Grilled Cheese & Grill

Buying an XL-sized sandwich maker means no more queuing at the kitchen counter. The Strex contact grill delivers 2200 watts and a large grilling surface — enough for several toasted sandwiches at once, thick panini, and anything else that tastes better between two hot plates: chicken breast, vegetables, even yesterday's leftover pizza.

More than sandwiches: what can a contact grill do?

The underrated side of a contact grill is everything after the sandwich. The same ribbed plates grill chicken breasts and burgers with barbecue-style marks, roast zucchini and bell peppers without needing a pan full of grease, and press a flattened wrap into a crispy quesadilla. The 2200W power is what makes the difference compared to lightweight sandwich makers: the plates heat up quickly and don't lose temperature once cold ingredients are placed inside — resulting in a crispy outside and melted inside, rather than "lukewarm and pale".

What should you look for?

• ✔ Power — 2200W means fast preheating and constant temperature under load
• ✔ XL surface — multiple sandwiches or two chicken breasts at once; family size
• ✔ Floating top plate — thick panini and burgers are pressed evenly, not crushed
• ✔ Non-stick coating — melted cheese wipes away with a paper towel as soon as the plates cool down
• ✔ Warranty — 2 years standard with Strex

The sandwich trick that makes all the difference: spread a thin layer of butter or olive oil on the outside of the bread instead of the plates — the bread turns golden brown and crispy, the plates stay cleaner, and the cheese melts in the same amount of time. And let a grilled sandwich rest for thirty seconds before cutting: the cheese sets and doesn't run straight onto the plate. For busy kitchens, the contact grill is the natural companion to the airfryer — together they cover lunch and dinner without an oven. You can find more kitchen help in the kitchen collection.

Frequently asked questions

Can I also make panini and burgers?

Yes — the top plate adjusts to the thickness, so thick panini, burgers, and chicken breasts are grilled evenly instead of being squashed. The ribbed plates provide those signature grill marks.

How do I clean the sandwich maker?

Let the plates cool until lukewarm and wipe them clean with a paper towel or a damp cloth — the non-stick coating releases melted cheese and fat without scrubbing. Do not use harsh abrasives, as they will damage the coating.

How long does it take to heat up?

With 2200 watts, the appliance is up to temperature in just a few minutes — faster than an oven preheats. The indicator light shows when the plates are ready; the first sandwich can go in almost immediately.

Check out the XL sandwich maker from Strex — and turn every lunch into a hot one.

Want to know more? Read our article "XL Sandwich Maker: the perfect toasted sandwich".