Imagine this: the sizzle of bacon, the perfect char on your burgers, and a whole brunch spread all cooking at once. Sound like a dream? For many backyard chefs, the outdoor griddle is the key to unlocking this delicious reality. But with so many models out there, picking the right one can feel like navigating a maze. You want great food, but the sheer number of brands, sizes, and features can leave you scratching your head.
Choosing an outdoor griddle isn’t just about buying a cooking surface; it’s about investing in outdoor cooking fun. You want a griddle that’s easy to use, durable, and cooks your food evenly. Maybe you’ve tried cooking outdoors before and struggled with uneven heat or a griddle that was too small for your family. We get it! That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of outdoor griddles to help you find your perfect match.
By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll break down the important features, compare different types, and give you the inside scoop on what makes a griddle truly great. Get ready to upgrade your outdoor cooking game and become the hero of your next backyard get-together!
Our Top 5 Outdoor Griddle Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Outdoor Griddle Detailed Reviews
1. Blackstone Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle 2 Burner Propane Fuelled Rear Grease Management System
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready for a whole new way to cook outdoors with the Blackstone 28-inch, 2-Burner Flat Top Griddle! This isn’t just another grill; it’s a versatile cooking station that lets you whip up all sorts of delicious meals. From fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon for breakfast to juicy burgers and perfectly seared steaks for dinner, this griddle can handle it all. Its restaurant-style, flat cooking surface gives you plenty of space to get creative and cook multiple items at once, making it ideal for family gatherings or camping trips.
What We Like:
- Restaurant-style cooking for a variety of foods.
- Easy start with battery-powered push-button ignition.
- Simple to assemble and use, taking the hassle out of outdoor cooking.
- Convenient storage with a bottom shelf and two side shelves.
- Easy to move around your yard or transport to a campsite with removable top, fold-up legs, and caster wheels.
- Blackstone’s satisfaction guarantee shows they stand behind their product.
What Could Be Improved:
- Propane tank is not included and needs to be purchased separately.
- The rear grease management system, while functional, can sometimes require a bit of extra cleaning.
This Blackstone griddle truly upgrades your outdoor cooking experience. It’s a fantastic addition for anyone who loves to cook and wants to enjoy delicious food cooked right in their backyard or on an adventure.
2. Charbroil 28″ Performance Series Propane Gas Griddle with Cart 2 Burner Flat Top Grill
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready to become the grill master of your backyard with the Charbroil 28″ Performance Series Propane Gas Griddle with Cart! This black, 2-burner flat-top grill is built for serious cooking. Its powerful O-Burners deliver super even heat, so no matter what you’re cooking, it turns out perfectly. The large 450-square-inch cooking surface means you can make lots of food at once, like up to 25 smash burgers! Plus, it’s designed to be easy to use and clean, making your grilling experience a breeze.
What We Like:
- The unique O-Burners provide fantastic, even heat across the whole cooking surface.
- The wind blockers help your fuel last longer and keep the heat steady.
- The anti-warping griddle top is made of strong steel and won’t bend, even with frozen food.
- You can cook a lot at once, with a big 450-square-inch cooking area.
- Cleaning is super easy thanks to the removable grease tray and front grease management.
- Tool hooks, a towel bar, and a lift handle make cooking and moving this griddle convenient.
- The two heavy-duty wheels let you move it around your patio with ease.
- The Piezo ignition is built to last a long time.
- It comes with a solid 2-year warranty on all parts.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 20-pound propane tank is not included, so you’ll need to buy that separately.
This Charbroil griddle is a fantastic addition for anyone who loves to cook outdoors. It’s built to perform and make your life easier.
3. Blackstone 1666 22” Tabletop Griddle with Stainless Steel Faceplate
Rating: 9.3/10
The Blackstone 1666 22” Tabletop Griddle is a fantastic option for anyone who loves cooking outdoors. Its compact size makes it super easy to take with you camping, tailgating, or just to your backyard for a barbecue. This griddle is built tough, ready for all your adventures. You can cook all sorts of food on it, from classic burgers and hot dogs to fluffy pancakes and healthy veggies. It’s a really versatile cooking surface that handles breakfast, lunch, and dinner with ease.
