Best Infrared Grills

Looking for the best infrared grills to take your BBQ game up a notch? You’ve come to the right place. Infrared technology is becoming increasingly popular and offers fast cooking times, even heat distribution, and truly remarkable results.

To ensure that you make the right decision when choosing an infrared grill this year, we have compiled our list of the best infrared grill models on the market this year!

Revolutionize your outdoor cooking experience now with these incredible products which guarantee uniform temperature throughout grilling sessions, resulting in food cooked to perfection every single time.

Our Picks: The Best Infrared Burner Grills Available Today

• Best Overall: Char-Broil TRU Infrared Performance
• Runner Up: Char-Broil Signature TRU-Infrared Grill
• Best for Beginners: Char-Broil Patio Bistro TRU-Infrared Electric Grill
• Best Luxury: Napoleon Prestige 500 Gas Grill
• Best Portable: Solaire Portable Infrared Propane Gas Grill

Best Overall

Char-Broil TRU Infrared Performance

Let’s dive into the exclusive Char-Broil TRU Infrared Performance Grill. A stainless steel masterpiece offering a unique infrared cooking experience, this grill caters to all your outdoor cooking needs with style and durability.

We were impressed with the overall performance of the Char-Broil TRU Infrared Grill. The reliable push-to-start electronic ignition meant we could get grilling in no time, and the swing-a-way warming rack added versatility to our grilling experience. With TRU-Infrared cooking technology, we enjoyed evenly-cooked, flavorful meals with no flare-ups.

This grill is an excellent choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts, especially those who love hosting large cookouts. It’s also a great option for those who appreciate technological innovation in their appliances, given its unique infrared cooking system.

What We Liked

• TRU-Infrared Cooking Technology: This unique technology eliminates the common problem of flare-ups, provides even heat distribution, and ensures that the food you grill stays juicy and delicious.
• High Quality Design: With an exclusive stainless steel finish, the grill is not only stylish, but also durable, making it a perfect long-term investment.
• Large Cooking Space: With 450 square inches of primary cooking space, you’ll have enough room to cook a feast for your entire family or a group of friends.
• Durable, Easy-to-Clean Grates: The grill features porcelain-coated grates that are sturdy, rust-resistant, and simple to clean.

What We Didn’t Like

• May Require Some Assembly: While not necessarily a deal-breaker, some users might find the assembly process a bit time-consuming.

Overall, the Char-Broil TRU Infrared Performance Grill is a stylish, high-performance, and technologically advanced grilling option. Its unique features, such as the TRU-Infrared cooking technology and the reliable electronic ignition, set it apart from other grills, offering an unparalleled outdoor cooking experience. If you want to enhance your grilling game, the Char-Broil TRU Infrared Performance Grill is a solid choice.

Runner Up

Char-Broil Signature Infrared Grill

The Char-Broil Signature TRU-Infrared 2-Burner Gas Grill is our runner-up best infrared grill. As an Amazon-exclusive product, this grill offers exceptional performance and cooking versatility in a compact, space-saving design. This grill incorporates advanced features such as integrated LED lights, folding side shelves, and SureFire electronic ignition, all designed to enhance your grilling experience.

The Char-Broil Signature TRU-Infrared Grill impressed us with its advanced features and overall performance. The quick start-up, thanks to the SureFire electronic ignition, and the even cooking enabled by the infrared technology, made our grilling experience enjoyable and hassle-free. Plus, the integrated LED lights added a stylish touch to our evening barbecue sessions.

While other grills might offer a larger cooking space, few come with the added benefit of integrated LED lights and a reliable electronic ignition system.

This grill is perfect for those who want a high-tech, efficient, and space-saving solution for their grilling needs. It’s a great fit for small to medium-sized gatherings, making it an ideal choice for those who love hosting backyard barbecues with their close friends and family.

What We Liked

• Advanced Infrared Technology: This grill uses TRU-Infrared technology that prevents flare-ups, evenly distributes heat, and cooks food that’s up to 50% juicier.
• High-Tech Features: The grill boasts integrated LED lights for a unique aesthetic, and a SureFire electronic ignition system for quick, reliable starts.
• Durable and Easy to Clean: The grill’s porcelain-coated, cast-iron grates are both robust and rust-resistant, making cleaning a breeze.
• Compact yet Spacious: Despite its compact design, the grill offers 325 square inches of primary cooking space, perfect for hosting intimate cookouts.

