F A
Image Credit: Getty Image
Finding the right griddle grill can transform your cooking experience, whether you’re flipping pancakes in your backyard or searing steaks in the great outdoors. The quest for the best griddle grill , capable of delivering both flavor and versatility, has become a crucial endeavor for culinary enthusiasts. As the market welcomes new models each year, identifying the top contenders becomes increasingly significant. This guide aims to simplify your decision-making process by spotlighting the elite griddle grills poised to dominate 2024, ensuring you invest in a model that meets your cooking needs and preferences.
This article methodically examines what defines the best griddle grill, from the robustness and heat distribution of the best outdoor and indoor models to the convenience of the best griddle grill combo units. Expect a comprehensive overview of notable products, including the latest offerings from acclaimed brands and up-and-comers in the griddle grill market. Whether you’re wondering what the best griddle grill to buy is for camping adventures or seeking the top accessories to enhance your grilling game, this guide provides insights into making well-informed purchases that promise to elevate your culinary exploits significantly.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Griddle Grill
When selecting the best griddle grill, several factors are critical to ensure it meets your cooking demands and lifestyle. Here are key aspects to consider:
Cooking Surface Area
The size of the griddle is paramount, especially if you entertain guests or have a large family. Experts like George Motz recommend a minimum width of 30 inches to provide ample cooking space. This size allows for versatility in cooking various dishes at once. Standard griddle sizes often range from 17 to 36 inches, with larger models like the 36-inch being ideal for frequent use.
Number of Burners
The number of burners on a griddle grill affects its ability to cook meals efficiently and create different heating zones. For instance, the Camp Chef Gridiron features four burners, which are advantageous for managing multiple food items that require varying temperatures. More burners mean more control over the cooking process, allowing for a better culinary experience.
Material and Construction
The material of the griddle top is crucial for both longevity and ease of maintenance. Most consumer-grade griddles are made from cold-rolled steel, akin to carbon steel or cast iron, which necessitates regular upkeep to prevent rust. Pre-seasoned surfaces, as seen in models like the Camp Chef Gridiron, enhance durability and non-stick properties. Additionally, consider models with features that facilitate easier cleaning and maintenance, such as a slide grease drawer or a rust-resistant surface.
Choosing the right griddle grill involves considering the size of the cooking surface, the number of burners, and the material of the griddle. Each factor plays a significant role in the overall functionality and satisfaction with the griddle grill.
Blackstone 36-inch Griddle
Blackstone 36-inch Griddle Overview
The Blackstone 36-inch Pro Series has undergone a complete redesign this year, featuring a robust stainless steel construction and a newly designed hood. The standout feature is the Blackstone omnivore griddle plate, unique in the industry for its even heat distribution. This model also includes a straight handle with matte black ends and a stainless middle, enhancing both esthetics and functionality.
Blackstone 36-inch Griddle Cooking Performance
Test kitchen director Ginevra Iverson notes the four-zone cooking capability as the Blackstone’s best feature. It allows for versatile cooking options—cooking biscuits on a low heat on one side while crisping bacon on another.
Blackstone 36-inch Griddle Ease of Use
The redesigned model boasts several user-friendly features such as a slide-out propane shelf for easy access, and stainless steel side shelves that include a cutting board and a waste disposal hole directly above a 13-gallon trash bag. It also features new tool pegs and a magnetic tool strip for convenient storage of accessories. For added mobility and stability, it now includes locking casters on all four legs. These enhancements make the Blackstone 36-inch Griddle not only powerful in performance but also exceptionally convenient for everyday use.
Weber 36-inch Gas Griddle
Weber 36-inch Gas Griddle Overview
The Weber 36-inch Gas Griddle exemplifies high-performance outdoor cooking with its robust engineered system designed to deliver fast, even heat across the entire cooking surface. Reaching temperatures over 500˚F, this griddle is perfect for a variety of dishes, from scrambled eggs and paninis to juicy burgers. Its spacious design includes two handy side tables, enhancing prep and serving convenience.
