Ronco Ready Grill Black review compact electric grill with easy cleaning features

Description

Cooking Convenience with the Ronco Ready Grill

Testing out the Ronco RG1001BLGEN Ready Grill in Black turned out to be an unexpectedly enjoyable experience. As someone who loves grilled food but hates dealing with outdoor grills, this small yet efficient device felt like a game-changer. It’s compact, lightweight, and perfect for indoor use, offering all the smoky flavors of outdoor grilling without the hassle of smoke or outdoor clean-up. Let me share my experience, both the highs and a few bumps along the way.

Design and Build of the Ready Grill

One of the first things I noticed about this product is its sleek black finish and compact size. Measuring 17.3″ in depth, 7.3″ in width, and 11.6″ in height, it fit perfectly on my counter without hogging space. The lightweight structure (weighing just 7.5 pounds) makes it incredibly portable—ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or even RVs.

The stainless steel construction adds a touch of durability, while the two-position grill basket is a standout feature. It allowed me to cook both thinner cuts of meat and thicker pieces like pork chops and ribs with ease. The grill also includes a removable grease tray and heat shields, which made cleaning a breeze—something I truly appreciated after a burger night with friends.

Performance and Functionality

The four heating elements are the heart of this grill, cooking food evenly from both sides simultaneously. This feature not only locks in the juices and flavors but also ensures faster cooking times. I tested it on everything from chicken thighs to frozen hamburgers, and the results were consistently satisfying. The flavor? Incredible! I was genuinely surprised by how well it browned the meat without making it dry.

It’s also versatile enough for vegetables, seafood, sausages, and even ribs. The adjustable basket was handy for grilling asparagus one day and thicker steaks the next. Plus, the automatic shut-off timer gave me peace of mind, especially when multitasking in the kitchen.

However, I did notice that the heating elements, while powerful, tend to create very hot zones, so you need to be cautious about placement to avoid uneven cooking. This isn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s something to keep in mind while grilling.

Positives

Here are some of the key benefits I discovered while using this grill:

• Compact and lightweight design that’s perfect for small spaces like RVs or apartments.
• Four heating elements cook both sides at once, locking in flavor and juices.
• Removable grease tray and heat shields make cleaning effortless.
• The multi-position basket accommodates a wide range of food thicknesses.
• Timer feature ensures safety and prevents overcooking.

Shortcomings

While the grill impressed me overall, there are a few areas for improvement:

• The hot zones can lead to uneven cooking if food isn’t placed carefully.
• The small size of the grill limits its use for larger family gatherings or parties.
• Accessories like the steamer basket or kabob rods aren’t included, which adds to the cost if you want the full experience.

Product Competitors

I’ve used other indoor grills, so naturally, I had to compare them. For instance, the George Foreman grill is a popular rival. While both models offer smokeless indoor grilling, the Ronco Ready Grill stands out with its vertical cooking design and even heat distribution. The George Foreman, on the other hand, has a larger cooking surface and is better suited for families.

Another competitor is the Hamilton Beach Electric Grill, which also offers a compact design and nonstick plates. However, it lacks the multi-position basket that makes the Ronco so versatile. The Ronco grill’s drip tray is also easier to clean compared to Hamilton Beach’s setup.

In terms of flavor, the Ronco excelled, producing food that tasted closer to traditional outdoor grilling. But if you’re looking for a grill to handle larger quantities, you might find the alternatives more suitable.

Cost Efficiency

The price point is reasonable, especially considering the features it offers. I’d call this grill affordable quality because it delivers on its promises without breaking the bank. Other grills in this category often lack the versatility or require more effort to clean, which makes this one feel like a smart spending choice.

Considering its compact size, multi-functionality, and ease of use, it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who enjoys grilling but needs a space-saving and indoor-friendly option. While it might not replace a full-sized outdoor grill entirely, it’s a fantastic alternative for quick, flavorful meals without the mess or hassle.

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