Waffle Makers That Open Flat

Key Takeaways

• Waffle makers that open flat offer incredible versatility, doubling as grills, griddles, and more beyond just making waffles. These waffle grill sandwich makers with interchangeable plates will make post-meal cleanup a breeze.
• Important features to consider include cooking surface size, dual temperature controls for top and bottom plates, durable plate materials, and extra functions like adjustable hinges to accommodate thicker foods, built-in drip trays, and included accessories like egg rings or tongs add convenience
• Top models like the BLACK+DECKER, GreenPan, Yedi, and De’Longhi all receive high marks for their quality construction, impressive versatility, and ability to produce perfect waffles, grill meats, and griddle a wide variety of foods.
• These multipurpose appliances can handle everything from fluffy waffles to seared steaks, grilled sandwiches, and full breakfast spreads
• Proper cleaning, maintenance, and storage will keep your open flat waffle maker performing at its best for years to come
• The right flat opening waffle maker is a true kitchen MVP, saving time and counter space while delivering restaurant-quality results

Why Buy a Waffle Maker that Opens Flat?

You know that feeling when you’re craving a stack of fluffy, golden-brown waffles but don’t want to deal with the hassle of making a mess in the kitchen? Or when you need a versatile cooking appliance that can whip up waffles for breakfast, grill sandwiches for lunch, and sear juicy steaks for dinner? That’s where the magic of waffle makers that open flat comes into play.

No more wrestling with bulky appliances that only serve one purpose. Think of it like having a waffle iron, grill, and griddle all rolled into one sleek, space-saving package. Efficiency at its finest, my friends!

As the proud owner of not just one, but multiple open flat waffle makers, I’ve become somewhat of an expert. These babies have upgraded my breakfast game, streamlined lunch prep, and even saved dinner on more than one occasion.

Imagine being able to make four perfectly cooked waffles at once, then simply unfolding the appliance to reveal a spacious griddle surface for whipping up a batch of pancakes or sizzling burgers. Or how about grilling thick sandwiches without squishing them, thanks to the adjustable floating hinge? There are many options with these multi-functional marvels.

Craving a stack of golden, fluffy waffles? Check. Need to grill a mean panini? No problem. Up for cooking a juicy steak without firing up the outdoor grill? Consider it done!

But don’t just take my word for it. In this guide, we’ll look at:

• Exactly what makes these appliances so darn versatile
• Must-have features to look for when choosing your open flat waffle maker such as dual temperature controls and adjustable hinges.
• Top models from Black and Decker and Greenpan that reign supreme
• Pro tips for nailing the perfect waffle, every single time

So grab a cup of coffee and get ready to have your mind blown. Because once you experience the convenience of a waffle maker that spreads its wings, you’ll never go back to those one-trick ponies again!

What is a Waffle Maker that Opens Flat?

Cooking Versatility Unlocked

At first glance, these open flat waffle makers seem like your standard waffle iron. But oh boy, are they so much more! Think of them as a kitchen multi-tool that can whip up waffles, grill sandwiches, sear steaks, and even act as a griddle for pancakes or eggs.

The key lies in that unique hinge design. With a simple flip, the entire cooking surface unfolds and transforms from a compact waffle maker into a spacious, double-sided griddle or grill. Genius, right?

Double the Cooking Real Estate

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Let me paint you a picture. Last Sunday morning, I was craving waffles but also wanted to whip up a side of bacon and eggs. Normally, that would mean juggling multiple pans and appliances. But not with my trusty flat opener!

I started by cooking up four perfectly golden-brown Belgian waffles on the closed griddle plates. Then, I unfolded that baby to reveal double the cooking surface area. A few swipes of non-stick spray, and I had an instant two-sided griddle for frying up bacon on one side and scrambling eggs on the other. Breakfast bliss achieved with zero added chaos.

Grill, Griddle, Waffle – You Name It!

But wait, there’s more! These multi-faceted appliances can pull double (or should I say triple?) duty for all your cooking needs:

• Waffle Mode: Closed flat plates for churning out thick, fluffy waffles
• Panini Grill: Same closed design, perfect for grilling sandwiches
• Open Grill: Unfold for a double-sided grill surface to sear steaks, burgers, veggies, and more
• Griddle Mode: Those open, dual flat surfaces? Instant griddle for pancakes, eggs, fajitas – the options are endless!