Weber 36-inch Gas Griddle Cooking Performance
Equipped with a 60,000 BTUs burner system, the Weber 36-inch Gas Griddle ensures a powerful and even cooking experience. The griddle’s surface is specially designed to prevent hot and cold spots, providing consistent heat from edge to edge. This feature is ideal for cooking multiple dishes simultaneously, ensuring everything is perfectly done at the same time. Additionally, the high-capacity grease management system simplifies cleanup, making it easy to maintain a pristine cooking area.
Weber 36-inch Gas Griddle Ease of Use
This model boasts several user-friendly features, including a durable aluminized steel cookbox that resists corrosion and a pre-seasoned steel carbon cooktop that eliminates the need for frequent re-seasoning. The built-in wind guards and customizable tool placement options cater to both right and left-handed users, enhancing comfort during cooking. The hinged hard cover protects the griddle between uses, ensuring it remains in top condition for your next grilling session.
Traeger Flatrock
Traeger Flatrock Overview
The Traeger Flatrock™ Flat Top Grill revolutionizes outdoor cooking by offering capabilities such as griddling, frying, steaming, and sautéing. This grill is designed for those who enjoy an active role in cooking, allowing for versatile meal preparation from morning to night. Its robust porcelain-coated steel construction and expansive 594 square inch cooking surface make it a formidable addition to any outdoor kitchen.
Traeger Flatrock Cooking Performance
This design eliminates hot and cold spots, allowing for consistent cooking temperatures. With a total output of 47,000 BTUs, the Flatrock can reach up to 600°F, making it ideal for searing steaks or preparing delicate dishes that require precise temperature control.
Traeger Flatrock Ease of Use
The Flatrock features a user-friendly design with several innovative components to enhance the cooking experience. The P.A.L. Pop-and-Lock™ Accessory Rail system allows for customizable tool placement, ensuring that all necessary tools and accessories are within reach. Additionally, the FlameLock™ construction minimizes heat loss and reduces propane usage by 28%, making it more efficient. The attached hinged lid protects the griddle surface when not in use, and foldable side shelves support heavy loads, providing ample workspace.
This grill is best for those who value precision and versatility in their cooking, offering a range of features that cater to various culinary needs.
Camp Chef Flat Top 600
Camp Chef Flat Top 600 Overview
The Camp Chef Flat Top 600 is renowned for its robust construction and versatile cooking capabilities. It features a heavy-duty griddle top and a four-burner unit, complemented by a newly added hinged hood, which enhances its functionality by serving as a cheese melter for smashburgers. This model stands out with its pre-seasoned, plant oil-based non-stick surface, ready to use right out of the box, ensuring durability and ease of maintenance.
Camp Chef Flat Top 600 Cooking Performance
Camp Chef’s Flat Top 600 excels in even heat distribution, thanks to its innovative heat diffusion plates that prevent hot spots, ensuring a consistent cooking temperature across the entire surface. Whether searing steaks or caramelizing onions and peppers, the adjustable heat settings (Low, Medium, High) allow for precise control, making it suitable for a variety of cooking tasks. The thick griddle surface retains heat optimally, enhancing the cooking experience even in windy conditions.
Camp Chef Flat Top 600 Ease of Use
Designed with convenience in mind, the Camp Chef Flat Top 600 includes features such as foldable side shelves for additional prep space and easy storage, and a grease management system that simplifies cleanup. The unit’s portability is enhanced by its leveling capabilities, allowing adjustments to the griddle angle for perfect cooking results.
Pit Boss Ultimate Lift-Off Griddle
Pit Boss Ultimate Lift-Off Griddle Overview
The Pit Boss Ultimate Lift-Off Griddle sets a new standard for outdoor cooking with its innovative design and versatile features. It boasts a proprietary non-stick armored ceramic cooking surface, making it the first of its kind. This exclusive feature ensures a user-friendly experience right out of the box and simplifies cleaning to just a gentle wipe. The robust 4-burner configuration provides substantial power, while the lift-off design enhances portability, ideal for tailgating or camping.
Pit Boss Ultimate Lift-Off Griddle Cooking Performance
Equipped with a unique burner configuration, including a D-shaped leftmost burner with smaller holes, the Pit Boss Ultimate Lift-Off Griddle offers a distinct heat pattern that enhances cooking precision. The ceramic-coated surface does not require the traditional seasoning process, yet delivers excellent non-stick performance, even with high-fat proteins. This griddle achieves similar sear quality to traditional models but with added benefits of corrosion resistance and maintenance ease.
