It's official, quarantine season has been extended. This means spending more time at home to prevent further spread of the COVID-19 disease and only a limited number of people per household can head out. If ever you find yourself tired of breaking out your oven mitts and baking supplies, here's an easy alternative − sandwich makers.
You have probably watched your parents or grandparents make sandwiches for merienda at some point using this gadget. It is handy if you want to fix yourself a snack or meal. We've prepared a guide and a list of recommendations to help you get acquainted with sandwich makers to aid you this quarantine season.
Quick List - Top Sandwich Makers
Hamilton Beach
Make Morning Meals More Fun with this Sandwich Maker
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Table of Contents
Sandwich makers are small appliances that can grill, toast, and heat bread with whatever type of filling or stuffing you put in them. It is ideal if you want to put together a quick and delicious snack without much effort. It is great if you are in a rush or are too busy to prepare a full meal of rice and ulam.
It has evolved to include more functions, so you can get creative with your sandwich by upgrading your filling and have a more delicious meal instead of reaching for your usual chips. You can even grill or make waffles on sandwich makers now, instead of having to buy a separate waffle maker and grill. Talk about versatility!
Sandwich makers in the past are not really versatile and can only toast sliced bread but it had evolved to include more options such as grilling and searing. Some models have multipurpose functions that can do more than toast bread, which have expanded their function.
Sandwich makers are not uniform; you should always take into consideration the number of people in your family. A traditional sandwich maker would be able to accommodate up to 4 slices of bread, which is enough for 2 sets of sandwich. This is ideal if you have a small family.
On the other hand, bigger models like a Panini press could fit up to 8 slices of bread depending on the model, which could make 4 sets of sandwiches. Your bread options are not just limited to sliced bread; you could use a variety like flatbreads, wraps, and subs.
Sandwich makers are rarely used, perhaps because of its singular function of toasting sandwiches and sliced bread, which can also be achieved by using a bread toaster. Let's face it, the novelty of stuffing and sealing your sandwiches wears off after the first couple of uses.
However, newer models have come up with innovations that allow versatility in your sandwich maker. Aside from toasting sandwiches, you could also use it for grilling, searing, and making waffles. You could also use an assortment of bread.
This is what you would picture a traditional, good old-fashioned sandwich maker to be, and you have probably owned one at some point. It is characterized by square-shaped heating plates on the top and bottom, which are divided into triangular indentions. Its handle closes down, effectively sealing your sandwich.
It is very easy to use as it toasts the sandwich and is done in about 5-10 minutes, no fancy set-up required. Some older models don’t have a timer setting, so you have to watch out lest you burn your sandwich. It is great for making no-fuss sandwiches when you’re in a pinch.
On the other hand, a Panini press is characterized by grill plates at the top and bottom that heats the food when closed. You may have come across this device in cafes or deli shops. It primarily functions as a grill, but it is multifunctional as it could be used as a toaster and griddle too.
Some models come with changeable plates to match the method of cooking you want. It could be used to prepare a variety of sandwiches. Its function does not end there as well; you could use it for cooking pancakes and waffles, grill burgers, and kebabs.
Most sandwich makers come with only one heat setting. It usually comes in a set of red and green lights that indicate when the sandwich is ready to be taken out of the appliance.
However, some high-end models have temperature control settings that allow you to have more control over how you want your sandwich to be cooked.
When it comes to sandwich makers, the first thing you'd imagine is the tell-tale triangular shape. While that's true, there are other units that make use of Panini presses, flat shapes, and circular shapes. There is really no particular advantage of one over the other, it's just a matter of preference.
This usually comes in Panini presses and is characterized by grooved lines. Some units may have a grooved top only while the bottom is smooth. These leave your sandwich with grill marks that make it look more appealing.
Some models have a floating lid design that does not squish sandwiches when closed, keeping the filling and overall structure of the bread intact. This type is also suitable to perform grill functions, so you could do more than toast sandwiches.
This is very easy and straightforward to use; you do not need to do much other than assemble the sandwich. This is ideal for those who want their sandwiches to have a “pocket” for extra fillings.
The indentions also seal the edges of the bread, which prevents anything from spilling. However your options are rather limited as you can only use sliced bread.
