Proctor Silex Electric Griddle Review: Budget-Friendly Griddle for Small Spaces?

Are you looking for a budget-friendly electric griddle that doesn't compromise on performance? The Proctor Silex electric griddle might be the perfect solution for your small kitchen or apartment. This compact appliance offers surprising versatility, allowing you to cook everything from French toast and pancakes to bacon and hot dogs. Its simple design and easy-to-clean non-stick surface make cooking a breeze, even for busy individuals or small families. We put the Proctor Silex griddle to the test, examining its ease of use, cooking performance, and overall value. Read on to discover if this affordable option delivers on its promise of convenient and efficient cooking.This in-depth review explores the Proctor Silex electric griddle's features, performance, and overall value for its price. We delve into the details of its compact design, temperature control, and non-stick cooking surface. We'll also discuss its heating time, cooking performance with various foods, and ease of cleaning. Finally, we'll weigh its pros and cons to help you decide if the Proctor Silex electric griddle is the right choice for your cooking needs and budget. Find out if this affordable appliance is a worthwhile addition to your kitchen.

Pros And Cons

Proctor Silex Indoor Grill/Electric Grill/Griddle
  • Affordable ($20)
  • Compact and suitable for small spaces (e.g., college dorm)
  • Can cook various foods (eggs, French toast, pancakes, hamburgers, bacon, sausage, hot dogs)
  • Large cooking surface (fits six pieces of French toast)
  • Easy to clean (non-stick surface, removable parts, hand-wash only)
  • Takes a while to heat up
  • Non-stick surface may not be completely effective (food sticking observed)

Read more: Cuisinart Electric Grill: Top 9 Models Reviewed

Unboxing and First Impressions

The Proctor Silex electric griddle arrived in a compact box. Unboxing revealed the griddle itself, a power adapter with temperature control, and a surprisingly helpful instruction booklet. The griddle’s design is simple and functional, with a grease drip tray for easy cleanup. The compact size makes it ideal for smaller kitchens or apartments.

The power adapter is conveniently designed with clear temperature settings, allowing for precise control during cooking. The two-prong plug easily connects to the griddle, and the unit plugs into a standard wall outlet. The griddle's slightly slanted surface ensures that grease and excess fluids drain efficiently into the grease drip tray.

Testing the Griddle: French Toast Frenzy

Following the instructions, I set the temperature to 350°F for French toast, a recommended cooking method in the included pamphlet. The griddle's heating time seemed longer than expected, but once it reached the target temperature the power light indicated readiness. The griddle's non-stick surface is key to ease of use and cleanup.

Dipping bread slices into a prepared egg mixture, I cooked several pieces of French toast simultaneously. The nonstick surface performed well, though some minor sticking occurred. The griddle’s generous cooking surface allowed for approximately six pieces of French toast at once. This is a big plus point for those who want quick cooking for a crowd.

Performance and Versatility

While the non-stick claim wasn't flawless, the overall cooking performance was satisfactory. The griddle quickly heated up, even if it took longer to reach the stated temperature than expected. The cooking process was smooth, and the food cooked evenly. The ability to cook various food items, from eggs and pancakes to bacon and hotdogs, is a significant advantage.

French toast cooking on electric griddle
French toast cooking on electric griddle

The griddle's versatility is a standout feature. Its large cooking surface allows for simultaneous cooking of multiple items, significantly reducing cooking time. This versatility, combined with the ease of cleaning, makes it a practical choice for busy individuals or small families.

Final Verdict: Is it Worth the Price?

For $20, the Proctor Silex electric griddle offers exceptional value. While it might not match the performance of higher-end models, its affordability and versatility make it an ideal choice for those on a budget or with limited space. It’s perfect for small kitchens, college dorms, or anyone who wants a convenient way to cook various breakfast items or snacks.

The Proctor Silex griddle isn’t perfect – the non-stick surface isn't entirely flawless, and the heating time seems a little long. However, its convenience, cooking performance, and low price point far outweigh these minor drawbacks. I wholeheartedly recommend this griddle for budget-conscious cooks who value versatility and ease of use.