Pit Boss Ultimate Lift-Off Griddle Ease of Use
The high dome-shaped lid with smoothly operating hinges, combined with battery-operated ignition for individual or simultaneous burner lighting, underscores the griddle’s user-centric design. Its portability is facilitated by easy lift-off technology, allowing seamless transition from backyard to campsite. The inclusion of silicone or high-temperature nylon tools recommendation by Pit Boss further ensures the longevity and safety of the ceramic surface.
Cuisinart 360 XL Outdoor Griddle
Cuisinart 360 XL Outdoor Griddle Overview
The Cuisinart 360 XL Outdoor Griddle is a top contender for culinary enthusiasts looking for expansive cooking surfaces and versatile features. This model boasts a significant 760 square inches of circular griddle area, which allows for simultaneous preparation of multiple dishes. Its stainless steel construction not only ensures durability but also adds a sleek, modern look to any outdoor setting.
Cuisinart 360 XL Outdoor Griddle Cooking Performance
The griddle’s innovative design features a 360-degree grease pan and dual heat zones, which provide exceptional control over the cooking temperature. This setup allows users to cook different types of foods at the appropriate temperatures, enhancing flavor and reducing cooking time. The high-powered burners, totaling 30,000 BTUs, offer rapid heat-up and recovery times, making it ideal for both quick meals and leisurely cooking.
Cuisinart 360 XL Outdoor Griddle Ease of Use
Ease of use is a hallmark of the Cuisinart 360 XL, featuring an integrated paper towel holder and a trash bag hook to keep the cooking area clean and organized. The griddle also includes a convenient fold-away prep table that provides ample space for food preparation and storage of cooking utensils. With its easy-to-start ignition system and simple cleanup process, this griddle is designed for both novice cooks and seasoned grill masters.
Royal Gourmet Flat Top Gas Grill
Royal Gourmet Flat Top Gas Grill Overview
The Royal Gourmet Flat Top Gas Grill models, including the GD403 Premium 4-Burner Gas Grill and Griddle Combo, offer a substantial 784 square inches of cooking area. This expansive surface is coated with enhanced ceramic, providing a versatile platform for daily meals, whether for family gatherings or friends. Its design emphasizes ease of assembly and robustness, suitable for a variety of cooking needs.
Royal Gourmet Flat Top Gas Grill Cooking Performance
This grill features four independently controlled stainless steel tube burners, each delivering 13,000 BTU for a total of 52,000 BTU. This powerful setup ensures efficient heat transfer across the entire flat top, facilitating a range of cooking techniques from searing to gentle simmering. The fast ignition system guarantees a quick start with every push, enhancing the overall cooking experience.
Royal Gourmet Flat Top Gas Grill Ease of Use
Royal Gourmet has designed this grill with user convenience in mind. It includes collapsible side tables to maximize space efficiency and integrated hooks for hanging tools and accessories. The grease management system features a large-sized grease cup at the rear, simplifying the cleaning process. Users appreciate the grill’s straightforward setup and maintenance, highlighting its quality and ease of use compared to other models in its price range.
This model is particularly suited for those who value quick, effective cooking and easy cleanup in their outdoor culinary endeavors.
Nexgrill 4-Burner Flat Top Propane Gas Grill
Nexgrill 4-Burner Flat Top Propane Gas Grill Overview
The Nexgrill 4-Burner Flat Top Propane Gas Grill epitomizes robust outdoor cooking with its heavy-duty stainless steel lid and expansive 732 sq. in. cooking surface. This model is designed for versatility, featuring a pre-seasoned griddle top that is ready for any culinary challenge.
Nexgrill 4-Burner Flat Top Propane Gas Grill Cooking Performance
Equipped with four high-powered burners, each offering 15,000 BTUs, the Nexgrill provides a total of 60,000 BTUs of cooking power. The angled flame tamers distribute heat evenly, prevent flare-ups, and vaporize food drippings into flavorful smoke infusions. This setup allows for a wide range of cooking techniques, from searing meats to gently cooking delicate vegetables.