What We Like:
- It’s very portable and compact, making it great for on-the-go cooking.
- You can cook a surprising amount of food, up to 14 burgers, on its 361 square inches of space.
- Two burners give you great heat control, so you can cook different foods at different temperatures at the same time.
- The special grease management system makes cleanup much faster and tidier.
- It’s versatile and can cook almost anything you can imagine!
What Could Be Improved:
- While compact, the 361 square inches might be a bit small for very large gatherings.
- The “powder coated steel” might show wear over time with heavy outdoor use.
This Blackstone griddle offers a lot of cooking power in a small package. It’s a great choice for delicious outdoor meals without all the fuss.
4. Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle – 9.5 x 16.75 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cooking Surface – Flat & Ribbed Sides – Use on Stove
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to become a kitchen hero with the Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle! This isn’t just any pan; it’s a versatile workhorse for your cooking adventures. Whether you’re flipping pancakes for a crowd or searing burgers for a backyard barbecue, this pre-seasoned cast iron beauty is up for the task. Its sturdy design and dual cooking surfaces make it a must-have for any home chef.
What We Like:
- It’s super versatile, offering both a flat griddle and a ribbed grill surface.
- You can use it on your stovetop, in the oven, on the grill, or even over a campfire!
- It’s made in the USA by a family-owned company that’s been around since 1896.
- The large size (9.5″ x 16.75″) covers two burners, giving you plenty of cooking space.
- Lodge cookware is PFAS-free and non-toxic, so it’s safe for your family.
- It heats evenly and holds heat well, giving you great cooking results.
What Could Be Improved:
- Cast iron can be heavy, so it might be a bit challenging to move around.
- It requires a little care and maintenance to keep it in top shape.
This Lodge grill/griddle is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering endless possibilities for delicious meals. It’s built to last and will become a go-to piece for years to come.
5. Cuisinart 360° Griddle Outdoor Cooking Center
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready for amazing outdoor cooking with the Cuisinart 360° Griddle Outdoor Cooking Center! This 22-inch round flat-top grill is packed with features to make your BBQs and cookouts a breeze. It’s designed for versatility and ease, letting you cook up a storm for family and friends.
What We Like:
- DUAL HEAT CONTROL: Two powerful burners give you 30,000 BTUs of heat. You can control the heat in different spots, so some food cooks faster while others stay warm.
- MULTIFUNCTION COOKING: The stainless steel vented lid isn’t just for looks. You can grill, steam veggies, roast chicken, bake cookies, or even smoke salmon! It opens up a world of cooking possibilities.
- 360° GREASE MANAGEMENT: Cleaning up is simple. A special pan catches all the grease and drippings, sending them to a cup in the back. This makes cleanup quick and easy.
- PREP STATION: A handy folding side table is included. It even has a paper towel holder, so your cooking tools and ingredients are always right where you need them.
- EASY SETUP: You can put this griddle together in 30 minutes or less. That means less waiting and more cooking!
What Could Be Improved:
- While the cooking surface is generous, some users might wish for a slightly larger area for very big gatherings.
- The grease cup, though effective, might need to be emptied during longer cooking sessions.
This Cuisinart griddle makes outdoor cooking fun and simple. It’s a fantastic addition to any backyard for delicious meals and memorable times.
Your Guide to Griddling Greatness: Choosing the Best Outdoor Griddle
Outdoor griddles are fantastic for cooking up a storm outside. They offer a huge, flat cooking surface. This makes them perfect for everything from breakfast pancakes to sizzling stir-fries. You can cook a lot of food at once. This is great for parties or feeding a hungry family. Let’s dive into what makes a good griddle.
Key Features to Look For
1. Cooking Surface Size
Griddles come in different sizes. Think about how many people you usually cook for. Smaller griddles are good for 1-3 people. Larger ones are better for groups of 4 or more. A bigger surface means you can cook more food at the same time. This saves you time and effort.
2. Number of Burners
Most outdoor griddles have propane burners. More burners give you more control over heat. You can cook different foods at different temperatures. For example, you can cook bacon on one side and eggs on another. Look for griddles with at least two burners.