What We Didn’t Like

• Assembly Required: The grill comes unassembled and some customers might find the assembly process a bit time-consuming.
• Natural Gas Conversion Kit Sold Separately: While the grill offers dual fuel capability, the natural gas conversion kit is not included and must be purchased separately.

All in all, the Char-Broil Signature TRU-Infrared Grill offers a unique combination of advanced features, durable construction, and compact design. While there may be some minor hiccups like the assembly process, the grill’s performance, versatility, and unique infrared technology make it a worthy investment for any grilling enthusiast. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a casual weekend barbecue lover, this grill is sure to enhance your cooking experience.

Best Infrared Grill for Beginners

Char-Broil Patio Bistro Electric Infrared Grill

Meet the Char-Broil Patio Bistro TRU-Infrared Electric Grill, a fantastic option for those new to grilling or looking for a hassle-free experience. Say goodbye to the fuss of gas or charcoal, this high-quality electric grill is small enough to fit on a patio yet spacious enough to cook up to 12 burgers at a time. It’s designed with TRU-Infrared cooking technology that ensures even heating and juicier, more flavorful food.

The Char-Broil Patio Bistro TRU-Infrared Electric Grill was a breeze to use. We found the convenience of electric grilling without sacrificing the taste or juiciness of the food a standout feature. The easy temperature adjustments offered fine control over the cooking process, and the grill was straightforward to clean after our cookout.

Compared to other beginner-friendly grills, the Char-Broil Patio Bistro stands out with its electric grilling feature. This aspect makes it less intimidating for novices compared to grills that use gas or charcoal. The TRU-Infrared cooking technology sets it apart, delivering even heat distribution and juicier food.

This grill is an excellent choice for beginners or those who prefer the convenience and ease of electric grilling. It’s perfect for small gatherings or families, and with its compact design, it’s great for those with limited outdoor space.

What We Liked

• Easy-to-Use: This electric grill offers simplicity and convenience, eliminating the need for gas or charcoal.
• Infrared Technology: The TRU-Infrared cooking technology assures no flare-ups, even heat distribution, and succulent food.
• Simple Temperature Control: The integrated control knob allows for easy adjustment of temperatures.
• Durability and Ease of Cleaning: The grill’s porcelain-coated grate is both tough and rust-resistant, making it easy to clean after use.

What We Didn’t Like

• Limited Cooking Space: With 320 square inches of total cooking space, it might not be suitable for large gatherings.
• Dependent on Electricity: Since it’s an electric grill, its use is restricted to places with electricity access.

Overall, the Char-Broil Patio Bistro TRU-Infrared Grill offers a balance of convenience, functionality, and quality. Its standout features like the TRU-Infrared technology and easy temperature control contribute to a delightful, stress-free grilling experience. While it may not cater to large gatherings, its size is part of its charm, making it an ideal choice for beginners and small-scale grilling enthusiasts. It’s an investment that promises enjoyable cookouts with mouth-watering, evenly-cooked meals.

Best Luxury Infrared Grill

Napoleon Prestige 500 Gas Grill with Infrared Technology

The Napoleon Prestige 500 Gas Grill is the epitome of luxury when it comes to infrared grills. Crafted from high-quality stainless steel, this grill is like an outdoor kitchen with four main burners, an infrared rear, and an infrared sizzle zone side burner. The standout feature is the safety glow control knobs, which glow red when the burner is on, ensuring you never accidentally leave the gas on.

In our testing, the Napoleon Prestige 500 Gas Grill did not disappoint. Its vast cooking space and powerful performance, thanks to the 48,000 BTU burners, made grilling a delight. We particularly enjoyed using the infrared sizzle zone side burner for searing steaks and the infrared rear rotisserie burner for perfect spit roasting. The safety glow control knobs added a nice touch of safety and convenience.

Compared to other luxury grills, the Napoleon Prestige 500 offers superior infrared cooking features and a vast cooking space. Its stainless steel construction and multiple burners set it apart from the competition.

This grill is perfect for serious grill enthusiasts and those who often cook for large gatherings. Its versatile cooking options also make it great for those who enjoy experimenting with different grilling techniques.

What We Liked

• Powerful Performance: With four stainless steel main burners producing 48,000 BTU-per-hour input and stainless steel sear plates for even heat distribution, this grill is designed for memorable meals.
• Large Cooking Space: Offering 500 square inches of main cooking space, it can cook up to 31 burgers at once. The additional 260 square inches warming rack and 140 square inches side burner offer even more cooking options.
• Reliable Ignition System: The JETFIRE ignition system guarantees a quick start every time, with a backup feature that allows the burners to light off each other.
• Infrared Sizzle Zone Side Burner: Cook a steakhouse-quality steak every time, with the side burner that heats up to 1800 degrees in 30 seconds.
• Infrared Rear Rotisserie Burner: The 18,000 BTU Infrared rear burner and the included Napoleon heavy-duty rotisserie kit let you enjoy rotisserie-cooked food at home.