Nexgrill 4-Burner Flat Top Propane Gas Grill Ease of Use
The Nexgrill 4-Burner is designed for convenience with features like an electronic ignition system for hassle-free lighting and spacious side shelves that provide ample room for food prep.
Char-Griller Flat Iron Gas Griddle
Char-Griller Flat Iron Gas Griddle Overview
The Char-Griller Flat Iron Gas Griddle exemplifies cooking versatility with its four independent cooking zones, allowing for precise temperature control across a large cooking surface. This model features a robust design with a removable lid to protect the griddle, ensuring it remains in excellent condition throughout the year.
Char-Griller Flat Iron Gas Griddle Cooking Performance
With a total output of 60,000 BTU, the Char-Griller Flat Iron Gas Griddle provides powerful and even heat distribution. Its flat-top design allows for multiple cooking techniques, from searing steaks to gently sautéing vegetables. Users can cook an entire meal simultaneously at various temperatures, making it an ideal choice for diverse culinary tasks.
Char-Griller Flat Iron Gas Griddle Ease of Use
The front-positioned grease catch facilitates easy cleaning, especially after cooking greasy foods like bacon, enhancing the overall user experience.
Halo Elite 4B Outdoor Griddle
Halo Elite 4B Outdoor Griddle Overview
The Halo Elite 4B Outdoor Griddle stands out for its robust construction and innovative features. Unlike other models, it boasts a solid build that users notice immediately upon lifting the sturdy, well-attached lid. Its design includes a unique lift-off griddle plate with handles, enhancing its versatility and ease of cleaning. The griddle’s grease trap is conveniently located at the back, which users find natural for pushing grease during cooking, and it supports optional foil liners for quick cleanup.
Halo Elite 4B Outdoor Griddle Cooking Performance
This griddle excels in heat management with eight distinct cooking zones, allowing for versatile culinary applications—from searing meats to delicate vegetables. It heats up quickly and maintains a consistent temperature, which is crucial for both high-heat searing and low-temperature cooking. The inclusion of a collapsible warming rack is a significant plus, providing a space to keep food warm without overcooking.
Halo Elite 4B Outdoor Griddle Ease of Use
It features side extensions with magnetic slots for optional tools, keeping them accessible yet out of the way. The griddle’s folding stand and the ability to adjust the wheels for leveling enhance its portability and stability, making it suitable for various outdoor settings. Additionally, the ability to close the lid speeds up heating and facilitates melting toppings like cheese, adding to its functionality.
Conclusion
Throughout this comprehensive guide, we’ve journeyed through the elite griddle grills set to define outdoor cooking in 2024. From the unparalleled versatility of the Blackstone 36-inch griddle with its omnivore griddle plate to the innovative features of the Halo Elite 4B Outdoor Griddle, each model presents unique benefits tailored to enhance your culinary adventures.
As we close this guide, it’s clear that the evolution of griddle grills continues to elevate the outdoor cooking experience, blending functionality with ease of use. Whether you’re an avid camper seeking the efficiency of the Camp Chef Flat Top 600 or a backyard chef intrigued by the Pit Boss Ultimate Lift-Off Griddle’s portability, there’s a griddle out there for every cook.
FAQs
What is the top griddle model for the year 2024?
The Camp Chef Gridiron 36 is recognized as the best outdoor griddle for 2024. It’s a new model that rivals high-end gas grills in terms of presence and performance on your patio.
Which griddle comes highly recommended?
The Blackstone 36-Inch Original Griddle is highly recommended overall. For budget-conscious buyers, the Hamilton Beach 3-in-1 Grill/Griddle is a great choice. If you need something portable, consider the Cuisinart Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Gas Grill. For those willing to splurge, the Camp Chef Flat Top 900 is an excellent option, and for indoor use, the Ninja Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill & Griddle is the best electric choice.
Which grill is considered the best on the market?
The Weber Genesis EX-325S is highly rated overall. Known for its powerful performance, it offers 39,000 BTUs across a primary cooking area of 513 square inches and an additional 274-square-inch warming rack.
Is Blackstone considered the top flat top griddle brand?
Yes, the Blackstone 36-Inch Gas Griddle Cooking Station stands out as the best overall flat top griddle due to its robust construction, extensive cooking surface, and high-efficiency burners.
Hassan Mohiuddin
