Imagine flipping perfect, golden-brown pancakes for a crowd, or searing juicy burgers with that satisfying sizzle. Does that sound like your dream backyard cookout? If so, you’re probably thinking about a griddle. But with so many out there, picking the *right* 28-inch griddle can feel like a big challenge.
You want a griddle that cooks evenly, is easy to clean, and fits your outdoor cooking space. But the sheer number of brands, features, and price points can make your head spin. We get it! It’s tough to know where to start or what really matters when you’re trying to make the best choice for your family and your delicious meals.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a clear understanding of what makes a great 28-inch griddle. We’ll break down the important features, explore different types, and give you the confidence to choose the perfect one for your next outdoor adventure. Let’s dive in and find your griddle hero!
Our Top 5 28 Inch Griddle Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 28 Inch Griddle Detailed Reviews
1. Charbroil 28″ Performance Series Propane Gas Griddle with Cart 2 Burner Flat Top Grill
Rating: 9.2/10
Get ready to become the neighborhood grill master with the Charbroil 28″ Performance Series Propane Gas Griddle. This black, 2-burner flat-top grill on a cart is built for serious outdoor cooking. Its unique O-Burners provide even heat, so you can cook everything from delicate fish to juicy smash burgers perfectly. Plus, the wind blockers help your propane last longer, making every cookout more efficient. This griddle makes backyard feasts a breeze.
What We Like:
- The O-Burners heat evenly across the entire cooking surface, avoiding cold spots.
- Wind blockers help the grill cook efficiently and save fuel.
- The heavy-duty, anti-warping griddle top is built to last and handles frozen foods with ease.
- You can cook up to 25 smash burgers at once on the spacious 450-square-inch cooking area.
- Cleaning is simple thanks to the front grease management and removable grease tray.
- Tool hooks, a towel bar that doubles as a lift handle, and two large wheels make using and moving the griddle super convenient.
- The Piezo ignition system is designed to work for the lifetime of the grill.
- It comes with a 2-year warranty on all parts.
What Could Be Improved:
- A 20-pound propane tank is needed but not included with the purchase.
This Charbroil griddle is a fantastic addition to any backyard for delicious, evenly cooked meals. It’s designed for both performance and ease of use.
2. Blackstone Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle 2 Burner Propane Fuelled Rear Grease Management System
Rating: 9.2/10
Get ready to revolutionize your outdoor cooking with the Blackstone 28-inch Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle. This versatile griddle station, fueled by propane, offers a massive 470 square inches of cooking space. You can whip up everything from fluffy pancakes and perfectly seared steaks to savory Teppanyaki-style dishes. It’s designed for convenience, making outdoor meals a breeze.
What We Like:
- Restaurant-style cooking for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Cooks a wide variety of foods like eggs, pancakes, steak, and more.
- Includes a bottom shelf and two side shelves for easy food storage and prep.
- Simple to use and assemble, replacing your old grill easily.
- Features an easy start, battery-powered push-button ignition for quick setup.
- Designed for easy transport with a removable griddle top, fold-up legs, and four strong caster wheels.
- Blackstone offers a satisfaction guarantee, standing behind their products.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has wheels, moving it over very rough terrain might still require some effort.
This Blackstone griddle is a fantastic upgrade for any outdoor cook. You’ll love the ease of use and the delicious meals you can create.
3. Blackstone Omnivore Outdoor Flat Top Gas Griddle w/Hard Cover
Rating: 8.5/10
Get ready to transform your outdoor cooking with the Blackstone Omnivore Outdoor Flat Top Gas Griddle. This 28-inch griddle is your new best friend for everything from early morning breakfasts to backyard BBQs and grilled favorites. It’s built for serious cooks who want to make delicious food for a crowd.
What We Like:
- Massive 524 square inches of cooking space lets you cook up to 33 eggs or 15 pancakes at once, perfect for feeding a hungry group.
- Omnivore Griddle Plate Technology ensures even heating and better fuel efficiency, meaning less wasted fuel and more perfectly cooked food.
- The versatile steel cooking surface handles everything from crispy hashbrowns and stir-fry to juicy burgers and fluffy pancakes.
- Two independent burners let you cook different foods at different temperatures simultaneously, saving you time.
- Folding side shelves offer extra prep and serving space, keeping your cooking area organized and making meal prep a breeze.
- The push-button ignition makes starting up quick and easy.
- A hard cover protects your griddle when not in use.
- The rear grease system makes cleanup simple.
What Could Be Improved:
- While spacious, 28 inches might be too large for very small patios or balconies.
- The steel cooking surface requires proper seasoning and care to maintain its non-stick properties.
This Blackstone griddle is an excellent tool for anyone who loves to cook outdoors. Its thoughtful design and robust features make it a standout choice for creating memorable meals.
4. 28 Inch Blackstone Griddle 2080 Original 3-Burner XL Griddle with Hood and Side Shelves Outdoor Flat Top Grill
Rating: 8.7/10
The Blackstone 28 Inch Griddle 2080 Original 3-Burner XL Griddle with Hood and Side Shelves is your new best friend for outdoor cooking. It’s designed to make feeding a crowd easy and fun. Imagine cooking up a storm for up to 20 people with this fantastic flat top grill.
What We Like:
- Huge Cooking Space: You get 613 square inches to cook on. That’s enough to make 25 burgers, 22 steaks, or over 100 hot dogs at once!
- Excellent Heat Control: Three separate burners give you lots of control. You can cook different foods at different temperatures. It also has a powerful 48,000 BTUs for faster cooking.
