Photo: focuscamera.com
Raclette is basically pronounced as “Rah-Kleht”. It is an ages-old Swiss meal named after a variety of cheese. Over the time, the cooking process of raclette has evolved and instead of fire, people rather look for the best raclette grills to make the dish.
Raclette is considered as a highly considerable meal because it allows the family to come together and grill the cheese based on the ingredients they have. They end up having a lot of fun. That is why raclette is an ideal meal option for festivals and intimate gatherings.
This review will help you find the best machine to cater a party at home with pleasant conversations and some blissful time.
In this post:
- 10 Best Raclette Grills – Review
- 1. NutriChef PKGRST54 – Best Overall
- 2. Milliard Four People – Best Budget
- 3. Hamilton Beach 31612-MX – Best For Large Families
- 4. Swissmar KF-77088 – Best Traditional
- 5. Swissmar KF-77041 – Best Tabletop
- 6. Salton TPG315 – Best Round
- 7. Milliard Eight People – Best In Safety
- 8. Artestia AR-89001 – Best Dual Surface Raclette Grill
- 9. Techwood Smokeless – Best In Warranty
- 10. Swissmar KP-77073 – Best Foldable Raclette Grill
- How to Buy the Best Raclette Grill
- Conclusion
10 Best Raclette Grills – Review
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
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1. NutriChef PKGRST54 (Best Overall) |
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2. Milliard Four People (Best Budget) |
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3. Hamilton Beach 31612-MX (Best for Large Families) |
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4. Swissmar KF-77088 (Best Traditional) |
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5. Swissmar KF-77041 (Best Tabletop) |
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6. Salton TPG315 (Best Round) |
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7. Milliard Eight People (Best In Safety) |
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8. Artestia AR-89001 (Best Dual Surface Grill) |
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9. Techwood Smokeless (Best In Warranty) |
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10. Swissmar KP-77073 (Best Foldable Grill) |
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PRODUCT |
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1. NutriChef PKGRST54 (Best Overall)
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2. Milliard Four People (Best Budget)
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3. Hamilton Beach 31612-MX (Best for Large Families)
|
4. Swissmar KF-77088 (Best Traditional)
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5. Swissmar KF-77041 (Best Tabletop)
|
6. Salton TPG315 (Best Round)
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7. Milliard Eight People (Best In Safety)
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8. Artestia AR-89001 (Best Dual Surface Grill)
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9. Techwood Smokeless (Best In Warranty)
|
10. Swissmar KP-77073 (Best Foldable Grill)
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1. NutriChef PKGRST54 – Best Overall
Photo: NutriChef
- Capacity: 8
- Material: Stone & Metal
- Dimensions: 10.1 x 8.9 x 6.6 inches
The Nutrichef PKGRST54 is the best overall product because it comes with dual cooking surfaces made of stone material to add authenticity and more flavor to food and metal grill for all-purpose grilling.
Well, there is complete temperature control that gives you more control over the food. The knob on the griller helps in increasing or decreasing the temperature. Plus, there is a LED light indicator that shows when the grill is functioning.
The upper and lower cooking zones help in simultaneous cooking. You can grill the meals and make cheese on the paddlers. The convenient cool touch wood ends make it very safe. It is lightweight and can be placed on different surfaces.
Another thing is that you get multiple accessories like 8 paddlers, spatulas, skewers, etc to make grilling convenient. It only lacks in warranty, other than that this model is matchless.
Pros:
- Has dual grilling surface
- Lightweight and easy to place on any surface
- Very safe
- Variable temperature control
Cons:
- Lacks in warranty
2. Milliard Four People – Best Budget
Photo: Milliard
- Capacity: 4
- Material: Non-Stick
- Dimensions: 12.5 x 8.5 x 4.5 inches
If you have been searching for the best budget product that can rightly serve intimate dinners between couples then consider this model. It is the best 4-person raclette grill that you can find on market.
