10 Best Warming Trays in 2020 – Buyer’s Guide

You are probably aware that food-warming trays are one of the best kitchen appliances that you must have. Imagine you have just finished cooking and but want to serve it later.

Finally, you don’t have to match your cooking time with your family’s arrival at home and all thanks to the best warming trays. Reheated food never tastes the same as freshly cooked food and having a warming tray makes all the difference!

It can be your secret when you want to impress your guests as well as it can make your meals more enjoyable while you are on the go. But how can you choose the best one for your needs?

Here is a useful guide to best warming tray reviews that will help you make up your mind and end up with the best choice for your budget!

Warming Trays Mechanism: Why Choose It?

Warming trays are one of the great solutions that improved the cooking industry. It all started back in the catering industry, and it spread throughout the general population. Nowadays, every decent household must have warming tray.

They are essential, and if you are tired of spoiling food by reheating it every once a while, this will be the perfect choice for you. Having one will cut down your food spoilage, and it will reduce the amount of thrown away food.

Chafing Dishes Vs. Warming Trays:

What Is The Difference Between a Buffet Server and Warming Tray?

There are differences, for example, warming tray comes with a flat surface that is perfect to accommodate pans and dishes. In most cases, people use it for warming appetizers during the crowd parties or an appliance for supplying family dinners.

A buffet server contains pan holders, and you will be able to use it as a standalone warming tray. Therefore, it is most famous among crowded places and events. Some high-end models can include several hobs with different temperature settings.

What Is The Best Material For Warming Tray’s Surface?

The most popular and commonly used material is stainless steel. The main reason for that is stain resistance and durability, but it also provides sleek look and design. On the other hand, you can choose different materials that both last longer and look good.

There are some units with tempered glass or Teflon heating surface so that you can use it for years after purchase.

Finally, we decided to present a thorough review and buying guide on best buffet warming trays that you can find on the market:

1. Oster CKSTBSTW00 Buffet Server

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If you want to choose one of the best warming trays for the decent price tag, we recommend you to consider Oster CKSTBSTW00 buffet server. The best thing about Oster buffet server warming tray is the combination of budget-friendly price tag with durable stainless steel construction and fantastic efficiency.

Apart from the construction, it includes power indicator light and possibility to use it for three different servings simultaneously. Finally, you will be able to double the amount of food that you have prepared before the dinner or guests arrival.

Attractive design is another reason for its popularity. It includes durable materials so that you can use it for years that will come. Sufficient size is perfect for most kitchen counters, and it fits three meals.

The ceramic coating is four times more durable than other warming trays on the market. Therefore, your food will stay warmer and won’t peel away and lose its texture during the heating process.

Oster CKSTBSTW00 buffet server includes three separate buffet pans so that you can keep three different dishes warm all the time.

The adjustable temperature control is an excellent feature of this product. You can accurately set the temperature range because a wide array of foods requires different heating procedures. The cooking is utterly chemical free due to the scratch resistant surface.

The convenient feature is automatic electric griddle that you will get the package as well as Oster buffet server and warming tray manual. You can also use this particular warming plate for catering service.

In overall, Oster CKSTBSTW00 buffet server is the impressive solution for everyone who enjoys warm and delicious food, with the fantastic texture and features. Apart from being stylish and durable, it is energy efficient, which is why it is the first choice among homeowners.

2. Cuisinart CWT-240 Warming Tray

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If you want to find the affordable warming tray that features sleek and elegant design, we recommend you to consider Cuisinart CWT-240 Warming Tray. It features brushed stainless steel surface that you will be able to clean in a matter of seconds without rubbing and vigorous washing.

Another reason for its popularity is the beautiful design that fits every kitchen and table.  Therefore, you will be able to warm more than one dish at the same time.

You should have in mind that it is natural hotplate surface, so you must place a pan or another kind of container, in case that you want to use it with efficiency. It is simple to use it, and most people had no problem in getting all operations in a matter of minutes.

Cuisinart small appliances feature a fast heat-up system that includes 400-watts of power. It can reach up to 200-degrees F so that you can maintain the temperature of servings for hours after preparation. The stainless steel as the material helps with the process because it saves time and power due to its nature.

Cuisinart CWT-240 Warming Tray is the leading choice among homeowners, because of affordable price tag and wide array of features

Another convenience is the possibility to move it around during the heating operation because it has cool-touch handles. They are quite a convenient way to move it from place to place without injuring your hand and slippage.

In overall, Cuisinart CWT-240 Warming Tray is the crucial unit for everyone who enjoys warm food all day long. It allows you to make fabulous parties, without overcooking before they start. You have to make a dish, adjust the temperature and place it on it with the pan. It will stay warm all night long.

3. Elite Platinum EWM-6171 Buffet Server

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We can all agree that Elite Platinum EWM-6171 is an excellent solution for people who want affordable price tag in combination with outstanding performance. This best buffet server and warming tray is simple to use, and you can place several servings simultaneously.

The dimensions are 25 x 14.5-inches, which means that you will be able to place three different meals at the same time. The performance is consistent and reliable so that it will maintain the food temperature due to stainless steel heating vessels.

Each vessel is completely BPA free, and it includes a high-quality plastic lid that will ensure the durability of the warming tray. You don’t have to worry because each plate comprises spoon cutout, which is convenient during the performance.

Elite Platinum EWM-6171 warming tray is the top choice among people who have a limited budget due to its price and great features.

The amount of power is significant, which is another proof of its outstanding performance. It works on 300-watts, and it has adjustable temperature controlling system that can reach up to 300-degrees F. Finally, you will be able to warm your food safely and consistently by using Elite Platinum EWM-6171 warming tray.

There are not too many cheap warming trays that have touch handles so that you can move them around. This one is different because it includes silicone handles for added convenience and comfort. It can hold up to 2.5 quarts of food.

In overall, Elite Platinum EWM-6171 large electric warming tray is the effective solution for people who have a limited budget and want straightforward kitchen appliance that will stand the test of time. Apart from the fantastic design, you will get handy performance that will ensure that your food stays hot and tasty.

4. NutriChef 3 Tray Buffet Server

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You probably know that there are numerous best buffet warming trays available on the market. However, NutriChef 3 Hot Plate Food Warmer doesn’t fit any category. It is the perfect solution if you want to change the way you host your party.

The fantastic design will completely change the appearance of your kitchen. The combination of excellent performance and sleek design is the main reason why people choose it in the first place. It features two different parts that you can use separately.

The first one is a hot plate at the bottom that you can use as the hot pan for different types of servings. On the other hand, there is a tray where you can place it to make a complete buffet server that will maintain food’s temperature all day long.

The high-quality stainless steel is another reason for its incredible popularity. This particular material is entirely rust-free, so you will be able to use it for a lifetime. We recommend you always to choose the hot plates with stainless steel because they are much lighter and compact than other materials.

It is highly convenient to use, you have to plug it in, and it will keep your food warm. The maximum temperature that it can handle is 175-degrees F, but it has temperature adjuster because different dishes require different temperatures.

Some people treat the temperature-adjusting knob as the disadvantage because new models have digital controls. However, this particular one is perfect for household owners because it uses 120 V of electricity.

5. Chefman Electric Warming Tray

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Chefman Electric Warming Tray is the best warming tray on Amazon according to most of the customers who tried different warming trays. If you want to find the warming tray that will keep the temperature of your food for the extended amount of time, this is the best solution you have on the market.

Chefman is the prominent brand that has a wide array of quality kitchen products and appliances. They are mainly famous and recognized for warming trays.

It features 21 x 16-inches non-stick heating surface so that you can efficiently heat any food without reducing the taste and texture. The maximum temperature range that it can reach is up to 284-degrees F, which is enough for most dishes.

Chefman Electric Warming Tray will not disappoint you in any way possible. It includes a lot of features that will protect your food from unsafe chemicals that ordinary warming trays have.

It can comfortably accommodate more cooking dishes, and you will be able to place casserole dishes and Dutch ovens. The main disadvantage is that you won’t get temperature control switch, as well as on/off switch. You have to plug it, and it is on.

Even though it lacks convenient controls, you will get warming tray with consistent temperature. However, we recommend you to stop using foil pans because it can reach amazingly hot temperature.

It is straightforward to use, you have to plug it, and it is on. It will warm your food in a matter of minutes, and you won’t even notice it in taste and texture. Another great thing is the budget-friendly price tag, which is terrific when you have in mind wide selection of features.

6. NutriChef Warming Tray

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NutriChef Warming Tray Got Plate Food Warmer is one of the best cold food buffet servers that will stay in your possession for decades after purchasing.

It is entirely versatile when compared with other warming trays on the market. You will be able to use it with all kitchen cookware such as casserole dishes, baking sheets and a vast array of pans and pots.

Everything is entirely straightforward and hassle-free, and it will help you maintain the food’s temperature all day long. The design of the tabletop looks similar to a buffet warming hot plate. The main reason for that is the stainless steel structure.

It includes stainless steel material that increases overall look and design. Apart from that, it features heat-resistant, non-stick tampered glass. It heats up in a matter of minutes, and due to ultra-thin space, you will be able to place it on any counter or table.

NutriChef Warming Tray Got Plate Food Warmer changed the way people preserve the temperature in their homes.

You will be able to heat up to 203-degrees F that is enough to maintain the temperature for a few hours. However, that is not too much when compared with other warming trays on this particular list. We can state as a disadvantage, but when we have in mind the affordable price tag, we change that thought immediately.

In overall, NutriChef Warming Tray Got Plate Food Warmer is impressive, convenient and energy-efficient food prep warming tray. It has a budget-friendly price tag, which is why most people choose it in the first place. Apart from that, the stainless steel construction will increase the longevity, so that you can use it for years.

7. NutriChef Electric Warming Tray

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NutriChef Electric Warming Tray is the ideal solution if you want to find the best appetizer warming trays on the market. Apart from being a great addition to your cooking collection, it is best for holidays, parties, buffets, and other events that you can think off.

Finally, you will be able to maintain the temperature of your servings with convenience and without hassle. You have to place a pan or any other kitchenware that you used for preparing the meal.

Due to its dimensions, it can comfortably fit one big dinner without using too much space.

In most cases, people use it with baking sheets or casserole dishes. It is a convenient and entertaining way to reduce the hassle of overcooking the cold plate. That could cause the loss of food texture, which will reduce the taste as well.

Using this particular high-powered heating element is simple, and you will be able to clean it afterward with ease. It is ultimately stain resistant, ultra sleek and thin so that you can save space on kitchen counter or table.

Due to low power consumption, you can regulate and reduce energy spending. It is particularly great for big parties or banquets. The LED indicator light is another convenient way of checking its performance. It has on/off switch, which is a way better solution than other warming trays that doesn’t include one.

In overall, NutriChef Electric Buffet Server Warming Tray comes with beautiful looks and excellent performance. It is made of stainless steel. So you can enjoy its durability and consistent performance that will stand the test of time.

8. Broil King NWT-1S

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Warming pans for food first became prominent in the world of catering and serving. Soon afterward, they entered the household world, and people started using them all the time. If you want to find the high-quality kitchen appliance that will stand the test of time, we recommend you to consider Broil King NWT-1S Professional Warming Tray.

It includes stylish look due to stainless steel design that reduces weight and space that it uses. Due to functional design and excellent performance, you will get commercial-grade equipment that will stay in your kitchen.

Stainless steel design is also significant because it provides warming surface and ensures durable and reliable use for a long time.

You can reduce the possibility of damaging the taste of your favorite dish by using Broil King NWT-1S Professional Warming Tray.

It contains 3-prong plug grounding that you can place in the standard 3-prong outlet, which will reduce overheating and provide stable electricity at a consistent temperature. It also features lightweight design as well as significant handles so that you can move it even when it operates.

You can also place it on any surface without damaging it with high-temperature. That is because it includes ergonomic non-skid feet for added convenience and stability.

The dimensions are 20.5 x 14-inch working surface, so you will be able to place two different pans up to dimensions of 10-3/8 x 12-3/4-inches. The best thing about it is the possibility to put professional sheet pans of 1/4-size.

In overall, Broil King NWT-1S Professional Warming Tray is an excellent kitchen appliance that will ensure the taste of your food. It includes 40-inch cord, user-friendly control knob and the possibility to offer consistent temperature.

9. NutriChef 3 Tray Food Warmer

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If you want to choose small warming tray with compact and lightweight design, we recommend you to consider NutriChef 3 Tray Buffet Server and Food Warmer. It is an incredible solution for any occasion that you can think of such as birthday parties, banquets, dinner parties and graduations among others.