To give you an idea of just how versatile these babies are, let’s look at some key features:

Top Picks for the Best Waffle Makers that Open Flat

The Search for the Ultimate Multi-Tasker

Let’s be real, not all waffle makers that open flat are created equal. I’ve tried my fair share over the years, and let me tell you, some seriously impress while others…not so much.

But fear not! I’ve whittled it down to the cream of the crop – the true multi-tasking MVPs that can whip up dreamy waffles one minute and sizzling fajitas the next. Here are my top four picks:

1. BLACK+DECKER G48TD 3-in-1 Waffle Maker

The Oldest Open Flat Waffle Maker

The BLACK+DECKER G48TD was the first open flat waffle maker I ever used, way back in 2004, and it quickly became a kitchen staple. I love how easy these reversible grill/griddle plates are to use. Unfortunately, the plates are not dishwasher-safe so I had to hand wash them.

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One Sunday morning, I fired it up to make a batch of fluffy, golden-brown waffles using the waffle plates. The deep, Belgian-style grids yielded thick, crispy on the outside, tender on the inside perfection. Once the family had polished off the waffles, I flipped the plates to the grill side. Cue melty, toasty panini sandwiches loaded with gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and all the fixings for an epic brunch feast!

Another night, I put the grill plates to work searing succulent beef fajita strips while using the flat griddle side to cook up peppers and onions. The ample 8×8″ cooking surface gave me plenty of real estate to multitask. Dinner was on the table in a flash, and zero pans to scrub thanks to those easy-release nonstick plates.

Pros:

• Solid nonstick coating means cleaning is a breeze
• Handy grease channels keep meals on the lighter side
• Compact size but ample 8×8″ cooking surface
• Makes four restaurant-quality thin, crispy-outside, Eggo-style waffles at a time
• Reversible grill/griddle plates double the versatility

Cons:

• Removable plates are not dishwasher-safe so they must be cleaned by hand
• Only one universal temperature setting for both cooking plates
• Some reviewers note uneven heating at times, particularly on first use
• Nonstick Teflon coating can flake off over time if not properly maintained

2. GreenPan Elite 7-in-1 Multi-Function Grill & Griddle

The Cadillac of Open Flat Waffle Makers

If you want top-of-the-line and don’t mind splurging, the GreenPan Elite 7-in-1 Multi-Function Contact Grill, Griddle & Waffle Maker is an absolute dream. Seven (yes, SEVEN!) versatile cooking functions, an ultra-durable diamond-reinforced ceramic nonstick coating, and every feature you could want in a high-end open flat waffle maker.

I’ll never forget the first time I used the waffle plates – the waffles emerged golden-brown with a delightfully crispy exterior giving way to a light, airy interior. The deep, Belgian-style pockets provided ample real estate for pools of maple syrup to collect. Sheer breakfast bliss!

My favorite feature has to be those dual independent temperature controls. They let me precision cook different foods at the same time but with customized heat. Like the morning I made those perfect waffles at 375°F on one side while crisping up a batch of breakfast sausage patties at 400°F on the other side. No juggling or temperature compromises required!

The adjustable floating hinge deserves a chef’s kiss too. I can grill thick salmon filets or towering patty melts without worrying about them getting squished. It’s almost like having a panini press and indoor grill combined into one sleek appliance.

Pros:

• Unbeatable 7-in-1 versatility for waffles, grilling, griddle, panini, etc.
• Even heating across the entire cast aluminum plate thanks to embedded heating elements
• Adjustable cover to accommodate thicker foods without crushing
• Waffle plates yield restaurant-quality thick, fluffy Belgian waffles
• Durable reinforced ceramic coating is a breeze to clean

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Cons:

• Pricey investment, but you get what you pay for
• Reports of drip tray leaking grease and making messes if not careful
• Bit bulkier than some other open flat models

This high-performance powerhouse may put a dent in your wallet, but the delicious results and unbeatable versatility make it worth every penny in my book! Just be sure to keep an eye on that drip tray.

