While it didn't exactly replicate grilling, the as-seen-on-TV cooking gadget performed better than I'd expected.

As summer winds down, we welcome fall (and football) with indoor soirees, often featuring meats and veggies, but with less access to outdoor cooking. The slow cooker, air fryer and cast-iron skillet get more reps as we try to replicate the magic of flame-kissed cooking and smoky barbecue, but the microwave rarely factors into the equation.

Nuking meat is a recipe for rubber in most cases, but a product I spotted making the rounds made a bold claim: It says it can turn your microwave into a grill. As an apartment dweller with no grill who loves a quick meal with minimal mess, I was intrigued.

Meet the Rocket Chef Turbo Grill, an “As Seen on TV” infomercial product that’s advertised as able to cook all types of proteins and produce in the microwave, with the taste and texture of grilling. If you think it sounds too good to be true, you’re not alone. I shared that skepticism and decided to put the kitchen gadget to the ultimate test. Here’s how it turned out.

The Turbo Grill appliance is no-frills and simple: a lightweight, mini grill-like contraption with a plastic lid and handles. Cooking times will vary depending on ingredients and recipes (a recipe book is included for guidance). That said, you’ll need to preheat it before placing meat or vegetables on the hot surface, then cover it and cook to your preference.

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