Living in a small apartment, dorm, or cozy home doesn’t mean you have to give up on delicious, grilled meals. Compact George Foreman grills are the perfect solution, offering the iconic lean, mean grilling in a footprint designed for limited countertop space. These versatile appliances go beyond just burgers and steaks, often functioning as panini presses and more, all while reducing fat and simplifying cleanup.
Choosing the right model depends on your specific needs, from serving size to special features like removable plates for easy cleaning. Whether you’re cooking for one or occasionally hosting a few friends, there’s a George Foreman grill built to fit your space and your lifestyle. This roundup highlights the best options to bring hassle-free grilling into your kitchen.
Our Top Picks for Compact George Foreman Grills
- George Foreman GRP4842MB Multi-Plate Evolve Grill
- George Foreman 2-Serving Classic Plate Grill
- George Foreman 4-Serving Removable Plate Grill
- George Foreman Indoor Outdoor Electric Grill
- GEORGE FOREMAN Contact Submersible Grill
- George Foreman 4-Serving Removable Plate Grill, Silver
- George Foreman GFO201R 2-Serving Grill, Red
- George Foreman 3-Serving Healthy Cooking Grill
George Foreman GRP4842MB Multi-Plate Evolve Grill
For the cook who values versatility in a compact design, the Evolve Grill is a standout choice. It includes premium ceramic grill and waffle plates, allowing you to switch from searing meats to making Paninis or breakfast waffles with a simple plate change. This multifunctionality makes it an excellent space-saving appliance that replaces several others.
Precision is key with this model, thanks to its digital timer and temperature controls. You can set the exact heat from 300°F to 425°F and time up to 20 minutes. A special searing button provides a 500°F burst for 60 seconds to create a perfect crust on steaks or chops before returning to your set temperature, offering restaurant-quality results at home.
George Foreman 2-Serving Classic Plate Grill
This model is the definition of a space-saving classic. With a compact size of just over 9 inches long, it fits easily on even the most crowded countertop or in a small cabinet. It’s specifically designed for individuals or couples, featuring a cooking surface ideal for two servings of your favorite grilled foods.
You get the original George Foreman grilling experience with durable, sloped grill plates that cook food evenly while draining excess fat away. The George Tough nonstick coating ensures your meals release easily and cleanup is straightforward, all while helping you prepare healthier meals with less added oil or butter.
George Foreman 4-Serving Removable Plate Grill
Balancing capacity with convenient cleanup, this 4-serving grill is perfect for small families or those who occasionally entertain. Its improved heating elements preheat 35% faster than previous models, meaning you spend less time waiting and more time cooking your meal.
The standout feature is the set of removable grill plates. After grilling, you can simply pop them into the dishwasher for a thorough clean, eliminating the hassle of scrubbing the entire appliance. The Advanced George Tough nonstick coating is also three times more durable than standard coatings, promising long-lasting performance.
George Foreman Indoor Outdoor Electric Grill
If you have a small balcony, patio, or want the option to grill away from your kitchen, this portable electric model is a fantastic choice. It provides a large, 200-square-inch rectangular cooking surface capable of handling over 12 servings, making it surprisingly capable for its category.
It’s fully electric, so it’s approved for use in apartments and spaces where charcoal or propane grills are prohibited. The adjustable temperature control offers five heat settings, giving you the flexibility to cook a wide variety of foods properly. Its portability means you can easily move it to where you need it.
GEORGE FOREMAN Contact Submersible Grill
Cleanup reaches a new level of simplicity with the Contact Submersible Grill. Its unique design allows you to remove the control panel and wash the entire grill base and plates in the dishwasher. This takes the convenience of removable plates a step further for a truly comprehensive clean.
This 5-serving grill also heats up 30% faster than comparable models, getting your meal started quickly. The grill plates feature the Advanced George Tough nonstick coating, noted for its enhanced durability against scratches and wear, ensuring reliable performance meal after meal.
George Foreman 4-Serving Removable Plate Grill, Silver
This silver variant offers the same practical benefits as its black counterpart, providing a mid-sized cooking capacity perfect for small households. The removable plate system remains the central feature, making post-meal cleanup as simple as loading the dishwasher.
You can expect consistent performance with the efficient heating system and reliable nonstick coating. The sloped design continues to drain excess fats away from your food during the cooking process, supporting healthier meal preparation. Its neutral silver finish can be a stylish fit for many kitchen decors.