3. Yedi Total Package 6-in-1 Digital Indoor Grill

When it comes to flat opening waffle makers that bring their A-game, the Yedi Total Package is an absolute heavy hitter. This bad boy is decked out with all the bells and whistles a gadget lover could want.

The star of the show? Those glorious digital controls letting me dial in temperatures for the top and bottom plates separately from a range of 175°F all the way to a scorching 450°F. Searing a thick ribeye at 450°F on top while gently warming asparagus at 300°F on the bottom? This grill makes it easy peasy lemon squeezy.

But let’s talk waffles, because that’s why we’re here! Thanks to the dedicated waffle plates and precise temperature control, these beauties come out crazy fluffy on the inside with a delightfully crisp, golden exterior. Definitely giving Belgian and traditional styles a run for their money in terms of texture.

My kids happily demolished an entire batch drowned in maple syrup and fresh berries one leisurely weekend morning. No soggy bottoms or unevenly cooked pockets in sight!

Cleaning up is also an absolute breeze since every single grill, griddle, and waffle plate is removable and dishwasher safe. I accidentally let a panini ooze over onto the grill plates, but a quick rinse and they looked brand spankin’ new.

Pros:

• Digital controls with wide 175°F to 450°F temperature range
• Independent temperature settings for top and bottom plates
• Thick, Belgian-style waffle plates yield golden, crispy on the outside, light and airy on the inside perfection
• Efficient heating from dual 800W burners
• All plates are removable and dishwasher safe for the easiest cleaning ever

Cons:

• A bit more expensive than some flat opening models, though well worth it
• Some reports of temperature inconsistencies/inaccuracies over time
• Durable nonstick coating may start peeling if overused and not cared for properly

Lightning Fast, Ultra-Even Heating

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I can’t tell you how many times this grill has saved my bacon (literally and figuratively) on busy mornings. One recent Sunday I was in a rush but still craving freshly made waffles and eggs. This Yedi unit had me covered in record time!

I fired it up and – boom – within 3 minutes those lightning-fast dual 800W burners had the separate 375°F and 325°F temperatures I’d set for the waffle and griddle plates achieved. I quickly sprayed on some non-stick coating, poured in my waffle batter on one side and cracked eggs onto the other.

By the time the first perfect waffle was ready for devouring (light, airy, crispy edges – chef’s kiss), my over-easy eggs were also cooked to utter perfection on the other side. Zero cold centers, burnt edges or any other unevenly heated mishaps in sight. Just pure breakfast glory from this surgical precision cooker!

4. De’Longhi CGH1030D Livenza All-Day Grill

You know that feeling when you unbox a premium appliance and instantly feel like a total pro chef? That’s the energy the De’Longhi Livenza exudes from the second you lay eyes on its sleek, high-end design. This flat opening grill/griddle is truly the total package.

Every single detail oozes quality and user-friendly functionality, from the solid, die-cast aluminum plates with rapid, ultra-even heat distribution from embedded elements to the digital temp controls that let me easily set separate sizzling or lower heat levels with just a couple taps. Picking up on a theme with these flat openers? Independent temperature zones are an absolute game-changer!

One weekend I found myself in a “brunch for dinner” kind of situation, so I busted out the trusty Livenza. I fired up the heavy-duty removable grill plates and cranked one side up to a scorching 400°F for perfect sear marks on a couple thick-cut flank steaks. On the other side, I kept it around 325°F for gently crisping up a batch of hash browns.

No need to shuffle items around, swapping between heating levels or hot zones! I just loaded up both sides, set the custom temps and walked away. When I came back, the steaks had that coveted caramelized exterior yet remained a perfect medium-rare inside, while the hash browns emerged crispy and golden. Sheer perfection!

And we haven’t even talked about the real star of the show yet – those heavenly Belgian waffle plates! Every single time I use them, my family is treated to thick, golden, crispy-edged waffles that you’d swear came from a fancy brunch spot. My kids happily drowned stack after stack in syrup, Nutella, you name it one lazy weekend morning.