- Handy Side Shelves: Two side shelves give you extra room to put your food and tools. They even have hooks to keep your spatulas and tongs handy.
- Protective Hood: The built-in hood keeps your griddle clean and protected from weather and dirt when you’re not using it.
- No-Mess Grease System: A smart design shoots extra grease into a cup at the back. This keeps your cooking area clean and tidy.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for crowds, it might be too big for very small backyard gatherings.
- Some users might need to purchase a cover separately if they want extra protection for the griddle surface itself.
This Blackstone griddle makes outdoor cooking a breeze. It’s a powerful and convenient tool for anyone who loves to grill and entertain.
5. ADREAK 2 Burner Foldable Gas Griddle
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to grill anywhere with the ADREAK 2 Burner Foldable Gas Griddle! This 28-inch stainless steel griddle is your new best friend for outdoor cooking adventures, whether you’re camping or just enjoying your backyard. It packs a powerful punch with 30,000 BTUs of heat, making it easy to cook up a feast for friends and family.
What We Like:
- It heats up fast and cooks food evenly.
- You can create different heat zones to cook different foods at once.
- It has a huge 573 square inches of cooking space.
- Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the removable drip tray and easy-to-wipe surface.
- The foldable design with wheels and a handle makes it super portable.
- The side shelves give you extra space for cooking and fold down for easy storage and transport.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions could be a little clearer for first-time users.
- While it’s portable, it’s still a bit bulky for very small cars.
This griddle truly makes outdoor cooking enjoyable and convenient. It’s a fantastic option for anyone who loves to grill and wants a reliable, portable setup.
Your Ultimate Guide to Buying a 28-Inch Griddle
Why a 28-Inch Griddle is a Great Choice
A 28-inch griddle is a fantastic size for many home cooks. It’s big enough to cook for a family or a group of friends, but not so large that it takes up too much space. You can make pancakes, burgers, stir-fries, and so much more! This guide will help you pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
- Cooking Surface Size: Make sure the 28-inch cooking area is truly usable. Some griddles might have extra bits around the edges.
- Number of Burners: Most 28-inch griddles have two or three burners. More burners give you better control over different heat zones.
- Ignition System: An easy push-button or electronic ignition makes starting your griddle simple and safe.
- Grease Management: A good grease trap or drip pan is important. It catches grease and makes cleanup much easier.
- Side Shelves: Extra shelves are handy for keeping your cooking tools and ingredients close by.
- Wheels and Handles: If you plan to move your griddle, sturdy wheels and comfortable handles are a must.
Important Materials
The materials used in a griddle affect its durability and how well it cooks.
- Griddle Plate: Most 28-inch griddles have a thick steel plate. Cold-rolled steel is common and heats evenly. Some higher-end models might have cast iron, which holds heat very well.
- Burners: Stainless steel burners are usually best. They resist rust and last a long time.
- Frame: The frame is often made of steel. Look for powder-coated steel, which helps prevent rust.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A few things can make a big difference in your griddle’s performance.
- Thickness of the Griddle Plate: A thicker plate heats more evenly and holds heat better. This means fewer hot spots and more consistent cooking.
- Burner Design: Burners with multiple flame ports provide more even heat distribution across the entire griddle surface.
- Build Quality: Check for sturdy construction. A wobbly frame or loose parts can be a sign of lower quality.
- Ease of Cleaning: Features like a removable grease trap and a smooth griddle surface make cleaning much less of a chore.
On the flip side, thin griddle plates can warp easily, and poorly designed burners can lead to uneven cooking. Cheap materials might rust quickly, reducing the griddle’s lifespan.
User Experience and Use Cases
A 28-inch griddle is very versatile.
- Family Meals: Cook breakfast for everyone at once – pancakes, bacon, and eggs.
- Outdoor Parties: Make burgers, hot dogs, and grilled veggies for a crowd.
- Breakfast Food: It’s perfect for making large batches of pancakes, French toast, and scrambled eggs.
- Searing Meats: Get a great sear on steaks, chicken, or fish.
- Stir-Frying: The large flat surface is ideal for stir-fries, letting you cook ingredients without them falling off.
Users often love the ease of cooking multiple items at once. They appreciate how quickly the griddle heats up and the delicious, crispy edges it gives to food. Cleanup is usually straightforward, especially with good grease management systems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 28-Inch Griddles
Q: What is the best material for a griddle plate?
A: Cold-rolled steel is a very common and good choice. It heats evenly. Cast iron is also excellent for holding heat.
Q: How many burners should a 28-inch griddle have?
A: Two or three burners are typical. More burners allow for better heat control.
Q: Is a grease trap important?
A: Yes, a good grease trap makes cleaning much easier and safer.
Q: Can I cook more than just breakfast on a 28-inch griddle?
A: Absolutely! You can cook burgers, steak, chicken, fish, vegetables, and more.
Q: How do I clean my griddle?
A: Clean it while it’s still warm. Scrape off food bits and wipe it down with oil to prevent rust.
Q: Will a 28-inch griddle fit on my patio?
A: Measure your space before buying. Most 28-inch griddles have a width of around 28-30 inches, plus space for side shelves.
Q: What kind of fuel do these griddles use?
A: Most use propane tanks.
Q: Are these griddles easy to move?
A: Many come with wheels, which makes them easier to move. Check the weight of the griddle.
Q: How long do griddles usually last?
A: With proper care and maintenance, a good quality griddle can last many years.
Q: Can I use metal spatulas on any griddle?
A: Yes, metal spatulas are generally safe to use on steel or cast iron griddle plates.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!