What We Didn’t Like

• Expensive: The high-quality features and build of the Napoleon Prestige 500 Gas Grill come with a hefty price tag.
• Large Size: The grill’s large size may require a substantial amount of outdoor space.

All in all, the Napoleon Prestige 500 Gas Grill is a top-tier, feature-packed infrared grill offering exceptional performance and versatility. Despite its higher price point, it is an investment that delivers value over time with its powerful features and high-quality build.

Its thoughtful design features, like the safety glow control knobs and the reliable ignition system, contribute to an outstanding grilling experience. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or simply love hosting large backyard barbecues, the Napoleon Prestige 500 is a luxury choice that will not disappoint.

Best Portable Infrared Grill

Solaire Portable Infrared Propane Gas Grill

The Solaire Portable Infrared Propane Gas Grill is the best infrared grill for those who prioritize convenience on the go. This USA-made portable grill comes from a family business with over a century of expertise. With its robust infrared ceramic and stainless steel burner, this grill brings searing hot temperatures to your outdoor cooking, locking in those delicious juices.

Using the Solaire Portable Infrared Grill was a game changer for our outdoor cooking. It was easy to take on the go, and the infrared burner heated up incredibly quickly. Compared to other portable grills, the Solaire stands out with its quick-heating infrared burner and flavor-enhancing v-grate.

While other grills might be more budget-friendly, they often don’t offer the same high-quality construction that the Solaire does.

This grill is an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts who love to tailgate, camp, or go boating. It’s also a great choice for people with small balconies or backyards who still want to enjoy high-quality grilled food.

What We Liked

• Efficient and Powerful: The grill has a real infrared ceramic and stainless steel burner, which fires up in just three minutes to searing hot temperatures.
• Compact and Portable: Weighing only 15 pounds and with compact dimensions, it’s easy to take to tailgates, picnics, or camping trips.
• Quality Construction: Made from 20 gauge type-304 stainless steel, this grill is built to last. Plus, it’s made by a 100-plus-year-old family business, showing their commitment to quality.
• Great Grilling Area: Despite its compact size, it offers 140 square inches of cooking area, enough to fit six 4-inch burgers. Its special v-grate improves flavor and virtually eliminates flare-ups.

What We Didn’t Like

• Propane Bottles Not Included: The grill operates on 1-pound propane bottles, which are not included in the package.
• Assembly Required: Although minimal, the assembly can be a small inconvenience as you need to attach the handles and the four adjustable feet.

The Solaire Portable Infrared Propane Grill is an impressive package of power, portability, and quality. Despite its compact size, it packs a punch with its infrared power and delivers great-tasting food wherever you go. Whether you’re the king or queen of the campsite or just want to enjoy fantastic grilled food at home, this grill is a top choice.

In Review: Our Top Picks For The Best Infrared Grills

• Best Overall: Char-Broil TRU Infrared Performance
  “unique technology eliminates the common problem of flare-ups, provides even heat distribution, and ensures that the food you grill stays juicy and delicious”
• Runner Up: Char-Broil Signature TRU-Infrared Grill
  “integrated LED lights, folding side shelves, and SureFire electronic ignition”
• Best for Beginners: Char-Broil Patio Bistro TRU-Infrared Electric Grill
  “high-quality electric grill small enough to fit on a patio yet spacious enough to cook up to 12 burgers at a time”
• Best Luxury: Napoleon Prestige 500 Gas Grill
  “four main burners, an infrared rear, and an infrared sizzle zone side burner”
• Best Portable: Solaire Portable Infrared Propane Gas Grill
  “the best infrared grill for those who prioritize convenience on the go”

What is Infrared Grilling?

Are you curious about how infrared grills work? You’re not alone. Infrared grilling is a fantastic innovation in outdoor cooking that offers a unique twist on traditional grilling methods.

The key element of an infrared grill is its infrared burners. These burners use a gas or electric heating element to heat the infrared plates. These plates then emit infrared heat, or infrared radiation, which directly cooks your food.

Now, you might be wondering, “How does this compare to traditional gas grills or charcoal grills?” Well, unlike a traditional gas grill or a charcoal grill that cooks food by heating the air, infrared grills use radiation, which leads to more direct and efficient cooking.