This simple and portable appliance is extremely lightweight with 3.99-pounds overall weight and consume merely 600W of power. It will keep the electricity bills to the minimum.
The non-stick cooking surface allow more sliding and less swearing as you plate the grilled items. It has a reversible grill top with a flat side and grilled side to add more versatility to the product.
On top of that, you get adjustable grill temperature to control the cooking. The grill top and paddlers are dishwasher-safe. Also, this product is ETL certified against shocks and other related concerns.
What you might find disappointing in this model is that the body construction of this model is not as robust and as the grill heats, it will also heat alongside.
Pros:
- Most economical
- Non-stick cooking surface
- Dishwasher-safe
- ETL certified
Cons:
- The body material is not very durable
3. Hamilton Beach 31612-MX – Best For Large Families
Photo: Hamilton Beach
- Capacity: 8
- Material: Non-Stick
- Dimensions: 15.5 x 16.5 x 7.12 inches
If you are seeking for the best 8-people raclette grill but want to keep the cost to the minimum then consider this model from Hamilton. It is extremely suitable for large families of 8 members.
The cooking surface is non-stick to help you slide out the food easily. Plus, all the components that come with the grill are dishwasher-safe. You get 8 paddlers, spatulas, and a grill tray.
The adjustable temperature settings help in keeping the meal making in complete control. There is sufficient space for all the members to sit and enjoy raclette. This model is suitable for the entire family.
While all the other things seem great at this price, you might feel that the grill is rather slow in heating.
Pros:
- 8-people grill at most affordable price
- Sufficiently sized
- Adjustable temperature control
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Heats slowly
4. Swissmar KF-77088 – Best Traditional
Photo: Swissmar
- Capacity: 8
- Material: Granite Stone
- Dimensions: 18.4 x 8.80 x 3.90 inches
Traditionally, the raclette was cooked on stone surfaces over fire. So, if you want the best traditional raclette grill then Swissmar KF-77088 is the choice you make.
It comes with a reversible stone and metal grilling surface. Over the stone material, you can cook the veggies and the material will help in adding the flavors. When you turn it over, the surface can be used for making crepe, pancakes, and more.
This grill can serve 8 people and comes with individual wooden spatulas and paddlers. It consumes 1200W power while functioning. Also, the variable temperature control makes this model more productive to use. Although, you might find it pricier than its counterparts.
Pros:
- Most traditional model
- Have a reversible grilling tray
- Temperature control
Cons:
- Pricier
5. Swissmar KF-77041 – Best Tabletop
Photo: Swissmar
- Capacity: 8
- Material: Cast Aluminum
- Dimensions: 16.5 x 9.6 x 5.6 inches
This model is most suitable for tabletop settings with a heavy-duty enameled steel base that makes sure the grill stands firmly on the table. Therefore, if you are looking for the best tabletop raclette grill, this is a choice to make.
It comes in a capacity of 8 and has a decently sized profile that give space to everyone to cook their cheese. While the grill tray is made of cast aluminum, you can use granite stone to enhance cooking as this model comes with interchangeable surfaces. Although, you will have to make a separate purchase of the stone.
Also, the tray is reversible and you can convert it to a crepe pan as well. It comes with non-stick coating, so washing should be easy.
Other than that, you get variable heat controls and a year-long warranty on this model. The only problem here is that the parts are not dishwasher-safe.
Pros:
- Suitable for tabletop settings
- Comes with non-stick coating
- Can be converted to crepe pan
- 1-year warranty
Cons:
- Not dishwasher safe
6. Salton TPG315 – Best Round
Photo: Salton
- Capacity: 6 – 8
- Material: Stainless-steel
- Dimensions: 13 x 13 x 5 inches
If you fancy a round raclette grill then help yourself with this best round raclette grill available in capacity for 6 – 8 people. It is available in two variants and very suitably priced.
The construction material used for the tray is stainless-steel, and it is low in maintenance. Moreover, there is non-stick coating on top to prevent cheese and other things from sticking.
