Raclette Grills That Make Every Meal a Melted Masterpiece
For most homes, the Swissmar Bordeaux 8-Person Raclette Grill stands out as the top pick. It suits families and dinner parties with its large cooking surface and eight individual trays. Its main advantage is even heat distribution for consistent melting. However, it takes up considerable counter space and requires careful storage.
Raclette grills bring the Swiss tradition of melting cheese into your home, perfect for cozy dinners and lively gatherings. They typically feature a grill top for meats and vegetables, with small pans underneath for melting raclette cheese or heating other toppings.
Choosing the right one can be tricky with so many options. We’ve analyzed customer feedback, specifications, and features to help you find a grill that melts evenly, cooks thoroughly, and lasts for years.
How to choose
The best picks, ranked
Swissmar Bordeaux 8-Person Raclette Grill
This grill features a large nonstick cooking surface and eight individual nonstick pans. Owners praise its even heat distribution and sturdy construction. The temperature control is adjustable, allowing for precise cooking.
Pros
- Even heat distribution for consistent cooking
- Durable build with high-quality materials
- Eight pans allow everyone to cook at once
Cons
- Large footprint requires ample counter space
- Cleaning the grill top can be tedious
Cuisinart CMW-200 8-Piece Raclette Grill
A budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on performance. The nonstick surface heats quickly, and the included pans are easy to clean. It’s ideal for couples or small families.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Compact design fits small kitchens
- Easy to store when not in use
Cons
- Lower wattage may heat slower
- Only four pans included
VonShef 8 Person Raclette Grill with Reversible Plate
Features a reversible nonstick plate: one side is flat for grilling, the other is ridged for searing. Includes eight pans and a granite finish that is scratch resistant. Owners like the even cooking and easy cleanup.
Pros
- Two cooking surfaces in one
- Scratch resistant granite coating
- Dishwasher safe pans
Cons
- Plate can be heavy to flip
- Temperature dial lacks precision
Waring Pro RGR400 Professional 4-Person Raclette Grill
Waring Pro is known for commercial grade equipment, and this raclette grill lives up to that reputation. It features a solid cast aluminum top with a powerful heating element that responds quickly to adjustments.
Pros
- Professional grade construction
- Quick and responsive heating
- Simple to clean with a wipe down
Cons
- Higher price point
- Only four pans included
Swissmar Lugano 8-Person Raclette Grill
The Lugano model features a stylish stainless steel and black finish that looks great on any table. It heats evenly and includes eight pans with wooden spatulas for serving.
Pros
- Elegant design complements modern decor
- Includes wooden spatulas
- Even heat with adjustable thermostat
Cons
- Surface can be prone to scratches
- Pans are not dishwasher safe
Severin BR 7948 Raclette Grill for 8 Persons
This unit heats up rapidly thanks to its high wattage and efficient design. The nonstick surface is easy to clean, and the pans are conveniently stored underneath when not in use.
Pros
- Heats up in under five minutes
- Pans store in base for compact storage
- Cool touch handles
Cons
- Cable length is short
- Some users report uneven heating on edges
Klarstein Raclette Royal 8 Person Raclette Grill
This grill comes with a large cooking surface and eight pans, plus a built-in stone plate for extra cooking options. It’s designed for social dining, keeping food warm while you chat.
Pros
- Stone plate adds variety to cooking
- Large surface area for multiple foods
- Adjustable thermostat
Cons
- Stone plate requires seasoning
- Unit is bulky and heavy
How they compare
| # | Model | Capacity | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Swissmar Bordeaux 8-Person Raclette Grill | 8 people | Large gatherings and family dinners | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Cuisinart CMW-200 8-Piece Raclette Grill | 4 people | Compact kitchens and small budgets | 8.8 | Check price |
| 3 | VonShef 8 Person Raclette Grill with Reversible Plate | 8 people | Versatile cooking with reversible grill | 8.6 | Check price |
| 4 | Waring Pro RGR400 Professional 4-Person Raclette Grill | 4 people | Serious home chefs who want precision | 8.9 | Check price |
| 5 | Swissmar Lugano 8-Person Raclette Grill | 8 people | Sleek design and modern aesthetics | 8.7 | Check price |
| 6 | Severin BR 7948 Raclette Grill for 8 Persons | 8 people | Quick heating and efficient performance | 8.5 | Check price |
| 7 | Klarstein Raclette Royal 8 Person Raclette Grill | 8 people | Fun and interactive dining experiences | 8.4 | Check price |
Good to know
What is a raclette grill?
A raclette grill is an electric appliance with a hot surface on top for grilling meats and vegetables, and small pans underneath for melting raclette cheese or heating other toppings.
How many people can a raclette grill serve?
Raclette grills typically serve 4 to 8 people, depending on the model. Smaller ones are good for couples, while larger ones are great for parties.
Can you use a raclette grill for things other than cheese?
Yes, you can grill vegetables, meats, seafood, and even make pancakes or eggs. The top surface is versatile, and the pans can melt cheese or heat sauces.
How do you clean a raclette grill?
Wait for the grill to cool completely. Remove the pans and wash them in warm soapy water or place in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher safe. Wipe the main unit with a damp cloth.
Is it safe to use a raclette grill indoors?
Yes, electric raclette grills are designed for indoor use. They are typically smokeless, but cooking certain foods may produce some smoke, so ensure proper ventilation.
What type of cheese is best for raclette?
Traditional raclette cheese is best, but you can also use other semi-hard cheeses like Gruyere, Emmental, or Gouda. Choose cheeses that melt well and have a good flavor.
Can you use aluminum pans on a raclette grill?
Yes, aluminum pans are commonly used because they conduct heat well. However, avoid using metal utensils that can scratch the nonstick coating.
Are raclette grills energy efficient?
Raclette grills consume between 800 and 1500 watts. They are not the most energy efficient, but they are only used for short periods during meals.
How long does it take to melt cheese in a raclette grill?
Typically, it takes 5 to 10 minutes for the grill to heat up and melt cheese in the pans, depending on the wattage and the amount of cheese.
Can you use a raclette grill outdoors?
Most electric raclette grills are for indoor use only. If you want to use one outdoors, you need to have access to an electrical outlet and protect it from the elements.
Final word
After comparing all options, the Swissmar Bordeaux is the best overall for its even heating and capacity. For tight budgets, the Cuisinart CMW-200 offers solid performance at a lower price. If you frequently host gatherings and want extra cooking features, the Klarstein Raclette Royal is worth the investment. Whatever you choose, a raclette grill brings fun and flavor to your table.
Sierra Daniels
Sierra's background is in landscape design and nursery retail. She focuses on lawn and garden equipment, outdoor furniture and gear durability, weighing published specs against how materials actually hold up outside.
