Breville BREBGR200XL Panini Grill: The Quest for the Perfect Grilled Sandwich Ends Here?
Okay, panini fanatics, let’s huddle up! I’ve been putting the Breville BREBGR200XL Variable Temperature Panini Grill through its paces, and I’m ready to spill the beans. You see, I’ve wrestled with my share of sandwich presses – from those budget-friendly models that barely heat up to some seriously fancy ones. Grilled cheese, Cubans, you name it, I’ve pressed it. So, trust me, I know what makes a panini press sing.
First Glance & Cool Features:
Right out of the box, the Breville BREBGR200XL screams “Breville” – that oh-so-familiar sleek, brushed stainless steel look. It just feels sturdy, and that’s always a good first impression. The specs back this up: stainless steel body, cast aluminum cooking plates with that all-important non-stick coating. It’s a looker, no doubt about it, and it’ll blend right into most kitchens.
But the real star of the show? That adjustable height control. Seriously, this thing is a game-changer! Remember those days of squished sandwiches or uneven grilling? Gone! Whether you’re pressing a delicate Caprese with a sliver of mozzarella or a sky-high veggie stack, you can tweak the top plate for perfect contact. And those ribbed, non-stick cooking plates? They’re not just for show. They deliver those gorgeous grill marks that make a panini a panini. Plus, they’ve included a removable drip tray to catch all the greasy bits, which, let’s be honest, makes cleanup a breeze.
Cooking Up a Storm:
Breville boasts that this grill is 1500 watts and cooks 50% faster than your average grill. Now, I didn’t break out the stopwatch, but I can tell you it heats up fast. And the temperature control? Chef’s kiss! I can’t stand panini presses with just an on/off switch. This Breville gives you seven settings, so you’re in total command. I’ve found that setting 4 is usually my sweet spot – golden-brown bread, melty cheese, no burning disasters.
I’ve thrown all sorts of fillings at this thing, and it’s handled everything like a champ. That non-stick coating really works its magic. Even the gooiest, cheesiest messes wipe away with barely any effort. Trust me, that’s a lifesaver.
A Few Tiny Hiccups:
Okay, nothing’s perfect, right? At 16.93 x 7.17 x 14.17 inches, it hogs a bit of counter real estate. Not a deal-breaker, but something to keep in mind. Also, while I love the drip tray, it’s a tad small. If you’re grilling something super greasy, you might need to empty it halfway through. I learned that the hard way with a particularly ambitious pulled pork panini!
The Final Bite:
Even with those minor quirks, the Breville BREBGR200XL Variable Temperature Panini Grill is a total winner. It’s built like a tank, heats up in a flash, and consistently cranks out delicious results. The adjustable height control and those precise temperature settings put it head and shoulders above the competition. If you’re serious about your paninis (or just want a super-versatile indoor grill), you absolutely need to check this one out.
My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars