We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Food Warming Trays 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Broil King NWT-1S Professional 300-Watt Warming Tray, Stainless

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,462
Size and Capacity
Temperature Control
Material

Most important from
82 reviews

Size and Capacity
Perfect for large family gatherings, helping keep various foods warm for seconds.
Temperature Control
Warming trays heat up very fast and keep food at a great temperature.
Material
Well-made and heavy, not 'tinny'.
Ease of Cleaning
Easy to use and easy to clean, with adjustable heat settings.

The Broil King NWT-1S Professional 300-Watt Warming Tray is a solid choice for anyone looking to keep food warm for gatherings or events. One of its standout features is the adjustable thermostat, which allows you to set temperatures between 155 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. This range provides flexibility to accommodate various types of dishes. The stainless-steel surface not only gives it a professional look but also makes it easy to clean, an important factor for busy kitchens. Its cool-touch handles enhance safety, ensuring you can maneuver the tray without the risk of burns.

In terms of size, it measures 15-1/4 by 26 inches, which is spacious enough to hold multiple dishes simultaneously. The non-skid feet help keep the tray stable during use, a nice touch for preventing slips. Weighing 8.6 pounds, it strikes a balance between portability and sturdiness, making it easy to transport without being too lightweight.

This warming tray is well-suited for families and small events where keeping food warm is essential. It provides good temperature control and an attractive design but may not be the best option for larger gatherings due to its wattage limitations.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,462
Size and Capacity
Temperature Control
Material

Most important from
82 reviews

Size and Capacity
Perfect for large family gatherings, helping keep various foods warm for seconds.
Temperature Control
Warming trays heat up very fast and keep food at a great temperature.
Material
Well-made and heavy, not 'tinny'.
Ease of Cleaning
Easy to use and easy to clean, with adjustable heat settings.
#2

Elite Gourmet EWM-6171 Triple 3 x 2.5 Qt. Trays, Buffet Server, Food Warmer Temperature Control, Clear Slotted Lids, Perfect for Parties, Entertaining & Holidays, 7.5 Qt Total, Stainless Steel

Rating
10.0
Size and Capacity
Temperature Control
Material

Most important from
4634 reviews

Size and Capacity
Perfect for big family gatherings like Thanksgiving, making setup and cleanup a breeze.
Temperature Control
Performs excellently when you need to keep food warm for extended periods.
Material
Though the metal is thin, with careful handling, it proves to be a durable and valuable addition.

The Elite Gourmet EWM-6171 is a versatile food-warming tray that comes with three 2.5-quart buffet trays, making it ideal for serving multiple dishes at parties, holiday gatherings, and other social events. The stainless steel construction of both the trays and the warming base ensures durability and an attractive appearance. Each tray has its own clear, slotted lid to keep food warm and fresh, and you can use the base separately to warm other dishes or wrapped food items.

With adjustable temperature controls, you can set the heat to low, medium, or high, depending on your needs. This warmer is user-friendly—just plug it in, adjust the temperature, and cover with the lids to maintain warmth. Its portability is a great feature, as the carry handles make it easy to transport and use on various surfaces like countertops and tabletops. Safety is considered, with no batteries required and a 1-year limited warranty providing peace of mind.

At 8.8 pounds, it may be slightly heavy for some users to move around frequently. Additionally, while it offers dishwasher-safe components, hand washing might be preferable to maintain the stainless steel's finish. This product stands out for its convenience and capacity, making it especially suitable for those who frequently host events and need to keep multiple dishes warm simultaneously. The 300-watt power consumption ensures it heats efficiently, although some might find this a bit high on electricity usage.

Rating
10.0
Size and Capacity
Temperature Control
Material

Most important from
4634 reviews

Size and Capacity
Perfect for big family gatherings like Thanksgiving, making setup and cleanup a breeze.
Temperature Control
Performs excellently when you need to keep food warm for extended periods.
Material
Though the metal is thin, with careful handling, it proves to be a durable and valuable addition.
#3

Electric Warming Tray - Full Surface Heating,Rollable & Portable,Premium Silicone Nano-Material,3 Temperature Settings,Auto Shut-Off -Versatile Food Warmer for Gatherings,Parties,Everyday Use

Rating
9.9
Size and Capacity
Temperature Control
Material

Most important from
1722 reviews

Size and Capacity
Spacious design accommodates multiple containers or large dishes, ideal for family meals or office lunches.
Temperature Control
Full surface heating ensures every part of the food stays at the perfect temperature, without drying it out.
Material
Made from premium silicone nano-material, the tray is easy to clean and extremely durable.
Portability
Its rollable and portable design allows for easy storage and transportation, making it ideal for potlucks and family BBQs.
Safety Features
The automatic shut-off feature adds peace of mind for those who might forget to turn it off.
Ease of Cleaning
Made from premium silicone nano-material, the tray is easy to clean and extremely durable.