Pros:

• Solid, high-end brushed stainless steel construction built to last a lifetime
• Digital controls with dual temperature zone settings are a dream
• Heats up at lightning speed with fast response and supreme evenness
• Every removable plate is dishwasher safe for the easiest cleaning
• Waffle plates achieve restaurant/bistro-quality thick, crispy Belgian waffles

Cons:

• On the pricier side, though you get what you pay for in quality
• Some reports that bottom plate doesn’t maintain quite as high temps as top
• Large footprint requires ample countertop space

While an investment for sure, you’re paying for true chef-worthy, premium performance. Between the lightning-quick, ultra-even heat distribution, customizable dual temp zones, quality construction, and especially those waffle plate talents – the De’Longhi Livenza is worth every penny if you can swing it.

How to Choose the Right Waffle Maker that Opens Flat

Matching Your Needs to the Perfect Flat Opener

So you’re sold on the idea of a waffle maker that opens flat, huh? I can’t say I blame you – these versatile wonders have completely transformed my kitchen and cooking routine. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one for your specific needs?

No worries, I’ve got you covered. Here’s a deep look at the important factors to consider when choosing your flat opening waffle maker:

Cooking Surface Size

Think about how many mouths you need to feed on the regular. Do you live solo and just want enough for one or two fluffy waffles? Or are you cooking for the whole family, plus extra guests on the weekends who’ll want seconds (and maybe thirds)?

The models I’ve highlighted range from a compact 8×8″ footprint all the way up to a spacious 14.5×18″ surface area when fully opened flat. Bigger isn’t always better, but having ample cooking real estate can be a total game-changer for efficiency and reducing cook times, especially when you’re feeding a crowd.

The BLACK+DECKER, for example, gives you 8×8″ of waffle-making real estate, enough for four decent-sized waffles at once. Meanwhile, the De’Longhi Livenza nearly doubles that when opened flat, expanding to 14.5×18″ – meaning you can crank out a full family breakfast spread in no time. Great for meal prepping or entertaining!

Temperature Control

Getting the heat juuuust right is important, whether you’re whipping up light and fluffy waffles, searing a mouthwatering steak, or grilling the perfect panini. Look for models with wide temperature ranges and precise digital controls that let you dial in the perfect sizzle.

Dual temperature zones are also majorly helpful, allowing you to cook different items simultaneously at customized heat settings. No more hot spots, uneven cooking, or having to shuffle things around. Just load it up, set your temps, and let the magic happen!

The GreenPan Elite, Yedi Total Package, and De’Longhi Livenza all feature this handy dual zone control, letting you specify exact top and bottom plate temps anywhere from 140°F to a searing 450°F. The BLACK+DECKER, on the other hand, has a single universal temperature setting.

Plate Material and Nonstick Performance

The cooking plates are the heart and soul of any waffle maker, so quality really counts. Look for durable, evenly-heating materials like cast aluminum or heavy-duty die-cast. And trust me, a high-performance nonstick coating is an absolute must-have for easy food release and effortless cleaning.

Bonus points if the plates are removable and dishwasher-safe. That makes post-meal cleanup a total breeze instead of a headache. No more scrubbing, soaking, or struggling to get stuck-on bits off.

The GreenPan, Yedi, and De’Longhi all use cast aluminum plates with reinforced ceramic nonstick finishes that are ultra-durable and scratch-resistant. The BLACK+DECKER opts for standard nonstick coatings, which can start to degrade over time with heavy use and aggressive cleaning.

Versatility and Extra Features

Last but not least, think about how much functionality you want out of your new flat opening waffle maker. Do you just need basic waffle, grill, and griddle abilities? Or are you after a Swiss Army Knife-style unit with all the bells and whistles?

Features like adjustable hinges, built-in drip trays, or included accessories can take your cooking experience to the next level. Just be prepared to pay a bit more for premium models packed with these kinds of convenience-boosting extras.

The GreenPan Elite and De’Longhi Livenza are prime examples of high-end, multifunctional flat openers. They both offer 7-in-1 versatility, with the ability to switch between waffle, contact grill, open grill, griddle, panini press and more. The included adjustable hinges on these models also allow you to cook thicker items without crushing them.