Round shaped plates are great for preparing breakfast sandwiches. It is the ideal shape for those breakfast muffins, doughnuts, and bagels. You won’t have a reason to miss breakfast now!
You could also use it to cook eggs and ham to use as filling for your sandwich. The round shape could be used to make perfectly shaped pancakes.
Sandwich makers come in different materials, it is available in cast iron, aluminum, and non-stick surfaces. Try to choose one with a non-stick coating for easy cleanup, so any residue is easy to remove. There is nothing worse than scrubbing burnt cheese after you’re done cooking.
Pick sandwich makers with removable plates, which make it easier to clean so you won’t have to haul the entire appliance to the sink when you’re done. You won’t have to worry about damaging the equipment as well.
Cheaper appliances come with plastic handles. However, these are not heat-resistant and are more prone to damage after frequent heating and reheating of the sandwich maker. It can turn brittle and easily break. Try to select handles made of metal as it is more durable and can stand to take the heat.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Cuisinart 5-in-1 Griddler|GR-4N | ![]() | Multipurpose Panini Press for the Budding Home Cook | |
2 | DēLonghi MultiGrill|CGH 1030D | ![]() | App Operated Griller for the Tech Savvy | |
3 | Imarflex 3 in 1 Snack Maker|ISM-63R | ![]() | Multipurpose Function in One Compact Device | |
4 | Hamilton Beach Breakfast Sandwich Maker - Black|25477-PH | ![]() | Make Morning Meals More Fun with this Sandwich Maker | |
5 | Imarflex Digital Panini Grill|IPG-520D | ![]() | Adjustable Timer for Perfect Sandwiches | |
6 | Tough Mama 2-in-1: Compact Griller and Sandwich Press|NTM-SG1 | ![]() | Grill Sandwiches and Samgyupsal in this 2 in 1 Griller | |
7 | Nostalgia Breakfast Sandwich Maker |BS20RD | ![]() | Brighten Your Day with this Vintage Themed Breakfast Maker | |
8 | Russell Hobbs Panini Maker|17888 | ![]() | Adjustable Hinge for Sub Sandwiches | |
9 | Hamilton Beach Gourmet Sandwich Maker|25460Z | ![]() | Locking Lid for Evenly Pressed Sandwiches | |
10 | Russell Hobbs Fiesta 3 in 1 Sandwich Maker|22570 | ![]() | Deep Fill Plate for Filling Sandwiches |
This 5-in-1 unit functions as a contact grill, Panini press, full grill, half grill, and griddle. It is large enough to accommodate 4 sandwiches at a time, making it ideal for the whole family. It has reversible and removable non-stick cooking plates that drain grease for healthier cooking and easier cleanup.
It is designed with a floating cover so you can adjust it to accommodate the thickness of the food. You can grill sandwiches without squishing them. It has a selector knob to let you choose whether you want to use the grill or griddle function and has adjustable temperature controls.
This multi-grill has 7 cooking functions, which include contact grill, Panini press, and waffle griddle, so you do more than just make sandwiches. You can also grill burgers, sear steak, and make pancakes. It has a dedicated app that advises the best way to cook a dish to obtain the best result.
It has an electronic LED panel that allows you to control the cooking process, which includes the time and temperature of the cooking plates, ideal if your family has different preferences. It has two independent thermostats – one for the top and bottom plates to ensure precision. It also has an auto shut off feature for your safety.
With Imarflex’s 3-in-1 Snack Maker, you won’t have to worry about only using your appliance to make a sandwich. It is a Panini press, a grill, and a waffle and sandwich maker in one. It is dishwasher safe and also comes with 3 detachable plates that let you change it for the method of cooking you want to use it for.
The metal handle features a cool-touch technology that won’t burn your fingers when you open it. It has a pilot light indicator to let you know when your sandwich is ready to be taken out. This device also has anti-slip rubber footing that won’t scratch your countertops or table.
It has two removable and dishwasher safe layers that are covered in a non-stick coating to prevent your food from sticking. It features a cooking plate so you could include an egg to add to your sandwich to make it more filling, though keep in mind the meat must be pre-cooked.