It is an excellent thing because you will get 2-in-1, which means that you will get buffet warming tray as well as a warm container so that you can keep everything warm and protected. You will be able to use it without too much hassle. Plug it and place food on any removable serving tray that you will get with it.

It is a hassle-free and convenient way to prepare the food without any additional problem. Due to tabletop design, you will get warming tray that resembles Buffet Server. It features stainless steel construction as well as removable food serving containers that will maintain the temperature all the time.

In overall, NutriChef 3 small warming tray is a convenient solution mainly because you will be able to use it and maintain it for years that will come. It is wholly stained resistant, and it includes rotary control temperature setting that will provide your meal consistent temperature for an extended amount of time.

10. Betty Crocker Stainless Steel Buffet Server

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Betty Crocker electric warming tray is an excellent solution especially if you are looking for the best warming tray or buffet server. It doesn’t matter if you’re going to place solid or liquid food because it will preserve its temperature up to three hours.

It is excellent for household use, due to its portable design and lightweight construction. Having it will provide you flexibility primarily if you use it for a large gathering. It is essential to have a warming tray so that you can keep your main courses, desserts or side dishes warm all the time before serving.

On the other hand, you will need a buffer server for various dishes such as mashed potato and gravy, hours dóeuvres or cuts of meat. By choosing this particular warming tray, you will be able to enjoy a combination of a warming tray and buffet server features.

It includes durable stainless steel as well as cool-touch handles so that you can move it without too much hassle. It has an adjustable temperature control so that you can maintain it based on the type of dish you want to preserve.

In overall, Betty Crocker electric warming tray is one of the best trays to keep food warm. It is highly versatile and flexible due to unique design and possibility to use it as a buffet server. It is a great choice for household owners.

Things to Consider When Buying Best Warming Trays:

Finding the best buffet heating server is a challenging task that requires lots of preparation and research. That is why we decided to present you things to consider when buying the best food warming trays:

• Material – The most common element is stainless steel, and it is the best choice you can find on the market. The main reason for that is the nature of stainless steel, which is entirely rust-resistant and highly durable. Of course, you can see other materials such as aluminum, but it is not that efficient as stainless steel when it comes to longevity.
• Size – The dimensions are also critical because the size will give you the idea of how many dishes you can warm on it at the same time. The more significant warming tray means more meals that you can heat up simultaneously. On the other hand, the more substantial warming trays require bigger countertop and storage space.
• Temperature Control – High-end warming trays have adjustable temperature settings so that you can find the ideal temperature for your food. Note that different dishes react differently to heat, so you have to find the proper measure to make it taste perfect.
• Cool Touch Handles – Cool touch handles are great features because it increases the possibility of transporting it without hassle. At the same time, you can move it around while it works because handles are wholly heat-resistant and cool.
• Simple to Use – Some models have on/off switch, while others work just by plugging them in. We recommend you to choose warming tray that contains light indicator so that you can know when it works.

Frequently Asked Questions: FAQ’s

Q: What is a warming tray?

As its name suggests, warming trays are portable flat surfaces. It is designed to keep the food piping hot. It gets plugged into the wall in a way similar to electric griddles and after preheating of almost 10 minutes, it can topped with food wholly cooked, directly on the tray or in any other serving tray.

Q: Can I put foil in a warming tray?

Never ever use an aluminum foil in warming tray. Foil is an excellent heat insulator which can result in trapping the heat under the tray. It will definitely make the performance of your tray suffer. It can also damage the finish of tray.

Q: How long the food will remain warm in a warming tray?

The food will remain warm in warming tray for two to four hours. The food will start losing its freshness after a few hours.

Q: Can warming tray be used for cooking?

No, the work of warming tray is to just keep the prepared food warm. It can’t cook food in any capacity.

Conclusion:

We have presented you best warming tray reviews and buying guide 2020. The idea is to consider each warming tray with its specifications, features, advantages, and disadvantages so that you can do a thorough groundwork that will assist your purchase.

The simplest way to do so is by rereading this particular review because you may have missed something important that will narrow your search. You should have in mind that buying warming plates for food is an investment that has to pay itself.

Finding which one to purchase is much more important than where to buy warming trays. That is why you should consider everything that we have mentioned above and use it to make a quality purchase.

If you have anything to add or to ask about Warming Tray Reviews, just post your comments in the section below and I’ll try my best to answer or help you with anything I could.