You get a lot of accessories with it such as spatulas, raclette pans, recipe book, etc. It can be used to grill meat, seafood, and vegetables.
The drawback of this model is that there is no temperature control. Also, the parts are not dishwasher-compatible.
Pros:
- Round in shape and available in 2 sizes
- Low in maintenance
- Lots of accessories
- Versatile
Cons:
- Not dishwasher-safe
- No temperature controls
7. Milliard Eight People – Best In Safety
Photo: Milliard
- Capacity: 8
- Material: Granite Stone
- Dimensions: 18 x 5 x 9.25 inches
The Milliard Eight People raclette grill comes with ETL certification, declaring that it is the safest grill among others. This model has got a lot in its kitty.
It comes with a granite stone surface but at the same time, the cooking tray is reversible with flat bottom to give you more options of cooking things like pancakes, crepes, etc.
With the adjustable temperature control, you can customize the cooking experience. Plus, there is a bright light that indicates when the grill is operating.
It comes with all the necessary components, and they are all dishwasher-safe. The downside is that there is no warranty.
Pros:
- Safest model
- Reversible cooking surface
- Versatile product
- Dishwasher safe
Cons:
- No warranty
8. Artestia AR-89001 – Best Dual Surface Raclette Grill
Photo: Artestia
- Capacity: 8
- Material: Cast Aluminum and Natural Stone
- Dimensions: 18.11 x 9.45 x 5.31 inches
This one has got dual grill surfaces, one with a natural stone for authentic flavors and another made of cast aluminum. The heat is evenly distributed on two large non-stick grilling plates.
The grill consumes 1200W of total power and has adjustable heat controls for more versatility. The adjustable temperature can go as high as 375-degrees F.
It is a standard tabletop model and gives you the best experience of making raclette with the entire family. You get all the needed accessories and the spatulas are also heat-resistant to protect your hands from burns.
The only drawback here is that the non-stick coating is not very impressive and you might have to season it a lot.
Pros:
- Comes with dual grilling surface
- Authentic flavor through stone grilling
- Include necessary accessories
- Adjustable temperature settings
Cons:
- Non-stick coating is not so good
9. Techwood Smokeless – Best In Warranty
Photo: Techwood
- Capacity: 8
- Material: Cast Iron
- Dimensions: 19.5 x 11 x 4.5 inches
This model shines in warranty segment as it comes with 18-months of long warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee.
The construction is done with the most durable cast iron material and it has non-stick coating on top to make sure that nothing sticks on the grilling top.
You get adjustable temperature control and this model is extremely versatile as you can grill veggies, meat, seafood, and more on it.
However, it does take its time in heating up, so you have to be patient. Plus, the power consumption of 1500W is more than the competitive models.
Pros:
- Comes with prolonged warranty
- Versatile product
- Comes with non-stick coating
Cons:
- Takes time heating up
- More power consumption
10. Swissmar KP-77073 – Best Foldable Raclette Grill
Photo: Swissmar
- Capacity: 8
- Material: Cast Aluminum & Stone
- Dimensions: 22 x 9.75 x 5 inches
This one is uniquely shaped and has a foldable design. There are two separate grilling platforms, one with a natural stone and the other made of cast aluminum. Because of the design, the storing of this product is very easy.
For both the cooking surfaces, there is separate power control. Also, the granite stone is interchangeable. This model gives the most personalized experience of making raclettes.
To ensure safety, it comes with heat-safe handles as well. There are all standard tools companied by the grill plus you get a manual guide as well. However, the high cost of the product is a definite concern.
Pros:
- Easy store foldable design
- Comes with two grilling platforms
- Interchangeable granite stone
- Heat-safe handles
Cons:
- Very expensive
How to Buy the Best Raclette Grill
Photo: Techwood
There is not a lot of versatility in raclette grill. Most of these are tabletop models. However, the difference could be in the amount of power they consume, the material, and heat settings. In this section of the raclette grill review, we should discuss the buying tips.