In comparison, the BLACK+DECKER and Yedi are a bit more streamlined, focused primarily on waffles, grilling, and griddle cooking. But they still pack plenty of punch as 3-in-1 and 6-in-1 dynamos, respectively.

So there you have it – the important factors to weigh when narrowing down your flat opening waffle maker dream machine. Figure out how much surface area, temperature precision, and versatility you need, then cross-reference that with the models I’ve highlighted. With a little research, you’ll be flipping waffles, grilling sandwiches, and searing steaks like a pro in no time!

Beyond Waffles: Other Uses for Makers that Open Flat

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner – This Baby Does it All

Sure, these open flat wonders are called “waffle makers” – but let’s be real, that’s just the tip of the culinary iceberg. These versatile countertop appliances are true Swiss Army knives, capable of whipping up so much more than just fluffy golden waffles.

I’ve used mine to sear thick steaks, grill up a mean burger, press panini sandwiches to toasty perfection, and even cook an entire breakfast spread of eggs, bacon, and hash browns all at once. The options are seriously endless when you’ve got that extra surface area to play with!

Grill Master Level Unlocked

One of my favorite ways to use the flat opening function is for grilling. Whether it’s juicy burgers, tender chicken breasts, or fresh veggie kabobs, the extra-large cooking surface gives me ample room to work. And the ability to independently control the top and bottom temps means I can get a perfect sear on the outside while keeping the insides nice and juicy.

Take that steak dinner I mentioned earlier – I cranked the top plate up to a sizzling 425°F to get an awesome char, while keeping the bottom around 375°F so the center came out a perfect medium-rare. No more guesswork or awkward juggling of different cooking zones.

Griddle Greatness

Pancakes, eggs, hash browns – you name it, these flat opening wonders can handle it. The large, flat cooking surface transforms into an instant griddle, giving me tons of room to whip up breakfast feasts for the whole family.

One weekend morning, I opened up the plates on my De’Longhi Livenza and had a field day. I cooked fluffy pancake after fluffy pancake on one side, while frying crispy hash browns and eggs sunny-side up on the other. The even heat distribution and separate temp controls made it a breeze to multitask and get every element perfectly cooked.

Sandwich Heaven

And let’s not forget the humble yet delicious sandwich. These flat opening wonders make the ultimate indoor panini press, churning out perfectly toasted, gooey, melty creations every time.

I especially love using the GreenPan Elite’s adjustable floating hinge to handle those super-stuffed sammies without flattening them. The bread gets a nice, golden-brown exterior while the insides melt together in cheesy bliss. Game, set, match – panini perfection!

Care, Maintenance and Cleaning Tips

Keeping Your Flat Opener in Tip-Top Shape

Let’s be real – as incredible as these waffle makers that open flat are, they do require a bit of TLC to keep them performing at their best. But don’t worry, it’s nothing too complicated. Just follow a few simple steps and you’ll be whipping up perfect waffles, searing steaks, and flipping paninis like a pro for years to come.

Proper Cleaning Techniques

The key to easy cleanup starts with the nonstick cooking plates. After each use, let the plates cool completely before giving them a gentle wipe down with a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid using anything abrasive that could scratch the surface.

For tougher stuck-on bits, the removable plates on most models are dishwasher safe. Just toss them in the top rack and let the machine do the hard work. Easy peasy!

Don’t forget to empty the drip tray as well to prevent any messy spills or leaks. A little maintenance goes a long way.

Seasoning and Conditioning

Those slick nonstick surfaces are a godsend, but they do require some occasional conditioning to maintain peak performance. After thorough cleaning, give the plates a light coating of cooking oil or nonstick spray.

This “seasoning” helps the coating stay smooth and prevents sticking over time. It’s also a good idea to run a conditioning cycle every few months by heating the closed plates and re-applying a thin layer of oil.

Storage and Safety

When you’re done cooking, make sure to unplug the flat opener and allow it to cool completely before storage. Most models have a compact, upright design that makes them easy to tuck away in a cabinet or on the counter.

And remember, these appliances get HOT during use, so always exercise caution when opening, closing, or handling. Use oven mitts if needed, and make sure to place it on a stable, heat-safe surface.