (yes, pancakes!). The smooth plates are ideal for pancake batter, and because of how evenly the heat is distributed, you don't get those frustrating hot spots or burned edges. It's all golden, perfectly cooked deliciousness. Honestly, I'm not sure we even need our old pancake griddle anymore. With the Breville, we're able to hit all our culinary needs with just one machine. It's saved us space, time, and the headache of rummaging through old, outdated gadgets.
The waffle function is just as impressive. It gives us perfect, evenly cooked waffles every time. And thanks to the non-stick plates, there's no awkward scraping or fumbling with utensils. The waffles practically jump out on their own. So yes, if you're asking yourself whether a multi-use machine like this is worth the investment, I'm here to say it's a big yes. You'll not only save money in the long run by consolidating devices, but you'll also free up valuable counter space—and honestly, who doesn't need more counter space?
How We Used the Breville Grill/Waffle Maker
Let me give you the scoop on how we put this machine to work at Brimly. First off, we tried the waffle maker option (because who can resist a waffle?). The plates were super easy to swap in, and the non-stick surface lived up to the hype. No batter got stuck, and we ended up with golden, crispy waffles with minimal effort. The machine even has a built-in timer to let you know when it's heated and when your food is done—so you're not left guessing or poking at it, hoping for the best.
We didn't stop at waffles, though. This is Brimly Test Kitchen, after all, so we had to try making paninis, pancakes, and even grilled vegetables. The sear plates worked wonders for pancakes, heating evenly and giving us that perfect golden brown finish. No burns, no raw centers—just fluffy, perfect pancakes. And the grill plates? They worked like a charm for pressing paninis and grilling steaks. Everything cooked evenly, and the grill marks were pure perfection.
Whether it's a quick lunch or an elaborate dinner, this machine has become our go-to for just about everything. Even when we had to use it for longer periods or multiple batches, the Breville didn't overheat or shut down on us. The stainless steel body is solid and easy to clean, and the ceramic non-stick plates make sure everything slides right off without sticking or burning.
Why the Breville Sear and Press Grill is a Home Cook's Dream
This grill-press-waffle maker hybrid is the definition of user-friendly. It's perfect for both seasoned cooks and newbies who are just getting started in the kitchen. The controls are clear, the interface is intuitive, and the durability? Unmatched. The stainless steel build gives it that sturdy, long-lasting feel, and the non-stick plates are PFOA-free, so you don't have to worry about nasty chemicals leaching into your food.
We also love how quickly it heats up and how evenly it distributes heat across the entire surface. And the added bonus of being able to remove the plates for cleaning? Absolute kitchen bliss. There's even a little drip tray on the side to catch any oil or grease that might drip off, which makes cleanup even easier.
In short, the Breville Sear and Press Grill is everything you want in a kitchen gadget. It's easy to use, super versatile, and built to last. We've used it to make everything from grilled fruit to kebabs, and it hasn't let us down once. So, if you're in the market for a grill press that also doubles as a waffle maker, this is the one to get.
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Final Thoughts
At around $200, it's an investment, but one that's worth every penny. You're essentially getting multiple appliances in one, and the time and space it'll save you make it a no-brainer. So whether you're flipping pancakes, grilling a panini, or whipping up some waffles, the Breville Sear and Press Grill is ready for it all—and then some. We highly recommend this for any home cook looking to upgrade their kitchen gear without cluttering their counters with too many gadgets. You won't be disappointed.
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