One Appliance, Five Ways to Cook
This single countertop appliance replaced my panini press, stovetop griddle, and indoor grill for everything from breakfast pancakes to seared steaks.
The Cuisinart Griddler FIVE packs five distinct cooking functions into one compact unit, making it a compelling choice for anyone with limited counter space or a desire for kitchen versatility. If you love grilling year-round but hate the cleanup of multiple pans, this digital griddle warrants a closer look.
- True 5-in-1 Versatility The reversible grill and griddle plates are brilliantly designed, making the switch from a full griddle for pancakes to a contact grill for chicken genuinely easy and effective.
- Precise Digital Control The LCD display and wide temperature range (175°F to 450°F) provide far more control than simple dials, allowing for everything from gentle warming to a powerful sear.
- Cleanup is Effortless Being able to pop the removable nonstick plates and scraping tool directly into the dishwasher is a game-changer, eliminating the biggest drawback of indoor grilling.
- Smart, Sturdy Design From the floating hinge that accommodates thick paninis to the sturdy handlebar, the build quality feels solid. The 3-year limited warranty provides confidence in its longevity.
Master any meal with 5-in-1 cooking functions, from a full griddle to a panini press. The LCD display and digital controls offer precise temperature adjustments up to 450°F for perfect results.
| Model | GR-5NAS |
| Functions | 5-in-1: Contact Grill, Panini Press, Full Grill, Full Griddle, Half/Half |
| Display | LCD with Digital Controls |
| Temperature Range | 175°F to 450°F |
| Special Feature | Sear Function |
| Cooking Plates | Removable, Reversible, Nonstick |
| Cleanup | Dishwasher-Safe Plates and Scraping Tool |
| Warranty | Limited 3-Year |
- True 5-in-1 functionality with easy-to-swap reversible plates.
- Wide 175-450°F temperature range with a dedicated sear function that actually works.
- Clear LCD display and intuitive digital controls are a major upgrade over analog dials.
- Removable, dishwasher-safe plates make cleanup incredibly simple.
- Floating hinge design accommodates thick sandwiches and meats for even cooking.
- Heats up quickly, reducing overall meal prep time.
- The integrated drip tray can feel small when cooking very greasy foods like bacon.
- Nonstick coating requires careful use with non-metal utensils to prevent scratches.
- Takes up a fair amount of counter or cabinet space for storage.
Choosing the right Countertop Grills
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Versatility & Plate TypeHighThe primary benefit of an electric griddle is its ability to perform multiple tasks. The best models have reversible or interchangeable plates for grilling and griddling.Look forRemovable and reversible plates (grill/griddle).AvoidFixed, single-surface plates that limit cooking options.
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Temperature Control & RangeHighPrecise temperature control is key for moving beyond simple sandwiches. A wide range allows for slow warming and high-heat searing.Look forDigital controls with a specific temperature display and a range up to at least 425°F.AvoidVague 'Low-Medium-High' dials with no temperature feedback.
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Ease of CleaningHighGrease and food residue can be difficult to clean. Features that simplify this process are crucial for frequent use.Look forRemovable, dishwasher-safe, nonstick plates and an effective grease drip tray.AvoidModels with fixed plates that must be cleaned in place.
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Size & FootprintMediumConsider both the cooking surface area and the appliance's overall storage footprint.Look forA cooking surface that matches your typical meal size and a design that is relatively compact for storage.AvoidA unit that is too small to be useful or too large to store conveniently.
Common questions
How effective is the sear function on the Griddler FIVE?
The sear function works surprisingly well, boosting the plate temperature to 450°F for two minutes. It creates a legitimate crust on steaks and burgers that you don’t get from standard electric grills. While not a 900°F steakhouse broiler, it’s a fantastic feature for an indoor appliance.
Do the plates heat evenly?
Yes, the heating is quite even across the majority of the plate surfaces. You might find the outer edges are slightly cooler, which is common, but it cooks consistently without any major hot or cold spots that ruin food. It’s reliable for everything from pancakes to paninis.
Is it really smokeless?
It’s more ‘low-smoke’ than ‘smokeless’. Cooking lean meats or vegetables produces very little smoke. However, high-fat foods like bacon or marbled steaks on high heat will produce some smoke, so using it under a range hood is a good practice.
How durable is the nonstick coating on the plates?
The nonstick coating holds up well with proper care. Always use silicone, nylon, or wood utensils and the included scraper—never metal. While the plates are dishwasher-safe, gentle hand washing will likely extend the life of the coating even further. The 3-year warranty adds peace of mind.
The Cuisinart Griddler FIVE is a standout performer, offering genuine versatility and user-friendly features that simplify indoor cooking. While the drip tray could be larger for very greasy foods, its precise temperature control and incredibly easy cleanup make it a top recommendation.
- Reversible plates provide five distinct cooking functions in one appliance.
- Intuitive LCD display with a wide 175-450°F temperature range plus a sear function.
- Removable, dishwasher-safe components make cleanup fast and simple.
For home cooks in apartments, small kitchens, or anyone seeking a do-it-all countertop appliance, the Cuisinart Griddler FIVE is an excellent investment. Its ability to seamlessly switch from a pancake griddle to a panini press to a steak grill makes it a true kitchen workhorse. The combination of digital controls and easy-to-clean plates removes the most common frustrations of indoor grilling.