It makes your sandwich ready in 5 minutes or less, making it ideal if you don’t have a lot of time to prepare breakfast before going about your day. The removable rings also provide a hassle-free sandwich assembly as you can simply lift it to reveal your toasted sandwich. Make croissant, pancake, and bagel sandwiches with this device.
Expand your sandwich options with Imarflex’s Digital Panini Grill. This press has a large grilling surface that can accommodate 4 slices of bread, and you’re not just limited to sliced bread either. You could also use tortilla wraps, bagels, and baguettes. The grill features Teflex non-stick coating for easy cleanup.
It has an LED display that includes temperature control and an adjustable timer so you can customize the cooking process for your dishes. It also includes a sear function so you can grill burgers or other meat with ease and catches the drippings with the included oil drip tray.
This sandwich maker also doubles as a griller, which is ideal if you’re craving for Samgyupsal or barbecued ribs. It has a floating hinge system that you can adjust to accommodate the size of the meat, bread, or snack. This means you can accommodate dishes ranging from liempo to loaf bread without needing a different appliance.
It comes in a stainless steel design that won’t clash with your kitchen and has a cool-touch handle so you won’t have to worry about it being too hot after use. It also has automatic temperature control so you won’t have to worry about anything, just plug it and you’re good to go.
This vintage themed sandwich maker will have you looking forward to making breakfast. It has a non-stick griddle on top where you can cook eggs and breakfast meat such as sausage patties, ham, or luncheon meat while the bottom serves as a warming tray where you could put English muffins, croissants, and other bread.
Despite its appearance, it is very simple to use; upon plugging in, it has power-on and indicator lights to let you know when your meal is cooked. It has a drip tray to prevent you from making a mess and is ready in just 5 minutes. The round shape is also ideal for cooking burgers.
This Panini grill can accommodate the whole family as it allows for up to 5 portions. It opens 180 degrees, which means you can use both top and bottom plates as a grill or griddle. Perfect for when you want to make kebabs, burgers, and chicken. It has a drip tray so you won’t have to worry about drowning your food in oil.
The plates have a non-stick coating for easy cleanup though it is not removable. This device has an adjustable hinge that won’t squish your sandwiches so you can use larger bread such as ciabatta, subs, or those raved about sourdough loaves. Indicator lights tell you when your food is ready.
This sandwich maker is big enough to accommodate your whole family so you can grill multiple sandwiches at once. It has a floating style lid that can accommodate sandwiches of any thickness, so you won’t have to worry about reducing your stuffing, which is ideal if you want a more filling sandwich.
No need to worry about flipping your sandwich as it features a locking lid that presses down your sandwich evenly on its non-stick griddles so you can achieve perfect grill marks. One unique feature of this sandwich maker is that it has a pre-heat light to let you know when you should start putting your ingredients.
If you’re wary about sandwich makers, as it won’t do much beyond toasting your sandwiches, then try this 3 in 1 sandwich maker. It comes with 3 plates - a deep fill sandwich plate perfect for making grilled cheese or tuna melt, a waffle plate for when you want a tasty snack, and a grill plate for Paninis.
The removable plates have an easy-to-clean non-stick coating and are dishwasher safe, so you won’t have to bring the whole appliance to the sink when you’re done. Its handles have a locking clip so your bread won’t spill out while toasting, and has light indicators that point out when your sandwich is done to avoid burning them.
Breakfast doesn't mean you have to eat the same thing over and over again. Check out these other picks to pair with your sandwich maker the before you have the most important meal of the day.
A sandwich maker does not have to be limited to the one dimensional triangular appliance you have encountered. There are models that offer plenty of functions and can double as a grill, waffle maker, and panini press. This quarantine season, why not take a break from your usual baking and get creative with sandwiches.
Author: Justine Cuizon
No. 1: Cuisinart|5-in-1 Griddler|GR-4N
No. 2: DēLonghi|MultiGrill|CGH 1030D
No. 3: Imarflex|3 in 1 Snack Maker|ISM-63R
No. 4: Hamilton Beach|Breakfast Sandwich Maker - Black|25477-PH
No. 5: Imarflex|Digital Panini Grill|IPG-520D
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