3. Ignition System
A good ignition system makes starting the griddle easy. Most have an electronic igniter. This usually works with a push of a button. It’s much easier than using matches or a lighter.
4. Grease Management System
Cooking greasy foods creates a mess. A good grease trap or drain system is important. It collects grease and drippings. This makes cleanup much simpler. Look for a system that is easy to remove and clean.
5. Portability and Storage
Some griddles are built for a permanent spot. Others are designed to be moved. If you want to take it camping or to tailgates, look for foldable legs and wheels. Consider how much space you have for storing it when not in use.
Important Materials
1. Griddle Plate Material
The cooking surface is usually made of steel. Some steel plates are seasoned cast iron. Others are stainless steel or cold-rolled steel with a coating. Cast iron holds heat well and gives a great sear. Stainless steel is durable and doesn’t rust easily. Cold-rolled steel is a good balance of cost and performance.
2. Frame and Body Material
The frame and body are often made of stainless steel or powder-coated steel. Stainless steel is rust-resistant and looks good. Powder-coated steel is also durable. It protects the metal from the elements.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Griddle Better?
- Thick Griddle Plate: A thicker plate heats more evenly. It also retains heat better. This means less temperature fluctuation while cooking.
- Sturdy Construction: A well-built griddle feels solid. It won’t wobble when you’re cooking.
- Good Wind Guards: These help protect the flames from wind. This keeps your cooking temperature steady.
- Easy-to-Use Controls: Knobs that turn smoothly and precisely are a sign of quality.
What Makes a Griddle Lower Quality?
- Thin Griddle Plate: This can lead to hot spots and uneven cooking.
- Flimsy Frame: A weak frame can be dangerous and hard to use.
- Poorly Designed Grease Trap: If it leaks or is hard to clean, it’s a problem.
- Cheap Igniter: If it doesn’t work reliably, it’s frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
Outdoor griddles are super versatile. You can cook breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Imagine making fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon. You can also grill burgers and hot dogs. Many people love making stir-fries with lots of veggies. Tacos, quesadillas, and even smash burgers are popular choices. They are great for casual backyard BBQs and family gatherings. They are also good for camping trips or tailgating events.
Using a griddle is pretty straightforward. Once it’s heated up, you can cook almost anything. The large surface area means you can keep cooking without stopping. Cleanup is usually pretty easy too, especially with a good grease management system.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Outdoor Griddles
Q: How do I clean an outdoor griddle?
A: You usually clean it while it’s still warm. Scrape off food bits with a spatula. Then, use a grill brush or a damp cloth. For stubborn grease, use a degreaser. Always season cast iron griddles after cleaning.
Q: Can I use an outdoor griddle in the rain?
A: It’s best to avoid cooking in heavy rain. Light drizzle might be okay, but water can affect the heat and cause rust. Always store your griddle in a dry place.
Q: What kind of fuel do outdoor griddles use?
A: Most outdoor griddles use propane gas. You’ll need a propane tank to power them.
Q: Are outdoor griddles safe?
A: Yes, when used properly. Make sure the griddle is on a stable surface. Keep children and pets away from the hot surface. Always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
Q: How long does it take to preheat an outdoor griddle?
A: It usually takes about 5-10 minutes to preheat. This depends on the size of the griddle and the heat setting.
Q: Can I cook frozen food on a griddle?
A: Yes, you can. However, it might take longer to cook. It’s often better to thaw food first for more even cooking.
Q: What’s the difference between a griddle and a grill?
A: A grill has grates that let heat and grease pass through. A griddle has a solid, flat surface that traps heat and juices.
Q: Do I need to season a griddle?
A: If your griddle has a cast iron or seasoned steel surface, yes. Seasoning creates a non-stick layer and protects it from rust.
Q: Can I cook delicate foods like fish on a griddle?
A: Absolutely! A well-seasoned griddle is great for fish. The flat surface prevents it from falling through, and it cooks beautifully.
Q: How much propane does a griddle use?
A: This varies by griddle size and how high you set the heat. A typical 28-inch griddle might use about 1 pound of propane for every 1-2 hours of cooking.
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!