1. Capacity
Not every raclette has equal quantity. These appliances are available in different capacities. You can find from 4 to 10 servings.
Normally, it is difficult to determine the right capacity. At some point you might be hosting a couple’s dinner and need a raclette grill in capacity of 4. However, it couldn’t be the case all the time. That is why it is said that determining the right capacity is perplexing.
What we recommend is to select large capacity instead so that it can be put to use when you are expecting lesser guests as well as when you have more people around.
Technically, an 8-person raclette grill is sufficient for all. The best 8-person raclette grill that you can find online is Swissmar KF77041 raclette grill. It is a modish and efficient model that you can easily install on a table.
2. Heat Control
The best of the machines are ones that comes with variable temperature control. This way, you can customize the process of preparing the feast.
You can basically control the temperature of a grill from 350 – 600-degrees F as most of the raclette grills have settings in between these temperatures range.
Also, on variable temperature, you can set the cooking time as well. This feature gives full control to the maker rather than using a constant temperature for cooking raclette.
The Techwood Smokeless Raclette Grill comes with multiple temperature controls from 392 – 536-degrees F.
3. Material
The material in kitchen appliances says a lot about their overall quality and how much you can count on them for long-lasting stay. Well, in a raclette grill, you can find a variety of materials.
If you want to go all traditional then look for a grill with granite or stone cooking surface. In earlier times when raclette was prepared on direct heat, people used stone cooking areas. They bring good taste and allow the meat to sear with bountiful flavors.
There are other materials as well such as stainless-steel, cast iron and cast aluminum. It is important for all the metal materials to have non-stick coating on the top, preferably porcelain as it is safer than Teflon.
Stainless steel is better in equal distribution of heat. Cast iron comes with unbeatable durability, but it is a bit hefty. Other than that, you get cast aluminum material which is low in maintenance and lightweight as well.
The bottom line is that if you want the best material in raclette grill then look for the stone material. It is authentic and bring more flavors to the meal.
4. Power Consumption
Every electric appliance consume power to function. Certainly, the raclette grill will also do the same. However, the logic you want to be looking here is to select a product with low power consumption.
A traditional 4-person raclette grill will be smaller in profile and it might take somewhere between 400W – 800W of power. At the same time, an 8-person grill will consume between 10,000W – 16,000W power.
While selecting a model, the aim should be to find one that has low power consumption. It will keep your bills to the minimum.
5. Accessories
The purpose of a raclette grill is to melt cheese for you. However, the accessories play an essential role in making a model more productive. Therefore, you should check for the accessories like individual pans and spatulas, etc.
6. Ease of Use
Raclette is considered as one of the easiest and interesting meals. If you are inviting people over and offer them the feast of raclette, you wouldn’t want them to spend a lot of time understanding the working of the grill. This could be a complete kill-joy and a disaster of an evening.
That is why, the simplistic working of the grill should be one of your priorities while selecting a machine. This way, you can easily sit around the table and with a few steps, everyone can make their individual raclette.
7. Ease of Cleaning
So, once the party is over, the next big thing is the clean-up. How annoying would it be to have to clean the grilling tray and paddlers with hand? Not to forget, the meal includes cheese which sticks to the surface. This means that it will make harder to get rid of it.
You need a raclette grill that comes with dishwasher friendly parts. This way, while the machine part of the grill can be cleaned with a dry cloth, you can wash the grilling tray and paddlers in a dishwasher, without having to make any cleaning efforts.
The Milliard Eight People Raclette grill is dishwasher-safe and help you effortlessly clean the surface.
Conclusion
Well, finding the best Swiss raclette grill could be intimidating, especially when you are making the first-time purchase.
If you want to cut the chase and find a perfectly suitable product with everything right then go with the Nutrichef PKGRST54 Raclette Grill as it is decent in power consumption, gives you better temperature control, and has dual surface for increased versatility.
Other than that, the Hamilton Beach 31612-MX gives the best value of money because it is the most 8-people raclette grill that comes at such an affordable price, without compromising any essential feature.