The iTRUSOU Electric Warming Tray stands out with its rapid full-surface heating and 3-level temperature control, making it versatile for various dining needs. Its large heating area allows for even temperature distribution, ensuring your food stays warm consistently. The tray is made of premium silicone nano-material, which provides durability, splash and stain resistance, and easy cleaning.

Additionally, its compact and rollable design enhances portability and convenient storage, making it suitable for gatherings, parties, or everyday use. The energy-efficient operation is eco-friendly, consuming just 0.25 degrees per hour, and the automatic shut-off feature adds a layer of safety.

However, the touch controls might be less intuitive for some users, and the wattage of 250 watts may not be sufficient for those needing higher heating power. Moreover, while the silicone material is durable, it may not be as sturdy as metal alternatives. This tray is ideal for those who value ease of cleaning, portability, and energy efficiency in their food-warming solutions, especially in casual or home settings.

Rating
9.9
Size and Capacity
Temperature Control
Material

Most important from
1722 reviews

Size and Capacity
Spacious design accommodates multiple containers or large dishes, ideal for family meals or office lunches.
Temperature Control
Full surface heating ensures every part of the food stays at the perfect temperature, without drying it out.
Material
Made from premium silicone nano-material, the tray is easy to clean and extremely durable.
Portability
Its rollable and portable design allows for easy storage and transportation, making it ideal for potlucks and family BBQs.
Safety Features
The automatic shut-off feature adds peace of mind for those who might forget to turn it off.
Ease of Cleaning
Made from premium silicone nano-material, the tray is easy to clean and extremely durable.

Buying Guide for the Best Food Warming Trays

When choosing a food-warming tray, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you select the best fit for your needs. Food-warming trays are designed to keep your food warm and ready to serve, making them ideal for parties, buffets, and family gatherings. Understanding the different features and how they align with your requirements will help you make an informed decision.
Size and CapacitySize and capacity refer to the dimensions of the tray and how much food it can hold. This is important because it determines how much food you can keep warm at one time. Smaller trays are suitable for intimate gatherings or small families, while larger trays are better for big parties or events. To choose the right size, consider the number of people you typically serve and the types of dishes you plan to keep warm.
Temperature ControlTemperature control allows you to adjust the heat level of the warming tray. This is crucial for maintaining the optimal serving temperature for different types of food. Some trays offer adjustable temperature settings, while others have a fixed temperature. If you need versatility for various dishes, look for a tray with multiple temperature settings. For simpler needs, a fixed temperature tray might suffice.
MaterialThe material of the warming tray affects its durability, heat distribution, and ease of cleaning. Common materials include stainless steel, aluminum, and glass. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean, making it a popular choice. Aluminum is lightweight and heats up quickly, while glass offers a sleek look and even heat distribution. Choose a material based on your preference for durability, appearance, and maintenance.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to move the warming tray from one place to another. This is important if you plan to use the tray in different locations or need to store it away when not in use. Look for features like handles, lightweight design, and compact size if portability is a priority for you. If the tray will remain in a fixed location, portability may be less of a concern.
Power SourceThe power source of a warming tray can be either electric or fuel-based. Electric trays are convenient and easy to use, requiring only an outlet to operate. Fuel-based trays, such as those using Sterno cans, are more portable and can be used in areas without electricity. Consider where you will be using the tray most often and choose a power source that aligns with your needs.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are important to prevent accidents and ensure safe operation. Look for features like automatic shut-off, cool-touch handles, and non-slip feet. These features help prevent burns, spills, and other accidents. If you have children or plan to use the tray in a busy environment, prioritize models with robust safety features.
Ease of CleaningEase of cleaning refers to how simple it is to clean the warming tray after use. Trays with removable parts, non-stick surfaces, and dishwasher-safe components are easier to clean. This is important for maintaining hygiene and prolonging the life of the tray. If you prefer minimal maintenance, look for trays with features that make cleaning quick and easy.

FAQ