George Foreman GFO201R 2-Serving Grill, Red
This vibrant red grill adds a splash of color to your small kitchen while delivering the essential George Foreman grilling function. Its 2-serving capacity makes it an ideal personal appliance for singles or a compact option for couples.
The classic, fixed-plate design is straightforward to use: just plug in, preheat, and grill. The sloped nonstick surfaces cook food evenly and help reduce fat. Its small footprint ensures it won’t take up valuable counter space, and the bold red color can make it a cheerful addition to your cooking tools.
George Foreman 3-Serving Healthy Cooking Grill
Striking a balance between the 2-serving and 4-serving models, this 3-serving grill is a versatile middle ground. It’s compact enough for daily use in a small space but offers a bit more cooking area for when you need it.
True to the George Foreman principle, it focuses on healthy cooking by channeling excess fats away from food during the grilling process. The reliable nonstick coating provides easy food release and cleaning. This model is a solid, no-fuss choice for anyone seeking a simple and effective grill for regular use.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right George Foreman Grill for Your Small Space
Living in a small apartment or working with a tiny kitchen means every appliance has to earn its spot on the counter. I’ve been there, and a George Foreman grill can be a total game-changer for quick, easy meals without the mess. But not all models are created equal when square footage is limited. Here’s what I look for when choosing the best George Foreman grill for small spaces.
First, think about the physical footprint. This is the most obvious factor. I always measure the spot on my counter where I plan to keep it, and I check the product dimensions carefully. Some grills have a surprisingly deep base or a tall lid that might bump into cabinets. Look for a compact, low-profile design. Many newer models have a slanted lid that saves vertical space, which is perfect for tight kitchens.
Next, consider the cooking surface. It’s a balancing act. You want a plate large enough to be useful—like fitting two chicken breasts or a few burgers—but not so huge it dominates your kitchen. For one or two people, a 72 to 100 square inch grill is usually the sweet spot. Also, check if the plates are removable. This is a non-negotiable feature for me. Removable plates make cleanup in a small sink so much easier, and many are even dishwasher safe.
Storage is the other half of the battle. I love a grill that stores neatly. Some have a clever design where the cord wraps around the feet, and the unit stands on its end to tuck away in a cupboard. Others are just slim and lightweight enough to slide onto a shelf. If it’s going to live on the counter full-time, a sleek, simple look is key so it doesn’t make the space feel cluttered.
Finally, don’t forget about function. A variable temperature control is more versatile than a simple on/off switch, letting you cook everything from fish to grilled cheese. A drip tray that’s easy to access and clean is essential for managing grease, especially in a compact area. By focusing on size, cleanability, and smart storage, you can find a George Foreman grill that fits your life and your kitchen perfectly.
FAQ
Can I really use a George Foreman grill in a dorm room or studio?
Absolutely. Many models are perfect for this. They use a standard 120V outlet, heat up quickly, and don’t produce smoke like an open flame grill. Just look for a smaller, basic model with a simple on/off switch. It’s a safe and easy way to make a hot meal without a full kitchen. It’s one of the best solutions for adding cooking options to a tiny living space.
How do I clean a George Foreman grill without a big sink?
The key is getting one with removable, non-stick plates. Once the grill cools slightly, I pop the plates out and can wipe them down right at the table or on a small dish drying mat. A little warm soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth do the trick. For a really deep clean, many plates are dishwasher safe, which is a huge space-saver. Always make sure the grill is unplugged and completely cool before cleaning.
What can I actually cook on a small George Foreman grill?
You’d be surprised! Beyond the classic burgers and chicken, I use mine for grilled vegetables like zucchini and peppers, panini-style sandwiches, reheating pizza to make it crispy, and even cooking fish fillets. The contact heat cooks things fast and drains away fat, which is a healthy bonus. It’s a very versatile tool for quick, single-serving meals.
Are the smaller grills powerful enough to cook food properly?
Yes, they are designed to be. The smaller cooking surface actually helps because the heating elements are closer together and heat the plates evenly and efficiently. They might take a minute or two longer than a massive grill to preheat, but they get plenty hot to sear meat and cook it through. I’ve never had an issue with undercooked food on a well-preheated compact model.
Where is the best place to store a George Foreman grill in a small kitchen?
It depends on your layout. If you use it almost daily, leaving it on the counter is fine—just choose one with a clean, minimal design. For occasional use, I recommend looking for a model that stands on its end. Many are built to store vertically in a cabinet or on a pantry shelf. Just make sure it’s completely cool, the cord is wrapped, and the drip tray is empty and secured first.