Benefits of Choosing An Infrared Grill

Choosing an infrared grill can transform your outdoor cooking experience. If you’re wondering how these grills stack up compared to conventional grills, here are some of the unique benefits you can expect when using most infrared grills:

• Faster Cooking: Infrared gas grills can reach high temperatures quickly, often in just a few minutes. This speed can significantly cut down your cooking time, making it ideal for busy grillers.
• Uniform Heat: Infrared grills eliminate the hot and cold spots often found in conventional grills. The infrared plate distributes the heat evenly, ensuring your food cooks evenly and consistently.
• Juicier Food: Because infrared grills cook food through radiation, they tend to lock in moisture better than traditional grills. This results in juicier, more flavorful meals.
• Energy Efficiency: Infrared grills use less gas or electricity compared to conventional grills, making them more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.
• Easy Cleaning: Since infrared grills reach higher temperatures, they can essentially clean themselves. The high heat can incinerate any leftover food or grease on the grates.

In conclusion, infrared grills can offer a faster, more consistent, and juicier grilling experience. Plus, they’re easier to clean and more energy-efficient, making them a solid choice for any grilling enthusiast.

Features To Consider When Buying An Infrared Grill

When it comes to sizzling steaks, juicy burgers, and perfectly charred vegetables, nothing does the job quite like an infrared grill. These grilling machines heat up faster, distribute heat more evenly, and provide a juicier cook than traditional gas grills or charcoal grills.

But, like with any major purchase, there are important factors to consider to ensure you’re choosing the right infrared grill for your specific needs. Here are some features to keep in mind as you navigate the world of infrared grilling.

Number of Burners

When looking at infrared grills, consider the number of burners included. The number of burners can determine the primary cooking space and the overall cooking power of the grill.

Multiple burners can offer a larger cooking surface, allowing you to cook more food at once. This feature is especially important if you frequently host large gatherings or have a big family.

Temperature Range

Another crucial aspect to consider is the range of cooking temperatures the grill can reach. Infrared grills are known for their ability to achieve high temperatures quickly, making them ideal for searing steaks and other meats.

However, having a grill that also allows for lower temperatures can provide versatility for cooking a wider variety of foods, especially those that do best with low and slow cooking.

Construction Material

The material used in the grill’s construction is vital for its durability and performance. Look for grills with stainless steel sear plates and stainless steel construction as they’re generally more robust and can withstand the high temperatures infrared grills produce.

Additionally, stainless steel cooking grates are excellent for heat distribution and add that perfect sear mark to your food.

Portability

If you’re a fan of camping, tailgating, or just like the idea of a movable kitchen, a portable infrared grill can be a great choice. Portable infrared grills are designed to be compact and lightweight without sacrificing the high heat and fast cooking times that infrared grills are known for.

Additional Features

Finally, consider the additional features that come with the grill. Some grills may come with extras like a rotisserie kit, which can expand your cooking options. A warming rack can be useful for keeping food warm while you finish grilling the rest.

Some models even include an infrared side burner, perfect for sautéing vegetables or simmering sauces. Lastly, check if a protective cover is included for your grill to keep it safe from the elements when not in use. Remember, the more features a grill has, the more versatile it will be for your cooking needs.

Tips For Using An Infrared Grill

Infrared grills, known for their high temperatures and ability to deliver that flawless sear, are a game changer in outdoor cooking. If you’re new to this grilling method, mastering the art of infrared grilling can take a little practice.

Here are some helpful tips to help you get the most out of your infrared grilling experience:

• Start with a clean grill: Infrared grills reach high temperatures, so it’s important to clean the grates before each use to prevent food from sticking or burning.
• Preheat the grill: Infrared grills heat up quickly, usually in about 3 to 5 minutes. Always preheat your grill before adding food to ensure it reaches the proper cooking temperature.
• Use for searing: Infrared grills are perfect for searing meat due to their high heat output. Start by searing your meat on high heat to lock in juices, then lower the temperature to cook the inside to your desired doneness.
• Monitor your food: Food cooks much faster on an infrared grill, so it’s crucial to keep a close eye on what you’re grilling to avoid overcooking.
• Rest your meat: After grilling, let your meat rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful bite.
• Shut it down properly: After you’re done grilling, turn off the burners and let the grill cool completely before covering or storing it. This ensures that the grill is safe to touch and that no residual heat will damage your grill cover.

By following these tips, you’ll become a pro at infrared grilling in no time, delivering delicious, perfectly seared meals with ease.

Infrared Grill FAQs